Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the scent of warm baked goods wafts through my kitchen, it always strikes me how little moments can transform our days. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Rosemary Pumpkin Dinner Rolls with Brown Butter—because who doesn’t crave that heavenly combination of soft, fluffy rolls paired with the rich, nutty aroma of brown butter? Not only do these rolls make for a delightful addition to any dinner table, but they also pack a healthy punch with pumpkin puree and fragrant rosemary, offering a perfect balance of flavors. With quick prep and the potential to wow your friends and family, these dinner rolls will turn any meal into a celebration. Curious to find out how to create these tantalizing bites? Let’s get started! Why You’ll Love These Dinner Rolls Cozy Comfort: These rosemary pumpkin dinner rolls bring the warmth of home-cooked goodness, making every meal feel special. Heavenly Aroma: The nutty scent of brown butter combined with fresh rosemary creates a mouthwatering fragrance that elevates any dining experience. Versatile Delight: Perfect for Thanksgiving, family dinners, or cozy evenings, these rolls easily complement soups, stews, and holiday spreads. Nutrient-Packed: Infused with pumpkin puree, they offer a healthy twist, adding moisture and flavor without the need for extra fat. Quick Prep: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip these up in no time—ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute guests. Crowd-Pleaser: Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds when you serve these soft, fluffy rolls! For a delightful twist, check out my Lasagna Rolls Melt or my Biscoff Cookie Rolls. Rosemary Pumpkin Dinner Rolls Ingredients For the Dough Unsalted Butter (2 tbsp) – Adds richness to the dough; feel free to use salted butter if unsalted is unavailable. Active Dry or Instant Yeast (2 1/4 tsp) – This leavening agent helps your rolls rise; ensure it’s fresh for the best results. Granulated Sugar (1 1/2 tbsp) – Enhances browning and activates the yeast; you can swap it with honey for a different sweetness. Lukewarm Milk (1/4 cup) – Provides moisture and enriches the dough; any plant-based milk works as a great substitute. All-Purpose Flour (2 cups) – This gives structure to your rolls; whole wheat flour can be used for added nuttiness, though it may need extra liquid. Egg (1) – Adds richness and binds the ingredients; replace it with a flax egg for an egg-free alternative. Pumpkin Puree (1/2 cup) – Provides moisture and deep flavor; if you’re out, mashed sweet potatoes or regular potatoes will work, too. Salt (3/4 tsp) – Elevates the overall flavor; while you can omit it for certain diets, it greatly enhances taste satisfaction. Dried Rosemary (1 1/2 tsp) – Adds fragrant earthiness to the rolls; fresh rosemary could be substituted with 2 tsp, finely chopped. Ground Cardamom (3/4 tsp) – Introduces warm floral notes; if you prefer a different profile, feel free to swap it with ground cinnamon. For Egg Wash Egg (1), Milk or Water (1 tbsp) – This creates a glossy, golden finish on your rolls; omitting it will give you less color but won’t affect the taste. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Rosemary Pumpkin Dinner Rolls Step 1: Brown the Butter Start by melting 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a light-colored saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until it turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma, which typically takes about 5–7 minutes. Once browned, carefully pour the butter into a heat-proof container and set it aside to cool. Step 2: Activate Yeast In the stand mixer bowl, combine 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast, 1 1/2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup of lukewarm milk. Let this mixture sit for about 5–10 minutes or until it becomes frothy and bubbly. This step is crucial for ensuring your rosemary pumpkin dinner rolls rise beautifully. Step 3: Mix Dough Add the cooled brown butter, 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 egg, 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree, 3/4 teaspoon of salt, 1 1/2 teaspoons of dried rosemary, and 3/4 teaspoon of ground cardamom to the yeast mixture. Using the stand mixer, knead the mixture on medium-low speed for 20–25 minutes until the dough pulls away from the bowl and passes the window pane test. Step 4: First Proof Once kneaded, transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm place for about 45–60 minutes or until it has doubled in size. As the dough rises, it will develop a delightful aroma that promises delicious rosemary pumpkin dinner rolls. Step 5: Shape Rolls After the first proof, lightly flour your workspace and transfer the risen dough onto it. