Apple Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
If you’re hunting for the perfect cozy treat that fills both the kitchen and your heart with warmth, look no further than these Apple Cinnamon Rolls. Imagine pillowy-soft dough, sweet-tart apples, and ribbons of gooey cinnamon wrapped into every bite, crowned with a vanilla-kissed glaze. With their inviting aroma and gorgeous swirl, these rolls make any breakfast, brunch, or dessert table feel like a special occasion! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at homemade treats, these Apple Cinnamon Rolls are guaranteed to win you fans with their classic comfort and irresistible, spiced apple filling.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Apple Cinnamon Rolls come together with a handful of simple pantry staples and fresh apples, transforming them into absolute magic. Every ingredient here has a unique role: from the soft, buttery dough to the gooey, apple-rich center, and the silky glaze that ties it all together. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a handy tip or two for each.
- Active dry yeast: One packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) is just what you need for a fluffy rise—make sure it’s fresh for best results.
- Warm milk (110°F): The perfect temperature wakes up your yeast and gives your dough a tender crumb.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough just enough and helps feed the yeast during rising.
- Unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness to both the dough and the filling—let it sit out to soften for easy mixing.
- Large egg: Binds everything together and gives your rolls structure and softness.
- Salt: Just a pinch brightens every flavor without overpowering the sweetness.
- All-purpose flour: Reliable and easy to work with—don’t forget to spoon and level for accuracy.
- Apples (peeled, cored, and finely diced): Granny Smith or Honeycrisp give the best bite and flavor hits.
- Brown sugar: Delivers a rich, caramelly sweetness that melds beautifully with cinnamon and apples.
- Ground cinnamon: The essential spice! Don’t be shy; it makes the whole house smell incredible.
- Powdered sugar: Whips into a dreamy glaze that melts over warm rolls and adds a final hit of sweetness.
- Milk (for glaze): Adjust to reach your desired glaze consistency; a little goes a long way.
- Vanilla extract: A splash in the glaze takes the flavor from good to absolutely wow.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Proof the Yeast
Start by dissolving your active dry yeast in warm milk (at about 110°F) in a large bowl. Let this mixture sit until it turns foamy, usually around 5 to 10 minutes. This is your sign that the yeast is alive and your dough will be soft and fluffy. If you don’t see bubbles, your yeast might be expired—don’t skip this important check!
Step 2: Make and Knead the Dough
Add in the granulated sugar, softened butter, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture, stirring until combined. Gradually mix in the flour until a soft, workable dough forms. Tip it onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes, or until it’s smooth and bounces back when pressed. This step is your ticket to the signature pull-apart, pillowy texture that makes Apple Cinnamon Rolls so swoon-worthy.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and set it in a cozy, draft-free spot in your kitchen. After about an hour, the dough should double in size—take a peek and give it a gentle poke; it should spring back slowly.
Step 4: Prepare the Apple Filling
While the dough works its magic, stir together your finely diced apples with brown sugar and cinnamon. This quick toss infuses the apples with caramel and spice flavors, ensuring every bite is juicy and wonderfully fragrant. Set aside to let the flavors mingle while you get ready for the fun part—assembly!
Step 5: Roll, Fill, and Shape
Dust your work surface, then gently roll the risen dough into a 14×9-inch rectangle. Spread the remaining softened butter over the surface, then cover it evenly with your apple-cinnamon mixture. Starting from the long edge, roll the dough up into a log, making sure it’s snug. Slice evenly into 9 rolls—each one will reveal that cozy swirl of dough and apple filling.
Step 6: Second Rise and Baking
Arrange your cut Apple Cinnamon Rolls in a greased 9-inch baking dish. Cover them loosely and let rise for another 30 minutes, giving them time to puff and get extra light. As they rise, preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake for 22–25 minutes, until the rolls are golden, fragrant, and perfectly cooked through. The anticipation is real—your kitchen will smell amazing!
Step 7: Glaze and Serve
While the rolls are still warm, whisk together the powdered sugar, a tablespoon or two of milk, and vanilla extract until your glaze is smooth. Drizzle generously over the warm rolls so the glaze melts into every little crevice. Serve immediately for that fresh-baked magic.
