Pumpkin-Shaped Dinner Rolls
Pumpkin-Shaped Dinner Rolls are buttery, soft, and beautifully crafted to look like mini pumpkins. These festive rolls elevate any fall feast with their charm, texture, and rich, homemade flavor. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any cozy dinner, they’re as delightful to look at as they are to eat.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ¾ cup warm milk (110°F)
- ¼ cup sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice (optional)
- 12 pecan halves (for stems)
- Kitchen twine for shaping
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix Dough: Add melted butter, egg, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Gradually mix in flour until a soft dough forms.
- Knead and Rise: Knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.
- Shape Rolls: Punch down dough and divide into 12 balls. Wrap each ball loosely with kitchen twine to create pumpkin segments. Tie gently at the top.
- Second Rise: Place rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush rolls with melted butter and bake for 18–20 minutes until golden brown.
- Decorate: Cool slightly, remove twine, and insert pecan halves as “pumpkin stems.” Serve warm.
Notes
- Do not tie the twine too tightly—allow room for the rolls to expand.
- For extra flavor, brush baked rolls with garlic butter or honey glaze.
- Use whole wheat flour for a heartier version.
- The pecan stems add an authentic pumpkin look and a nutty flavor.
- Best served fresh but can be reheated gently before serving.