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Incredibly Soft Sweet Potato Cinnamon Rolls with Zesty Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

Infused with creamy mashed sweet potatoes, these cinnamon rolls boast an unparalleled tenderness and melt-in-your-mouth softness. Crowned with a bright, zesty orange cream cheese frosting, they transcend the ordinary, offering a refreshing and utterly delightful twist on traditional cinnamon rolls. Perfect for special brunches, holiday gatherings, or simply a cozy weekend treat.

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If the idea of these sweet potato cinnamon rolls has captivated your taste buds, you’ll also adore our Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting, another seasonal favorite that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion.

Sweet Potato Cinnamon Roll with a piece taken from it on a plate.

The Unsung Hero: Why Sweet Potatoes Transform Your Baking

For a significant portion of my life, I harbored a mistaken belief that I simply didn’t like sweet potatoes. It’s a culinary regret, as I realize now how many years I missed out on the incredible versatility and nutritional benefits of this vibrant root vegetable. Thankfully, as an adult, I’ve completely embraced them, and they’ve become one of my absolute favorite ingredients, especially for introducing unique flavors and textures into both savory and sweet dishes.

While sweet potatoes frequently star in my savory repertoire – from a warming creamy soup and a hearty breakfast hash to crispy tater tots – their true transformative power shines remarkably in baking. When cooked, mashed, and carefully incorporated into a yeast bread dough, sweet potatoes work nothing short of magic. They contribute a natural sweetness, a beautiful golden hue, and most importantly, an unparalleled tenderness and moisture. This results in rolls that are incredibly soft, light, and pillowy, a texture that simply can’t be achieved with traditional recipes alone. The subtle earthy sweetness of the sweet potato also perfectly complements the warm spices of cinnamon, creating a harmonious and comforting flavor profile.

Elevating the Experience: The Zesty Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

What could possibly enhance these already delightful sweet potato cinnamon rolls? The answer lies in a generous swirl of our bright, zesty orange cream cheese frosting. This isn’t just any frosting; it’s a flavor powerhouse designed to complement and elevate the rich, spiced rolls. The combination of tangy cream cheese, rich butter, sweet powdered sugar, and the bright, aromatic zest and juice of fresh oranges creates a truly unforgettable topping. It provides a refreshing counterpoint to the warm spices of the rolls, cutting through their richness with a vibrant citrus burst that enlivens every bite. This effortless yet incredibly delicious frosting is the perfect finishing touch, taking these sweet potato cinnamon rolls from simply delicious to truly extraordinary.

Ingredients for Sweet Potato Cinnamon Rolls.

Gather Your Essentials: Key Ingredients for These Remarkable Rolls

Crafting a batch of these exquisite sweet potato cinnamon rolls begins with selecting high-quality ingredients, each playing a vital role in the final texture and flavor. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need and some helpful notes for each:

