Apple Cinnamon Rolls

There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of baked goods wafting through the house, and that’s exactly what happens when you make Apple Cinnamon Rolls. I remember the first time I indulged in these delightful treats; it was a cool fall morning, and I had just come in from playing in the leaves with my children. We were greeted by the sweet, warm scent of cinnamon and apples filling the kitchen. My mouth watered with anticipation as I watched my mom roll out the dough, spreading it generously with butter, sugar, and those tart, juicy apples. We’d gather around the table, plates in hand, ready to devour them fresh from the oven. Each bite was a perfect balance of sweet cinnamon, soft dough, and tender apples. Making Apple Cinnamon Rolls has since become a cherished family tradition, one that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. The best part? They’re perfect for breakfast or a sweet afternoon snack, making them a versatile treat for any occasion!

Ingredients Overview for Apple Cinnamon Rolls

When it comes to making Apple Cinnamon Rolls, the ingredients are what make the magic happen. Each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the warm spices to the sweetness of the apples, these ingredients come together harmoniously to create a delightful experience.

• Active dry yeast – The key to fluffy rolls, this yeast helps the dough rise beautifully.
• Lukewarm water – Essential for activating the yeast without killing it.
• Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps to proof the yeast.
• Unsalted butter – Provides richness and flavor to both the dough and the filling.
• All-purpose flour – The backbone of this recipe, giving the rolls structure.
• Hot water – Helps to melt the butter and dissolve sugar, creating a silky dough.
• Large eggs – Enrich the dough, adding moisture and a lovely texture.
• Salt – Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Chopped apples – The star of the filling, providing natural sweetness and moisture.
• Brown sugar – Adds caramel notes that complement the apples.
• Ground nutmeg – A warm spice that elevates the flavor profile.
• Cinnamon – The quintessential spice for cinnamon rolls, bringing warmth and flavor.
• Cream cheese – Used in the frosting, it adds creaminess and tang.
• Powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting without the graininess of granulated sugar.
• Whole milk – Helps achieve the perfect consistency for the frosting.

Making This Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Making Apple Cinnamon Rolls is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with the irresistible scent of baking. Each step brings you closer to that gooey, sweet perfection that everyone loves. Let’s dive into the process!

1. Add active dry yeast to 1 cup of lukewarm water and stir with a spoon. Let it sit for about five minutes until it becomes frothy. This is a crucial step to ensure your yeast is active.
2. In a stand mixer bowl, combine unsalted butter or shortening, granulated sugar, and salt with some hot water. Beat on high speed for about 30 seconds until mixed well. The mixture should cool down to lukewarm.
3. Next, stir in 2 cups of all-purpose flour until smooth. Add the yeast mixture, and mix until everything is well combined. You’ll notice the dough starting to form.
4. Now, mix in the large eggs, making sure they’re fully incorporated into the dough. Gradually add the remaining flour, mixing with the dough hook for about 2 minutes. You want a soft dough that isn’t too sticky.
5. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it by hand for about 5 to 7 minutes until it feels satiny and smooth. If it’s still sticky, add a little flour as needed.
6. Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes, or until it doubles in size. This is when the magic happens!
7. While the dough is rising, prepare the apple filling. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt unsalted butter. Add the chopped apples, brown sugar, and ground nutmeg. Stir to coat the apples and cook them for about 2 minutes until they are slightly softened.
8. Once the dough has risen, remove it from the bowl and place it on a floured counter. Divide the dough in half. Roll out one half into a rectangle about 22 by 13 inches. Spread with 4 tablespoons of softened butter.
9. Sprinkle half of the brown sugar over the buttered dough, followed by half of the cooked apples and half of the cinnamon. Roll it up tightly into one long log and cut into 2-inch thick rolls using dental floss for a clean cut.
10. Place the rolls in a greased 9 by 13 baking pan, leaving space between each one. Repeat the process with the second half of the dough and the remaining ingredients.
11. Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until they double in size again. This step is essential for fluffy rolls!
12. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Bake the rolls for 30 to 35 minutes until they are golden brown on top. The insides should be soft but not doughy.
13. Let the rolls cool on a wire rack until slightly warm. While they cool, prepare the frosting by melting unsalted butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Once melted, turn the heat up and stir until small golden bits form at the bottom. It should smell nutty.
14. Pour the browned butter into a heat-safe bowl to cool. Beat it with cream cheese until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar and mix until well combined. Add whole milk and mix until you achieve a smooth consistency.
15. Spread the frosting generously over the warm Apple Cinnamon Rolls and enjoy the sweet aroma that fills your home!

Change It Up

Feeling adventurous? You can easily switch things up with Apple Cinnamon Rolls. Here are some fun variations to consider!

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also refrigerate them for longer freshness!
• Freezing: These rolls freeze wonderfully! After baking, let them cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Frosting Variations: Experiment with different frostings like maple or caramel for a unique twist on traditional cream cheese frosting.
• Nut Additions: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor in the rolls.
• Spicing It Up: Incorporate different spices like allspice or cardamom for a unique flavor profile in the dough and filling.

