Description
These Apple Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll, featuring a tender, soft dough filled with sweet, spiced diced apples. Topped with a creamy vanilla glaze, these rolls are perfect for a cozy breakfast or dessert treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough:
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup water
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large egg
Filling:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups diced apples (Granny Smith or preferred variety)
- 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Make the dough: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt. In a small saucepan, heat the whole milk, water, and unsalted butter until the butter melts and the mixture is warm to the touch.
- Mix and knead the dough: Pour the warm liquid mixture into the flour mixture, add the egg, and knead either by hand or using a stand mixer until the dough becomes smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes.
- First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Prepare filling: Toss the diced apples with the brown sugar and ground cinnamon in a separate medium bowl until well combined.
- Roll out dough: Once risen, roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface into a 16×9 inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough surface.
- Add filling and roll up: Distribute the apple mixture evenly atop the butter. Starting from the longer side, roll the dough tightly into a log shape.
- Slice and second rise: Cut the rolled dough into 12 even pieces. Place them cut side up in a greased baking pan about 1 inch apart. Cover and let them rise again for 30 minutes.
- Bake the rolls: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare glaze: While the rolls bake, whisk together the powdered sugar, melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and lump-free.
- Glaze and serve: Allow the cinnamon rolls to cool for a few minutes after baking, then drizzle the glaze generously over the warm rolls. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use Granny Smith apples or another firm variety to prevent the filling from becoming too mushy during baking.
- Make sure the milk mixture is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
- Allowing the rolls to rise twice results in a softer, fluffier texture.
- The glaze can be adjusted for thickness by adding more powdered sugar or milk as desired.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and butter with plant-based alternatives.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat before serving.
