Activate yeast: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, add warm milk (about 105–110°F), brown sugar, and 1 packet active dry yeast; stir and let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy/bubbly.
3/4 cup Milk, 1/4 cup Brown Sugar, 1 packet (2&1/4 tsp.) Active Yeast
Mix wet ingredients: Add pumpkin purée, egg, and melted butter to the bowl; mix on low until combined.
3/4 cup Pumpkin Puree, 1 Egg, 4 tbsp. Butter
Add dry ingredients: Add flour, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix on low, then increase to medium-low and knead 6–8 minutes until the dough is smooth, slightly tacky, and pulls from the sides.
4 cups Flour, 1&1/2 tsp. Salt, 1 tsp. Pumpkin Pie Spice
First rise: Lightly oil the bowl with olive oil, shape dough into a ball, return it to the bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size (about 60–90 minutes).
1 tbsp. olive oil
Shape rolls: Punch down the dough, turn it out, and divide into 16 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a tight ball.
Second rise: Arrange balls in a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish, cover with a towel, and let rise until puffy while you preheat the oven to 375°F (about 20–30 minutes).
Bake: Bake 25–30 minutes until golden on top (internal temp around 190°F if using a thermometer).
Finish & serve: Brush warm rolls with butter (optional), sprinkle a pinch of flaky salt or extra pumpkin pie spice if you like, and serve warm.
Notes: If using instant yeast, you can skip the proofing step and mix it with the flour; still warm the milk. If the dough feels too sticky, add 1–2 tablespoons flour at a time; if dry, add 1–2 teaspoons milk.