Apple Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Indulge in these irresistible Apple Cinnamon Rolls, a delightful twist on the classic! Inspired by a recipe from the Yankton Press & Dakotan, these rolls boast a rich, caramel-like apple filling that's softer and more fragrant than traditional cinnamon rolls. Perfect for those who prefer a less-cinnamony treat, this recipe is worth every minute of effort. The soft, tender dough pairs beautifully with the luscious apple filling, creating a truly unforgettable breakfast or dessert. Make this recipe even easier with a KitchenAid mixer!

Prep Time 60 mins
Cook Time 85 mins
Calories 220.4 kcal
Protein 8g
Rating 4.1 (11 Reviews)
Apple Cinnamon Rolls

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Apple Cinnamon Rolls

  • Cooking Apples
  • Flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • Ground Cinnamon
  • Ground Nutmeg
  • Quick Rising Yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
  • 2 large eggs

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Rolls

  1. **Prepare the Apple Filling:**
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine 4 medium apples (peeled, cored, and diced), 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup unsalted butter.
  3. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  4. Cook for 3 minutes.
  5. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 10 minutes, stirring constantly until thickened.
  6. Stir in 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg.
  7. Cool the filling completely.
  8. **Prepare the Dough:**
  9. In a large bowl, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet), and 1 teaspoon salt.
  10. In a separate saucepan, heat 1/2 cup warm water (105-115°F), 1/4 cup warm milk (105-115°F), and 1/4 cup unsalted butter until the butter is melted and the mixture is very warm.
  11. Gradually add the warm milk mixture to the dry ingredients.
  12. Beat for 2 minutes at medium speed with an electric mixer, scraping the bowl occasionally.
  13. Add 2 large eggs and 1 cup all-purpose flour.
  14. Beat for 2 minutes at high speed, scraping the bowl occasionally.
  15. Stir in enough remaining all-purpose flour (about 1/2 - 3/4 cup) to make a soft dough.
  16. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic (8-10 minutes).
  17. Cover and let the dough rest for 10 minutes.
  18. Divide the dough into two equal parts.
  19. Roll each part into a 12x8-inch rectangle.
  20. Spread the cooled apple filling evenly over each rectangle.
  21. Starting at the long end of each rectangle, roll up the dough tightly, like a jelly roll.
  22. Pinch the seams to seal.
  23. Cut each roll into 12 equal pieces.
  24. Place the rolls, cut-side up, in two greased 9-inch round baking pans.
  25. **Prepare the Topping & Bake:**
  26. While the dough is rising, prepare the cinnamon-sugar topping by stirring together 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and a pinch of ground nutmeg.
  27. Let the rolls rise in a warm, draft-free place until doubled in size (about 45 minutes).
  28. Sprinkle the rolls with the cinnamon-sugar topping.
  29. Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
  30. Remove from pans and serve warm.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Small additions can make a big impact! Try a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a dash of your favorite spice blend, or a squeeze of citrus just before serving to really enhance the flavors of your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

5 g

Sugar

74g

Fat

14g

Carbs

13g