Name: Pumpkin Fry Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Butter Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 teaspoons instant dry yeast; 2 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1/2 cup warm milk (100-110℉); 3 1/2 - 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 pinch ground cloves; 4 tablespoons cold butter (cut in pieces); 1 large egg; 1 cup pumpkin puree; 4 cups vegetable oil (for frying); 8 ounces cream cheese (softened); 1/2 cup butter (softened); 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 3 reviews

There is something absolutely magical about combining soft, fluffy pumpkin-infused fry bread with a luscious, spiced butter topping that melts into every bite. The Pumpkin Fry Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Butter Recipe is a heartwarming dish that feels like a cozy hug on a plate. It’s sweet, comforting, and carries that hint of fall spices that make it irresistible. Whether you’re serving this for breakfast, dessert, or a special snack, this recipe blends the perfect flavors and textures to brighten your day and bring smiles all around.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows ingredients for baking arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. On the right side, there is a large clear bowl filled with white flour. To the left of the flour, there is a small white bowl with a light yellow stick of butter, and next to it is a white egg. Below these, there is a small clear bowl with light beige yeast and another clear bowl with brown cinnamon. At the bottom left, a measuring cup holds a white liquid, likely milk. Above it, there is a set of four wooden measuring spoons containing different spices and ingredients: one with orange pumpkin puree, one with white sugar, one with salt, and the smallest with a brown spice. The colors are mostly white, orange, beige, and brown, and the arrangement is simple and orderly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe calls for straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a vital role in making the pumpkin fry bread both tender and flavorful. The warm spices, rich pumpkin, and creamy butter combine beautifully, creating the perfect harmony that defines the dish.

Instant dry yeast (1 ½ teaspoons): This ensures your dough rises beautifully, giving the fry bread that perfect airy texture.
Granulated sugar (2 ½ tablespoons): Adds just the right touch of sweetness to balance the spices and pumpkin.
Warm milk (½ cup, 100-110℉): Activates the yeast and contributes to a soft crumb.
All-purpose flour (3 ½ - 4 cups): The foundation of the dough, providing structure and chew.
Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Brings cozy warmth and enhances the pumpkin’s flavor.
Ground nutmeg (¼ teaspoon): Adds subtle earthy spice, perfect alongside the cinnamon.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances sweetness and amplifies all flavors.
Ground cloves (1 pinch): A little extra spice magic to deepen the aroma.
Cold butter (4 tablespoons, cut in pieces): Works into the flour for a tender, flaky texture.
Large egg (1): Helps bind ingredients, adding richness to the dough.
Pumpkin puree (1 cup): The star ingredient that infuses the dough with color, moisture, and that subtle pumpkin flavor we love.
Vegetable oil (4 cups, for frying): The perfect medium for golden, crispy edges.
Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): Whipped into the butter for a creamy, tangy-spiced topping.
Butter (½ cup, softened): Makes the cinnamon cream cheese butter lush and spreadable.
Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the butter and cream cheese into a dreamy spread.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Boosts the flavor with a lovely, mellow sweetness.

How to Make Pumpkin Fry Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Butter Recipe

Step 1: Activate Your Yeast

Start by combining the instant dry yeast, granulated sugar, and warm milk in the bowl of your stand mixer. Let it sit for 3 to 5 minutes until it foams up – that’s your signal that the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Prep the Dry Ingredients and Butter

In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of the flour with the ground cinnamon, salt, nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves. Add the cold butter pieces, then use a pastry cutter or fork to cut the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse cornmeal. This step is key for creating tender pockets in the fry bread.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Add the dry flour-butter mixture into the yeast mixture in your stand mixer. Mix on low speed just until combined, then add the egg and pumpkin puree. Keep mixing on low until everything is fully incorporated. This rich pumpkin mixture will give your bread a lovely flavor and soft texture.

Step 4: Add Remaining Flour and Knead

Gradually add the remaining flour, a little at a time, while continuing to mix on low. Stop adding flour once the dough pulls away from the sides and forms a soft ball. Increase the mixer speed to medium and knead for 3 to 4 minutes until the dough feels smooth and elastic.

