Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Name: Apple Cinnamon Rolls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 rolls
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 packet instant yeast; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk, warm; 1/4 cup butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 3 cups apples, peeled and chopped; 1 tablespoon cinnamon; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Elevate your Thanksgiving desserts with these delightful Apple Cinnamon Rolls! Soft, fluffy dough is filled with sweet, spiced apples and smothered in creamy frosting, creating the perfect balance of flavor and comfort. These sticky rolls are not only a spectacular treat for your holiday brunch but also a heartwarming dessert that will impress family and friends alike.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-05T15:31:28.046Z

Discover the joy of baking with these delightful Apple Cinnamon Rolls that bring warmth and comfort to your holiday table.

Perfect for Holiday Gatherings

These Apple Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate addition to your holiday dessert table. Their inviting aroma will fill your kitchen, creating a warm, festive atmosphere that sets the mood for family and friends to gather around. Served fresh and warm, these rolls are guaranteed to bring smiles and compliments from every guest, making them a cherished part of your Thanksgiving or Christmas traditions.

What makes these rolls particularly special is their versatility. Not only do they shine as a delightful dessert, but they can also double as a sweet breakfast treat. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or a spiced cider, and you've got a cozy morning ritual that will elevate your holiday experience. Whether enjoyed at brunch or as a post-dinner delight, these rolls are sure to become a staple in your holiday pantry.

The Magic of Homemade Rolls

There's something undeniably rewarding about making homemade rolls from scratch. The process of kneading and shaping the dough is an act of love that creates not just food, but cherished memories. As you prepare the rolls, the anticipation builds, and you're left with a tangible connection to your ingredients—flour, apples, and spices, all coming together to craft a scrumptious specialty that store-bought options simply can't match.

Homemade rolls also allow you to control the ingredients, ensuring that you create a treat that's as wholesome as it is delicious. You can select fresh apples, balance the sweetness to your preference, and customize the frosting to make it an experience that suits your tastes. With each bite, you can savor not only the flavors but also the pride of having created something truly special.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make these delectable rolls:

Dough

4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1 packet instant yeast
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk, warm
1/4 cup butter, melted
2 large eggs

Filling

3 cups apples, peeled and chopped
1 tablespoon cinnamon
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons butter

Frosting

1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Gather your ingredients and get ready to bake!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Apple Cinnamon Rolls:

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine warm milk, melted butter, and eggs. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.

Knead the dough for about 5-10 minutes until smooth.

Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.

Make the Filling

In a pan, melt butter and mix with apples, cinnamon, and brown sugar until apples are tender. Remove from heat.

Roll the Dough

Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread the apple filling evenly over the dough.

Shape the Rolls

Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut into 12 equal pieces.

Bake the Rolls

Place the rolls in a greased baking pan. Let them rise again for about 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes.

Prepare the Frosting

In a bowl, mix the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract until creamy.

Frost the Rolls

Once the rolls are baked, let them cool slightly before spreading the frosting generously over the top.

Enjoy your warm Apple Cinnamon Rolls fresh out of the oven!

Variations to Try

If you're looking to switch things up, consider adding nuts or raisins to your apple filling for added texture and flavor. Chopped pecans or walnuts can add a delightful crunch, while raisins can introduce a touch of sweetness that complements the spiced apples wonderfully. Feel free to experiment with different types of apples such as Granny Smith for a tart kick or Honeycrisp for natural sweetness.

For an extra burst of flavor, try incorporating caramel sauce either in the filling or drizzled on top after frosting. This luxurious addition can elevate the rolls to a whole new level, making them an indulgent treat that everyone will love. Don't hesitate to personalize this recipe to suit your palate and create your own signature version!

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Apple Cinnamon Rolls warm, either freshly baked or gently reheated. Pair them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra decadent dessert. A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top can also enhance the visual appeal and flavor profile, making every bite even more delightful.

For a truly festive experience, consider creating a dessert board that features these rolls alongside other treats like pumpkin pie, pecan pie, or holiday cookies. This visual feast allows guests to indulge in a variety of flavors and creates a memorable centerpiece for any holiday gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rolls the night before and store them in the fridge for baking in the morning.

→ Can I freeze the rolls?

Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked rolls and let them rise before baking when you're ready.