Apple Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect combination of warm, gooey cinnamon-spiced dough and tender, caramelized apples. These homemade rolls bring together the comforting flavors of apple pie and classic cinnamon rolls, making them an irresistible treat for breakfast or dessert. Topped with a luscious caramel icing, they are soft, fluffy, and bursting with autumn-inspired goodness.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm whole milk
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4 ½ cups bread flour
For the Filling:
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup dark brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 2 cups chopped apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
For the Caramel Icing:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 tablespoons warmed salted caramel
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together warm milk, 2 tablespoons sugar, and yeast. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add remaining sugar, softened butter, eggs, and salt, mixing until combined.
- Gradually add bread flour, one cup at a time, mixing until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
- Knead the dough for 5 minutes until soft and slightly tacky.
- Let the Dough Rise:
- Lightly grease a large bowl and place the dough inside, turning to coat.
- Cover and let rise in a warm place for 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until combined.
- Toss chopped apples in the mixture to coat evenly.
- Roll and Fill the Dough:
- Punch down the dough and roll it into a 12×18-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
- Spread the butter-sugar mixture evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with chopped apples.
- Roll the dough tightly into an 18-inch log and cut into 12 equal rolls.
- Second Rise:
- Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Cover and let rise for 45-60 minutes until puffy.
- Bake the Rolls:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
- Bake for 25 minutes, tenting with foil halfway through to prevent over-browning.
- Prepare the Caramel Icing:
- Whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, milk, and warmed salted caramel until smooth.
- Glaze and Serve:
- Drizzle the caramel icing over warm rolls and serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Apple Cinnamon Rolls:
- Use fresh apples for the best texture and flavor.
- Let the dough rise properly for a soft, fluffy texture.
- Tent with foil while baking to prevent excessive browning.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
These Apple Cinnamon Rolls are a cozy, sweet delight that will make any morning feel extra special. You can find more details here. Happy baking! 🍏✨