These apple cinnamon rolls are a warm, sweet treat that combines tender dough with juicy apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon. They are perfect for breakfast or dessert!
Who can resist warm rolls fresh out of the oven? I love to enjoy them with a cup of coffee, watching the steam curl up while I take that first delicious bite. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Active Dry Yeast: This is vital for making the rolls fluffy. If you have instant yeast, you can use that too! Just remember, you don’t need to activate it in warm milk—mix it in with the dry ingredients.
Apples: Granny Smith apples work best as they give a nice tart flavor. However, feel free to use other apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji for sweetness. Just make sure they’re firm to hold up when baked.
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred to control salt levels in sweet recipes. If you’re in a pinch, you can use margarine or even coconut oil, though that may change the flavor slightly.
Walnuts or Pecans: These add a nice crunch! If you prefer a nut-free option, just skip them. You can also use seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a different texture.
What’s the Best Way to Rise My Dough?
Letting the dough rise properly is key to fluffy rolls. Here are some tips to help:
- Find a warm spot in your kitchen, like near a sunny window or on top of a preheating oven.
- For quicker rising, you can place the dough in the oven (turned off) with a bowl of hot water to create steam.
- Make sure to cover the bowl with a damp cloth to keep moisture in, helping the dough rise better.
Remember to let the dough double in size! It’s all about patience for that perfect roll. Enjoy baking these delicious treats!
Apple Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, divided
For the Filling:
- 1 cup peeled and finely chopped apples (such as Granny Smith)
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 tbsp ground cinnamon
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 2 hours 30 minutes in total. This includes around 20 minutes of prep time, and approximately 1 hour 30 minutes for the rising time (including two separate rises). Finally, you’ll have about 30 minutes for baking. The wait will be worth those delicious warm rolls!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
Start by dissolving the yeast in the warm milk in a small bowl. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it gets nice and frothy! Meanwhile, in a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, melted butter, salt, and eggs. When the yeast is ready, mix it in with the other ingredients.
2. Making the Dough:
Gradually add 3 ½ cups of flour, one cup at a time, while mixing until you have a soft dough. Now, turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes, adding more flour if necessary, until it’s smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until it has doubled in size.
3. Prepare the Filling:
While the dough is rising, mix together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, chopped apples, and softened butter in a delicious filling. Once your dough has risen, punch it down gently and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 16 inches long and 12 inches wide.
4. Assemble the Rolls:
Spread the apple cinnamon filling evenly over the rolled-out dough and sprinkle with walnuts or pecans, if using. Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log and pinch the seam to seal it well. Use a sharp knife to cut the roll into 12 equal slices, placing them in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Second Rising and Baking:
Cover the rolls lightly with a cloth and let them rise again for about 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for about 25-30 minutes, or until they turn a lovely golden brown.
6. Make the Glaze:
While the rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to create a glaze. Once your rolls are baked and come out of the oven, drizzle the glaze over them while they’re still warm.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
These apple cinnamon rolls are best served warm. Enjoy the sweet aroma and delightful taste that fills your kitchen!
These tender rolls are filled with cinnamon-scented apples and a sweet glaze, making them the perfect treat for any time of day! Happy baking! 🍏🍩
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are great for their tartness, feel free to use any firm apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter roll. Just make sure they’re peeled and finely chopped.
What Can I Substitute for Active Dry Yeast?
If you have instant yeast, that’s a great substitute! You can use the same amount (2 ¼ tsp) and skip the step of dissolving it in warm milk—just mix it in with the dry ingredients instead.
How Should I Store Leftover Rolls?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, they can be refrigerated for up to a week or frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat them in the oven for best results!
Can I Prepare the Dough Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise in the fridge instead of at room temperature. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. The next day, let it come to room temperature before punching it down and continuing with the recipe. This makes it convenient for busy mornings!
