Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Like apple pie and cinnamon rolls had the coziest baby ever. These Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling are perfect for breakfast or brunch and offer a delightful combination of flavors that will warm your heart. The tender apples, warm spices, and apple butter come together in fluffy homemade dough, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that takes these rolls to another level.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor – The combination of apples and warm spices creates a mouthwatering taste that feels like a hug in dessert form.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a holiday brunch, a weekend treat, or a cozy family breakfast, these rolls fit right in.
• Easy to Customize – Add nuts or raisins for extra texture and flavor. You can even switch up the spices according to your preference.
• Impressive Presentation – These rolls look stunning when served, making them a great choice for gatherings or special occasions.
• Comforting Treat – There’s something incredibly comforting about warm cinnamon rolls fresh from the oven.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth, gather the essential tools ahead of time. Having everything on hand makes the process quicker and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer – This tool saves time and effort when mixing dough, ensuring it is well combined without needing too much physical work.
• Rolling pin – A good rolling pin helps to evenly flatten the dough, which is crucial for achieving perfectly shaped rolls.

Ingredients

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

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

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

Begin by combining all filling ingredients in a bowl:
1. In a bowl, mix the diced apples with lemon juice, apple butter, granulated sugar, water, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and fine sea salt.
2. Set aside to let the flavors meld.

Step 2: Make the Dough

Prepare your dough while allowing time for rising:
1. In a bowl, combine water and cornstarch until smooth. Heat until thickened.
2. In your stand mixer bowl, mix together bread flour, sugar, instant yeast, and fine sea salt.
3. Add whole milk, heavy cream, egg, vanilla extract, Tangzhong mixture, and softened unsalted butter into dry ingredients.
4. Mix on low speed until combined then knead on medium speed until smooth.

Step 3: Let It Rise

Allow your dough to rise:
1. Place dough in a greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean towel.
2. Let it rise in a warm area until doubled in size (about 90 minutes).

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

Create your delicious rolls:
1. Roll out dough on a floured surface into a rectangle.
2. Spread prepared apple filling over rolled-out dough evenly.
3. Sprinkle brown sugar and ground cinnamon over filling.

Step 5: Shape & Slice Rolls

Shape your rolls:
1. Roll up tightly into a log starting from one long side.
2. Slice into equal pieces about 1 inch thick.

Step 6: Second Rise & Bake

Prepare to bake:
1. Arrange slices in greased baking dish; cover and let rise again until puffy (about 30 minutes).
2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 30 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 7: Frost & Serve

Finish off your rolls:
1. Beat together frosting ingredients until smooth.
2. Drizzle over warm rolls before serving.

Enjoy these delightful Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling as an excellent way to start any day!

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Serving Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling can turn your breakfast or brunch into a delightful experience. These rolls can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance their delicious flavors and textures.

Classic Breakfast Delight

• Serve them warm straight from the oven, allowing the cream cheese frosting to melt slightly on top for a gooey treat.

Pair with Fresh Fruit

• Complement your rolls with a side of fresh fruit, such as sliced strawberries or blueberries, for a refreshing contrast.

Drizzle Extra Apple Butter

• Add an extra drizzle of apple butter on top for an additional burst of apple flavor that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon.

Enjoy with Coffee or Tea

• A hot cup of coffee or tea elevates the experience, making these rolls perfect for cozy mornings.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Arrange them on a platter alongside other sweet treats like mini muffins or cookies for a delightful dessert spread at gatherings.

How to Perfect Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Perfecting your Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to achieve the best results.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring that your milk, eggs, and butter are at room temperature helps create a smooth dough that rises well.
• Knead Thoroughly: Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect fluffy texture.
• Allow Adequate Rising Time: Make sure to give your dough ample time to rise in a warm place. This will ensure soft and airy rolls.
• Watch Baking Time Closely: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your rolls during baking. They should be golden brown but not overly dark.
• Frost While Warm: Frosting the rolls while they are still warm allows the cream cheese frosting to melt slightly, creating a delicious glaze effect.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Pairing side dishes with your Apple Cinnamon Rolls can enhance your meal. Here are some great options that complement these sweet rolls nicely.

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait: A layered parfait of Greek yogurt, honey, and granola adds protein and crunch, balancing out the sweetness of the rolls.
2. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide a savory counterpart that contrasts beautifully with the sweet flavors of cinnamon and apples.
3. Sausage Links: Turkey sausage links offer a hearty side while remaining lighter than traditional pork options.
4. Crispy Hash Browns: Golden-brown hash browns add texture and heartiness that pairs wonderfully with the softness of the cinnamon rolls.
5. Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits refreshes the palate and adds vibrant flavors alongside your rolls.
6. Smoothie Bowl: A nutritious smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds provides vitamins and minerals while complementing the indulgence of cinnamon rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Skipping the proofing step: Allowing your dough to rise properly is crucial for fluffy rolls. Be patient and let it double in size before baking.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs or milk can hinder the dough’s ability to rise. Ensure all dairy products are at room temperature for optimal results.
• Overfilling the rolls: It’s tempting to add too much filling, but this can cause spills during baking. Stick to the recommended amount to keep your rolls intact.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can lead to dry cinnamon rolls. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements.
• Baking at the wrong temperature: Always preheat your oven for even cooking. Baking at a lower temperature can result in undercooked centers.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

• Freeze unbaked rolls by placing them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Alternatively, freeze baked rolls after cooling completely, wrapped tightly.

Reheating Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual rolls for 20-30 seconds on high. Be cautious not to overheat, as they can become tough.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling that may help clarify your baking process.

Can I use other types of apples in the filling?

Yes! While Gala apples are sweet and tender, you can use Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples for a different flavor profile.

How do I ensure my dough rises properly?

Make sure your yeast is fresh and that you’re allowing enough time for the dough to double in size in a warm place free from drafts.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and filling ahead of time and refrigerate overnight before baking them fresh in the morning.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in the frosting?

You can use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk as alternatives if you’re looking for a lighter option that still tastes delicious.

Final Thoughts

These Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling are a delightful treat perfect for breakfast or brunch. Their combination of soft dough, juicy apples, and warm spices makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize your rolls by adding nuts or using different spices according to your taste preferences!