Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft & Fluffy Dough : Light, pillowy buns that melt in your mouth.
- Spiced Apple Filling : Juicy apples tossed with cinnamon and sugar create a pie-like center.
- Cream Cheese Glaze : A tangy-sweet topping that ties it all together.
- Perfect for Fall : Packed with cozy, seasonal flavors like cinnamon and apples.
- Make-Ahead Friendly : Prepare the rolls the night before and bake them fresh in the morning.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Dough:
- 1 cup whole milk , warmed to 110°F (43°C)
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter , melted
- 2 large eggs , room temperature
- 1 tsp salt
- 3 1/2–4 cups all-purpose flour
For the Apple Filling:
- 2 medium apples , peeled, cored, and finely diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional, for extra warmth)
For the Cream Cheese Glaze:
- 4 oz cream cheese , softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter , softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar , sifted
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1–2 tbsp milk , as needed
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dough
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm milk with 1 teaspoon of the sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, remaining sugar, salt, and 3 1/2 cups of flour. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes, adding more flour as needed, until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours , or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
- Roll the risen dough out into a rectangle (about 16×12 inches). Spread the cooled apple mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from the long side. Pinch the seam to seal.
- Cut the log into 12 equal slices using a sharp knife or dental floss.
Step 4: Let the Rolls Rise
- Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, cut side up. Cover with a towel and let them rise for 30–45 minutes , or until puffy.
Step 5: Bake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
- Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes , or until golden brown.
Step 6: Make the Glaze
- Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk, mixing until creamy and pourable. Adjust the consistency with more milk if needed.
Step 7: Serve
- Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm rolls. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Why This Recipe Works
- Yeast Dough Magic : Creates soft, fluffy buns that are perfect for swirling with sweet fillings.
- Caramelized Apples : The cooked apples add sweetness, texture, and a burst of fall flavor.
- Glaze Perfection : The tangy cream cheese glaze balances the sweetness of the rolls.
Variations to Try
- Add Nuts : Stir chopped pecans or walnuts into the apple filling for crunch.
- Swap the Fruit : Use pears, cranberries, or even pumpkin puree for a different twist.
- Gluten-Free Option : Substitute with gluten-free flour blend for the dough.
- Vegan Version : Use plant-based milk, butter, and egg replacer, and top with a dairy-free glaze.
- Extra Spice : Add a pinch of cardamom or cloves to the filling for a deeper spice profile.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Skip the Apple Cooking Step : Cooking the apples softens them and enhances their sweetness.
- Use Fresh Yeast : Ensure your yeast is fresh and not expired for the best rise.
- Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for longer storage. Reheat gently in the microwave.
Serving Suggestions
- Romantic Touch : Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce for elegance.
- Brunch Staple : Pair with coffee, tea, or mimosas for a cozy breakfast spread.
- Party Platter : Serve alongside other fall desserts like pumpkin pie or apple crisp for variety.
Final Thoughts
These Apple Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate cozy treat—a soft, spiced dough filled with caramelized apples and topped with a creamy glaze. Whether you’re serving them for a holiday brunch, a weekend breakfast, or simply indulging in a sweet moment, these rolls are sure to bring warmth and joy. With their irresistible aroma, gooey filling, and sweet-tart flavors, they’re a recipe that feels like home.
Your turn! Have you ever made cinnamon rolls with fruit before? Share your favorite variations or serving ideas below.