Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Apple Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 77 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours
  • Yield: 12 rolls
  • Category: Breakfast, Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Apple Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll, featuring a soft, fluffy dough filled with a spiced apple mixture. Topped with a sweet vanilla glaze, they make the perfect cozy breakfast or dessert during the fall season.


Ingredients

For the Dough

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup whole milk (warm)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
  • 1 large egg

For the Filling

  • 2 cups peeled and finely chopped apples
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)

For the Glaze

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 23 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Add the warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a soft dough forms, then knead by hand or with a dough hook for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  2. Make the Filling: Meanwhile, prepare the filling by combining the peeled and finely chopped apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a bowl to create a flavorful spiced apple mixture.
  3. Roll Out Dough and Assemble Rolls: Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a 10×16-inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the apple filling on top evenly. Starting from the long side, carefully roll the dough into a log shape and slice it into 12 equal rolls.
  4. Second Rise: Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, cover them, and let rise again for 30–40 minutes until puffy and slightly sprung back when touched.
  5. Bake the Rolls: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through with a soft interior.
  6. Prepare the Glaze: While the rolls cool slightly, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make a smooth glaze.
  7. Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm rolls before serving to add a sweet finishing touch.

Notes

  • Use tart apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor contrast with the cinnamon and sugar.
  • These rolls are best enjoyed warm but can be reheated in the microwave for convenience.
  • To make ahead, prepare the rolls up to the second rise stage, then refrigerate overnight and bake in the morning for fresh rolls.