Instructions:

In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and a pinch of sugar in warm milk. Let it sit for around five minutes until foamy.

In a large mixing bowl or using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, egg, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.

Add in the activated yeast mixture to the pumpkin mixture and mix again.

Gradually add in flour and salt to form a soft dough. Once it becomes too firm to mix with a spoon/spatula, switch to kneading by hand on a lightly floured surface for about five minutes or continue kneading with your mixer for about three minutes on medium-low speed.

Place the dough in an oiled bowl and cover it with plastic wrap or clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about one hour).

While waiting for your dough to rise, prepare your filling by combining brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg (or using a Pumpkin Spice Blend) together in another small bowl. Set aside

Once risen, punch down your dough gently. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and roll it out into a rectangle (about 12 x 18 inches).

Spread the filling mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough. Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the filling if desired.

Starting at one of the long edges, carefully roll up the dough tightly, forming a log shape.

Cut the log into slices, about 1½ inches thick, using a sharp knife, dental floss (slide under and cross to cut through easily) or a PIZZA CUTTER. Place each slice in a greased baking dish, leaving some space between them to rise further.

Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or kitchen towel and allow it to rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy. This is where you can also cover and place in the fridge overnight.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Bake the rolls for approximately 25-30 minutes until they turn golden brown and are cooked through.

While your rolls are baking, prepare your glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, cream cheese, butter, the remaining pumpkin puree and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth and creamy. Add more milk if needed for desired consistency

Once baked, remove cinnamon rolls from oven, and spread generously with glaze while still warm.

Serve warm and enjoy these delicious Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls!

Note: You can also prepare these ahead of time by completing steps 1-10, then covering them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerating overnight before baking in step 12.