Description
These homemade Apple Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll, featuring a delicious apple filling spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg. Soft, fluffy, and drizzled with a sweet vanilla glaze, they make a perfect fall breakfast or dessert treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup whole milk (warm)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 large egg
Filling
- 2 cups peeled and finely chopped apples
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Add the warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead by hand or with a dough hook for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Make the Filling: While the dough rises, combine the peeled and finely chopped apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a bowl until evenly mixed.
- Shape the Rolls: Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a 10×16-inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the apple mixture across the surface. Starting from the long side, carefully roll the dough into a log and slice it into 12 even rolls. Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let them rise for another 30–40 minutes until they look puffy.
- Bake the Rolls: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Make the Glaze and Serve: While the rolls cool slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create the glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls just before serving.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor contrast.
- These rolls are best enjoyed warm but can be reheated briefly in the microwave.
- To make ahead, complete up to the second rise and refrigerate overnight; bake the next day.
