Apple Cinnamon Rolls: Is there anything that screams “comfort food” quite like the warm, gooey embrace of a freshly baked cinnamon roll? Now, imagine that classic treat infused with the sweet, comforting flavors of apple pie. That’s right, we’re taking cinnamon rolls to a whole new level of deliciousness!
Cinnamon rolls themselves have a rich history, tracing back to Scandinavia, where they’re known as “kanelbullar” in Sweden and “kanelsnegle” in Denmark. These sweet, yeasty buns have become a beloved treat worldwide, often enjoyed during holidays, special occasions, or simply as a delightful weekend indulgence. The addition of apples, however, brings a distinctly autumnal twist, evoking memories of cozy kitchens and the comforting aroma of baking apples.
People adore cinnamon rolls for their irresistible combination of soft, pillowy dough, warm cinnamon spice, and sweet, creamy frosting. The addition of tender, spiced apples elevates this experience, adding a delightful textural contrast and a burst of fruity flavor that perfectly complements the cinnamon. These Apple Cinnamon Rolls are not only incredibly delicious but also relatively easy to make, making them a perfect baking project for both seasoned bakers and beginners alike. Get ready to fill your home with the intoxicating scent of cinnamon and apples – you won’t be able to resist!
Ingredients:
- For the Dough:
- 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- ¾ cup (180ml) milk, warmed to 110-115°F (43-46°C)
- ¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- For the Apple Filling:
- 4 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji), peeled, cored, and diced
- ½ cup (100g) packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground allspice (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-4 tablespoons milk, or more as needed for desired consistency
Making the Dough
- Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast might be old and you’ll need to start with a fresh packet.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the melted butter and beaten egg to the yeast mixture. Whisk to combine everything well.
- Gradually Add Flour: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 6-8 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for this step. If using a mixer, knead on medium speed for about 5 minutes. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it reaches the right consistency.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This is a crucial step for developing the flavor and texture of the rolls, so be patient! A warm spot helps the yeast work its magic.
Preparing the Apple Filling
- Prepare the Apples: While the dough is rising, prepare the apple filling. Peel, core, and dice the apples into small, even pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and distribute well throughout the rolls.
- Combine Filling Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, flour, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice (if using), and lemon juice. Toss everything together until the apples are evenly coated. The lemon juice helps prevent the apples from browning and adds a touch of brightness to the filling.
Assembling and Baking the Rolls
- Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches. Aim for an even thickness throughout the rectangle.
- Spread the Filling: Spread the apple filling evenly over the entire surface of the dough, leaving a small border along one of the long edges. This border will help seal the rolls when you roll them up.
- Roll Up the Dough: Starting from the long edge opposite the border, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal it tightly.
- Cut the Rolls: Using a sharp serrated knife or unflavored dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal slices. Dental floss creates a cleaner cut and prevents the rolls from getting squished. To use floss, slide a piece under the log, cross the ends over each other, and pull to cut through.
- Second Rise: Place the rolls cut-side up in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover loosely with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they are puffy and almost doubled in size. This second rise is important for creating soft and fluffy rolls.
- Bake the Rolls: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent them from burning. If they start to brown too quickly, you can tent them with foil.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool in the baking dish for about 10-15 minutes before frosting. This allows them to set slightly and prevents the frosting from melting completely.
Making the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Cream Butter and Cream Cheese: While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Make sure both the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for the best results.
- Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, beating on low speed until combined. Then, add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Adjust Consistency: Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. You may need more or less milk depending on the humidity and the consistency of your cream cheese and butter. The frosting should be smooth, creamy, and easily spreadable.
Frosting and Serving
- Frost the Rolls: Once the rolls have cooled slightly, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the top.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the apple cinnamon rolls warm and enjoy! They are best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If storing in the refrigerator, warm them slightly before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Conclusion:
So, there you have it! These Apple Cinnamon Rolls are more than just a breakfast treat; they’re a warm hug on a plate, a comforting indulgence that’s surprisingly easy to create. If you’re looking for a recipe that will impress your family and friends, fill your kitchen with the most amazing aroma, and leave everyone begging for more, then look no further. Trust me, once you’ve tasted these, you’ll never want store-bought cinnamon rolls again!
