Print

Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Soft and fluffy apple cinnamon rolls filled with spiced apple chunks and brown sugar, topped with a rich cream cheese icing. These rolls are a cozy twist on classic cinnamon rolls, perfect for fall or holiday mornings.

Ingredients

  • 2 and 3/4 cups (344g) all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled), plus more as needed
  • 3 tablespoons (38g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 and 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast (1 standard packet)
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
  • 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) water
  • 1 large egg, at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 and 1/2 cups (about 2 medium) peeled and finely chopped apples
  • 1 tablespoon (7g) unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon (13g) brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar, for filling
  • 1 and 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, for filling
  • 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, softened, for filling
  • 4 ounces (113g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup (30g) confectioners’ sugar
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, for icing

Instructions

  1. Make the dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast together. Set aside.
  2. Heat the milk and butter together until the butter is melted and the mixture is warm (about 110°F/43°C). Add to the dry ingredients along with the water, egg, and vanilla. Mix until a soft dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 3 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm environment until doubled, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
  4. Make the apple filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped apples with 1 tablespoon butter, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon brown sugar for about 5 minutes until softened. Remove from heat and let cool.
  5. Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a 14×8 inch rectangle. Spread with 2 tablespoons softened butter.
  6. Mix 1/4 cup brown sugar and 1.5 teaspoons cinnamon and sprinkle evenly over the dough. Add the cooled apple mixture on top.
  7. Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut into 10–12 even rolls. Place in a greased 9-inch round or square pan.
  8. Cover the rolls and let them rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
  9. Preheat oven to 375°F (191°C). Bake the rolls for 25–28 minutes until lightly browned. Cover with foil after 15 minutes to prevent over-browning if needed.
  10. Make the icing: Beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add confectioners’ sugar, milk, and vanilla and beat until combined.
  11. Spread icing over warm rolls and serve.

Notes

  • You can make the dough and assemble the rolls the night before. Refrigerate overnight and bake in the morning.
  • Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice contrast to the sweet filling.
  • These rolls freeze well – freeze before or after baking.
  • Ensure your yeast is fresh for the best rise.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yumfamilyrecipes.com/apple-cinnamon-rolls/