Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls
Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls are a cozy twist on two classic favorites rolled into one delicious treat. Imagine soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls filled with tender apple pieces and warm spices,…
Tip: save now, cook later.Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls are a cozy twist on two classic favorites rolled into one delicious treat. Imagine soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls filled with tender apple pieces and warm spices, just like a slice of apple pie. The sweet and slightly tangy apple filling pairs perfectly with the gooey cinnamon sugar inside the dough, creating a burst of comforting flavors in every bite.
I love making these for a weekend breakfast or a special brunch because they fill the house with the wonderful smell of cinnamon and baked apples. What makes these rolls extra special to me is that you get the best of both worlds—like enjoying apple pie and cinnamon rolls all at once! Sometimes I like to sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar on top before baking for that perfect sweet crunch.
These rolls always bring smiles, whether they’re served warm with a drizzle of cream cheese glaze or eaten plain with a hot cup of coffee or tea. They’re great for sharing with family or taking to a friend’s house as a little gift. Whenever I make them, I remember cozy fall mornings and good times gathered around the table, making the kitchen feel even warmer and happier.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yeast: Active dry yeast is great for fluffy rolls. If you have instant yeast, you can use it the same way but skip blooming in milk.
Milk & Butter: Whole milk adds richness, but you can use 2% or plant-based milk for a lighter or dairy-free option. Butter adds flavor but swap for coconut oil if needed.
Apples: Granny Smith keeps a nice tartness and holds shape well. Honeycrisp or Fuji are sweeter alternatives. Fresh apples give the best texture; canned just won’t compare.
Brown Sugar & Spices: Brown sugar adds a molasses depth. If you don’t have brown sugar, mix white sugar with a bit of molasses or just use white sugar. Cinnamon and nutmeg create the classic apple pie warmth—don’t skip them!
Cream Cheese Glaze: This glaze is creamy and tangy, which balances sweetness. You can swap cream cheese with mascarpone or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
How Do I Get Soft, Fluffy Dough for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls?
Making soft dough is key! Here’s how to get it right:
- Warm the liquids: Milk should be warm (not hot) to activate yeast—about 110°F. Too hot can kill yeast, too cold won’t activate it.
- Knead well: Knead for 8-10 minutes to develop gluten. Use a lightly floured surface so dough stays slightly sticky but not wet.
- Let it rise: Cover and keep dough in a warm, draft-free spot. It should double in size. This can take 1-1.5 hours depending on room temp.
- Second rise after shaping: Letting shaped rolls rise again makes them light and puffy before baking.
Taking your time with these steps pays off with soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – roomy enough to mix and let your dough rise comfortably.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – perfect for stirring dough and filling without scratching your tools.
- Rolling pin – helps you roll out the dough evenly to get nice, uniform rolls.
- 9×9-inch baking dish – holds the rolls snugly so they bake evenly and rise well.
- Small skillet – ideal for cooking the apple filling to soften the apples before assembling.
- Whisk or hand mixer – great for making smooth, creamy cream cheese glaze without lumps.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap apples for pears if you want a slightly sweeter, softer filling with a different fruit twist.
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts inside the rolls for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
- Mix in a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom with the cinnamon for warm, spicy notes.
- Try a caramel glaze instead of cream cheese for a richer finish that complements the apple filling.
Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 3/4 cup warm whole milk (about 110°F/43°C)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 large egg
- 2 to 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
For the Apple Pie Filling:
- 2 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored and finely diced
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Sugar:
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
For the Glaze:
- 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2–3 tbsp milk or cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 2 to 2 1/2 hours total, including 15-20 minutes of active prep, about 1 to 1 1/2 hours for the dough to rise, 30-45 minutes for the second rise after assembling, plus 25-30 minutes baking time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
Sprinkle yeast onto warm milk in a small bowl and let it sit for 5 minutes until bubbly. In a large bowl, combine sugar, melted butter, salt, and egg. Add the yeast mixture and stir. Gradually add flour (start with 2 cups), then knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and slightly sticky. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (1 to 1.5 hours).
2. Prepare the Apple Pie Filling:
Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until apples are soft and the mixture is syrupy. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool.
3. Prepare Cinnamon Sugar:
Mix granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl and set aside.
4. Assemble the Rolls:
Punch down the dough, roll it out on a floured surface into a 16×12 inch rectangle. Spread cooled apple filling evenly over dough, then sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top. Roll dough tightly from the long side into a log. Cut into 9 equal rolls and place in a greased 9×9-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
5. Bake:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 25-30 minutes until golden and cooked through. Let cool for 10 minutes.
6. Make the Cream Cheese Glaze:
Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and 2 tbsp milk or cream. Add more milk as needed to reach desired consistency.
7. Glaze and Serve:
Drizzle cream cheese glaze over warm rolls. Serve immediately and enjoy the delicious blend of apple pie and cinnamon roll flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Apples for the Filling?
Yes, you can use frozen apples, but be sure to thaw and drain them well before cooking to avoid excess moisture, which can make the rolls soggy.
Can I Make the Dough in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough the night before, let it rise, then refrigerate it overnight. Take it out in the morning to come to room temperature before assembling.
How Should I Store Leftover Cinnamon Rolls?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving.
Can I Skip the Cream Cheese Glaze?
Yes, the glaze adds extra sweetness and creaminess, but the rolls are delicious on their own or with a simple powdered sugar drizzle if you prefer a lighter finish.