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There is something truly magical about warm, soft bread shaped like little pumpkins, and that’s exactly why the Pumpkin-Shaped Rolls with Pecan Center and Pumpkin Spice Glaze Recipe has won my heart. These delightful rolls combine the comforting texture of fluffy dinner rolls with the festive charm of pumpkin shapes, all topped off with a pecan in the center and a tempting pumpkin spice glaze that’s perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights in. Every bite offers just the right balance of sweet, spiced, and buttery flavors that make you want to savor them fresh out of the oven — or maybe even sneak a few seconds later when no one is watching.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating these adorable and delicious rolls; each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s texture, flavor, or that irresistible seasonal aroma.
- 12 Rhodes Frozen Dinner Rolls: The soft and fluffy base that becomes the perfect canvas for pumpkin shaping and rising beautifully.
- 1 large egg: Creates a lovely glaze that gives the rolls a golden, shiny finish once baked.
- 2 Tbsp milk: Mixed with the egg to give just the right consistency for brushing onto the rolls.
- 6 pecan halves: Each roll gets a crunchy, nutty center that looks like a little pumpkin stem.
- ¼ cup butter (optional): Adds richness and helps the pumpkin spice sugar adhere beautifully when dipping.
- ¼ cup sugar (optional): Sweetens the glaze and adds a delightful sparkle on the crust.
- 1 Tbsp pumpkin spice (optional): Brings the warmth and cozy fall flavor that makes these rolls stand out.
How to Make Pumpkin-Shaped Rolls with Pecan Center and Pumpkin Spice Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by thawing your frozen Rhodes dinner rolls so they’re soft and easy to work with. Now comes the fun part — shaping! Use a small knife to cut seven slits all around each roll, slicing completely through the dough but keeping the center intact to hold it all together. To create the little pumpkin indentation, poke a small hole right in the center of each roll. Cover them gently and let them rise until they double in size. Watching them puff up like tiny pumpkins is so satisfying and means they’ll be light and airy when baked.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
While your rolls complete their rise, preheat your oven to 350ºF. This temperature is just right to ensure the rolls bake evenly and take on that gorgeous golden color without drying out the soft interior.
Step 3: Egg Wash and Baking
Whisk together the large egg and milk to make a smooth egg wash. Brushing this mixture over each roll before baking is a small step that makes a huge difference, giving the pumpkin-shaped rolls a shiny, golden crust that looks irresistibly festive. Place your rolls in the oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until they reach that perfect, warm hue.
Step 4: Pumpkin Spice Glaze (Optional but Worth It!)
For the pumpkin spice glaze, melt the butter in a small bowl while your rolls bake. Combine the sugar and pumpkin spice in another bowl. As soon as the rolls come out of the oven and are still warm, dip them first into the buttery mixture, then roll them in the spiced sugar. This extra touch brings on a gentle sweetness and that iconic fall flavor that makes the Pumpkin-Shaped Rolls with Pecan Center and Pumpkin Spice Glaze Recipe truly shine.
Step 5: Add the Pecan Centers
Slice each pecan half in two and press one piece gently into the center hole of every roll. This not only looks like the charming pumpkin stem but also adds a satisfying crunch and nutty aroma to each bite. It’s a simple detail that elevates the entire experience.
How to Serve Pumpkin-Shaped Rolls with Pecan Center and Pumpkin Spice Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
To make these rolls even more inviting at the table, consider sprinkling a little extra pumpkin spice or a dusting of powdered sugar just before serving. A light drizzle of honey or a touch of maple syrup on the side can accentuate their warm flavors without overwhelming the pecan centers.
Side Dishes
These rolls pair wonderfully with hearty soups like butternut squash bisque or creamy pumpkin soup, making it a cozy fall meal. They also complement roasted turkey or ham beautifully, offering a festive touch to any holiday dinner spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, arrange the rolls in a wreath shape on a large platter, tuck in some autumn leaves or small gourds for decoration, and serve them alongside a spicy pumpkin butter or a cinnamon cream cheese spread. It’s sure to impress guests and make your table look festive and joyful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover pumpkin-shaped rolls, keep them fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They maintain their softness well and can still be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Freezing
To enjoy these treats later, freeze the baked and cooled rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They keep well for up to three months and can be thawed at room temperature when you’re ready for a comforting snack.
