Introduction
These Apple Cinnamon Rolls are soft, fluffy, and filled with a sweet and spiced apple filling. Topped with a delicious glaze, they are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert!
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the Apple Filling:
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker filling)
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, whisk together warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Add melted butter, egg, and salt, mixing well.
- Gradually add flour, kneading until a soft dough forms (about 8-10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes in a stand mixer).
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes until apples are soft. If using cornstarch, mix it with a tablespoon of water and stir into the apple mixture.
- Remove from heat and let cool.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
- Roll out the dough into a large rectangle (about ¼ inch thick).
- Spread the apple filling evenly over the dough.
- Roll the dough tightly from one long end to the other.
- Cut into 12 equal pieces and place in a greased baking dish.
- Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
Step 4: Bake the Rolls
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 5: Prepare the Glaze & Serve
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Drizzle over warm rolls and enjoy!
Variations
Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls
- Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the rolls before serving.
Nutty Apple Cinnamon Rolls
- Add ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a crunchy texture.
Maple Glaze
- Substitute milk in the glaze with maple syrup for a richer flavor.
Conclusion
These Apple Cinnamon Rolls are soft, gooey, and bursting with apple-cinnamon flavor. They’re a cozy treat for any occasion and taste even better with a warm cup of coffee or tea!
Would you like more cinnamon roll variations? Let us know! 😊
