Best Apple Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Introduction
Is there anything more comforting than the smell of warm apples and cinnamon wafting through your kitchen on a crisp morning? This magical aroma promises a cozy, homemade treat that feels like a hug in food form. Today, I am so excited to share my ultimate recipe for the most incredible Apple Cinnamon Rolls. They are soft, gooey, and packed with sweet, spiced apple filling, making them the perfect centerpiece for a weekend brunch or a special holiday breakfast.
Apple Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon bun. This recipe elevates the traditional favorite because it incorporates a generous amount of tender, spiced apples directly into the swirl. The result is an exceptionally moist and flavorful pastry that balances the warmth of cinnamon with the sweet, tangy notes of fresh fruit. What makes these rolls truly special is their homemade feel. They are a from-scratch labor of love that delivers far more satisfaction than anything from a tube or a bakery box. This recipe aligns perfectly with our blog’s mission to create approachable yet impressive baked goods that bring people together. If you are new to yeast doughs, do not worry, because our guide on working with yeast dough breaks it down into simple, foolproof steps. The filling comes together quickly with a technique similar to making a simple apple pie filling, so every bite bursts with flavor. Ultimately, these rolls are more than just a recipe. They are an experience that fills your home with an irresistible scent and creates lasting memories around the table.
Why I Love This Recipe
I absolutely adore this recipe because it reminds me of autumn mornings at my grandma’s house. She always believed that the best conversations happened over something warm from the oven. I love how the process of making the dough is therapeutic, and the moment you pull these gorgeous, golden Apple Cinnamon Rolls out of the oven is pure magic. Sharing this recipe feels like sharing a piece of that family tradition, and I love seeing them become a part of your own family’s story too.
Health and Nutrition
Why it’s good for your body
These Apple Cinnamon Rolls offer a surprisingly wholesome twist on a classic treat because they provide a good source of dietary fiber, especially when you use whole wheat flour. This fiber helps you feel full and satisfied, so you can enjoy your dessert without overindulging. Furthermore, the apples themselves are packed with essential nutrients and antioxidants. These compounds support your body’s natural defenses, although you are eating a sweet pastry.
Real apple filling also delivers a natural sweetness while allowing you to use less refined sugar in the recipe. Cinnamon, the other star ingredient, is renowned for its potential to help regulate blood sugar levels. Consequently, enjoying an Apple Cinnamon Roll can be a more balanced choice than other pastries. You get a delicious flavor while also giving your body beneficial compounds. Each bite is a comforting experience because it combines warmth and nutrition so perfectly.
How it fits in a healthy lifestyle
Apple Cinnamon Rolls can absolutely have a place in a balanced diet. The key is mindful enjoyment and smart modifications. Consider them an occasional treat within your overall eating pattern, not an everyday staple. You can easily adapt the recipe to meet specific dietary goals without sacrificing flavor.
For a gluten-free version, simply substitute your favorite 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. If you are focusing on protein intake, adding a scoop of collagen peptides or vanilla protein powder to the dough is a fantastic option. Pairing a roll with a source of protein, like a glass of milk or a handful of nuts, also helps create a more complete snack. For more ideas on balancing your meals, explore our guide to creating a balanced plate. Remember, healthy eating is about consistency and enjoyment. Finding ways to include beloved foods like these rolls is part of a sustainable approach. Discover more tips for everyday wellness in our post on building healthy eating habits.
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Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls
These Apple Pecan Cinnamon Rolls are super gooey and delicious. They are filled with a cinnamon brown sugar filling, a cooked apple pie filling, and toasted pecans. They are then finished off with a smooth cream cheese frosting. The components for these Cinnamon Rolls can be made ahead of time, meaning the rolls just need to be assembled in the morning for the perfect Thanksgiving breakfast!
