These warm apple cinnamon rolls are a real treat! Soft and fluffy dough is filled with sweet apples and lots of cinnamon. They make your kitchen smell amazing!
Let’s face it, who doesn’t love a gooey roll fresh from the oven? I can hardly wait for them to cool before grabbing one! They’re perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is essential for a good dough structure. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use whole wheat flour, but may want to adjust the liquid slightly as it absorbs more. I find a 50/50 mix works well!
Apples: Choose sweet, firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the filling. If you want a different flavor, pears or even peaches can be excellent substitutes!
Active Dry Yeast: This is what makes your dough rise and become fluffy. If you have instant yeast, you can use that too without worrying about proofing it in the milk—just mix it right in with the flour.
Cinnamon: It’s the star flavor of this recipe! If you love a bit of heat, try adding some nutmeg or allspice as well. You can also cut back on cinnamon for a milder flavor.
Pecans or Walnuts: These add a nice crunch and flavor. If you have nut allergies or prefer a nut-free version, simply omit them!
How Do You Knead Dough Properly?
Kneading is vital for developing gluten, which gives your dough that nice chewy texture! Here’s how to do it:
- After combining the ingredients, turn the dough onto a floured surface.
- Use the palms of your hands to push the dough away from you, then fold it back over toward you.
- Repeat this process, turning the dough a quarter turn every few pushes, for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
- If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour, but try to keep it minimal for best results.
Remember, patience is key! Kneading effectively will elevate your rolls to the next level!
Delicious Apple Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, divided
- 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 large egg
For the Filling:
- 2 medium apples, peeled and finely chopped
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 2 to 2.5 hours in total. This includes around 1.5 hours for the dough to rise, about 30 minutes for prep and baking, and a few minutes to whip up the glaze. It’s so worth the wait for those warm, gooey rolls!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of the flour with the yeast. Gently heat the milk until it’s warm to the touch, about 110°F. Be careful not to make it too hot! Once warm, add in the sugar, melted butter, salt, and egg. Mix everything well. Gradually add the yeast-flour mixture and remaining flour, one cup at a time, stirring until you form a soft dough.
2. Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic. Form it into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot until it has doubled in size (around 1 to 1.5 hours).
3. Prepare the Filling:
While the dough is rising, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl until well combined. Set this mixture aside along with your chopped apples and nuts if you’re using them.
4. Roll Out the Dough:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it back onto a floured surface and roll it out into a rectangle that’s approximately 15 x 9 inches.
5. Add the Filling:
Spread the cinnamon-brown sugar mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough. Make sure to cover it well! Then sprinkle the chopped apples and nuts on top.
6. Form the Rolls:
Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log. Once rolled, slice the log into 12 equal pieces.
7. Arrange and Proof:
Place the sliced rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Leave a little space between each roll for rising! Cover them with a towel and let them rise for about 30-45 minutes until they puff up nicely.
8. Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
9. Make the Glaze:
While the rolls are baking, get the glaze ready by whisking the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla together until you have a smooth, pourable consistency.
10. Glaze and Serve:
Once the rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and drizzle the glaze generously over the warm rolls. Serve them right away and enjoy the sweet, cinnamon-apple goodness!
These delightful apple cinnamon rolls are perfect for cozy breakfasts or brunch with family and friends. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use a Different Type of Flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. However, you may need to adjust the liquid slightly since whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture. A 50/50 mix of all-purpose and whole wheat can also work well!
What Kind of Apples Should I Use?
For the best flavor, use sweet and firm apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. You can also swap in other fruits like pears or peaches for a delightful variation!
Can I Prepare the Dough Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge. In the morning, let it come to room temperature and proceed with the filling and rolling steps. Your morning will be much easier!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also wrap them tightly and keep them in the refrigerator for longer freshness. To enjoy, simply warm them in the microwave or oven before serving!