Reheating
Rewarm the rolls by placing them in a 300ºF oven for 8 to 10 minutes, wrapped loosely in foil to maintain moisture. Alternatively, a quick zap in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds will revive their softness, making them feel freshly baked again.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe with fresh dough instead of frozen rolls?
Absolutely! Fresh yeast dough works wonderfully too. Just make sure to shape and cut the dough similarly, then allow enough time for it to rise properly before baking. The texture will be just as soft and the pumpkin shape just as charming.
What if I’m allergic to nuts? Can I skip the pecan center?
Yes, you can omit the pecans and still have delightful rolls. For a similar festive look, try using a small piece of dried apricot or a tiny cinnamon stick as a nut-free “stem”.
Is the pumpkin spice glaze necessary?
The glaze is optional, but it truly enhances the rolls with that magical fall flavor. If you prefer a less sweet roll, you can skip the butter and sugar mixture or just brush with plain melted butter instead.
How do I make sure the rolls keep their pumpkin shape during baking?
Cutting the slits all the way through but leaving the center intact is key. Also, allowing the dough to rise after shaping helps maintain the segments. Handle the dough gently to avoid tearing during the process.
Can these rolls be made vegan?
Yes! Swap the egg wash for a mixture of plant-based milk and maple syrup for that glossy finish, use vegan butter for the glaze, and ensure your dinner rolls are dairy-free. The texture and flavor will still be delightful.
Final Thoughts
I truly believe the Pumpkin-Shaped Rolls with Pecan Center and Pumpkin Spice Glaze Recipe is one of those special treats that brings warmth and joy to the table. Whether you’re celebrating a fall holiday, hosting friends, or simply craving a seasonal comfort, these rolls are the perfect cozy companion. Don’t hesitate to try making them yourself—you’ll find they’re as fun to make as they are to eat!
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Pumpkin-Shaped Rolls with Pecan Center and Pumpkin Spice Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These delightful Pumpkin Shaped Rolls are perfect for fall gatherings and festive meals. Made from Rhodes Frozen Dinner Rolls, they are easily transformed into charming pumpkin shapes with simple cuts and an egg wash for a golden finish. Optionally, they can be enhanced with a buttery pumpkin spice sugar coating and topped with pecan halves for a warm, aromatic touch. These rolls are soft, fluffy, and visually appealing, making them a wonderful addition to your holiday table or seasonal celebrations.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 Rhodes Frozen Dinner Rolls
- 1 large egg
- 2 Tbsp milk
- 6 pecan halves
Optional Coating
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 Tbsp pumpkin spice
Instructions
- Thaw and Prepare Rolls: Thaw the frozen dinner rolls completely. Using a sharp knife, cut 7 slits around each roll, slicing all the way through the dough but leaving the center intact to form a pumpkin shape. Poke a small hole in the center of each roll. Cover the rolls and let them rise until doubled in size to ensure a soft, fluffy texture.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) to prepare for baking the rolls at the correct temperature for even cooking.
- Apply Egg Wash and Bake: Whisk together the large egg and milk to create an egg wash, then brush it evenly over each roll. Bake the rolls for 15 to 18 minutes until they turn golden brown, indicating they are fully cooked and beautifully crisp on the outside.
- Optional Pumpkin Spice Coating: While the rolls are baking or immediately after removing them from the oven, melt the butter in a bowl. Mix the sugar and pumpkin spice in a separate small bowl. Dip each baked roll first into the melted butter, then into the sugar and pumpkin spice mixture to coat evenly and add a sweet, spiced flavor.
- Add Pecan Stems: Cut each pecan half into two smaller pieces. Insert one half of a pecan into the small hole in the center of each roll to mimic the pumpkin stem, adding both texture and decorative appeal.
Notes
- Ensure rolls are fully thawed before shaping to avoid tearing the dough.
- Letting the rolls rise after slicing helps keep the pumpkin shape intact during baking.
- The egg wash adds a lovely golden color and sheen but can be skipped for a lighter crust.
- The butter and pumpkin spice sugar coating is optional but enhances the autumnal flavor significantly.
- Use pecan halves as pumpkin stems, or substitute with slivered almonds or pumpkin seeds if preferred.