- Total Time: 29 minute
- Yield: 12 cinnamon buns 1x
Ingredients
- 250g whole milk, lukewarm
- 50g Granulated Sugar
- 2 1/4 tsp active dried yeast
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 565g All-Purpose Flour
- 100g Unsalted Butter, at room temperature
- 850g – about four medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced small
- 30g Unsalted Butter
- 80g Granulated Sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp Kosher salt
- 1 Tbsp Corn starch
- 125g Pecan Halves
- 190g Unsalted Butter, at room temperature
- 280g Brown Sugar
- 2 Tbsp plus 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp Kosher salt
- 115g Unsalted Butter, at room temperature
- 225g Cream Cheese, at room temperature
- 250g Powdered Sugar, sifted
- 1–2 Tbsp Heavy Whipping Cream
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
Instructions
- Place the lukewarm milk, 25g of the sugar, and the yeast in a medium sized bowl, and stir to combine. Leave for 10-15 minutes, or until foamy.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment, place the flour, salt, and remaining sugar, and mix briefly to combine.
- Add the milk mixture and egg to the dry ingredients, and mix on low for 2-3 minutes. Increase the speed of the mixer to medium, and mix for a further 5 minutes. Add the butter a little at a time, waiting until it is incorporated until adding the next piece. Mix for a further 7-10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and soft.
- Shape the dough into a ball and place into a bowl. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place in the fridge for at least 2 hours and up to overnight, until doubled in size. Alternatively you can place it in a warm spot until doubled in size, 45 minutes to an hour.
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the apples, sugar, cinnamon, and salt, and cook, stirring often, until the apples are tender, 3-5 minutes.
- Add the corn starch and mix well to incorporate, then continue to cook until the mixture has thickened and the apples are coated.
- Transfer to an airtight container and chill until ready to use.
- Preheat the oven to 350°f / 180°c. Line a small sheet pan with parchment paper and place the pecans on it.
- Toast the pecans for about 10 minutes, shaking occasionally, until lightly browned and toasted throughout (snap one open to check).
- Transfer to an airtight container until ready to use and store at room temperature.
- Place the butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a small bowl. Mix well to combine.
- Grease a baking dish (9”x13” or 23cm x 33cm) or line with parchment paper.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, and roll into a rectangle that is 24” x 16” (60cm x 40cm), squaring off the edges often as you roll. Spread with the brown sugar cinnamon mixture, ensuring the filling is spread evenly over the surface.
- Spread the apple pie filling out evenly. Roughly chop the toasted pecans, and spread over the apple filling.
- Starting with a long side, roll up into a tight spiral. Cut the log into two pieces and place them side by side on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper and lightly sprayed with cooking spray. Lightly cover the dough logs with plastic wrap, and transfer to the freezer for 20 minutes in order to firm up slightly (this step is optional but helps give a neater cut).
- Once the dough logs have chilled, remove from the fridge. Using a sharp knife, slice each log into 6 equal pieces (I like to use a ruler), and arrange on the prepared baking sheet or baking dish, evenly spacing between.
- Lightly cover the pan with plastic wrap, and leave to rise for 45 minutes to an hour, or until puffy, and a small indentation is left when poked gently with your finger.
- While the rolls are rising, preheat the oven to 350°f / 180°c.
- Bake the rolls for 35 to 40 minutes, or until deeply golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow to stand for 15 minutes or so before icing with the Cream Cheese Frosting.
- Place the butter and cream cheese in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix on medium speed until well combined. Add in the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and salt, and whip until light and fluffy.
- Spread onto the cinnamon rolls while they are still slightly warm.
- Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature. Rewarm in the microwave before serving.
Notes
For best results, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting. The dough can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight. The apple filling and toasted pecans can also be prepared in advance. If the rolls brown too quickly in the oven, reduce temperature to 160°C fan forced. Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat before serving.
