Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Loaf Recipe with Cream Cheese Glaze Recipe

If you love the cozy flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon swirled into a tender loaf, then you are going to adore this Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Loaf Recipe with Cream Cheese Glaze. Imagine biting into soft, fluffy bread infused with seasonal spices, tart cranberries, and a luscious cream cheese glaze that perfectly balances sweetness and tang. This loaf is more than just dessert or breakfast; it’s a warm hug in bread form that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and brightens up any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Loaf Recipe with Cream Cheese Glaze relies on a handful of straightforward ingredients that combine to create layers of flavor, texture, and that perfect autumn-hued color. Each item plays an essential role—from the yeast that gives the bread its perfect rise, to the pumpkin puree that adds moisture and a gentle earthiness.

• Dry active yeast (2 ¼ tsp): The magical rising agent that makes your bread unbelievably light and airy.
• Warm water (1 cup): Activates the yeast and ensures the dough is just right for fermentation.
• Sugar (1/4 cup): Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness right from the start.
• Pumpkin puree (1/2 cup): Adds moisture, a vibrant color, and that unmistakable pumpkin flavor.
• Milk (1/3 cup): Enriches the dough and makes it tender.
• Egg (1): Binds ingredients together and contributes to the loaf’s soft crumb.
• Melted butter (5 tbsp + 1 tbsp for greasing): Brings rich flavor and helps create a tender texture, plus keeps your dough from sticking.
• Vanilla extract (2 tsp): Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
• Dried cranberries (1/3 cup): For bright, tart bursts that contrast beautifully with the sweetness.
• All-purpose flour (4 ½ cups): Forms the structure of the bread.
• Salt (1 ½ tsp): Balances the sweetness and strengthens the dough.
• Brown sugar (3 tbsp): Provides a richer, caramel note in the filling.
• White sugar (3 tbsp): Keeps the filling sweet and sparkly.
• Cinnamon (1 ½ tsp): The spice that brings everything together with classic warmth.
• Orange zest (1 tbsp): Adds a fresh, citrusy brightness to the filling.
• Chopped pecans (½ cup): Introduces a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
• Whipped cream cheese (¼ cup): The base for the glaze, creating creamy tanginess.
• Powdered sugar (1 tbsp): Sweetens the glaze and helps it set perfectly.
• Milk (1 tbsp in glaze): Adjusts the glaze to a luscious, drizzle-worthy consistency.

How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Loaf Recipe with Cream Cheese Glaze

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Begin by whisking together your dry active yeast, sugar, and warm water in a large bowl. This simple step wakes up the yeast and starts the fermentation process that will give your loaf its dreamy texture. Let it stand for about five minutes until you see it become cloudy and foamy — that’s the sign your yeast is perfectly active.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

To the yeast mixture, add pumpkin puree, milk, egg, 5 tablespoons melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk these together thoroughly so the ingredients meld, then stir in the dried cranberries for delightful tart pops of flavor in every bite.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients and Form the Dough

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, a cup at a time, stirring with a wooden spoon or dough whisk until a sticky dough forms. Turn it onto a floured surface, roll it into a ball, and knead gently about 8 to 10 times. This step develops the gluten to give the loaf structure and chew without toughness.

Step 4: First Rise

Butter a large clean bowl lightly and place your dough inside. Cover loosely with a dish towel or plastic wrap and set somewhere warm to double in size — about one hour. This rising time is when the dough gets light, airy, and ready for shaping.

Step 5: Prepare the Filling

While the dough rises, combine the brown sugar, white sugar, cinnamon, orange zest, and chopped pecans in a bowl. This mixture brings a sweet, warming, and slightly zesty filling that contrasts beautifully with the pumpkin flavor.

Step 6: Roll Out and Add Filling

Once the dough has doubled, place it on a floured surface, rolling out into a 9 x 15-inch rectangle. Brush the surface evenly with 3 tablespoons melted butter. Then sprinkle your filling mixture over, making sure every inch gets a generous dusting of cinnamon and pecan goodness.

Step 7: Shape the Loaf

Starting from the short edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Then slice the log lengthwise in half to reveal the beautiful swirls of filling. Twist the two halves together with the filling side facing up, then transfer this twisted braid into a prepared 9 x 5-inch loaf pan lined with parchment paper, folding the edges under if needed. Let it rise uncovered for another 30 minutes, giving it time to puff up and fill the pan.

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaf for 35 to 40 minutes until it’s golden brown, well risen, and the sweet aroma fills your kitchen. Let it cool slightly in the pan before removing.

Step 9: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze

While the loaf cools, whisk together whipped cream cheese, powdered sugar, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon milk until smooth. Add more milk a little at a time if you want your glaze thinner and perfect for drizzling.

Step 10: Glaze and Serve

Remove the cooled loaf from the pan and place on a wire rack. Use a fork to drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the top, letting it drip down the sides for that classic, irresistible look.

How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Loaf Recipe with Cream Cheese Glaze

Garnishes

Sprinkle some extra chopped pecans or a dusting of cinnamon over the glazed loaf for an inviting, rustic look. A few fresh cranberries or thin orange zest strips can add a festive touch that’s perfect for holiday breakfasts or brunches.

Side Dishes

This loaf pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of chai tea or freshly brewed coffee. Serve alongside soft scrambled eggs or a simple fruit salad to create a balanced and satisfying breakfast spread that everyone will love.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the loaf and serving it with whipped butter or a smear of extra cream cheese for added richness. For a dessert twist, warm a slice slightly and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of maple syrup for an indulgent treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Loaf Recipe with Cream Cheese Glaze stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This preserves the loaf’s softness and keeps the glaze fresh and creamy.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this loaf later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

To refresh your loaf, warm slices gently in a toaster oven or microwave for 15-20 seconds. This brings back softness and intensifies those cozy pumpkin-cinnamon aromas, making every bite taste freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and ensures consistent moisture and flavor. Just be sure to use pure pumpkin rather than pumpkin pie filling, which has added spices and sugars.

Can I substitute pecans with another nut?

Yes, you can swap pecans with walnuts or even almonds if you prefer. Each nut brings a slightly different texture and flavor, but all will add a wonderful crunch to the filling.

Is this loaf suitable for freezing after baking?

Yes, the baked and cooled loaf freezes very well. Just wrap it carefully and thaw before serving to enjoy that just-baked freshness.

What if I don’t have cream cheese for the glaze?

If you’re out of cream cheese, you can make a simple powdered sugar glaze with milk and vanilla extract instead. It won’t have the same tang, but it’ll still be deliciously sweet and perfect for drizzling.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

With some substitutions like plant-based milk, vegan butter, and an egg replacer, you can tailor this Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Loaf Recipe with Cream Cheese Glaze to fit a vegan diet. The result might be slightly different in texture but still very tasty.

Final Thoughts

There is nothing quite like filling your home with the scent of freshly baked Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Loaf Recipe with Cream Cheese Glaze to elevate your day. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or treating yourself to a cozy moment, this recipe is pure comfort and deliciousness in every bite. Trust me, once you make it, it will quickly become one of your all-time favorite recipes to return to season after season.

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