Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

If you’re looking for the perfect treat that combines the warmth of a cozy autumn day with the delightful satisfaction of fresh-baked pastries, these Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling are just what you need. Imagine biting into a fluffy roll filled with tender apples, sweet cinnamon, and a touch of apple butter. It’s like having your favorite apple pie wrapped in a soft doughy hug!

This recipe is not only a winner for brunch gatherings but also makes busy weeknights feel special. You can whip these up for family breakfasts or surprise your loved ones on a lazy Sunday morning. Trust me, once you try these rolls, they’ll become a cherished favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously comforting: The combination of warm spices and sweet apples creates an irresistible flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can tackle this recipe with confidence!
• Perfect for sharing: These rolls are great for breakfast or brunch with family and friends, making them a wonderful addition to any gathering.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare the dough in advance, so you can enjoy freshly baked rolls without all the fuss on busy mornings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create mouthwatering Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling. Gather these items, and let’s get started!

For the Filling

• 1 2/3 cups diced Gala apple
• 1/4 cup apple butter
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 2 teaspoons water
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch

For the Dough

• 3/4 cup water
• 1/4 cup bread flour
• 3 2/3 cups bread flour (See notes below for measuring)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/3 cup whole milk (room temperature)
• 1/3 cup heavy cream (room temperature)
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Tangzhong (from recipe above)

For the Topping

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 2/3 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 2 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 1/2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons apple butter

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative and customize it to your taste.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Make it caramel-y: Drizzle some caramel sauce over the top before serving for an extra sweet touch.
• Change up the fruit: Substitute with pears or berries if you’re looking for something different!

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

Start by combining your diced apples with apple butter, sugar, water, lemon juice, cinnamon, and vanilla extract in a medium saucepan. Cook this mixture over medium heat until the apples soften slightly. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld perfectly while keeping the apples tender—yum!

Step 2: Make the Dough

In another bowl, mix together warm water and bread flour to create tangzhong; this will help keep your rolls soft and fluffy. After letting it cool slightly, combine it with additional bread flour, sugar, yeast, salt, milk, cream, egg, and vanilla extract in a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook. Knead until smooth—this is where your dough gets its structure!

Step 3: Let It Rise

Once kneaded, transfer your dough into an oiled bowl and cover it with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm spot until doubled in size—about an hour. This step is essential because it develops flavor and texture.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

Roll out your risen dough on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread softened butter over it and sprinkle brown sugar mixed with cinnamon evenly on top. Then spread your prepared apple filling across this layer. Roll up tightly from one end to form a log. Slice into individual rolls and place them in a greased baking dish.

Step 5: Final Rise and Bake

Cover the rolls again and let them rise until puffy—around 30 minutes. Preheat your oven during this time so they can bake right after rising! Once ready, pop them into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 6: Frost & Serve

While your rolls cool slightly after baking, whip up your cream cheese frosting by blending butter and cream cheese until smooth before gradually adding powdered sugar and heavy cream. Once cooled just enough not to melt the frosting away, slather this delicious mixture over each roll! Enjoy these delightful treats warm—they are truly comfort food at its best!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Making these delightful rolls is all about the little details that can elevate your baking game. Here are some pro tips to ensure your cinnamon rolls come out perfectly every time!

• Choose the Right Apples: Using Gala apples provides a sweet and slightly tart flavor, but feel free to mix in Granny Smith for a bit of tanginess. The right apple will create a lovely balance in your filling.

• Let the Dough Rise Properly: Patience is key! Allowing the dough to rise until it doubles in size ensures light, fluffy rolls. A warm environment will help speed up this process, so find a cozy spot in your kitchen.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ingredients like milk, cream, and eggs should be at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother dough and better texture in your rolls.

• Don’t Skip the Cream Cheese Frosting: The creamy, tangy frosting is what makes these cinnamon rolls truly special. It complements the sweetness of the apples and adds an extra layer of flavor.

• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to switch up the filling! Try adding nuts or raisins for added texture or swapping apple butter for pumpkin butter during fall for a seasonal twist.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

When it comes to serving these scrumptious apple cinnamon rolls, presentation makes all the difference! You can serve them warm from the oven or make them ahead and reheat them just before serving.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar Dusting: A simple dusting of powdered sugar not only looks beautiful but adds a touch of sweetness that contrasts nicely with the rich filling.

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkling some chopped walnuts or pecans on top adds a delightful crunch and enhances the flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits complements the richness of the rolls while providing a burst of color on your plate.

• Yogurt Parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and fruit creates a perfect contrast to the warmth of cinnamon rolls and adds a healthy element to your breakfast or brunch table.

• Coffee or Tea: A steaming cup of coffee or herbal tea pairs beautifully with these rolls, enhancing their cozy flavors while creating a warm atmosphere for sharing.

• Maple Syrup Drizzle: For those who love an extra touch of sweetness, serving these rolls with a side of warm maple syrup can make every bite even more indulgent.

Enjoy making and serving these delightful Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling—your family and friends will be begging for seconds!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare them ahead of time and enjoy fresh, warm rolls whenever you desire. Here’s how to store and reheat them for maximum deliciousness.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Ensure they cool completely before sealing to prevent sogginess.

Freezing

• Allow the rolls to cool completely, then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the rolls on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
• For a quick option, microwave individual rolls on a microwave-safe plate for about 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about these delicious rolls!

Can I make Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and filling ahead of time. Just assemble and refrigerate overnight before baking. This makes breakfast or brunch a breeze!

What makes these Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling special?

The combination of tender apples, warm spices, and apple butter creates a delightful flavor that’s reminiscent of cozy fall days. Plus, they’re topped with creamy frosting that takes them over the top!

Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?

Yes! While Gala apples work wonderfully due to their sweetness and tenderness, feel free to experiment with other apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for different flavor profiles.

How do I know when my cinnamon rolls are done baking?

Your rolls should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped lightly. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean if you bake them properly.

Can I substitute the heavy cream in the frosting?

Yes! You can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or even almond milk if you prefer a lighter option. Just adjust as needed for consistency.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling as much as I loved creating them! They offer such a warm, comforting taste that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether it’s a cozy breakfast or an afternoon treat, these rolls are sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!