Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

If you’re looking for a treat that combines the warmth of home-baked goodness with the delightful flavors of fall, you’ll absolutely love these Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling. Imagine biting into soft, fluffy rolls filled with tender apples and aromatic spices, all topped off with a luscious cream cheese frosting. This recipe is not just about creating something delicious; it’s about sharing joy and comfort with those you love. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these rolls will make any occasion feel special.

What makes this recipe truly shine is how easy it is to prepare. You don’t need to be an expert baker to impress your friends and family with these delightful rolls. Just follow along, and I promise you’ll have a warm batch of cozy treats in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll find that whipping up these rolls is a breeze.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cinnamon rolls! These are perfect for breakfast or brunch when the whole family is gathered around.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake them fresh in the morning, making your mornings stress-free.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apple pie filling and cream cheese frosting creates an irresistible flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create your new favorite breakfast treat. Grab your measuring cups and let’s get started!

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
• 2 teaspoons 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)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)

For the Topping

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 2/3 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

For the 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 experiment with different flavors or add your own twist.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Try Different Apples: Experiment with other varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for unique tastes.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the filling for an extra layer of warmth.
• Glaze Alternatives: Swap out the cream cheese frosting for a simple vanilla glaze if you prefer something lighter.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by combining your diced apples, apple butter, granulated sugar, water, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, fine sea salt, and cornstarch in a saucepan. Cook this mixture over medium heat until the apples soften and become syrupy. This step is crucial as it enhances the flavors and creates that gooey filling we all adore.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a separate bowl, mix together warm water, bread flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, fine sea salt, whole milk, heavy cream, egg, vanilla extract, Tangzhong (if using), and room-temperature butter. Knead until smooth. This dough will be soft yet elastic—perfect for rolling out later!

Step 3: Let It Rise

Cover your dough with a clean cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place until it has doubled in size. This usually takes about an hour. Allowing your dough to rise properly ensures fluffy rolls that are light as air.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

Roll out your risen dough on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread your apple filling evenly over the surface before sprinkling brown sugar and cinnamon on top. Roll it tightly from one end to another; then slice into equal pieces. Place each roll into a greased baking dish.

Step 5: Final Rise and Bake

Let your assembled rolls rise again until they’re puffy—about 30 minutes should do it! Bake them in a preheated oven until golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing during this time!

Step 6: Frost Them Up!

Once baked and slightly cooled, whip up your frosting by beating together softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar followed by heavy cream and apple butter until creamy. Drizzle this heavenly frosting over your warm rolls for that finishing touch!

And there you have it—delicious Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling ready to be enjoyed! Perfect for cozy mornings or festive gatherings!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Making these delightful rolls can be a joyous experience, especially with a few pro tips in your back pocket!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your milk, egg, and butter to room temperature helps create a smoother dough, leading to fluffy rolls that rise beautifully.

• Don’t rush the dough rising: Allowing the dough enough time to rise ensures it becomes light and airy. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect texture.

• Slice evenly: When cutting the rolls, try to keep each piece uniform in size. This ensures even baking and that all rolls are perfectly gooey and delicious.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to tweak the spices according to your preference. Adding nutmeg or cardamom can bring an exciting twist to the flavor profile of your rolls.

• Let them cool before frosting: Frosting the rolls while they are still warm may cause the cream cheese frosting to melt away. Allow them to cool slightly for a perfect glaze on top!

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

These Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling make for a stunning centerpiece at any breakfast or brunch table. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will make your dish shine.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkling some chopped pecans or walnuts adds a lovely crunch and complements the sweetness of the rolls.
• Fresh apple slices: A few thin slices of fresh apple on top or beside each roll adds color and a refreshing contrast.
• Cinnamon dust: A light dusting of ground cinnamon on top of the frosting can enhance both presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A bright mix of seasonal fruits can provide a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the cinnamon rolls.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy side that pairs beautifully with your sweet rolls.
• Scrambled eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add protein and create a hearty breakfast spread alongside these sweet treats.
• Herbal tea or coffee: Offering warm beverages like chamomile tea or freshly brewed coffee enhances the cozy atmosphere of enjoying these delicious rolls together.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’re sure to impress family and friends when sharing these scrumptious 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, allowing you to enjoy fresh, homemade goodness any time of the day. Here’s how you can store, freeze, and reheat them for maximum taste and convenience.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the rolls to cool completely.
• Place them in an airtight container or cover tightly with plastic wrap.
• Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cool the rolls completely before freezing.
• Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze before frosting.

Reheating

• Remove desired number of rolls from the freezer and thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place rolls on a baking sheet and cover loosely with aluminum foil.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Frost after reheating if frozen without icing.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might pop up while making your delicious rolls!

Can I use store-bought apple pie filling instead of making my own?

Absolutely! You can use store-bought apple pie filling if you’re short on time. Just make sure it’s a quality brand that fits your taste preferences.

How do I make Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling?

To make these delightful rolls, follow the detailed recipe provided above, ensuring you mix fresh apples with spices and apple butter for that authentic flavor.

Can I substitute the bread flour with all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour as a substitute; however, the texture may not be as fluffy as with bread flour. Adjust liquid ingredients slightly if needed.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter option or want to avoid heavy cream altogether, consider using coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream for the frosting.

How long do these rolls last once baked?

Once baked and stored properly, these rolls will last about 2 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freezing is recommended!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling! They’re not only a treat for your taste buds but also perfect for sharing warmth and love with family and friends. Enjoy every fluffy bite, and don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors! Happy baking!