Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the comfort of apple pie with the fluffiness of cinnamon rolls, then you’ve found it! These Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling are a true crowd-pleaser. They’re perfect for busy weeknights when you need something special to brighten the day or for family gatherings where everyone can come together over warm, gooey goodness. Just imagine pulling these out of the oven, the sweet aroma filling your home—pure bliss!

What I love most about this recipe is how every bite is packed with tender apples and warm spices, making it feel like a cozy hug. Plus, they’re topped with a delicious cream cheese frosting that takes them over the top. Trust me, once you try these rolls, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your home too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and clear instructions, even novice bakers will find joy in creating these rolls.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the combination of apples and cinnamon; it’s a flavor that appeals to all ages!
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake them fresh in the morning—a perfect breakfast treat!
• Deliciously Versatile: Customize with your favorite nuts or dried fruits for an extra twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, ensuring that your Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling are not only delicious but also made with love.

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 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! Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
• Try Different Apples: Use Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for varying sweetness and texture.
• Go Spicy: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to enhance those warm spice flavors.
• Frosting Options: Swap out traditional cream cheese frosting for a maple glaze for a unique twist.

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, vanilla extract, and salt in a saucepan. Cook gently over medium heat until the apples soften nicely. This step is vital as it enhances the flavors and creates that delicious filling we all love!

Step 2: Make the Tangzhong

In another saucepan, whisk together water and bread flour over low heat until it thickens into a paste. This Tangzhong method helps keep your rolls moist and fluffy. It’s a little extra effort that makes such a big difference!

Step 3: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix your flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Then add in milk, cream, egg, vanilla extract, and your prepared Tangzhong. Knead until smooth. Kneading develops gluten which gives your dough structure—this means perfectly fluffy rolls!

Step 4: Let It Rise

Cover your dough and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size. Patience is key here! This rising time allows those lovely flavors to develop.

Step 5: Assemble the Rolls

Roll out your dough into a rectangle and spread soft butter over it before sprinkling on brown sugar and cinnamon mixture. Layer on your apple filling evenly across before rolling it up tightly. Slice into individual rolls—those swirls are what make each bite so delightful!

Step 6: Second Rise & Bake

Place your rolls in a greased baking dish and let them rise again until puffy. Bake at 350°F until golden brown. Watching these rise is so satisfying—it’s like magic happening right in front of you!

Step 7: Frost & Enjoy!

Once cooled slightly, whip up your cream cheese frosting by mixing all frosting ingredients together until smooth. Drizzle over those warm rolls and enjoy right away! The combination of gooey apple filling with creamy frosting is simply irresistible.

So there you have it—your guide to making scrumptious Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Making these delightful rolls can be a breeze with a few helpful tips! Here’s how to ensure your Apple Cinnamon Rolls turn out perfectly every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients – Bringing your eggs, milk, and cream to room temperature helps create a smoother dough, promoting better rise and texture.

• Knead the dough well – Kneading develops gluten, which gives the rolls their fluffy structure. Aim for about 8-10 minutes of kneading for optimal results.

• Let the dough rest properly – Allowing the dough to rise until doubled in size is crucial. This process ensures light and airy rolls that aren’t dense or heavy.

• Don’t skip the tangzhong – This special technique involves cooking flour and water to create a paste, which improves moisture retention in the rolls, keeping them soft and fresh for days!

• Experiment with fillings – While apple pie filling is delicious, feel free to mix in other ingredients like nuts or raisins for added texture and flavor!

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

When it comes to presenting these scrumptious rolls, let your creativity shine! They can be served warm right out of the oven or at room temperature, making them perfect for any occasion.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting – A light sprinkle of powdered sugar not only adds visual appeal but also enhances sweetness without overwhelming the flavors.

• Chopped nuts – Adding some chopped walnuts or pecans on top provides an excellent crunch that complements the soft rolls beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can balance the sweetness of the rolls while adding a burst of color to your plate.

• Greek yogurt with honey – Creamy Greek yogurt drizzled with honey offers a rich contrast to the cinnamon rolls and adds a protein boost to your breakfast.

• Crispy bacon alternatives – Consider serving crispy turkey bacon or plant-based alternatives for those who enjoy a savory touch alongside their sweet rolls.

These suggestions will help you create an inviting breakfast or brunch spread that everyone will love! Enjoy indulging in these warm Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare them ahead of time and enjoy that delightful aroma of fresh-baked cinnamon rolls whenever you desire.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Once cooled, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the rolls on a baking sheet and cover loosely with aluminum foil.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual rolls for 15-30 seconds until warmed.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling.

Can I use other types of apples in these rolls?

Absolutely! While Gala apples work wonderfully, feel free to experiment with Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or any baking apple you prefer. Each apple variety will bring its unique flavor!

How do I make the cream cheese frosting without animal-derived gelatin?

This recipe does not require gelatin; simply blend cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a bit of heavy cream until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more cream as needed until you achieve your desired thickness.

Can I skip the apple pie filling?

While it adds delicious flavor and texture, you can certainly make these rolls without it. Just use an extra layer of apple butter or another fruit filling if desired!

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

These rolls combine the cozy essence of apple pie with fluffy cinnamon roll dough, creating a delightful treat that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling! They’re not just delicious; they bring warmth and comfort to any occasion. Enjoy every bite as it melts in your mouth and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations! Happy baking!