All-Purpose Flour: This forms the foundational structure of our tender dough. While the recipe specifies a range (4 1/4 – 4 3/4 cups), the exact amount can fluctuate based on environmental factors like humidity and, critically, the moisture content of your mashed sweet potatoes. Always add flour gradually until the dough achieves the desired soft, slightly sticky consistency.
Granulated Sugar: A modest amount of granulated sugar in the dough helps to activate the yeast and provides a subtle sweetness that beautifully highlights the natural flavor of the sweet potatoes. The primary sweetness for the rolls comes from the filling and the luscious frosting.
Yeast (Active Dry or Instant): The magic behind fluffy, well-risen rolls! I typically use active dry yeast, which benefits from a brief activation period in warm liquid. However, instant yeast can be used interchangeably and can often be mixed directly with the dry ingredients, potentially shortening your preparation time. Always ensure your yeast is fresh by checking the expiration date for optimal dough rise.
Salt: Often underestimated, salt is a crucial flavor enhancer. It not only balances the sweetness in the dough but also strengthens the gluten structure and controls yeast activity. Without it, your rolls might taste bland and flat.
Mashed Sweet Potatoes: The heart of this recipe! You’ll need plain mashed sweet potatoes, free from any added milk, butter, or seasonings. You have two excellent methods for preparation:
- Boiling: Peel and cube the sweet potatoes, then boil until very tender. Drain well before mashing. Boiled sweet potatoes tend to have a higher moisture content, so you might lean towards the higher end of the flour range.
- Roasting: Pierce whole sweet potatoes several times, then roast in the oven until fork-tender. Scoop out the flesh and mash. Roasting often yields a drier, more intensely flavored mash, which might require slightly less flour.
Butter: This recipe calls for butter at various stages for maximum richness and flavor. You’ll need melted butter for the dough, perfectly softened butter for the luscious filling, and more softened butter for the irresistible cream cheese frosting. Proper butter temperature is key for success in each step.
Large Egg: One large egg enriches the dough, adding moisture, binding the ingredients, and contributing to the rolls’ tender crumb and beautiful golden color.
Brown Sugar (for the Filling): Used in the delectable filling, brown sugar (light or dark) provides a deep, molasses-rich sweetness that pairs perfectly with the pumpkin pie spice. Light brown sugar offers a milder caramel note, while dark brown sugar delivers a more pronounced, robust flavor.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: This aromatic blend brings warm, comforting notes to the filling. While store-bought pumpkin pie spice is convenient, a homemade mix ensures the freshest, most vibrant flavors. If you don’t have a mix, a generous amount of ground cinnamon can be used, or you can create your own blend with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a pinch of cloves.
Full-Fat Cream Cheese (for Frosting): For the silkiest, most flavorful cream cheese frosting, always opt for full-fat cream cheese. Ensure it’s fully softened to room temperature before you begin, as this prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Powdered Sugar (Confectioners’ Sugar): This finely milled sugar is essential for achieving a smooth, velvety frosting. It dissolves effortlessly into the cream cheese and butter mixture, leaving no grainy texture behind.
Fresh Orange (Zest and Juice): The star of our frosting’s unique flavor! The zest, packed with aromatic oils, provides the most concentrated and bright orange essence. The fresh juice is used to thin the frosting to your desired consistency and adds a subtle tangy note that balances the sweetness beautifully.

Making dough for Sweet Potato Cinnamon Rolls.

Baking Brilliance: How to Craft Sweet Potato Cinnamon Rolls

Creating these delightful sweet potato cinnamon rolls is a rewarding journey. Follow these detailed steps for a successful bake, remembering that patience is a baker’s best friend, especially when working with yeast dough!

