Heat the milk and 3 tablespoons of butter until warm (110 to 120 degrees F).
In a large bowl combine the yeast, 1/4 cup sugar, and salt. Add the heated milk and melted butter mixture and mix in with a wooden spoon
Mix in the pumpkin puree. Gradually knead in enough of the flour to make a soft dough. Continue to knead the bread until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Grease the bottom of the bowl and turn the dough to grease both sides. Cover and place in a warm place for 1 hour or until the dough is double in size.
Prepare the cinnamon mixture. Combine the remaining 1 cup of sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Set aside.
Melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter.
Grease a 10" cast iron skillet
Once the bread is doubled in size divide the dough and roll it into 22 balls.
Dip/roll each ball in the melted butter and then the sugar mixture. Place the balls in the prepared skillet. If any of the sugar mixture is left you can sprinkle it over the balls. Let the balls rest for 1/2 hour.
Place the skillet in a preheated oven that has been preheated to 375 degrees F.
Bake for 25 to 27 minutes. Remove from the oven cool slightly before serving.