Introduction
When it comes to comfort food, cinnamon rolls are always a favorite. Now imagine adding the sweet and tangy flavor of apples to that soft, fluffy roll. Doesn’t it sound amazing? Apple cinnamon rolls are the perfect mix of fruity sweetness, warm spices, and soft bread. They are great for breakfast, dessert, or even as a treat with your evening tea.
The best part? You don’t need to be a professional baker to make them. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can bake these rolls right at home. This recipe will guide you step by step, so even beginners or kids can follow along. So, let’s start making these delicious apple cinnamon rolls!
Ingredients – Apple Cinnamon Rolls
Here are the ingredients you’ll need for this recipe.
For the Dough:
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup warm milk
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 egg
For the Apple Cinnamon Filling:
- 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and finely chopped)
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp milk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Step by Step Process – Apple Cinnamon Rolls
Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll have soft, sweet rolls ready to enjoy.
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Add melted butter, egg, salt, and flour. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 6–8 minutes until smooth and soft.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise for 1–2 hours or until it doubles in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Apple Cinnamon Filling
- While the dough rises, peel and chop the apples into small pieces.
- Mix the apples with brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Set aside until the dough is ready.
Step 3: Roll and Fill
- After the dough has doubled, punch it down to release the air.
- Roll it out into a rectangle (about 12×16 inches).
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle the apple-cinnamon mixture on top.
Step 4: Shape the Rolls
- Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a log shape.
- Cut the log into 12 equal slices.
- Place the rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover them again and let them rise for 30 minutes.
Step 5: Bake the Rolls
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
Step 6: Add the Glaze
- In a small bowl, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls.
- Serve and enjoy your homemade apple cinnamon rolls!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount (per roll) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 230 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 38 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 16 g |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use store-bought dough for this recipe?
Yes! If you want to save time, you can use ready-made dough. Just roll it out, add the filling, and bake.
Q2: What kind of apples should I use?
Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples work best. They give a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.
Q3: Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls, place them in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight. The next morning, let them come to room temperature and bake.
Q4: Can I freeze apple cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely. After baking, let them cool, wrap them tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q5: Do I have to add the glaze?
The glaze adds sweetness, but you can skip it if you want a lighter version. You can also use cream cheese frosting for a richer taste.
Final Thoughts
Apple cinnamon rolls are one of those recipes that bring warmth and happiness to your kitchen. The mix of soft dough, sweet apples, and cinnamon makes every bite special. They are easy to make, even if you are not very experienced in baking.
Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or reheat them the next day, these rolls are sure to be a hit with family and friends. So, the next time you crave something sweet and cozy, try making this easy apple cinnamon rolls recipe. Trust me, your home will smell amazing, and your taste buds will thank you!
