Description
These soft, fluffy, and festive pumpkin-shaped rolls are 100% vegan, naturally colored with pumpkin purée, and perfect for the holiday table.
Ingredients
For the Yeast:
2¼ tsp active dry yeast
¾ cup warm water
1 tsp salt
1 tsp sugar
For the Bread:
3 cups whole wheat flour
3 tbsp essential wheat gluten
¾ cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
1 tsp salt
3 tbsp olive oil
1½ tsp pumpkin spice
Instructions
Activate the Yeast:
In a heatproof container, mix warm water, salt, and sugar. Add yeast and stir well. Set aside in a warm spot to bloom for 10–12 minutes.
Make the Dough:
In a stand mixer, combine whole wheat flour, wheat gluten, pumpkin spice, salt, and olive oil. Add pumpkin purée and the bloomed yeast mixture.
Knead the Dough:
Mix on medium speed for 10–12 minutes until the dough is soft and smooth. Remove from mixer.
First Proofing:
Spray the inside of an Instant Pot with non-stick spray. Place the dough ball inside, coat lightly with oil or spray. Set to ‘Yogurt’ mode on normal for 60 minutes. The dough should double in size.
Shape the Rolls:
Transfer dough to a baking mat, punch it down, and knead briefly. Divide into 7 equal portions (or more for smaller rolls). Form each into a smooth ball.
Shape into Pumpkins:
Tie each ball loosely with baking twine to create 8 sections. Brush with olive oil. Let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour.
Bake:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake rolls for 18–19 minutes.
Cool and Decorate:
Allow rolls to cool, then gently remove the twine. Add a cranberry, pretzel stick, or clove to mimic a pumpkin stem.
Notes
Pumpkin Purée: Use pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
Shaping: Don’t tie twine too tight to allow room for dough expansion.
Twine Removal: Let rolls cool slightly before removing twine to avoid tearing.
Stem Options: Cranberries, cinnamon sticks, pretzels, or cloves work great.
No Egg Wash Needed: Skipping it ensures easy twine removal and keeps the recipe vegan.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or freeze for up to a month.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 19 minutes
- Category: Breads, Sides
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
