Step 1

In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin, garlic powder, onion powder, minced onion, fresh herbs, salt, cayenne, yeast mixture and 1-1/2 cups flour; beat on medium speed until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough (dough will be sticky). Stir in cheese.

Step 2

Turn dough onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease the top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1-1/2 hours.

Step 3

Punch down dough; turn onto a lightly floured surface. Divide and shape into 12 balls; flatten slightly. Wrap each ball in 4 pieces of kitchen string, creating indentations to resemble a pumpkin. Place 2 in. apart on greased baking sheets. Cover with kitchen towels; let rise in a warm place until almost doubled, about 45 minutes.

Step 4

Preheat oven to 375°. Bake until golden brown, 15-20 minutes. If desired, brush with melted butter. Remove from pans to wire racks to cool. Cut and discard string. Before serving, insert pretzel halves in top of each roll.