Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

If you’re looking for a cozy and delicious treat that brings the warmth of fall into your kitchen, these Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling are just what you need. Imagine biting into soft, fluffy rolls filled with tender apples and fragrant spices, all topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting. This recipe is not only a delightful way to start your day but also perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. You can even make them ahead of time for busy weeknights!

These rolls have become a cherished family favorite in my home. They blend the comforting flavors of apple pie with the irresistible softness of cinnamon rolls, making them an absolute joy to share with friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow, even if you’re new to baking!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves cinnamon rolls! The sweet apple filling makes them extra special, ensuring smiles all around the breakfast table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare these rolls in advance and bake them fresh when you’re ready to enjoy a warm treat.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apple butter, cinnamon, and fresh apples creates a mouthwatering taste that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s brunch with friends or a cozy family dessert night, these rolls fit perfectly into any setting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something truly special. You might already have some of these in your pantry!

For the 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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Change Up the Apples: Use different varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter taste.
• Add Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch to your filling.
• Spice It Up: Experiment by adding nutmeg or cardamom along with the cinnamon for an extra layer of flavor.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free flour blends in place of regular flour for a gluten-free option.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by melting together the diced apples, apple butter, sugar, water, lemon juice, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and sea salt in a saucepan over medium heat. This step is crucial as it softens the apples and allows their natural sweetness to shine through. Simmer until the mixture thickens slightly—this will ensure each bite is packed with flavor!

Step 2: Make Tangzhong

In another small pan, whisk together water and bread flour over low heat until it forms a thick paste. This process is known as tangzhong and helps keep our rolls moist and fluffy! Set it aside to cool slightly before adding it to your dough mixture later.

Step 3: Mix Your Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine bread flour, yeast, sugar, salt, milk, cream, egg, and cooled tangzhong. Knead until smooth and elastic—this develops gluten which gives our rolls that lovely chewy texture. Let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size; this usually takes about an hour.

Step 4: Assemble Your Rolls

Once your dough has risen beautifully, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread softened butter over it generously before layering on your prepared apple filling evenly across the dough. Roll it up tightly from one long edge and slice into generous pieces—these will be your rolls!

Step 5: Final Rise & Bake

Place each roll in a greased baking dish and cover them while they rise again—this will take about 30 minutes. Preheat your oven while waiting so they can go right in as soon as they’re ready! Bake until golden brown—around 25-30 minutes—and fill your kitchen with that wonderful aroma.

Step 6: Frost & Serve

While those gorgeous rolls cool slightly on a wire rack after baking, whip up your cream cheese frosting by mixing all frosting ingredients until smooth. Once cooled but still warm, drizzle generously over each roll before serving. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Making these delicious apple cinnamon rolls is a delightful journey, and a few tips can help you achieve perfection!

• Use Fresh Apples: Opt for fresh Gala apples as they provide the right balance of sweetness and tartness, enhancing the flavor of your rolls.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your milk, cream, and egg are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother dough that rises beautifully.

• Don’t Rush the Rising Time: Allow your dough to rise until it doubles in size. This step is crucial for fluffy rolls that have a light texture.

• Keep Your Dough Lightly Floured: While rolling out your dough, use just enough flour to prevent sticking. Too much flour can lead to dense rolls.

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding nutmeg or allspice can give an extra depth of flavor that complements the apples beautifully.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

These apple cinnamon rolls aren’t just a treat for the taste buds; they’re also a feast for the eyes! Presentation can elevate your brunch experience, making it even more special.

Garnishes

• Chopped Pecans or Walnuts: Sprinkle some chopped nuts on top of the frosting for added crunch and flavor.

• Additional Apple Slices: Thinly slice additional apples and arrange them on the serving plate for a fresh touch that mirrors the filling.

Side Dishes

• Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the rolls.

• Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy side that complements the rich flavors of the cinnamon rolls.

• Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and make this meal more hearty, perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings.

• Coffee or Tea: Offering a warm beverage like coffee or herbal tea enhances the cozy vibe and makes each bite even more enjoyable.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them in advance and enjoy their delightful flavors whenever you crave something sweet. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious rolls.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Once completely cooled, wrap the rolls tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label your containers!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen rolls overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place rolls on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling that might help you out!

Can I use a different type of apple for these Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling?

Absolutely! While Gala apples are great for their sweetness and texture, you can experiment with other varieties like Granny Smith for a tangy kick or Honeycrisp for extra crunch.

How long does it take to make Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling from start to finish?

The total time is approximately 270 minutes, which includes both preparation and cooking time. It’s worth every minute for these delightful rolls!

Can I skip the cream cheese frosting?

Yes, if you prefer a lighter option, you can enjoy your cinnamon rolls without frosting or simply sprinkle them with powdered sugar instead.

What do I do if my dough isn’t rising properly?

Make sure your yeast is fresh and that you’re allowing the dough to rise in a warm environment. If it’s too cold, it may take longer to rise or not rise sufficiently at all.

Final Thoughts

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! These Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling blend comforting flavors that remind us of home. Whether they’re a special weekend treat or a simple indulgence any day, I hope they bring joy to your kitchen as they did mine. Enjoy making and sharing these delightful rolls with friends and family—you deserve it!