- Prep Time: 1 hr
- Cook Time: 45 mins
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 485
- Sugar: 38
- Sodium: 220
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 11
- Unsaturated Fat: 9
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 68
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 7
- Cholesterol: 65
How to Prepare This Dish
Steps and time-saving tips
First, whisk together your warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. Let this mixture sit for about five to seven minutes until it becomes frothy. Meanwhile, combine your flour and salt in a separate bowl. Next, pour the yeast mixture into the flour bowl, add the egg and softened butter, and then mix everything with a sturdy spoon until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for approximately eight minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. For a fantastic time-saving tip, however, use a stand mixer with a dough hook to do all the kneading for you. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, which usually takes about an hour. While the dough rises, prepare your apple cinnamon filling by cooking diced apples with butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until they soften slightly. Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread the apple mixture evenly, and then tightly roll it into a log. Slice the log into even rolls, place them in your baking dish, and let them rise again briefly before baking. Finally, bake your Apple Cinnamon Rolls until they turn golden brown and then drizzle your favorite glaze over the top while they are still warm.
Mistakes I’ve made and learned from
I have absolutely made my share of mistakes with these Apple Cinnamon Rolls. Initially, I would rush the first rise, resulting in dense and sad rolls that barely doubled in size. I learned that patience is the real secret ingredient here; always let the dough rise in a truly warm, draft-free spot. Another common error was slicing the log with a dull knife, which squished the beautiful swirls instead of creating clean cuts. Now, I use unflavored dental floss to slice them perfectly every time. Also, I used to overbake them, drying out the soft interior. I now set a timer for the minimum recommended time and start checking for doneness then. For more on getting the perfect rise, check out my guide on working with yeast. And if your glaze ever turns out too thin or too thick, my tips for perfect glaze consistency will save the day.
Cultural Connection and Variations
Where this recipe comes from
While the classic cinnamon roll has deep roots in Scandinavian and Northern European baking traditions, the addition of apples is a distinctly North American twist. This innovation likely emerged from a beautiful collision of Old World recipes and New World abundance, especially during the crisp autumn months when apple orchards are overflowing. The dish feels inherently cozy and communal, often passed down through families as a cherished weekend or holiday morning ritual. Many of us have a core memory of waking up to the scent of warm apples and cinnamon wafting from the kitchen, a signal that something special was baking. Although methods vary, the heart of any great Apple Cinnamon Rolls recipe lies in that perfect, spiced-sweet apple filling nestled within a soft, yeasted dough. This treat beautifully bridges the gap between a breakfast pastry and a dessert, making it a versatile star at any gathering.
How it fits in today’s cooking
Apple Cinnamon Rolls remain a beloved staple in modern cooking because they perfectly capture the essence of comfort and seasonality. They are a quintessential feature of fall and winter holiday breakfasts, although their appeal is truly year-round. Today’s home cooks are brilliantly reimagining this classic, often by incorporating whole wheat flour or plant-based ingredients for a healthier twist. Some bakers even prepare them as an overnight recipe, so the hard work is done ahead of time for a stress-free morning bake. This make-ahead strategy is perfect for busy families who still want to enjoy a homemade breakfast. For those looking to expand their baking repertoire with other seasonal fruit desserts, our site offers fantastic inspiration, like this guide to creating the perfect Classic Apple Pie. The beauty of these rolls is their adaptability; you can even use the same spiced apple filling from our popular Easy Apple Crisp to create a delicious cross between two iconic desserts. Ultimately, this timeless recipe continues to evolve while still delivering that warm, familiar joy we all crave.
Taste and Texture
What makes it delicious
These Apple Cinnamon Rolls deliver a truly decadent sensory experience. You first notice the warm, fragrant aroma of baking cinnamon and sweet, tender apples because it promises pure comfort. When you break one open, the interior reveals an incredibly soft and airy crumb that also feels wonderfully chewy. Each bite creates a perfect harmony of flavors, featuring a rich, creamy swirl of cinnamon-spiced apples nestled within the tender dough. The apples soften into a jammy, melt-in-your-mouth texture during baking, while the cinnamon provides a warm and cozy depth. The classic cream cheese glaze on top adds a sweet and tangy creaminess that beautifully cuts through the richness. These homemade Apple Cinnamon Rolls offer a masterclass in texture and taste with a gooey center and a slightly crisp edge for a truly satisfying contrast.
