Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Imagine the warm, comforting embrace of freshly baked cinnamon rolls combined with the delightful sweetness of apple pie. This is precisely what Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls offer—a scrumptious fusion that elevates two beloved baked goods into a single irresistible treat. As the scent of cinnamon and apples wafts through your kitchen, it’s hard not to feel nostalgic, recalling family gatherings where sweet, homemade delights played a starring role. Whether it’s a holiday brunch, a cozy weekend breakfast, or simply a treat to enjoy with your morning coffee, these rolls are sure to impress.

Discover the delightful blend of two beloved treats with this Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls recipe. Experience the joy of warm, freshly baked rolls filled with gooey apples and sweet spices, all wrapped in a tender dough. Perfect for brunch or a cozy breakfast, these rolls evoke nostalgia and create memorable moments around the table. Follow our step-by-step guide and learn how to bake these scrumptious rolls that are sure to impress family and friends alike.

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Ingredients

For the Dough:

4 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast

1 cup whole milk, warmed

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 large eggs

1/2 tsp salt

For the Apple Filling:

3 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced

1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp nutmeg

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 tbsp cornstarch

For the Cinnamon Sugar:

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 tbsp ground cinnamon

2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

4 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup powdered sugar

2 tbsp milk

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Dough:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar, then sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until bubbly. Mix in melted butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually add flour, mixing until the dough comes together. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Make the Apple Filling:

In a medium bowl, toss the diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch until well combined. Set aside.

Roll Out the Dough:

After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface of the dough.

Add Cinnamon Sugar:

In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered dough.

Add Apple Filling:

Spread the apple filling evenly over the cinnamon sugar layer.

Roll up the Dough:

Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough into a log shape. Pinch the edges to seal. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and place in a greased baking dish.

Second Rise:

Cover the dish with a clean towel and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes, until they puff up.

Bake the Rolls:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and the apples are bubbling slightly.

Make the Glaze:

While the rolls cool slightly, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth.

Serve:

Drizzle the glaze over warm rolls and enjoy the delicious blend of cinnamon, apples, and cream cheese.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours | Servings: 12 rolls