Instructions

1. Combine Dry Ingredients for the Rolls: In the large bowl of a stand mixer, measure and combine 2 cups of the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, active dry yeast, and salt. Use the paddle attachment or a whisk to mix these ingredients thoroughly until they are uniformly blended. This initial step helps ensure the yeast is well distributed for an even rise.
2. Warm the Wet Ingredients: In a separate, microwave-safe bowl, combine the 1 cup of water, 3/4 cup of mashed sweet potatoes, and 3 tablespoons of cubed butter. Microwave the mixture on high in brief 15-second intervals, stirring after each, until it reaches a very warm temperature (approximately 120º to 130ºF, or 49º to 54ºC). It should feel warm but not hot to the touch. The butter may not completely melt, which is perfectly fine. This warm liquid is crucial for activating the yeast.
3. Incorporate Wet and Dry: Pour the warmed liquid mixture from the separate bowl into the stand mixer bowl containing your dry ingredients. Add the large egg at this point.
4. Form the Dough Base: Using the paddle attachment, beat the combined wet and dry ingredients on medium speed for 2 minutes. Pause occasionally to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl, ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated into a cohesive mixture. After this, gradually begin adding the remaining all-purpose flour, about 1/2 cup at a time. Continue mixing until the dough starts to pull cleanly away from the sides of the bowl. The dough should be soft, slightly tacky, but not overly sticky.
5. Knead to Perfection: Replace the paddle attachment with the dough hook on your stand mixer. Knead the dough on medium-low speed for 5-7 minutes. During this time, the dough will become smooth, elastic, and will spring back gently when poked. If kneading by hand, lightly flour a clean work surface and knead the dough vigorously for 8-10 minutes until it achieves the same smooth and elastic consistency.
6. First Rise: Lightly grease a large, clean bowl with a small amount of oil. Transfer the kneaded dough into this bowl, turning it over once to coat its surface lightly with oil. Cover the bowl securely with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Place the covered bowl in a warm, draft-free location and allow the dough to rise until it has visibly doubled in size. This typically takes approximately 1 hour, but rising times can vary based on room temperature and yeast activity.
7. Prepare the Flavorful Filling: While your dough is happily rising, prepare the rich cinnamon-spiced filling. In a small bowl, combine the 1/3 cup of packed brown sugar and 2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the sugar. Set this aside.
8. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has completed its first rise and doubled in size, gently punch it down to release the accumulated air. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured work surface. Using a rolling pin, carefully roll the dough into a large, even rectangle measuring approximately 15 inches by 12 inches. Aim for a consistent thickness across the entire surface.
9. Apply Butter and Filling: Spread 3 tablespoons of very soft butter evenly over the rolled-out dough rectangle. Make sure to leave a narrow border of about 1/2-inch dry along all the edges of the dough; this dry edge will help in sealing the roll later. Then, generously and evenly sprinkle the prepared brown sugar and pumpkin pie spice mixture over the buttered surface.
10. Roll and Slice the Rolls: Starting from one of the long ends of the dough rectangle, carefully and tightly roll the dough towards the opposite long end, forming a snug log. Once rolled, gently pinch the seam along the log to seal it completely. Using a sharp serrated knife (or unflavored dental floss for a cleaner cut), slice the dough log into 12 even pieces, each approximately 1.25 inches thick. Place the cut cinnamon rolls, spiral side up, into a greased 13×9-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between each for expansion.
11. Second Rise: Cover the baking dish containing the rolls with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Allow the rolls to undergo their second rise in a warm, draft-free spot for approximately 45 minutes, or until they have nearly doubled in size and appear noticeably puffy. This second rise contributes significantly to their final fluffy texture.
12. Bake the Rolls: While the rolls are completing their second rise, preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Once the rolls have risen, remove the cover and place the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are beautifully golden brown and the rolls are thoroughly cooked through. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of a roll should read around 200°F (93°C).
13. Prepare the Orange Cream Cheese Frosting: While the cinnamon rolls are in the oven, prepare the delectable frosting. In a medium bowl, combine the 4 oz softened cream cheese and 2 tablespoons softened butter. Using an electric mixer, beat these ingredients together until the mixture is light, smooth, and fluffy. Gradually add the 2 1/2 cups of powdered sugar, about 1/2 cup at a time, beating well after each addition until the frosting is silky smooth and free of lumps. Finally, beat in the zest of 1 orange. Start by adding 1 teaspoon of fresh orange juice and beat until incorporated; then, add more orange juice, up to 2 teaspoons total, until the frosting reaches your desired creamy, spreadable consistency.
14. First Frosting Layer (Optional but Recommended): As soon as the sweet potato cinnamon rolls emerge from the oven, immediately spread about 1/4 of the freshly prepared orange cream cheese frosting evenly over the warm rolls. The heat from the rolls will gently melt this initial layer, allowing it to seep into the spirals and gaps, creating an incredibly moist and gooey texture.
15. Final Frosting and Serve: Allow the rolls to cool in the baking dish for approximately 20 minutes after applying the first layer of frosting. This cooling period helps the rolls absorb the melted frosting and set slightly. Once partially cooled, spread the remaining frosting generously over the tops of the rolls. Serve warm and savor every tender, flavorful bite!

Rolling and shaping dough for Sweet Potato Cinnamon Rolls.

Risen sweet potato cinnamon roll dough in a casserole dish, and frosting baked rolls.

