Easy Homemade Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls Recipe for Fall

There’s something so comforting about the smell of cinnamon and baked apples filling your kitchen in the fall. This easy homemade apple pie cinnamon rolls recipe brings those cozy flavors together in one delicious, soft roll that’s perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack.

this Recipe

You’ll love how simple it is to make these rolls from scratch, combining the classic warmth of apple pie with the irresistible texture of cinnamon rolls. Whether you’re baking for a family brunch or holiday gathering, these treats will be the star of the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the best of apple pie and cinnamon rolls into one tasty treat.
• Soft, fluffy dough that’s easy to make and roll out.
• Rich apple-cinnamon filling with a hint of brown sugar sweetness.
• Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert during the fall season.
• Can be made ahead and freezes well for convenience.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your own batch of apple pie cinnamon rolls. The dough is soft and fluffy, and the filling bursts with classic fall spices.

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk, warm (about 110°F)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 medium apples (preferably Granny Smith), peeled and finely chopped
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened (for glaze)
• 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including rising)
• Servings: 12 rolls
• Calories: Approximately 310 per serving

How to Make Easy Homemade Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls – The Best Fall Treat!

1. In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in the warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the melted butter, egg, and yeast mixture, stirring until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4. While the dough rises, prepare the filling by mixing chopped apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and softened butter in a bowl.
5. After rising, roll the dough into a 16×12 inch rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the apple filling evenly over the dough, leaving about 1/2 inch gap at the edges.
6. Starting from the longer side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut into 12 equal slices and place them cut-side up in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise for another 30-35 minutes until puffy.
8. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly.
9. Mix powdered sugar, cream cheese, milk, and vanilla to make the glaze. Drizzle over warm rolls before serving for a creamy finish.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use warm milk (not hot) to activate yeast without killing it.
• Chop the apples small so they cook evenly and don’t weigh down the dough.
• Don’t skip the second rise — it ensures soft, fluffy rolls.
• For extra flavor, sprinkle a pinch of salt in the glaze to balance sweetness.
• If dough feels sticky, add flour a tablespoon at a time while kneading.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover apple pie cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

To reheat, warm rolls in a microwave for 20-30 seconds or bake at 300°F for 10 minutes until heated through. Add extra glaze if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen apples for the filling?

Yes, you can use thawed and well-drained frozen apples, but fresh apples provide a better texture and flavor. Make sure to pat them dry to avoid excess moisture.

Is it possible to make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and rolls, then refrigerate them after shaping. Let them come to room temperature and rise before baking.

Can I substitute the cream cheese glaze?

Yes, a simple powdered sugar glaze with milk and vanilla works well if you prefer a lighter topping.

How do I prevent the rolls from getting soggy?

Ensure the filling apples are finely chopped and don’t add excess moisture. Also, don’t cover the rolls tightly while cooling to maintain texture.