Boosting the flavor
You can easily elevate your Apple Cinnamon Rolls with a few simple tweaks. For a deeper, more caramelized apple flavor, try sautéing your diced apples in a little butter and brown sugar before rolling them into the dough. Although a classic cream cheese frosting is perfect, a drizzle of our salted caramel sauce introduces a wonderful salty-sweet complexity that complements the apples. Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to your cinnamon sugar filling for an extra layer of warm spice. If you want to add a delightful crunch, sprinkle a mixture of chopped pecans and oats inside the rolls before baking. Serve them warm for the ultimate experience, so reheat them gently and pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For another fantastic way to use seasonal fruit, our easy apple crisp is a must-try dessert that shares the same cozy vibes.
Tips for Success
Best practices for results
Always use fresh, active yeast for the best rise in your Apple Cinnamon Rolls, because proofing it in warm milk first ensures it’s working properly. Use room temperature ingredients, especially the butter and eggs, so they incorporate more smoothly into the dough without overworking it. Roll the dough out evenly to a consistent thickness for uniform spirals and perfectly baked rolls, although you should chill the dough for at least 30 minutes beforehand if it becomes too soft to handle. Finally, generously butter your baking dish to guarantee those iconic golden, caramelized edges on every single Apple Cinnamon Roll.
Mistakes to avoid
A common error is adding the apple filling while it is still warm, which can melt the butter and make the dough soggy and difficult to roll; therefore, always allow the cooked apple mixture to cool completely first. Another frequent mistake is overbaking the rolls, even though they might look done on the outside, as this results in a dry texture instead of a soft, pillowy interior. To prevent this, rely on an instant-read thermometer to check for an internal temperature of around 190°F, a technique we also recommend for our Perfect Banana Bread. Furthermore, do not skip the step of covering the pan with foil during the first part of baking, because this simple action protects the tops from burning before the centers are fully cooked, a principle that applies to many baked goods like our Classic Coffee Cake.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
How to serve this dish
For a truly show-stopping presentation, serve these warm Apple Cinnamon Rolls on a beautiful rustic platter. Furthermore, drizzle that irresistible icing over the top just before your guests arrive for a gorgeous, glistening effect. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of chopped pecans adds wonderful texture and visual appeal. These rolls are perfect for a cozy weekend brunch, and they also make any holiday morning feel extra special. Ultimately, a pan of freshly baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls turns a casual coffee catch-up into a memorable celebration.
What goes well with it
A hot mug of coffee is the classic partner, as its robust bitterness provides a perfect contrast to the sweet, spiced filling of your Apple Cinnamon Rolls. Alternatively, a cold glass of milk is another fantastic choice for both kids and adults. For a savory side that balances the meal, consider serving these sweet rolls with our hearty Breakfast Skillet. Moreover, if you want to double down on the cozy autumn flavors, a scoop of our simple Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream melting over a warm roll is an absolutely divine experience.
Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are best for baking. They hold their shape well and provide a nice contrast to the sweet filling in your Apple Cinnamon Rolls, preventing them from becoming mushy.
Ensure you don’t overbake them and let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring. Covering the warm Apple Cinnamon Rolls with a clean kitchen towel also helps trap steam and keeps them incredibly moist.
Yes, but it’s best to freeze them unfrosted. Wrap the baked and cooled rolls tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight and frost with fresh cream cheese icing before serving for the best texture.
A doughy center is usually caused by underbaking or rolling the dough too thick. Use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature of your rolls reaches 190°F (88°C) for a perfectly baked result.