But why are these rolls a must-try? It’s the perfect combination of tender, fluffy dough, the sweet and spiced apple filling, and that irresistible cream cheese frosting. The apples add a delightful texture and a touch of natural sweetness that complements the cinnamon perfectly. And let’s be honest, who can resist a warm, gooey cinnamon roll fresh from the oven? This recipe elevates the classic to a whole new level.
Serving Suggestions and Variations:
The possibilities are endless when it comes to serving and customizing these Apple Cinnamon Rolls. For a truly decadent experience, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts adds a delightful crunch.
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few variations to try:
* Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the rolls after frosting them for an extra layer of sweetness.
* Maple Glazed Apple Cinnamon Rolls: Substitute maple syrup for some of the milk in the cream cheese frosting for a rich, maple-infused glaze.
* Apple Cranberry Cinnamon Rolls: Add dried cranberries to the apple filling for a festive twist, especially during the holidays.
* Spiced Apple Cider Glaze: Reduce apple cider on the stovetop until it thickens slightly, then whisk it into the cream cheese frosting for a subtle apple cider flavor.
* Overnight Option: Prepare the rolls up to the baking stage, cover them tightly, and refrigerate them overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. This is a great option for busy mornings!
I truly believe that baking these Apple Cinnamon Rolls will bring you joy, not just in the eating, but also in the process. There’s something so satisfying about kneading the dough, watching it rise, and then filling your home with the scent of cinnamon and apples. It’s a labor of love, but one that’s definitely worth the effort.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake some magic! I’m confident that this recipe will become a new family favorite.
I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you’ve made these amazing Apple Cinnamon Rolls, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What did your family think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below! Let’s spread the joy of baking together. Happy baking!
Apple Cinnamon Rolls: The Ultimate Guide to Baking Perfection
Warm, soft apple cinnamon rolls with a tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat!
Ingredients
- 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- ¾ cup (180ml) milk, warmed to 110-115°F (43-46°C)
- ¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 4 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji), peeled, cored, and diced
- ½ cup (100g) packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground allspice (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-4 tablespoons milk, or more as needed for desired consistency
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the melted butter and beaten egg to the yeast mixture. Whisk to combine.
- Gradually Add Flour: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 6-8 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook on medium speed for about 5 minutes. Add flour a tablespoon at a time if too sticky.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Apples: While the dough is rising, peel, core, and dice the apples into small, even pieces.
- Combine Filling Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, flour, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice (if using), and lemon juice. Toss until evenly coated.
- Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has doubled, punch it down. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches.
- Spread the Filling: Spread the apple filling evenly over the entire surface of the dough, leaving a small border along one of the long edges.
- Roll Up the Dough: Starting from the long edge opposite the border, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal it tightly.
- Cut the Rolls: Using a sharp serrated knife or unflavored dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal slices.
- Second Rise: Place the rolls cut-side up in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover loosely with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they are puffy and almost doubled in size.
- Bake the Rolls: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool in the baking dish for about 10-15 minutes before frosting.
- Cream Butter and Cream Cheese: While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, beating on low speed until combined. Then, add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Adjust Consistency: Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
- Frost the Rolls: Once the rolls have cooled slightly, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the top.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the apple cinnamon rolls warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Make sure your milk is warmed to the correct temperature (110-115°F / 43-46°C) to activate the yeast properly.
- If your yeast doesn’t foam after 5-10 minutes, it may be old and you’ll need to use a fresh packet.
- Kneading the dough is essential for developing the gluten and creating a soft, chewy texture.
- A warm place is crucial for the dough to rise properly.
- Dicing the apples into small, even pieces ensures they cook evenly.
- Lemon juice helps prevent the apples from browning and adds brightness to the filling.
- Using dental floss to cut the rolls creates a cleaner cut and prevents them from getting squished.
- The second rise is important for creating soft and fluffy rolls.
- Keep an eye on the rolls towards the end of the baking time to prevent them from burning. Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
- Make sure the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for the best frosting consistency.
- Adjust the amount of milk in the frosting to achieve your desired consistency.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Warm slightly before serving.
