If you are craving a warm, comforting, and utterly irresistible treat, this Apple Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine soft, fluffy rolls generously swirled with a spiced apple filling, kissed by the perfect balance of cinnamon and nutmeg, all topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze that melts in your mouth. These rolls are a celebration of fall flavors any time of the year, guaranteed to fill your kitchen with amazing aromas and bring smiles to everyone gathered around. Whether it’s a weekend breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack, this Apple Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is a showstopper you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this recipe right is all about simple, wholesome ingredients that work in harmony to create those tender, flavorful rolls. Each item contributes to the dough’s softness, the sweet and spicy filling, or the creamy finish, ensuring every bite is nothing short of perfection.
- ½ cup water (114 grams, warm 105-110°F): Activates the yeast to make the dough rise beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (4 grams): Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of early sweetness.
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (7 grams, 1 packet): The secret to light and fluffy rolls.
- 5 cups all-purpose flour (600 grams): Forms the soft, sturdy base of your rolls.
- â…“ cup granulated sugar (67 grams): Adds sweetness to the dough without overpowering the apple filling.
- â…› teaspoon kosher salt: Balances flavors and enhances the sweetness.
- ¾ cup unsalted butter (170 grams, room temperature): Keeps the dough rich and soft.
- 2 large eggs (100 grams, room temp, lightly beaten): Provide structure and tenderness to the dough.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (4 grams): Adds a delicate fragrant warmth.
- ¾ cup milk (170 grams, warm 105-110°F): Foams the dough to a perfect texture with added flavor.
- â…“ cup brown sugar (71 grams): Sweetens the filling with a hint of caramel depth.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (9 grams): Brings the classic spice note everyone loves in cinnamon rolls.
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle layer of spice to complement the apples.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (42 grams, room temperature): Used to create a luscious filling that melts into every swirl.
- 2 apples (400 grams, diced): The star ingredient that adds fresh fruitiness and soft texture inside your rolls.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (57 grams, room temperature): For making the cream cheese frosting extra silky.
- 4 ounces cream cheese (113 grams, room temperature): For the tangy, creamy frosting that elevates these rolls to something special.
- 1½ cups powdered sugar (170 grams): Sweetens the glaze perfectly without graininess.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by warming your water (make sure it’s between 105-110°F) and dissolving a teaspoon of granulated sugar along with the active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it’s foamy and alive—this means your yeast is ready to work its magic. In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and kosher salt. From there, mix in the room temperature butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and warmed milk to form a smooth dough. Knead the dough gently until it’s soft and elastic, then cover it with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour until it doubles in size. That first rise is crucial for those fluffy, pillowy rolls everyone dreams about.
Step 2: Make the Apple Cinnamon Filling
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. Dice your apples into small, manageable pieces and toss them in a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This combo creates a fragrant, sweet spice blend that perfectly complements the crisp tartness of the apples. Heat three tablespoons of butter in a pan and gently sauté the apples and spice mixture until the apples soften slightly but still hold their shape. This step intensifies the flavors and makes the filling irresistibly good when baked inside your rolls.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down gently and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle about 16×12 inches. Spread the softened butter over the dough evenly, then sprinkle the spiced apple filling across the surface. Roll the dough tightly from one long edge to the other, creating a log. Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 12 equal-sized rolls, and place them into a greased pan, leaving a little space between each to expand. Cover again and let them proof for about 30 minutes.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for around 30 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up. This baking time ensures the dough is cooked through, while the filling bubbles gently inside each roll, marrying those wonderful apple and cinnamon flavors. The smell coming from your oven will make it almost impossible to wait for them to cool!
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the rolls are baking, whip together the cream cheese, softened butter, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. The frosting should be thick enough to spread but light enough to drizzle. Once the rolls are warm but not hot, generously spread or drizzle the frosting over the tops, watching it melt into the valleys and folds of the cinnamon roll swirls. This final step brings the whole Apple Cinnamon Rolls Recipe to life with a tangy, sweet finish that makes your taste buds dance.
How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of beauty and flavor, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the frosting. A light dusting of cinnamon or a few thin apple slices can also create a picture-perfect presentation that invites eager hands to grab a roll.
