Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Cinnamon rolls have long been cherished in households across the globe, celebrated for their irresistibly soft texture and warm, comforting flavors. These sweet, spiral treats are not just a breakfast staple but have also evolved into a versatile dessert option, often filled with various ingredients. From classic cinnamon and sugar to more adventurous fillings, cinnamon rolls can be easily adapted to suit any taste preference. However, one particular fusion that has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of many is the Apple Pie Cinnamon Roll. This delightful combination marries the beloved flavors of traditional apple pie with the fluffy, decadent nature of cinnamon rolls.

Discover the delightful fusion of flavors with homemade Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls. This unique recipe combines the warm, comforting essence of traditional apple pie with the soft, fluffy texture of cinnamon rolls. Experience the joy of baking as you create scrumptious rolls filled with a luscious apple cinnamon filling and topped with a rich cream cheese icing. Perfect for cozy breakfasts, festive gatherings, or as a sweet treat, these rolls bring nostalgia and warmth to any occasion. Follow our step-by-step guide to impress your family and friends with your baking skills and fill your home with irresistible aromas. Enjoy the deliciousness of this cheerful dessert!

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Ingredients

For the Dough:

4 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast

1 tsp salt

1/2 cup whole milk, warmed

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 large eggs

For the Apple Filling:

3 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced

1/4 cup brown sugar

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 tbsp all-purpose flour (for thickening)

For the Cinnamon Roll Filling:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1/2 cup brown sugar

1 tbsp ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Icing:

4 oz cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

2-3 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix the warmed milk, melted butter, and eggs. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it's smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Make the Apple Filling: In a medium bowl, toss the diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and flour. Set aside to let the flavors meld.

Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.

Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the softened butter over the rolled-out dough. Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly on top.

Add the Apple Filling: Distribute the apple mixture evenly over the cinnamon-sugar layer.

Roll and Slice: Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut the rolled dough into 12 equal slices. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, keeping them slightly spaced apart.

Second Rise: Cover the rolls with a clean cloth and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes while preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Bake: Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing: While the rolls are baking, in a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons of milk, mixing until creamy. If the icing is too thick, add more milk as needed.

Finish the Rolls: Once the rolls are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Drizzle the cream cheese icing over the warm rolls and serve warm.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 mins | 2 hours | 12 servings