Pairing Suggestions for Apple Cinnamon Rolls

When it comes to serving Apple Cinnamon Rolls, the options are endless! Here are some delightful pairings:

• Fresh fruit: Serve with a side of fresh berries or sliced oranges for a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.
• Warm beverages: Pair these rolls with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a warm apple cider for a cozy experience.
• Breakfast spread: These rolls can be the star of your breakfast table alongside scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit salad.
• Brunch gatherings: They are perfect for brunch with friends, served alongside quiche or a savory breakfast casserole.
• Seasonal celebrations: Apple Cinnamon Rolls are a hit during fall and can be a delightful addition to holiday gatherings too!
• Storage tips: If you have leftovers, store them in a covered container. They can be reheated in the microwave or oven, making them a great treat for the next day!

FAQ

Conclusion

Apple Cinnamon Rolls are not just a treat; they are a labor of love that brings joy and warmth to any gathering. The combination of sweet apples, warm cinnamon, and a gooey frosting makes them irresistible! I encourage you to try making them and experience the happiness they bring—not only to your taste buds but also to your loved ones!

Apple Cinnamon Rolls

The ultimate comfort food, Apple Cinnamon Rolls are soft, gooey, and bursting with warm apple flavor. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 45 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Servings: 30 cinnamon rolls

Course: Breakfast

Cuisine: American

Calories: 400

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 packages Active dry yeast equivalent to 4 ½ teaspoons
• 1 cup Lukewarm water
• 1 teaspoon Granulated sugar to proof the yeast
• 6 tablespoons Unsalted butter or shortening
• 1 cup Granulated sugar
• 8 cups Unbleached all-purpose flour you might need more if the dough is sticky, up to 9-10 cups
• 2 cups Hot water
• 2 large Eggs beaten
• 1 tablespoon Salt
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
• 5 large Apples chopped (we like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith, you can peel them if you want)
• 2 tablespoons Brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon Ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup Softened unsalted butter about total
• 1 1/2 cups Brown sugar about total
• 2 tablespoons Cinnamon about total
• 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter
• 6 ounces Cream cheese at room temperature
• 4 cups Powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons Whole milk
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla

Equipment

• Oven
• Wooden Spoon
• Peeler
• Baking Sheet
• Skillet
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Frying Pan

Method

 

1. Add active dry yeast to 1 cup of lukewarm water and stir with a spoon. Let it sit for about five minutes until it becomes frothy. This is a crucial step to ensure your yeast is active.
2. In a stand mixer bowl, combine unsalted butter or shortening, granulated sugar, and salt with some hot water. Beat on high speed for about 30 seconds until mixed well. The mixture should cool down to lukewarm.
3. Next, stir in 2 cups of all-purpose flour until smooth. Add the yeast mixture, and mix until everything is well combined. You’ll notice the dough starting to form.
4. Now, mix in the large eggs, making sure they’re fully incorporated into the dough. Gradually add the remaining flour, mixing with the dough hook for about 2 minutes. You want a soft dough that isn’t too sticky.
5. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it by hand for about 5 to 7 minutes until it feels satiny and smooth. If it’s still sticky, add a little flour as needed.
6. Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes, or until it doubles in size. This is when the magic happens!
7. While the dough is rising, prepare the apple filling. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt unsalted butter. Add the chopped apples, brown sugar, and ground nutmeg. Stir to coat the apples and cook them for about 2 minutes until they are slightly softened.
8. Once the dough has risen, remove it from the bowl and place it on a floured counter. Divide the dough in half. Roll out one half into a rectangle about 22 by 13 inches. Spread with 4 tablespoons of softened butter.
9. Sprinkle half of the brown sugar over the buttered dough, followed by half of the cooked apples and half of the cinnamon. Roll it up tightly into one long log and cut into 2-inch thick rolls using dental floss for a clean cut.
10. Place the rolls in a greased 9 by 13 baking pan, leaving space between each one. Repeat the process with the second half of the dough and the remaining ingredients.
11. Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until they double in size again. This step is essential for fluffy rolls!
12. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Bake the rolls for 30 to 35 minutes until they are golden brown on top. The insides should be soft but not doughy.
13. Let the rolls cool on a wire rack until slightly warm. While they cool, prepare the frosting by melting unsalted butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Once melted, turn the heat up and stir until small golden bits form at the bottom. It should smell nutty.
14. Pour the browned butter into a heat-safe bowl to cool. Beat it with cream cheese until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar and mix until well combined. Add whole milk and mix until you achieve a smooth consistency.
15. Spread the frosting generously over the warm Apple Cinnamon Rolls and enjoy the sweet aroma that fills your home!

Notes

• Tip: If you want to make the cinnamon rolls in advance, you can refrigerate them overnight and bake in the morning. After you put the rolls in the pans, cover with plastic wrap and put the pans in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, pull the rolls out and let them come to room temperature and rise a little. Bake and enjoy!

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Meet Maya Warren

Our main recipe developer and resident forager. My passion is cooking with what the season gives us, whether it’s wild mushrooms from the woods or fresh berries from the garden. I work with Chloe to create our main dishes and with Tessa on new flavor ideas for her bakes. I love the challenge of turning a fresh, raw ingredient into something magical.