Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the warm, comforting flavors of fall with the soft, fluffy goodness of homemade rolls, then these Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling are just what you need! Picture this: sweet apples mingling with rich spices, all wrapped up in a tender dough that practically melts in your mouth. These rolls are perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings when you want to spread a little joy.

This recipe is special because it brings together the best of both worlds—cinnamon rolls and apple pie—creating a deliciously sweet moment for any occasion. Plus, they’re sure to impress your friends and family with their lovely aroma wafting through your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip these up without stress.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cinnamon rolls! These are sure to be a hit at breakfast or brunch.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough ahead of time, making it easy to bake fresh rolls whenever you want.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apples and cinnamon creates a warm, nostalgic flavor that’s simply irresistible.
• Customizable: Feel free to get creative with fillings and toppings!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling use simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have on hand. Let’s gather everything we need for this delightful recipe!

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

For the Dough:

• 2 teaspoons water
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 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 based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Try Different Apples: Use Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples for a different flavor profile!
• Add Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch to your filling.
• Swap the Frosting: If you’re looking for something lighter, consider a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
• Spice It Up: Add some nutmeg or cloves for an extra layer of warmth in flavor.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by preparing your filling. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the diced apples, apple butter, granulated sugar, water, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Cook until the apples soften and everything melds beautifully. This will create a luscious filling that adds moisture and flavor to your rolls.

Step 2: Make the Dough

For the dough, mix together yeast and warm water in a bowl. Allow it to sit until frothy—this step proves that your yeast is active! In another bowl, whisk together bread flour, sugar, and salt. Combine this dry mixture with milk, heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract before adding in your tangzhong. Knead until smooth and elastic; this will ensure tender rolls that rise perfectly.

Step 3: Let It Rise

Once kneaded, place your dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise until doubled in size—about an hour. This resting time allows gluten development which gives us those fluffy cinnamon rolls we crave.

Step 4: Roll Out & Fill

After rising, roll out your dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread softened butter all over it before sprinkling brown sugar and ground cinnamon evenly on top. Then dollop on your delicious apple filling! Roll up tightly from one end to another and slice into pieces.

Step 5: Second Rise & Bake

Place your rolls into greased baking pans and cover them again for another round of rising—about 30 minutes will do! Once puffed up nicely, pop them into a preheated oven. Bake until golden brown; they’ll smell incredible!

Step 6: Frost & Enjoy

Once baked and cooled slightly, whip up your cream cheese frosting by mixing together softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and heavy cream until desired consistency is reached. Drizzle generously over still-warm rolls before serving!

Now go ahead and indulge in these scrumptious Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling—you deserve every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Creating the perfect apple cinnamon rolls can feel daunting, but with a few simple tips, you’ll be a baking pro in no time!

• Use Fresh Apples: Fresh Gala apples not only provide the best flavor but also retain their texture during baking, giving your rolls that delightful apple bite.

• Don’t Rush the Dough: Allowing the dough to rise properly is key to fluffy rolls. Be patient and let it double in size; this helps develop a light and airy texture.

• Temperature Matters: Ensure your liquids (like the milk and cream) are at room temperature. This helps activate the yeast quickly, leading to better rising and fluffiness.

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to tweak the spice levels! If you love nutmeg or allspice, a pinch of these can add an extra layer of warmth and complexity to your rolls.

• Make Ahead for Busy Mornings: Prepare your rolls the night before, cover them, and place them in the fridge. In the morning, just let them come to room temperature before baking for a fresh breakfast with minimal morning fuss!

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Serving these delightful apple cinnamon rolls is just as fun as making them! Whether it’s a cozy brunch or a sweet dessert, here are some ideas to make your presentation shine.

Garnishes

• Chopped Pecans or Walnuts: A sprinkle of chopped nuts adds a delightful crunch and complements the soft texture of the rolls.
• Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar on top right before serving enhances that warm spice aroma we all love!
• Apple Slices: Thinly sliced apples arranged around the plate not only look beautiful but also echo the flavors within the rolls.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances out the sweetness of the rolls while adding color and vibrancy to your table.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries provides a creamy contrast that pairs perfectly with the warmth of cinnamon rolls.
• Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add protein to your meal, making it heartier while complementing the sweetness beautifully.
• Maple Bacon Alternatives: For those who enjoy savory flavors, consider crispy vegetable bacon as a side. It brings a smoky element that pairs well with sweet dishes without using animal-derived products.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress friends and family alike with your delicious homemade Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling are perfect for meal prep! You can enjoy them fresh or save some for later, making them a delicious treat anytime.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator, where they will keep well for about a week.

Freezing

• Allow the rolls to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, remove desired rolls from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the rolls for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have while making these delightful rolls!

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

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and filling in advance, store them separately, and assemble them when you’re ready to bake.

What type of apples work best for these rolls?

Gala apples are great for their sweetness and texture, but feel free to mix in other varieties like Granny Smith for a tart contrast.

Can I substitute apple butter in this recipe?

Yes! If you don’t have apple butter, you can use unsweetened applesauce or even make your own by cooking down apples with a bit of cinnamon and sugar.

How do I ensure my cinnamon rolls are fluffy?

Make sure your yeast is active by testing it before adding it to the dough. Also, kneading the dough sufficiently helps develop gluten, leading to fluffier rolls.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling! They’re not just a treat; they’re a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re serving them at brunch or enjoying one with your morning coffee, there’s something special about these rolls that brings comfort and smiles. Enjoy every delightful bite, and don’t hesitate to share your baking adventures!