Pro Tips & Tricks for Perfect Sweet Potato Cinnamon Rolls

Baking delicious sweet potato cinnamon rolls is an art, and these expert tips will help you master it, ensuring every batch is tender, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible:

Adjusting Yield: This recipe is calibrated to produce 12 generously sized cinnamon rolls. If you’re catering to a larger group or prefer smaller portions for snacking, you can easily slice the dough log into 15 to 16 pieces instead of 12. Remember that smaller rolls may bake a little faster, so keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time.
The “Melted Frosting” Secret: For an unbelievably gooey and moist texture, embrace the two-stage frosting method. Spreading about a quarter of the orange cream cheese frosting immediately over the rolls when they are hot out of the oven allows it to melt beautifully and soak into the warm dough. This creates a delightful, almost glaze-like layer. While you can opt to simply frost cooled rolls, this initial melt truly elevates the experience. Just be sure not to apply *all* the frosting to scorching hot rolls, as it will become too liquid and simply run off.
Customizing Your Frosting: The orange cream cheese frosting is a highlight, but it’s easily adaptable to your preferences. If you’re not a fan of orange, simply omit the zest and juice. You can substitute the orange juice with a few teaspoons of heavy cream or milk to achieve the desired consistency, or add a dash of pure vanilla extract for a classic, comforting cream cheese flavor.
Sweet Potato Purity: For optimal results, it is highly recommended to use plain mashed sweet potatoes. This means sweet potatoes that have been cooked and mashed without any added ingredients such as milk, butter, salt, or sweeteners. Leftover mashed sweet potatoes that contain these additions might unpredictably alter the dough’s consistency and overall flavor profile. While some seasoned leftovers *might* work in a pinch, starting with plain mashed sweet potatoes provides the most consistent and reliable outcome.
Patience During Rising: Yeast doughs thrive in a warm, draft-free environment. Don’t rush the rising process; a slow, steady rise is crucial for developing the best flavor and a wonderfully airy texture. If your kitchen is cool, consider placing the covered bowl in a slightly warmed (but turned off) oven, or near a sunny window.
Achieving Uniform Slices: For perfectly uniform cinnamon rolls that bake evenly and look professional, consider using unflavored dental floss to cut the dough log. Slide a piece of floss under the rolled log, cross the ends over the top, and pull to create a clean, non-squished slice. Alternatively, gently mark your rolled dough with a ruler before using a sharp serrated knife to guide your cuts.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options for Convenience

While these sweet potato cinnamon rolls are undeniably at their best enjoyed warm and fresh from the oven, their versatility allows for convenient storage and make-ahead preparations to suit any schedule.

Storing Baked Rolls: Once the rolls have completely cooled and have been frosted, store any leftovers in an airtight container. They will keep well at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For that freshly baked warmth, gently reheat individual rolls in the microwave for 15-30 seconds.
Make-Ahead Dough (Overnight Proof): To prepare these rolls the night before, follow the recipe through Step 10 (placing the cut rolls in the baking dish). Instead of allowing them to undergo the second rise, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it overnight (for 8-12 hours). The next morning, remove the rolls from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours, or until they have visibly puffed up and returned to room temperature. Then, bake as directed.
Freezing Unbaked Rolls: If you want to have a stash ready for future cravings, you can freeze unbaked rolls. After shaping and placing the rolls in the baking dish (Step 10), flash freeze them uncovered for about an hour until they are firm. Once firm, transfer the frozen rolls to a freezer-safe airtight bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to bake, transfer the frozen rolls to a greased baking dish, cover them loosely, and let them thaw and rise in the refrigerator overnight, or at room temperature for 3-5 hours until puffed. Then, bake according to the instructions.
Freezing Baked Rolls: Baked but unfrosted rolls can also be frozen for up to 1 month. Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. To serve, thaw them at room temperature, reheat gently if desired, and then apply the freshly made orange cream cheese frosting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Sweet Potato Cinnamon Rolls

Here are answers to some common questions that might arise when baking these delicious sweet potato cinnamon rolls:

