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Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 82 reviews

These Apple Cinnamon Rolls combine soft, fluffy cinnamon roll dough filled with a sweet and spiced apple mixture, baked to golden perfection and topped with smooth cream cheese icing. A perfect treat for breakfast or dessert that blends classic cinnamon rolls with the warm flavors of apple and cinnamon.

Ingredients

Scale

Cinnamon Roll Dough

  • 1 package active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
  • 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour

Apple Filling

  • 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted (optional, to mix with filling)

Cream Cheese Icing

  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 to 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons milk (to thin)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it bloom for about 5 minutes until foamy. Add sugar, melted butter, salt, eggs, and gradually stir in the flour. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
  2. Make the Apple Filling: Combine the finely chopped apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Optionally, mix in melted butter to enhance flavor and moisture.
  3. Roll Out and Fill the Dough: After the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle about 16×12 inches. Evenly spread the apple cinnamon filling over the dough, leaving a small border at one edge.
  4. Form the Rolls: Starting from the longer edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Slice the log into 12 even rolls using a sharp knife or dental floss.
  5. Second Rise: Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spaced slightly apart. Cover and allow them to rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.
  6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until they turn golden brown on top and cooked through.
  7. Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing: While the rolls bake, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until light and creamy. Adjust consistency with milk as needed.
  8. Finish and Serve: Drizzle or spread the cream cheese icing over the warm cinnamon rolls once they come out of the oven. Serve immediately for the best flavor and gooey texture.

Notes

  • Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a good balance of sweetness and acidity.
  • If you prefer a smoother filling, you can sauté the apples with butter and sugar until slightly softened before filling.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and butter with vegan alternatives.
  • Leftover rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and warmed before serving.
  • Rolling the dough tightly ensures well-shaped cinnamon rolls with visible swirls.

Keywords: apple cinnamon rolls, cinnamon roll recipe, apple filling, cream cheese icing, baked breakfast rolls

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