Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the best of both worlds, you’ve found it! These Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling are like a warm hug on a plate. Imagine soft, fluffy rolls filled with tender apples, a hint of cinnamon, and a touch of apple butter to elevate the flavor. They’re perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or simply when you need a little sweetness in your day.

What makes this recipe truly special is how it brings everyone together. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have your loved ones eagerly waiting at the table. Plus, these rolls are not only delicious but also fun to make! Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and familiar ingredients, you’ll be enjoying warm rolls in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone from kids to grandparents will love these sweet treats.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake them fresh when ready.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apples, cinnamon, and cream cheese frosting is irresistible.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls fit right in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our wholesome ingredients! This recipe uses simple items that you might already have in your pantry. Each ingredient plays its part in creating that beautiful blend of flavors and textures.

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 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it according to your taste or what you have on hand.

• Add Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch and extra flavor.
• Try Different Apples: Swap out Gala apples for Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for more variety.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute the egg with flaxseed meal and use plant-based milk and butter.
• Spice It Up: Add nutmeg or ginger to the filling for an extra layer of warmth.

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 saucepan. Cooking this mixture helps soften the apples and melds all those wonderful flavors together. This step ensures every bite is bursting with deliciousness!

Step 2: Make the Tangzhong

In another small pot, whisk together some water and bread flour over medium heat until thickened. This tangzhong method helps achieve that soft texture we all love in cinnamon rolls. It keeps them moist even after baking!

Step 3: Mix Your Dough Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine your flours, sugar, yeast, and salt. Then mix in your warm milk and cream along with the egg and tangzhong mixture. Knead until smooth; this will give you that perfect dough consistency that’s easy to work with.

Step 4: Let It Rise

Cover your dough with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise until doubled in size—about an hour should do it! Patience is key here; allowing it to rise gives you fluffy rolls that are irresistible.

Step 5: Roll Out Your Dough

Once risen, roll out your dough into a rectangle on a floured surface. Spread softened butter over it generously before adding your prepared apple filling evenly across. This creates layers of flavor that are mouthwatering!

Step 6: Shape Your Rolls

Carefully roll up your dough tightly from one end to another into a log shape. Slice into equal pieces—each slice should be about two inches thick. Arrange them in a greased baking dish; they’ll rise again while baking!

Step 7: Bake Until Golden Brown

Preheat your oven and then bake those beauties until golden brown—about 30 minutes should suffice. The smell will fill your home as they bake; trust me—you’ll want to dive right in!

Step 8: Whip Up Some Frosting

While your rolls cool slightly, whip together softened butter and cream cheese until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and heavy cream until smooth. Drizzle this heavenly frosting over warm rolls right before serving for an unforgettable finish!

Enjoy these delightful Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling any time you need a cozy treat!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Making these delightful rolls can be a joy, and with a few tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Apples: Fresh apples provide the best flavor and texture. Opt for tart varieties like Granny Smith or sweet ones like Gala, as they hold up well during baking.

• Don’t Skip the Tangzhong: This technique involves cooking a portion of the flour with water or milk to create a paste. It helps keep the rolls moist and fluffy, ensuring they stay fresh longer.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, milk, and eggs are at room temperature. This allows for better incorporation into the dough, leading to a smoother texture.

• Let the Dough Rise Properly: Give your dough enough time to rise in a warm environment. A well-risen dough will yield soft and fluffy cinnamon rolls that are simply irresistible.

• Frost After Cooling: Allow your rolls to cool slightly before adding cream cheese frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting away and ensures a beautiful presentation.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Serving your Apple Cinnamon Rolls is just as delightful as making them! Here are some ideas to make your presentation shine.

Garnishes

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkling chopped pecans or walnuts on top adds a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the rolls.
• Caramel Drizzle: A light drizzle of caramel sauce over the frosting adds sweetness and enhances the apple flavor beautifully.
• Cinnamon Dusting: A sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top gives an extra layer of warmth and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing balance to the rich sweetness of the cinnamon rolls, making for a well-rounded breakfast.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries creates a creamy, tangy contrast that pairs nicely with sweet rolls.
• Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea complements the flavors of apple and cinnamon wonderfully, creating a comforting beverage choice.
• Coffee: The bitterness of coffee balances out the sweetness of the rolls, making it an ideal pairing for brunch gatherings.

With these serving suggestions and tips in mind, you’re ready to impress your family and friends with your homemade Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, store them, or even freeze them for later enjoyment. Here’s how to keep your delicious creations fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the rolls to cool completely.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to a week.

Freezing

• Once the rolls are baked and cooled, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap.
• Then, place the wrapped rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Remove rolls from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the rolls on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about these delightful treats!

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

Absolutely! While Gala apples work wonderfully for their sweetness, you can experiment with other varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for a tart twist.

How can I ensure my dough rises properly?

Make sure your yeast is fresh and activated. Keep the dough in a warm, draft-free area to help it rise effectively. Cover it with a clean towel during rising time!

Can I substitute the heavy cream in the frosting?

Yes! You can use milk or a dairy-free alternative if you prefer. Just keep in mind that it might change the texture slightly.

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

The combination of fresh apples, warm spices, and apple butter creates a unique flavor profile that combines all the best elements of both apple pie and cinnamon rolls.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these scrumptious Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling as much as I do! They’re not only delightful to eat, but they also fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that warms the heart. Perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat any time of day—these rolls are sure to become a family favorite! Happy baking!