Step 5: Let the Dough Rise

Transfer your dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size – about an hour. This rise is what makes your fry bread light and fluffy once cooked.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Punch down the dough to release air, then transfer it to a floured surface. Pinch off walnut-sized pieces and roll each into thin discs about ¼ inch thick. These thin rounds will puff up and cook evenly in the hot oil.

Step 7: Fry Until Golden

Heat the vegetable oil in a deep skillet or heavy pot to between 350 and 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Fry the dough discs in batches for 1 to 2 minutes per side until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to move the fry bread to a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain off excess oil.

Step 8: Make the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Butter

While your fry bread is cooling slightly, whip together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl using a hand mixer. Mix on medium speed until you get a smooth, creamy spread that tastes just like autumn sunshine.

Step 9: Serve Warm and Spread Generously

Serve your pumpkin fry bread warm, smothered with that dreamy cinnamon cream cheese butter. The warmth of the bread makes the butter melt slightly, creating a mouthwatering combination you will want to enjoy again and again.

How to Serve Pumpkin Fry Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Butter Recipe

The image shows several pieces of golden brown fried dough arranged close together on a metal cooling rack. One piece in the center has a cream-colored icing spread unevenly on its top, creating a smooth swirled texture that contrasts with the crispy, bubbly surface of the dough underneath. The other pieces have a light dusting of powdered sugar, giving them a slightly rough texture with a white powdery finish. The cooling rack sits on a white marbled surface, and a small metal spatula with a dollop of the same icing is partially visible near the bottom left. The background includes a blurred, soft gray cloth adding a cozy feel. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation, sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar or a dash of extra cinnamon on top. Toasted pecans or crushed walnuts also add a wonderful crunch and nutty accent that pairs beautifully with the buttery sweetness.

Side Dishes

This pumpkin fry bread shines on its own, but it also complements warm beverages like chai tea or pumpkin spice latte perfectly. Serve alongside fresh fruit salad or a bowl of spiced apples for a festive fall treat that feels indulgent yet balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the fry bread like a mini pancake tower, layering each piece with cinnamon cream cheese butter and a drizzle of maple syrup. Or create little sliders with savory fillings such as pulled pork or spiced turkey to enjoy a delightful sweet-and-savory combo that surprises and delights.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover pumpkin fry bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The cinnamon cream cheese butter should be kept refrigerated in a sealed container for up to a week to maintain its freshness.

Freezing

You can freeze the fry bread by placing parchment between each piece and sealing them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. The cinnamon cream cheese butter does not freeze well, so it’s best to prepare that fresh when you’re ready to serve.

Reheating

Reheat the fry bread in a toaster oven or skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warm and slightly crisp again. Spread with chilled cinnamon cream cheese butter just before serving for maximum deliciousness.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and saves time, just make sure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling which contains added sugars and spices.

Is the dough sticky? How do I know if I need more flour?

The dough will be soft but not overly sticky. If it feels very sticky and difficult to handle, sprinkle a bit more flour, but be careful not to add too much or your fry bread might become tough.

Can I fry the bread in oil other than vegetable oil?

Yes, you can use other neutral oils like canola or peanut oil. The key is to have a high smoke point so the bread fries evenly and develops a beautiful golden crust.

Can this recipe be made vegan?

To make it vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a flax egg or other egg replacer instead of the large egg. The cream cheese butter topping can be made with dairy-free cream cheese and margarine.

How do I know when the oil is at the right temperature for frying?

Use a thermometer to reach 350-375°F for best results, or drop a small piece of dough into the oil—if it sizzles and rises to the surface quickly, the oil is ready.

Final Thoughts

If you want to experience a dish that’s comforting, flavorful, and wonderfully nostalgic, the Pumpkin Fry Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Butter Recipe is an absolute must-try. Its tender pumpkin-infused bread combined with the creamy spiced butter will make you want to bake this again and again. So gather your ingredients, warm up the skillet, and get ready to enjoy a little slice of cozy happiness!

Pumpkin Fry Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Butter Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need