Pumpkin Crescent Rolls Recipe

If you are ready to welcome a deliciously cozy treat into your kitchen, these Pumpkin Crescent Rolls are just the thing to make your day a little brighter and tastier. Soft, pillowy crescent roll dough wraps around a luscious blend of creamy cheesecake and spiced pumpkin filling, baked to golden perfection. These rolls boast a perfect harmony between sweet and warm autumn flavors that feel like a gentle hug with every bite. Whether for a festive breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a delightful dessert, Pumpkin Crescent Rolls are sure to impress and become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to achieving those tender, flavorful Pumpkin Crescent Rolls you’ll be dreaming of. Every ingredient plays a crucial role: from the flaky crescent dough providing the perfect base, to the pumpkin puree and warming spices that create the heart of the filling. Plus, the cream cheese adds a velvety contrast that balances sweetness and texture beautifully.

• 8 oz. refrigerated crescent rolls: The tender dough forms the flaky and buttery exterior of each roll.
• 5 oz. softened cream cheese: Adds richness and a creamy texture to the filling.
• 2 tablespoons sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling just right.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances both fillings with aromatic warmth.
• ¾ cup pumpkin puree: The star ingredient infusing autumnal flavor and moistness.
• 1 tablespoon corn starch: Helps thicken the pumpkin filling for the perfect spread.
• 2 tablespoons packed light-brown sugar: Adds caramel notes to the pumpkin mixture.
• ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Classic spice that wakes up the pumpkin.
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Balances the pumpkin’s earthiness with sweetness.
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a gentle spicy kick.
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg: Warms the flavor profile beautifully.
• 1/8 teaspoon allspice: Deepens the spice blend with complexity.
• 1 egg yolk: Binds the pumpkin filling and adds richness.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Injects extra flavor into the pumpkin filling.
• 2 ½ tablespoons melted butter: Brushed on top for a golden, shiny finish.
• Kitchen twine: Used to shape rolls into charming pumpkin forms.
• Pretzel sticks: Create adorable pumpkin stems for a festive touch.

How to Make Pumpkin Crescent Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling

First, press your pumpkin puree between paper towels to squeeze out any excess moisture—this prevents soggy dough later on. Then, in a bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree with egg yolk, both sugars, cornstarch, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and vanilla extract. Stir until you have a smooth, well-combined filling bursting with that classic spiced pumpkin flavor.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla. Whisk them together until creamy and smooth. This velvety mixture contrasts perfectly with the pumpkin’s earthiness, giving you that delightful dessert-like richness inside your rolls.

Step 3: Shape the Rolls

Unroll your crescent dough and separate it into 4 rectangles, sealing any perforations. Cut each rectangle in half, giving you 8 manageable squares. Gently stretch each square before adding a tablespoon of cream cheese filling and a tablespoon of pumpkin filling into the center. Pinch the dough’s corners tightly to seal all edges and roll each into a neat ball with the seam on the bottom.

Step 4: Add the Pumpkin Shape and Bake

Place each dough ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Wrap kitchen twine snugly around each ball, looping it to create eight segments resembling a pumpkin’s ridges. Brush the tops with melted butter to encourage that beautiful golden-brown finish during baking. Pop them into your preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until they turn irresistibly golden.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once out of the oven, allow the rolls to cool slightly before carefully cutting and removing the twine. Insert a pretzel stick into the top of each roll to create the charming pumpkin “stem,” completing your festive and delicious Pumpkin Crescent Rolls.

How to Serve Pumpkin Crescent Rolls

Garnishes

These rolls are irresistible on their own but can be elevated with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce. A light sprinkle of additional cinnamon or a smear of softened butter can also enhance the cozy experience.

Side Dishes

Pair your Pumpkin Crescent Rolls with a warm cup of spiced apple cider, cozy pumpkin spice latte, or a simple mug of hot chocolate. For a meal, serve alongside a crisp green salad or savory soup to balance the sweet richness of the rolls.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Pumpkin Crescent Rolls on a rustic wooden board or a festive platter garnished with autumn leaves and whole cinnamon sticks for a visually inviting spread. You can also serve each roll in a small paper cupcake liner for easy handling during gatherings. These charming little pumpkin shapes make an eye-catching centerpiece for parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them from drying out, you can place a damp paper towel in the container, which helps retain moisture and keeps those crescent rolls soft.

Freezing

These rolls freeze wonderfully either before or after baking. To freeze unbaked rolls, prepare them fully and then freeze on a baking sheet until solid before transferring to a freezer bag. For baked rolls, wrap individually in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To enjoy your Pumpkin Crescent Rolls later, thaw frozen rolls at room temperature, then warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. This brings back the soft, flaky texture and revives the delicious aroma of spices and pumpkin.

FAQs

Can I make Pumpkin Crescent Rolls dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative, and use a vegan butter or coconut oil instead of melted butter for brushing the tops. Make sure your crescent rolls are dairy-free as well.

What can I use instead of kitchen twine?

If you don’t have kitchen twine, you can shape the dough balls by gently pressing shallow lines with a toothpick or the back of a knife to create pumpkin segments before baking.

Is it possible to use homemade crescent roll dough?

Yes, homemade dough can add an extra touch of love and flavor. Just ensure it’s rolled out into rectangles and cut into squares, similar to the recipe instructions, and adjust baking time as needed for your dough’s thickness.

Can these rolls be made gluten-free?

For a gluten-free version, look for gluten-free crescent roll dough in stores or try making your own gluten-free dough. Keep in mind that gluten-free doughs may handle differently, so gentle stretching and careful sealing are key.

How spicy are the Pumpkin Crescent Rolls?

The spices provide a warm, cozy flavor rather than heat. The cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice blend creates a mellow, comforting spice note perfect for all ages and sensitive palates.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Crescent Rolls are a joyful celebration of fall wrapped in soft, flaky dough, filled with creamy, spiced pumpkin and cream cheese. They bring a festive spirit to your table with their charming shape and irresistible flavors. Whether you’re treating yourself on a chilly afternoon or sharing with friends and family, these rolls make every bite feel special. I can’t wait for you to try making Pumpkin Crescent Rolls and experience their magic firsthand—get ready for lots of smiles and requests for seconds!

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