Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat that combines the classic flavor of apple pie with the soft and fluffy texture of cinnamon rolls. These rolls are filled with a sweet apple mixture and topped with a creamy icing, making them a perfect dessert or breakfast option.

Why Make This Recipe

If you love apple pie and cinnamon rolls, this recipe is a must-try! It’s a fun twist on two beloved treats, and it’s easy to make at home. The delightful smell of cinnamon and apples filling your kitchen will make your mouth water. Plus, your family will be thrilled to have these warm, gooey rolls fresh from the oven!

How to Make Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Ingredients

For the dough:

• 1 package Active Dry Yeast (2 ¼ tsp)
• ½ cup water (lukewarm)
• ½ cup + 2 tsp sugar
• ½ cup milk (lukewarm)
• ⅓ cup butter (melted)
• 1 egg (room temperature)
• 2 tsp salt
• 4 cups all-purpose flour

For the Apple Pie Filling:

• 5-6 Medium Apples (peeled and chopped)
• 2 tbsp Lemon Juice
• ½ cup Brown Sugar
• ½ cup Sugar
• ¼ cup Corn Starch
• 1 tsp Cinnamon
• ½ tsp Ground Nutmeg
• Salt
• 2 cups Water
• 4 tbsp Butter (softened)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon

For the Icing (Optional):

• 1 Cup Powdered Sugar
• 1 tbsp milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions

1. In a small bowl, stir together the yeast, lukewarm water, and 2 teaspoons of sugar. Let it sit until it foams, about 10 minutes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the lukewarm milk, melted butter, egg, sugar, and salt. Mix well.
3. Add half of the flour and mix until smooth, then mix in the yeast mixture.
4. Slowly add the remaining flour until combined. You may need to switch from a mixer to your hands or a wooden spoon.
5. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for about 2 hours.
7. Meanwhile, toss the chopped apples in a bowl with lemon juice to prevent browning.
8. In a saucepan, mix cornstarch with water to avoid lumps, then add the sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly for 2 minutes.
9. Add the apples and bring to a boil again. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15 minutes or until apples are soft.
10. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a 16×24 inch rectangle on a floured surface.
11. Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly on top, followed by the apple mixture.
12. Roll the dough lengthwise into a log and slice it into rolls.
13. Place the rolls in a parchment-lined 9×13 baking pan, making sure they don’t touch.
14. Cover with a clean towel and let the rolls rise again for about 2 hours.
15. Preheat the oven to 375°F and bake the rolls for about 22-25 minutes.
16. For icing, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Drizzle over the rolls before serving.

How to Serve Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Serve these rolls warm right out of the oven. A drizzle of icing on top adds sweetness and creaminess. You can also serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!

How to Store Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, just pop them in the microwave for about 20 seconds until warm.

Tips to Make Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

• Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for depth of flavor. Granny Smith apples work well.
• Make sure your liquids are warm but not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
• If you want extra flavor, add some chopped nuts to the apple filling.

Variation (If Any)

You can change the filling by adding other fruits, like pears or peaches, or by switching cinnamon for pumpkin spice for a fall twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought dough? Yes, but homemade dough is fresher and tastier.
2. How can I freeze these rolls? Freeze unbaked rolls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding extra time.
3. Can I make these the night before? Yes, prepare the rolls, cover them, and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature before baking.