Jump to Recipe
As the leaves start to change and a crispness fills the air, my thoughts inevitably turn to warm breads fresh from the oven. There’s something about this season that calls for cozy cooking and festive gatherings. I remember a particularly charming dinner from a few years ago when I decided to surprise my family with pumpkin-shaped dinner rolls for our autumn feast. The anticipation of seeing everyone’s delight as they picked up these whimsical rolls was as heartwarming as the aroma that filled the kitchen.

These delightful rolls not only look amazing on a fall dinner table—they’re also soft, fluffy, and packed with the comforting flavors of the season. Shaped like little pumpkins, they bring a fun twist to traditional bread rolls and make for an eye-catching addition to any holiday meal, whether it be Thanksgiving or a casual autumn gathering. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to involve the kids in the kitchen; their eyes light up as they help create these little masterpieces.

As you prepare to make your own batch, consider that you can switch things up a bit! If you’re looking to mix in some flavors, a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a delightful warmth. For a touch of sweetness, you could brush the rolls with melted butter and sprinkle them with a little bit of sugar right before serving. These rolls are wonderful on their own but also pair beautifully with soups and stews, making them perfect for those cool fall evenings.

So, roll up your sleeves and let your creativity flow! Not only will your kitchen smell heavenly, but you’ll also create a lasting memory with your loved ones as you bake these scrumptious pumpkin-shaped dinner rolls together. For more fall-inspired recipes, be sure to check out our collection that celebrates the season’s best flavors!

Pumpkin-Shaped Dinner Rolls

Ingredients

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
• Optional: melted butter and sugar for topping.

Instructions

• In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
• Add melted butter, egg, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix well.
• Gradually add flour, mixing until the dough forms a ball. Knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
• Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled.
• Punch down the dough and divide it into small pieces (about 24). Shape each piece into a ball, then gently press a clove in the center to resemble a pumpkin stem.
• Place shaped rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
• Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with sugar if desired. Serve warm.