Can I use canned sweet potato puree instead of fresh mashed sweet potatoes?: Yes, you can substitute fresh mashed sweet potatoes with canned sweet potato puree. However, it is crucial to ensure that you use plain, unsweetened puree (not pie filling). Also, if the puree appears very watery, drain any excess liquid before incorporating it into the dough to maintain the correct consistency.
My dough isn’t rising; what could be the problem?: Several factors can inhibit yeast activity. Firstly, verify that your yeast is fresh and not expired. The temperature of your wet ingredients (water, sweet potatoes, butter) is also critical; if it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast, and if it’s too cold, it won’t activate properly. Aim for 120º-130ºF (49º-54ºC). Lastly, ensure your rising environment is warm and free from drafts. If your kitchen is cold, try a warmer spot or a slightly warmed (but turned off) oven.
Is it possible to make these cinnamon rolls without a stand mixer?: Absolutely! While a stand mixer simplifies the process, you can certainly make these rolls by hand. You’ll need a large sturdy bowl for mixing the initial ingredients and a clean, lightly floured surface for kneading the dough. Be prepared for a good arm workout, as hand kneading will take a bit longer (around 8-10 minutes) to achieve the desired elasticity, but the delicious results will be worth the effort.
How do I ensure my orange cream cheese frosting is perfectly smooth and lump-free?: The key to silky smooth frosting lies in the temperature of your ingredients and proper mixing technique. Ensure both your full-fat cream cheese and butter are thoroughly softened to room temperature before you begin beating them. Gradually add the powdered sugar, about 1/2 cup at a time, beating well after each addition until all lumps are incorporated. If the frosting is too thick, add a tiny bit more orange juice or milk; if it’s too thin, a spoonful or two of extra powdered sugar can help thicken it.

Sweet Potato Cinnamon Roll on a plate, topped with orange cream cheese frosting, with a bite taken with a fork.

More Irresistible Sweet Roll Recipes to Savor

If you’ve discovered the joy of baking and devouring homemade sweet rolls, here are a few more fantastic recipes from our collection to inspire your next baking adventure:

Cranberry Cinnamon Rolls: A vibrant and festive option, perfect for holiday breakfasts or a delightful brunch.
Classic Homemade Cinnamon Rolls: The timeless favorite, delivering all the comforting, warm spiced goodness you crave.
Decadent Sticky Buns: Indulge in these rich, caramelized, and nutty buns, a truly special treat for any sweet tooth.

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Sweet Potato Cinnamon Rolls

Author: Deborah Harroun

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Inactive Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes

Servings: 12 rolls

Course: Bread, Breakfast

Cuisine: American

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Mashed sweet potatoes make these Sweet Potato Cinnamon Rolls super tender and soft, and the orange cream cheese frosting takes them to a new level! These sweet rolls are a great recipe for when you want a change up from your traditional cinnamon roll recipe.

Ingredients

Rolls:

4 1/4 – 4 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup sugar
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup water
3/4 cup mashed sweet potatoes
3 tablespoons butter cut into small cubes
1 egg

Filling:

1/3 cup packed brown sugar
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
3 tablespoons very soft butter

Orange Cream Cheese Frosting:

4 oz cream cheese softened
2 tablespoons butter softened
2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
zest of 1 orange
1 to 2 teaspoons fresh orange juice

Recipe Notes:

Nutrition information provided as an estimate only. Various brands and products can change the counts. Any nutritional information should be used as a general guide.

Nutrition Information

Serving: 1roll,
Calories: 436kcal (22%),
Carbohydrates: 75g (25%),
Protein: 6g (12%),
Fat: 12g (18%),
Saturated Fat: 7g (44%),
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g,
Monounsaturated Fat: 3g,
Trans Fat: 0g,
Cholesterol: 48mg (16%),
Sodium: 275mg (12%),
Potassium: 31mg (1%),
Fiber: 2g (8%),
Sugar: 39g (43%)

Keywords: sweet potato recipe, sweet potato rolls, sweet rolls, orange cream cheese frosting, homemade cinnamon rolls, fall baking, breakfast, brunch, holiday sweets