Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that brings a big smile to everyone’s face, you’ve just found it! These Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling are like a warm hug on a chilly day. They combine the buttery goodness of cinnamon rolls with the comforting flavors of apple pie, making them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. Whether it’s a cozy weekend morning or a festive family gathering, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite.

What makes these rolls truly special is the way they fill your kitchen with that irresistible aroma of cinnamon and baked apples. Plus, they’re easy to make and can even be prepared ahead of time—who doesn’t love that? Let’s dive into why these delicious rolls will win your heart.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of tender apples and warm spices creates a delightful taste experience.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cinnamon rolls, and adding apple pie filling makes them even more appealing!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare them in advance for busy mornings or special occasions without stress.
• Simple Ingredients: You’ll find everything you need in your pantry; no fancy ingredients here!
• Perfectly Cozy Treat: These rolls are ideal for sharing and enjoying with loved ones around the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’re going to love how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! Each one plays an important role in creating those fluffy, flavorful Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling. Gather up these goodies and let’s get rolling!

For the Apple 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 Cinnamon Sugar Filling:

• 6 tablespoons 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make these rolls your own. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
• Mix in Dried Fruit: Dried cranberries or raisins can add a lovely burst of flavor.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or allspice for unique twists.
• Glaze Instead of Frosting: If you prefer something lighter, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk on top instead.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

Start by combining the diced apples, apple butter, granulated sugar, water, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and fine sea salt in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the apples soften slightly and are coated in that luscious mixture. This step is key because it infuses the apples with flavor while ensuring they stay tender inside the rolls.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In another bowl, mix together your water and bread flour to create tangzhong—a technique that keeps your dough fluffy. Then combine this mixture with remaining bread flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, salt, milk, cream, egg, and vanilla extract. Knead until smooth. Trust me; this dough will be so soft and pillowy once it rises!

Step 3: Roll Out Your Dough

Once your dough has risen beautifully—usually about an hour—you’ll want to roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle. This is where the magic happens! Spreading your softened butter across the dough will help create those layers we all adore in cinnamon rolls.

Step 4: Assemble Your Rolls

Spread your prepared apple filling over the rolled-out dough evenly. Then sprinkle brown sugar mixed with ground cinnamon before rolling it up tightly from one end to another. Slice into equal pieces—this is where you can really start imagining how delicious they’ll be fresh out of the oven!

Step 5: Bake Your Rolls

Place your sliced rolls in a greased baking dish and let them rise again for about 30 minutes. Preheat your oven while you wait so they’re ready to bake at just the right time! Once golden brown after about 30 minutes in the oven, take them out and let that aroma waft through your house.

Step 6: Frost and Serve

While still warm, whip up your cream cheese frosting by beating together butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and heavy cream until it reaches that perfect consistency—spread generously over each roll! Serve them warm for that ultimate cozy experience.

Enjoy every bite of these delightful Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling; they’re sure to become a new favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Making these rolls can be a delightful experience, and a few simple tips can help you achieve the best results!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your milk, cream, egg, and butter to room temperature helps your dough rise better and creates a smoother texture throughout the rolls.

• Don’t rush the dough rising: Allowing the dough to rise until it doubles in size ensures that your rolls will be fluffy and light. Patience pays off when it comes to yeast-based recipes!

• Chop apples evenly: Dicing your Gala apples into uniform pieces allows them to cook evenly within the rolls, providing consistent flavor and texture in every bite.

• Experiment with spices: While cinnamon is the star of this dish, feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for an extra layer of warmth and flavor that complements the apple filling beautifully.

• Store properly for freshness: If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat gently before serving for that fresh-baked taste!

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

These luscious Apple Cinnamon Rolls are not just a treat for the taste buds; they also make for a beautiful presentation. Here’s how you can elevate your serving style!

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans or walnuts: Sprinkle some toasted nuts on top for added crunch and richness that contrasts beautifully with the soft rolls.
• Cinnamon dusting: A light dusting of ground cinnamon over the top of the cream cheese frosting adds visual appeal and enhances that warm spice aroma.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A mix of seasonal fruits like berries, bananas, or citrus provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet rolls and balances out your meal.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and more diced apples for a creamy side that complements the sweetness of the rolls.
• Chai tea or coffee: A warm cup of chai tea or freshly brewed coffee makes a comforting pairing that perfectly complements these delightful cinnamon rolls.
• Oatmeal or granola bowls: Serving a small bowl of oatmeal or granola alongside adds some heartiness to your brunch spread while keeping things cozy.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create an unforgettable experience around these delicious 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 easily make them ahead of time, so you have a delicious treat ready to go whenever the craving strikes. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat them:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the rolls to cool completely after baking.
• Place them 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.

Freezing

• After baking and cooling, wrap the rolls tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen rolls in the refrigerator overnight.
• To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and cover with foil.
• Warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making these delightful rolls!

Can I use other types of apples for the Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling?

Absolutely! While Gala apples work wonderfully, feel free to experiment with Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith apples. Each variety will add its own unique flavor!

How do I ensure my Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling rise properly?

Make sure your yeast is fresh! If you’re using instant yeast, it should be mixed directly into the dry ingredients. Additionally, let your dough rise in a warm, draft-free area until it doubles in size.

Can I make the cream cheese frosting ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cream cheese frosting a day or two before serving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature before spreading it on your rolls.

What’s the best way to serve these rolls?

These rolls are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. However, they also taste great warmed up with a drizzle of extra apple butter or cream cheese frosting on top!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these delightful Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling! This recipe is a lovely blend of comforting flavors that brings warmth and sweetness into any gathering. Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or just a special treat, enjoy every bite! Don’t hesitate to share your experience—happy baking!