Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Like apple pie and cinnamon rolls had the coziest baby ever. These Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling are a delightful treat for any occasion. Packed with tender apples, warm spices, and a touch of apple butter, they bring comfort and sweetness to your breakfast or brunch table. The fluffy homemade dough and creamy frosting elevate these rolls, making them perfect for family gatherings or cozy weekends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of apples and cinnamon in these rolls provides a comforting taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet dessert after dinner.
• Homemade Goodness: The use of fresh ingredients ensures a satisfying experience that’s better than store-bought options.
• Fun to Make: Baking these rolls is an enjoyable activity that can involve the whole family.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve these rolls warm with cream cheese frosting for a show-stopping dish.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes it easy to create these delicious rolls. Below are essential tools you’ll need to prepare Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowls
• Baking pan
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing the dough, ensuring it’s well combined without much manual work.
• Rolling pin: Helps to roll out the dough evenly, which is crucial for achieving the perfect thickness.
• Baking pan: Provides the right environment for the rolls to rise and bake evenly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate measurements of ingredients for consistent results.

Ingredients

Like apple pie and cinnamon rolls had the coziest baby ever. These rolls are loaded with tender apples, warm spices, and a boost of apple butter for extra flavor, all wrapped in fluffy homemade dough and slathered with cream cheese frosting.

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

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 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

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

Start by combining diced apples, apple butter, granulated sugar, water, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and fine sea salt in a medium bowl. Mix until well blended.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a small bowl, dissolve cornstarch in 2 teaspoons of water. In another bowl, combine 3/4 cup water with bread flour. Next, mix together 3 2/3 cups bread flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, fine sea salt, whole milk, heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract. Add your Tangzhong mixture. Slowly add in your cornstarch mixture until fully incorporated. Knead until smooth.

Step 3: Let It Rise

Place your dough in a greased bowl; cover it with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 60-90 minutes).

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Once risen, punch down the dough on a floured surface. Roll it out into a large rectangle about ¼ inch thick.

Step 5: Fill & Roll Up

Spread softened unsalted butter over the rolled-out dough. Combine brown sugar and ground cinnamon; sprinkle this mixture over the buttered surface along with your prepared apple filling. Roll up tightly from one end to form a log.

Step 6: Cut & Place in Pan

Slice your log into equal pieces (about 12). Place them in a greased baking pan close together but not touching.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover your pan with plastic wrap or a towel again and allow them to rise until puffy (about 30-45 minutes).

Step 8: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 30 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Step 9: Prepare Frosting

While baking, mix softened unsalted butter and cream cheese together in a bowl until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing until smooth. Stir in heavy cream and apple butter.

Step 10: Frost & Serve

Once baked and slightly cooled, generously spread frosting over each roll while they are still warm. Serve immediately or enjoy later!

Enjoy making these Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling, perfect for any gathering or simply indulging yourself!

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Apple cinnamon rolls with apple pie filling are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Their warm, comforting flavors make them versatile for various serving ideas that can enhance your experience.

For Breakfast

• Serve warm rolls alongside fresh fruit for a balanced meal.
• Pair with yogurt or cottage cheese for a protein boost.

As a Snack

• Enjoy a roll with a cup of tea or coffee in the afternoon.
• Add a drizzle of caramel sauce on top for extra sweetness.

For Dessert

• Top the rolls with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
• Dust with powdered sugar before serving to elevate their presentation.

At a Brunch Gathering

• Arrange on a decorative platter with colorful fruit garnishes.
• Offer different toppings like nuts or additional apple butter on the side.

How to Perfect Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Perfecting your apple cinnamon rolls involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Use fresh apples: Fresh, crisp apples enhance flavor and texture in your rolls.
• Knead properly: Ensure you knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic for fluffy rolls.
• Don’t rush the rise: Allow the dough ample time to rise; this creates airy, light rolls.
• Check oven temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated accurately; inconsistent heat can affect baking.
• Frost after cooling: Wait until the rolls cool slightly before adding frosting to prevent it from melting away.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Pairing side dishes with your apple cinnamon rolls can create a more complete meal. Here are some great options that complement their sweet flavors.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for added texture and nutrition.
3. Scrambled Eggs: Soft scrambled eggs provide protein and balance the sweetness of the rolls.
4. Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy dish offers healthy fats and fiber, making it a nutritious option.
5. Maple Bacon Turkey Strips: These crispy strips add savory flavors that contrast perfectly with sweet rolls.
6. Smoothie Bowl: Blend your favorite fruits into a smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds for extra crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling can be delightful, but a few common mistakes might hinder your success. Here are some tips to ensure your rolls come out perfectly.

• Boldly skip the dough resting: Failing to let the dough rest can lead to dense rolls. Always allow it to rise until doubled in size for a lighter texture.
• Boldly ignore ingredient temperatures: Using cold ingredients can affect yeast activation. Ensure your milk, cream, and egg are at room temperature for best results.
• Boldly underestimate apple prep: Not properly preparing the apples can result in uneven filling. Dice them uniformly and cook briefly with sugar and spices for better flavor distribution.
• Boldly rush the baking time: Opening the oven door too early can cause rolls to collapse. Bake until golden brown and cooked through for optimal results.
• Boldly overlook frosting consistency: A too-thick or too-thin frosting can ruin the experience. Adjust powdered sugar and cream carefully until you achieve a spreadable consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving.

Freezing Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 20-30 seconds per roll, checking often to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling that might help you in your baking journey.

Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?

Yes! You can use any variety of apple you prefer, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, but Gala apples provide great sweetness and texture.

How do I achieve a fluffy texture in my rolls?

Ensure your dough has sufficient rising time and knead it well. The Tangzhong method also helps retain moisture and creates fluffier rolls.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them up to the second rise, refrigerate overnight, then bake them fresh in the morning for breakfast.

What is Tangzhong, and why is it used?

Tangzhong is a water roux made from flour and water that enhances moisture retention in bread recipes. It contributes to softer rolls.

How do I customize my Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling?

Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even dried cranberries to the filling for additional flavor and texture variations!

Final Thoughts

These Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling combine comforting flavors that remind you of home-baked treats. Their versatility allows you to personalize them with various fillings or toppings. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast delight or a sweet snack, these rolls are sure to impress family and friends alike. Try making them today!