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and shape each piece into a smooth ball. Place the rolled balls into a greased baking tin, ensuring there is a little space between them for further expansion. Step 6: Second Proof Cover the baking tin with a kitchen towel again and let the rolls proof for another 45–60 minutes until they spring back when gently pressed. During this time, preheat your oven to 375°F, so it’s ready to bake your fragrant rosemary pumpkin dinner rolls. Step 7: Egg Wash In a small bowl, beat together 1 egg with 1 tablespoon of milk or water. Gently brush this mixture over the tops of the rolls to create a beautiful golden, glossy finish. This step enhances their presentation as they bake and adds to the overall indulgence. Step 8: Bake Place the baking tin in the preheated oven and bake your rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped. Be sure to keep an eye on them towards the end; the irresistible aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait. Allow the rosemary pumpkin dinner rolls to cool slightly in the tin before serving them warm. Make Ahead Options These rosemary pumpkin dinner rolls are an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness with minimal fuss during busy days! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the recipe until the first proof, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This will enhance the flavor while the dough rests. When you’re ready to bake, bring the dough to room temperature, shape the rolls, and proceed with the second proof and baking instructions. For optimal freshness, store any leftovers at room temperature for up to 3 days, reheating slightly before serving to enjoy their delightful softness. Expert Tips Fresh Yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh and bubbly: Don’t skip this crucial step; expired yeast won’t activate, leading to dense rolls instead of airy rosemary pumpkin dinner rolls. Kneading Technique: Use a stand mixer for even kneading: If you knead by hand, be cautious not to overdo it, or your rolls may turn out tough. Dough Temperature: Keep your dough warm for rising: A drafty room can hinder yeast activity. Place it in a warm, draft-free area to help it double in size effectively. Baking Check: Tap for doneness: Listen for the hollow sound when you tap the bottom of the rolls, indicating they are perfectly baked and ready for serving. Store Properly: Keep rolls airtight: To maintain freshness, store them in an airtight container at room temperature, but they can be frozen for longer storage. Storage Tips for Rosemary Pumpkin Dinner Rolls Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and fluffy. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-lock bag for up to 3 months. Reheating: To enjoy your rosemary pumpkin dinner rolls, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Thawing: If frozen, let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture and flavor. Rosemary Pumpkin Dinner Rolls Variations Feel free to get creative and customize your rosemary pumpkin dinner rolls for a personal touch that dazzles the taste buds! Dairy-Free: Substitute regular butter with vegan butter and use your favorite plant-based milk for a creamy, dairy-free delight. Sweet Touch: For a hint of sweetness, add 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup to the dough, providing a lovely contrast to the savory rosemary. Whole Wheat Option: Swap all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for an earthier flavor and added fiber, but remember it may require a bit more liquid. Spice It Up: If you’re a fan of heat, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to your dough for a spicy kick that complements the pumpkin perfectly! Fresh Herbs: Use fresh herbs like thyme or sage instead of rosemary for a different flavor profile that brings a unique twist to these rolls. Fresh herbs have a bright, vibrant flavor that can elevate the dish. Nutty Flavors: Fold in a handful of toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped walnuts into the dough for an exciting texture and nutty taste experience. Savory Additions: Add crumbled feta or shredded cheese into the dough for a cheesy surprise that melts beautifully in each bite, pairing wonderfully with pumpkin. Sweet Potato Swap: In case you’re out of pumpkin, substitute with an equal amount of sweet potato puree for a slightly sweeter version, still packed with flavor! These variations allow you to tailor your rolls to your preferences or dietary needs, all while maintaining the delightful essence of the recipe. You can even try these alongside my delicious Basil Beef Rolls for a delightful feast! What to Serve with Rosemary Pumpkin Dinner Rolls Imagine a cozy gathering, where warm, buttery scents entwine with the sounds of laughter and clinking dishes. These delightful rolls are just the beginning of a beautiful set table. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth and buttery texture pairs perfectly with the fluffy rolls, allowing you to soak up every bit of gravy or sauce. Savory Butternut Squash Soup: This seasonal favorite harmonizes with the rolls’ pumpkin notes, enhancing the autumnal flavors while adding warmth to your meal. Garlic Herb Roasted Chicken: Juicy, well-seasoned chicken enhances the rolls’ savory undertones, creating a comforting classic duo that everyone will love. Cranberry Sauce: The sweet-tart flavor of cranberry sauce acts as a delightful contrast to the rolls’ warm spices, adding a festive touch to your plate. Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the rolls, providing a crisp texture that complements their softness. Spiced Apple Cider: This warm beverage adds a layer of cozy familiarity, echoing the spices in the rolls and making your mealtime feel extra special. Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake: For dessert, this creamy treat elevates the dinner experience, linking the flavors of pumpkin throughout the meal for a harmonious finish. Serving these options alongside your rosemary pumpkin dinner rolls will create a delightful feast that warms the heart and nourishes the soul. Rosemary Pumpkin Dinner Rolls Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right pumpkin puree for the rolls? Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin puree, look for brands that list pumpkin as the only ingredient with no added sugars or spices. You can also use fresh pumpkin. Simply roast and blend the flesh until smooth. This will create a more vibrant flavor and fresh texture. What’s the best way to store leftover rosemary pumpkin dinner rolls? Very good question! To keep your dinner rolls fresh, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you know you won’t finish them in that time, freeze them for longer storage. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a zip-lock bag for up to 3 months. Can I freeze the dough for the rosemary pumpkin dinner rolls? Absolutely! You can freeze the dough after the first proofing. Shape the rolls and place them on a baking sheet to freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-lock bag. When you’re ready to bake, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and let them rise again for about 30 minutes before baking. What should I do if my rolls don’t rise properly? If your rolls don’t rise, it’s often due to inactive yeast. Make sure your yeast is fresh and bubbly at the activation step. If your dough seems too dry, you can add a tablespoon of warm milk to help it along. Lastly, ensure you’re allowing enough time for the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free place. Are these rolls suitable for people with egg allergies? Yes! You can easily adapt this recipe for an egg-free version. Simply replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) and let it sit for about 5 minutes to thicken. This substitution works well and keeps the rolls tender and delicious! Irresistibly Soft Rosemary Pumpkin Dinner Rolls for Cozy Evenings Delightful rosemary pumpkin dinner rolls combining soft textures with rich flavors, perfect for cozy evenings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsFirst Proof 1 hour hrTotal Time 1 hour hr 40 minutes mins Servings: 8 rollsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dough2 tbsp Unsalted Butter Feel free to use salted butter if unsalted is unavailable.2.25 tsp Active Dry or Instant Yeast Ensure it's fresh for the best results.1.5 tbsp Granulated Sugar You can swap it with honey for a different sweetness.0.25 cup Lukewarm Milk Any plant-based milk works as a great substitute.2 cups All-Purpose Flour Whole wheat flour can be used for added nuttiness.1 Egg Replace it with a flax egg for an egg-free alternative.0.5 cup Pumpkin Puree Mashed sweet potatoes or regular potatoes will work, too.0.75 tsp Salt While you can omit it for certain diets, it enhances taste.1.5 tsp Dried Rosemary Fresh rosemary could be substituted with 2 tsp, finely chopped.0.75 tsp Ground Cardamom Feel free to swap it with ground cinnamon.For Egg Wash1 large Egg1 tbsp Milk or Water Omitting it will give less color but won’t affect taste. Equipment stand mixerLight-colored saucepanBaking TinHeat-proof container Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsStart by melting 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a light-colored saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until it turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma, about 5–7 minutes. Pour the butter into a heat-proof container and set it aside to cool.In the stand mixer bowl, combine 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast, 1 1/2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup of lukewarm milk. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until frothy.Add the cooled brown butter, 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 egg, 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree, 3/4 teaspoon of salt, 1 1/2 teaspoons of dried rosemary, and 3/4 teaspoon of ground cardamom to the yeast mixture. Knead for 20–25 minutes until the dough pulls away from the bowl.Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm place for about 45–60 minutes until it doubles in size.Lightly flour your workspace and transfer the risen dough onto it. Divide into 8 equal pieces and shape into smooth balls. Place them in a greased baking tin.Cover the tin with a towel and let the rolls proof for another 45–60 minutes until they spring back when gently pressed. Preheat your oven to 375°F.In a small bowl, beat together 1 egg with 1 tablespoon of milk or water. Gently brush this over the tops of the rolls.Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and sound hollow when tapped. Allow to cool slightly in the tin before serving warm. Nutrition Serving: 1rollCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 4gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 30IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 6mg NotesEnsure your yeast is fresh and bubbly. Use a stand mixer for even kneading. Place the dough in a warm area for rising. Tap for doneness to check if perfectly baked. Store in an airtight container for freshness. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