Side Dishes
These rolls are fantastic on their own, but pairing them with a simple side of fresh fruit or a cup of steamed milk or coffee elevates the experience. If you want to keep it hearty, a creamy scrambled egg or thick-cut bacon makes a savory contrast that balances the sweetness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these rolls warm in a rustic wooden basket lined with a cotton napkin for a cozy, home-style vibe. Alternatively, you can cut smaller rolls and serve them as part of a brunch buffet, allowing guests to take a bite-sized taste of your Apple Cinnamon Rolls Recipe magic.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover Apple Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft and fresh without drying out. If you want to enjoy them later, reheat gently in the microwave or oven for that just-baked warmth.
Freezing
These rolls freeze beautifully, making them a fantastic make-ahead treat. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Reheating
To reheat, warm your rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This restores their soft texture and revives the fresh-baked aroma. Microwave reheating works too, but the oven method keeps the outside slightly crisp while keeping the inside soft and gooey.
FAQs
Can I use frozen apples in this Apple Cinnamon Rolls Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen apples, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to remove excess moisture; otherwise, the filling can become too soggy.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter and cream cheese with your favorite dairy-free alternatives. Coconut or almond milk warm in place of cow’s milk will also work great.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise slowly in the fridge. This slow fermentation enhances flavor and makes the morning bake quick and easy.
What type of apples are best for the filling?
Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best as they hold their shape and provide a nice tart contrast to the sweet cinnamon.
How thick should I roll out the dough?
Roll to about ¼ inch thickness to ensure the rolls are soft and fluffy, but still sturdy enough to hold the delicious apple filling without tearing.
Final Thoughts
Making this Apple Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is more than just baking; it’s creating a little moment of joy and warmth that you can share with those you love. The blend of tender dough, spiced apple filling, and creamy frosting truly brings magic to your kitchen. So go ahead, grab those apples and ingredients, and make your home smell like happiness today. I promise, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become your go-to comfort food and a beloved tradition.
Print
Apple Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these warm, gooey Apple Cinnamon Rolls—soft, fluffy rolls swirled with a spiced apple filling and topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze. Perfect for breakfast or a comforting dessert, these rolls combine the classic flavors of cinnamon and apples in every bite.
Ingredients
Dough
- ½ cup water (114 grams, warm 105-110°F)
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (4 grams)
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (7 grams, 1 packet)
- 5 cups all-purpose flour (600 grams)
- â…“ cup granulated sugar (67 grams)
- â…› teaspoon kosher salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter (170 grams, room temperature, 1½ sticks)
- 2 large eggs (100 grams, room temperature and lightly beaten)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (4 grams)
- ¾ cup milk (170 grams, warm 105-110°F)
Filling
- â…“ cup brown sugar (71 grams)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (9 grams)
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (42 grams, room temperature, ⅜ stick)
- 2 apples (400 grams, diced, any variety)
Glaze
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (57 grams, room temperature, ½ stick)
- 4 ounces cream cheese (113 grams, room temperature, ½ brick)
- 1½ cups powdered sugar (170 grams)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water and 1 teaspoon granulated sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy and activated, ensuring the yeast is alive and ready to leaven the dough.
- Prepare Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, â…“ cup granulated sugar, and kosher salt. Add the room temperature unsalted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, warm milk, and the activated yeast mixture. Mix and knead the dough until it becomes smooth, elastic, and slightly sticky. This can be done by hand or using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment. Cover the dough with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Make Filling: While the dough rises, prepare the filling by combining brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg in a bowl. Melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter and stir it into the sugar-spice mixture. Toss the diced apples in the mixture ensuring the fruit is evenly coated.
- Roll Dough and Add Filling: Once the dough has doubled, punch it down to release air. On a floured surface, roll the dough out into a large rectangle approximately 12×18 inches. Spread the apple-cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Carefully roll the dough tightly from the long edge into a log shape.
- Cut Rolls and Second Rise: Using a sharp knife or dental floss, slice the log into 12 equal rolls. Place rolls into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan or onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spaced evenly. Cover and let them rise for another 30 minutes to 45 minutes until puffy.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 25 to 30 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through on the inside. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before glazing.
- Prepare Glaze: In a bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing until the glaze reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Glaze and Serve: Spread the cream cheese glaze generously over warm cinnamon rolls. Serve immediately for the best gooey, flavorful experience.
Notes
- For softer rolls, cover the dough with a warm, damp cloth during the rise to prevent drying out.
- Diced apples can be sautéed lightly before adding to the filling if you prefer a softer fruit texture.
- Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Reheat rolls in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to refresh before serving.
- For a vegan version, substitute butter with plant-based margarine, use a flax egg instead of eggs, and cream cheese with vegan cream cheese alternatives.
