Table of Contents: Pumpkin Rosemary Dinner Rolls
Pumpkin Rosemary Dinner Rolls
PUMPKIN ROSEMARY DINNER ROLLS: The Warmest Taste of Fall
Remember the scent of baking bread filling your kitchen during the holidays? Or the simple joy of a warm roll with dinner? As we get a little older, those comforting memories become even more precious. These Pumpkin Rosemary Dinner Rolls aren’t just a recipe; they’re a way to recreate those feelings, bringing a touch of autumnal warmth and deliciousness to your table. They’re surprisingly easy to make, and the subtle blend of pumpkin and rosemary is a flavor combination you won’t soon forget. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or simply a cozy weeknight meal, these rolls will become a new family tradition.
These aren’t your average dinner rolls. We’re taking the classic comfort of a soft, fluffy roll and elevating it with the seasonal goodness of pumpkin and the fragrant, earthy notes of rosemary. If you’re looking for fall pumpkin rolls that aren’t overly sweet, this is the recipe for you. While many pumpkin roll recipes lean heavily into dessert territory, these are beautifully savory pumpkin rolls, ideal for accompanying roasted meats, soups, or stews. You might also enjoy exploring variations that lean into herb pumpkin bread territory, but these rolls offer a delightful, individual portion of that same comforting flavor.
This recipe is designed for bakers of all levels. Don’t be intimidated by yeast – we’ll walk you through everything! The result is a batch of golden-brown, incredibly soft rolls that will disappear quickly. They’re a wonderful way to showcase the flavors of autumn and add a special touch to any gathering.
Alternate Names & Variations
You might also find this recipe under names like:
- * Pumpkin Herb Rolls
- * Rosemary Pumpkin Bread Rolls
- * Autumn Spice Dinner Rolls
- * Pumpkin Yeast Rolls
- * Savory Pumpkin & Rosemary Buns
For a slightly sweeter variation, you can increase the sugar to 1/4 cup. Adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top before baking also creates a delicious, cheesy crust.
Ingredients: Pumpkin Rosemary Dinner Rolls

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful rolls:
- * 1 cup pumpkin puree, canned or homemade, warmed (see note)
- * ¾ cup warm water (105-115°F)
- * ⅓ cup melted butter or oil (vegetable or olive oil work well)
- * ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- * 2 large eggs
- * 1-2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh rosemary (see note about leaving out)
- * 1 tablespoon instant yeast (also called rapid rise yeast)
- * 2 teaspoons salt
- * 5 ½ – 6 cups all-purpose flour
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the instant yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until foamy. This confirms your yeast is active. Chef’s Tip: If the yeast doesn’t foam, it’s likely expired and you’ll need to start with a fresh batch.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the warmed pumpkin puree, melted butter, and eggs to the yeast mixture. Whisk until well combined.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or dough hook attachment on a stand mixer.
4. Knead the Dough: Once the dough starts to come together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. Alternatively, knead with a dough hook on medium speed for 4-5 minutes. Chef’s Tip: Don’t add too much flour at once! You want a slightly sticky dough.
5. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. Shape the Rolls: Gently punch down the dough to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and place them in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Second Rise: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let the rolls rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.
8. Bake the Rolls: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Chef’s Tip: Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter during the last 5 minutes of baking for extra shine and flavor.
9. Cool and Serve: Let the rolls cool slightly in the baking dish before serving. Enjoy warm with butter, jam, or alongside your favorite meal!
Recipe Card Block (Quick Reference)
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes (including rise times)
Servings: 12 rolls
Approximate Calories: 180-200 per roll (depending on butter/oil used)
Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips
This recipe works because the pumpkin puree adds moisture and a subtle sweetness that complements the savory rosemary beautifully. The warmth of the pumpkin also helps activate the yeast, resulting in a light and airy texture. Using instant yeast simplifies the process, eliminating the need for proofing.
The key to perfectly fluffy rolls is not overworking the dough. Gentle kneading and allowing ample time for both rises are crucial. These Pumpkin Rosemary Dinner Rolls are truly easy comfort food for family dinners, and they’re a fantastic way to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs – thyme or sage would also be delicious additions.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips
Storage: Leftover rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: These rolls freeze exceptionally well! Let them cool completely, then wrap individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze after the first rise, shaping the rolls and placing them in the baking dish before freezing.
Reheating: To reheat, wrap a frozen roll in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or microwave for 30-60 seconds. For refrigerated rolls, simply warm them in the oven or microwave. A quick brush of butter before reheating will restore some of their original softness. These fall pumpkin rolls are perfect for making ahead and enjoying later!
People Also Ask: Pumpkin Rosemary Dinner Rolls

What does rosemary add to pumpkin rolls?
Rosemary provides a wonderful counterpoint to the sweetness of the pumpkin, creating a complex and savory flavor profile. It adds an earthy, piney aroma and a subtle herbaceousness that elevates the rolls beyond a typical sweet pumpkin treat. The rosemary doesn’t overpower the pumpkin; instead, it enhances it, making these rolls incredibly satisfying and versatile. It’s a classic pairing in many cuisines, and it works beautifully in baking, especially when you want a more sophisticated and less sugary flavor.
Can you use fresh or dried rosemary?
While fresh rosemary is highly recommended for the best flavor, you can use dried rosemary in a pinch. If using dried rosemary, use about 1 teaspoon in place of 1 tablespoon of fresh rosemary. The flavor of dried rosemary is more concentrated, so you don’t need as much. However, the aroma and overall freshness won’t be quite the same as with fresh rosemary. For these Pumpkin Rosemary Dinner Rolls, the fresh rosemary really makes a difference.
Are pumpkin rosemary rolls sweet or savory?
These rolls are primarily savory pumpkin rolls, leaning much more towards a savory flavor profile than a sweet one. The pumpkin adds a subtle sweetness and moisture, but it’s balanced by the salt and the prominent rosemary flavor. They’re not like a pumpkin pie or a pumpkin spice muffin. They’re designed to be enjoyed with meals, like soups, stews, or roasted meats, and won’t leave you with a sugar rush.
How do you make pumpkin rosemary dinner rolls?
Making these Pumpkin Rosemary Dinner Rolls involves a few simple steps: activating the yeast, combining the wet and dry ingredients, kneading the dough, allowing it to rise twice, shaping the rolls, and finally, baking them to golden perfection. The key is to use warm (not hot!) water for the yeast and to avoid overworking the dough. The detailed instructions above will guide you through each step, ensuring a successful bake.
Conclusion: Pumpkin Rosemary Dinner Rolls
I truly hope you’ll give these Pumpkin Rosemary Dinner Rolls a try. They’re a delightful way to embrace the flavors of fall and create a warm, inviting atmosphere in your home. Don’t be afraid to get your hands a little doughy – the reward is well worth the effort! I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your photos and comments below, and let me know how they turned out. Happy baking!
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Pumpkin Rosemary Dinner Rolls
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft, fluffy pumpkin dinner rolls infused with fragrant rosemary, perfect for fall dinners and holiday tables.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup pumpkin purée
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 egg
Instructions
- Combine warm milk, yeast, and honey in a bowl and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Add pumpkin purée, melted butter, egg, and salt, mixing well.
- Gradually add flour and rosemary, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
- Punch down dough and divide into equal portions.
- Shape into rolls and place in a baking dish.
- Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Bake at 180°C for 18–22 minutes until golden.
- Brush with butter before serving.
Notes
Use fresh rosemary for the best flavor. Rolls are best served warm.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: pumpkin dinner rolls, rosemary rolls, pumpkin bread, holiday rolls