These apple cinnamon rolls are warm, gooey, and packed with sweet apple goodness. The soft dough is swirled with cinnamon and brown sugar, making every bite a treat!
Honestly, nothing beats the smell of these baking in the kitchen! I usually enjoy them fresh out of the oven with a cup of coffee. Perfect for a cozy morning! ☕🍏
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Warm Milk: This helps activate the yeast. If you can’t use whole milk, any kind of milk works. Almond or oat milk are great dairy-free options.
Active Dry Yeast: This is crucial for the dough to rise. If you’re out of dry yeast, you can use instant yeast instead without changing the amount—just mix it right into your dry ingredients!
Apples: I like using Granny Smith for their tartness, but you can also try Fuji or Honeycrisp. If you prefer a sweeter roll, go for Gala apples!
Ground Cinnamon: It gives that essential warmth. If you’re feeling adventurous, a bit of allspice or pumpkin spice can add a fun twist!
Cream Cheese: This is for the icing. If you want a lighter option, use Greek yogurt instead! It won’t be as sweet but adds creaminess.
How Do You Get the Dough to Rise Properly?
Getting the yeast dough to rise is key to fluffy rolls. You want it to be in a warm and draft-free spot. Here’s how I’ll guide you:
- Make sure your milk is warm—not hot, just about body temperature, so the yeast wakes up.
- Cover the bowl with a towel or plastic wrap to keep it warm and cozy.
- Let it rise until it doubles in size. This usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, but pay attention to the dough. It’s ready when it’s puffed up!
- If your kitchen is cool, turn on the oven to a low setting for a couple of minutes, then turn it off and place the bowl inside.
Patience is key here! Don’t rush this step for the best results!
How to Make Delicious Apple Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm whole milk (about 110°F/43°C)
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
For the Apple Cinnamon Filling:
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and finely chopped
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- Optional: 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
For the Cream Cheese Icing:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-3 tbsp milk (to adjust consistency)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This entire recipe takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. You’ll spend about 30 minutes preparing and assembling everything, with the rest of the time letting the dough rise and baking. Don’t forget to account for some cooling time while making the icing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Yeast Dough:
Start by mixing the warm milk and yeast in a large mixing bowl. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This means your yeast is active! Then, add the sugar, melted butter, salt, and eggs, mixing until everything is combined. Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition until a soft and slightly sticky dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling:
While the dough rises, mix up your filling! In a small bowl, combine the chopped apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, softened butter, and nutmeg if you’re using it. Set the filling aside while your dough finishes rising.
3. Assemble the Rolls:
Once your dough has risen, punch it down to release air. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about 16×12 inches. Evenly spread the apple cinnamon filling over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border on one long edge. Now, carefully roll the dough up tightly, starting from the long side with the filling, forming a log. Pinch the seams and edges to seal it well.
4. Cut and Prove:
Use a sharp knife to cut the log into 12 equal rolls (about 1.5 inches thick). Place the rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, making sure they’re spaced out a little. Cover the dish and let them rise again for 30-45 minutes, until they’re nice and puffy.
5. Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, until they’re golden brown and fully cooked. Once out of the oven, let them cool slightly while you prepare the icing.
6. Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing:
In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, followed by the vanilla extract. Add milk a little at a time until the icing reaches your preferred consistency.
7. Finish:
Drizzle the cream cheese icing generously over your warm apple cinnamon rolls. Serve them up warm and enjoy the cozy, sweet flavors!
These apple cinnamon rolls are fluffy, sweet, and perfect for any time of the day. They’re bound to warm your heart and please your taste buds! 🍏🥐
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are great for their tartness, you can also use Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala apples for a sweeter flavor. Feel free to mix and match for a blend of tastes!
What Should I Do If My Dough Doesn’t Rise?
If your dough isn’t rising, it could be due to inactive yeast. Make sure the milk is warm but not too hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast. If your dough is still not rising, let it sit in a warmer location, or check if your yeast is fresh. You can also try placing it in an unheated oven with the light on to provide a warm environment.
Can I Make These Rolls Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the rolls and place them in the baking dish, then cover and refrigerate them overnight. In the morning, let them sit at room temperature to rise for about 30 minutes before baking. This way, you can enjoy fresh rolls with minimal morning prep!
How Do I Store Leftover Rolls?
Store any leftover apple cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven at a low temperature until heated through.
