Spiced Pumpkin Butter Knots
These soft, pillowy spiced pumpkin butter knots are the perfect fall treat that combines warm spices with rich pumpkin flavor. Each knot is brushed with fragrant pumpkin butter and baked until golden brown.
Whether you’re hosting a cozy autumn gathering or simply craving something special for breakfast, these knots deliver comfort in every bite. The tender dough pairs beautifully with the aromatic spiced butter coating.
What Are Pumpkin Butter Knots?
Pumpkin butter knots are soft, yeasted bread rolls shaped into elegant knots and infused with pumpkin puree. The dough itself contains pumpkin, creating a naturally orange hue and subtle sweetness.
The magic happens with the spiced pumpkin butter coating – a mixture of butter, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. This coating is brushed on before and after baking for maximum flavor.
These knots strike the perfect balance between bread and dessert, making them versatile for any meal or occasion.
Read More: Pumpkin Pie Brulee with Bourbon Vanilla Whipped Cream
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe uses simple pantry ingredients and comes together in about 3 hours, including rise time. The active prep time is only 30 minutes, making it perfect for weekend baking.
The knots stay soft for days when stored properly and freeze beautifully for future enjoyment. They’re also naturally egg-free, making them suitable for various dietary needs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity – most ingredients are likely already in your pantry. You’ll need basic bread ingredients plus pumpkin puree and warm spices.
For the best results, use pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) and fresh spices. Room temperature ingredients help the dough come together more easily.
Spiced Pumpkin Butter Knots
Course: BreakfastCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy12
knots30
minutes2
40
minutes3
10
minutesIngredients
- For the Dough:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon salt
¾ cup warm milk (110°F)
½ cup pumpkin puree
3 tablespoons melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Spiced Pumpkin Butter:
4 tablespoons butter, melted
2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
1 teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ginger
Pinch of salt
Directions
- Activate the yeast: Combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon sugar in a large bowl. Let stand 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Make the dough: Add pumpkin puree, melted butter, vanilla, and remaining sugar to yeast mixture. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour, until doubled in size.
- Shape knots: Punch down dough and divide into 12 pieces. Roll each piece into an 8-inch rope and tie it into a knot. Place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Second rise: Cover and let rise 45 minutes until puffy.
- Make spiced butter: Whisk together all spiced butter ingredients until smooth.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F. Brush knots with half the spiced butter. Bake 15-18 minutes until golden brown.
- Finish: Brush warm knots with remaining spiced butter before serving.
Notes
- Storage: Keep covered at room temperature for 3 days or freeze up to 3 months
Make-ahead: Shape knots and refrigerate overnight; bring to room temperature before the second rise
Substitutions: Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 knot) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 285 |
| Total Fat | 10g |
| Sugars | 16g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
Pro Tips for Perfect Knots
Temperature matters when working with yeast – too hot will kill it, too cold won’t activate it properly. Aim for milk that feels just slightly warm to the touch.
Don’t skip the second rise after shaping. This step ensures your knots will be light and airy rather than dense.
The dough should be soft and slightly sticky but not so wet that you can’t handle it. Add flour gradually if needed during kneading.
Storage and Serving Ideas
These knots are delicious warm from the oven but also excellent at room temperature. Store them in an airtight container to maintain softness.
For serving, try them alongside soup, as a breakfast treat with coffee, or even as a unique dinner roll. They pair wonderfully with cream cheese or apple butter.
Variations to Try
Transform these basic knots by adding different mix-ins or toppings. A handful of toasted pumpkin seeds adds wonderful texture and crunch.
For extra indulgence, drizzle cooled knots with a simple vanilla glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. Orange zest in the dough adds bright citrus notes.
Consider savory versions by reducing sugar and adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the spiced butter mixture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these knots ahead of time?
A: Yes! Shape the knots and place them on the baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Bring to room temperature and allow for the second rise before baking.
Q: What if I don’t have pumpkin puree?
A: You can substitute with mashed sweet potato or butternut squash for similar results. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
