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Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls
Emily

Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

These Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls are a cozy twist on a classic — soft, fluffy rolls swirled with caramelized apple-cinnamon filling and finished with a sweet vanilla glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert!
Prep Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 55 minutes
Servings: 12 rolls
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 290

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 0.25 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
  • 1 cup whole milk, warmed
  • 0.33 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 cups apples, peeled and diced (about 2 medium)
  • 0.5 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • 0.5 tsp vanilla extract

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • stand mixer (optional)
  • Saucepan
  • Rolling pin
  • baking sheet with parchment paper
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warmed milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
  2. Add melted butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually add flour while mixing until a dough forms. Knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  3. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  4. Prepare filling: In a saucepan, melt butter, add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Cook 5–7 minutes until tender. Cool.
  5. Punch down dough and roll into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
  6. Spread the cooled apple filling evenly over the dough, then roll tightly from the long side into a log.
  7. Slice into 12 rolls and place them cut side up in a greased baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  8. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes until puffed.
  9. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.
  10. Prepare icing: whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  11. Once baked, let rolls cool slightly, then drizzle icing on top before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, add chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple filling. These rolls can be prepared the night before and baked fresh in the morning. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.