There’s nothing like fresh, homemade apple cinnamon rolls—warm, soft, and gooey, with the perfect balance of sweet apples, cinnamon, and brown sugar. These rolls are the ultimate treat for breakfast or dessert, and they make any morning feel like a special occasion. The soft dough, rich filling, and decadent sauce come together to create an indulgent experience that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself, this recipe for apple cinnamon rolls will not disappoint.
What Are Apple Cinnamon Rolls?
Apple cinnamon rolls are a delightful variation of the classic cinnamon roll, adding thinly sliced apples and a luscious brown sugar-cinnamon filling. They’re often served warm, with a sweet sauce poured over the top, creating a sticky, gooey treat that melts in your mouth. The dough is soft and pillowy, while the apples add a fruity freshness that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon-spiced filling. These rolls are a perfect blend of sweetness and spice, making them irresistible for breakfast, brunch, or a dessert treat.
Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe
- Soft and Fluffy: The dough is rich and light, providing the perfect texture.
- Warm Apple and Cinnamon Flavor: Apples, cinnamon, and brown sugar create the ultimate cozy, fall-inspired flavor.
- Decadent Sauce: A sweet, cinnamon-sugar sauce is poured over the rolls for added richness.
- Perfect for Sharing: These rolls are ideal for a special breakfast, a family brunch, or a cozy dessert.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dough and filling in advance for a stress-free morning.
Tips for the Best Apple Cinnamon Rolls
- Use Firm Apples: Choose apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t Overstuff: Layer the apples in an even layer so the rolls cook evenly.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the dough and filling the night before. Just cover the rolls and refrigerate overnight, then bake them the next day.
- Check for Doneness: The rolls should be golden brown and cooked through, but not over-baked.
How to Store Apple Cinnamon Rolls
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2–3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them, but they are best enjoyed fresh.
How to Freeze Apple Cinnamon Rolls
To freeze, arrange the baked rolls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 1 month. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until warm, about 10–15 minutes.
Ingredients
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Rolls
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Start by dissolving the yeast in lukewarm milk along with the sugar. Let the yeast activate for a few minutes. Once it starts to bubble, it’s time to get kneading! In a large mixing bowl, add flour, and gradually pour in the yeast mixture, along with one egg at a time. Knead until the dough comes together. The dough should be soft and elastic.
Start by dissolving the yeast in lukewarm milk along with the sugar. Let the yeast activate for a few minutes. Once it starts to bubble, it’s time to get kneading! In a large mixing bowl, add flour, and gradually pour in the yeast mixture, along with one egg at a time. Knead until the dough comes together. The dough should be soft and elastic.
Once the dough is smooth, add softened butter and salt. You can also add a bit of orange zest or vanilla extract at this point for extra flavor. Shape the dough into a ball and cover it with a cloth. Allow it to rise for 2–3 hours until it doubles in size.
While the dough rises, make the filling. In a small saucepan, melt the butter and stir in brown sugar and cinnamon. Let the mixture cook until it becomes fragrant and slightly thickened. Set aside to cool.
Once the filling is ready, peel and slice the apples. Toss them with a little lemon juice to prevent browning, then set them aside.
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Once the dough is smooth, add softened butter and salt. You can also add a bit of orange zest or vanilla extract at this point for extra flavor. Shape the dough into a ball and cover it with a cloth. Allow it to rise for 2–3 hours until it doubles in size.
Once the dough has risen, transfer it to a floured surface and roll it out into a large rectangle. Spread the cinnamon-brown sugar butter mixture evenly over the dough, leaving about a 1-inch border on each side. Next, layer the sliced apples evenly on top of the filling.
Roll up the dough tightly, starting from the longer side, and pinch the edges to seal. Using a sharp knife or kitchen twine, cut the dough into slices, about 1–2 inches thick. Arrange the slices in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll to allow for expansion.
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While the dough rises, make the filling. In a small saucepan, melt the butter and stir in brown sugar and cinnamon. Let the mixture cook until it becomes fragrant and slightly thickened. Set aside to cool.
Cover the pan with a cloth and let the rolls rise for another 40 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown on top. The smell of cinnamon and apples will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!
While the rolls are baking, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, water, and flour. Bring to a simmer, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens. Stir in butter and cinnamon to finish. This rich sauce will drizzle perfectly over the warm rolls.
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Once the filling is ready, peel and slice the apples. Toss them with a little lemon juice to prevent browning, then set them aside.
Once the rolls are out of the oven, pour the warm cinnamon sauce over them. Let the rolls cool slightly before serving to allow the sauce to soak in. These apple cinnamon rolls are perfect when enjoyed warm with a cup of coffee or tea.
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