How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Rolls
Garnishes
Dress up your Apple Cinnamon Rolls with a dusting of powdered sugar, a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts, or even thin apple slices for extra visual appeal. For a festive touch, try adding a handful of dried cranberries or a light drizzle of caramel over the glaze—it makes the rolls feel celebration-ready with minimal effort.
Side Dishes
Pair these pillowy rolls with a cup of strong coffee or spiced chai for a breakfast that feels totally decadent. For brunch, a fresh fruit salad or creamy Greek yogurt balances the sweetness perfectly. If you’re serving Apple Cinnamon Rolls for dessert, consider a scoop of vanilla ice cream—the combination of warm roll and cold creaminess is pure comfort.
Creative Ways to Present
For a holiday brunch, try arranging the Apple Cinnamon Rolls on a tiered cake stand, garnished with cinnamon sticks and apple wedges. Make individual servings extra special by baking each roll in a jumbo muffin tin for personal, bakery-style treats. And if you’re gifting, wrap cooled rolls in parchment and twine, and tuck into a pretty box—homemade Apple Cinnamon Rolls are truly the sweetest surprise!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Apple Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you’re storing them frosted, the glaze may absorb a little into the rolls, making them even more luscious!
Freezing
Apple Cinnamon Rolls are freezer-friendly! Once baked and cooled, wrap the rolls individually or all together in foil, then seal in a freezer bag. You can freeze them (glazed or unglazed) for up to 2 months. For make-ahead breakfast magic, thaw overnight in the fridge and refresh in the oven or microwave before serving.
Reheating
Warm Apple Cinnamon Rolls are a game changer! Simply cover with foil and pop in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes, or heat individual rolls in the microwave for 20–30 seconds. If desired, whisk up a quick batch of glaze and drizzle over the top before digging in—no one will ever guess they weren’t fresh from the oven.
FAQs
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Absolutely! Just swap in the same amount of instant yeast and skip the proofing step—simply add it right to your dry ingredients, then proceed as usual. Your Apple Cinnamon Rolls will still bake up beautifully light and fluffy.
What are the best apples to use for Apple Cinnamon Rolls?
Choose apples that hold their shape and have a good sweet-tart balance. Granny Smiths are classic for their acidity, while Honeycrisp or Braeburn add natural sweetness and crunch. Feel free to mix and match for depth of flavor!
Can I prepare the rolls the night before?
You sure can! After slicing and arranging the rolls in your baking dish, cover tightly and refrigerate overnight. Let them sit at room temperature while the oven preheats, then bake as directed. This makes busy mornings extra easy and delicious.
How do I keep the filling from leaking out?
Be sure to dice your apples finely and spread the filling evenly all the way to the edges. Roll the dough tightly and slice with a gentle sawing motion using a serrated knife or floss. This helps each roll keep its shape and locks in the apple cinnamon goodness.
Can I add nuts or raisins to the filling?
Definitely! Chopped toasted pecans, walnuts, or a handful of raisins add wonderful flavor and texture. Just scatter them evenly over the apples and cinnamon before rolling up for deliciously personal Apple Cinnamon Rolls.
Final Thoughts
I hope you feel inspired to whip up a batch of Apple Cinnamon Rolls soon—they’re the kind of bake that brings out big smiles and makes ordinary moments extra cozy. Once you taste that fresh-from-the-oven combination of sweet apples, warm spices, and soft dough, I just know you’ll be hooked. Pour yourself a mug of something hot, share with someone you love, and savor every swirl.
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Apple Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
- Yield: 9 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of fall with these homemade Apple Cinnamon Rolls. Soft, pillowy dough filled with sweet apples and warming cinnamon, topped with a vanilla glaze – the perfect treat for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
Filling:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 apples (peeled, cored, and finely diced)
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Glaze:
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Dough: In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk. Add sugar, butter, egg, salt, and flour. Knead until smooth. Let rise.
- Filling: Combine apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Assembly: Roll out dough, spread butter, add apple mixture, roll into a log, slice into rolls.
- Baking: Place rolls in dish, let rise, bake at 350°F for 22–25 minutes.
- Glaze: Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Drizzle over warm rolls.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for contrast or sweeter ones like Honeycrisp.
- Add chopped nuts or raisins for variation.
- Rolls are best served warm but can be stored and reheated.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including rise time)
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 19g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
