Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

If you’re looking for the perfect comfort food that combines the best of both worlds, then these Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling are just what you need! Imagine biting into a warm, fluffy roll filled with sweet, spiced apples and topped with creamy frosting. It’s like enjoying a cozy slice of apple pie wrapped up in a cinnamon roll! This recipe is one of my family favorites, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. They fill the kitchen with a delightful aroma that invites everyone to the table.

These rolls not only taste amazing but also bring everyone together. Whether it’s a Sunday brunch or a holiday breakfast, these Apple Cinnamon Rolls will be the star of the show. Plus, they can be made ahead of time—what’s not to love?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously comforting: Each bite is packed with tender apples and warm spices that evoke feelings of home.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike adore these sweet rolls; they’re sure to be a hit!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare them in advance and just bake when you’re ready to enjoy.
• Customizable flavors: Feel free to tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls fit right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When making these delightful Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling, you’ll find that the ingredients are simple and wholesome. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 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 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! You can easily modify it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling for an extra crunch.
• Use different fruits: Try mixing in pears or berries along with the apples for a fruity twist.
• Change up the frosting: Swap out cream cheese frosting for a simple vanilla glaze if you prefer something lighter.
• Make it caramel: Drizzle some caramel sauce over the top before serving for an indulgent treat!

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by prepping your filling. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the diced apples, apple butter, granulated sugar, water, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt. Cook until the apples are tender but still hold their shape. This step helps enhance their flavor and creates that lovely filling texture we all adore!

Step 2: Make Tangzhong

In another small saucepan, whisk together water and bread flour over low heat until thickened. This tangzhong method will give your rolls that soft texture we crave. It may seem like an extra step but trust me—it’s worth it!

Step 3: Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine bread flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Add warm milk, heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract along with your prepared tangzhong mixture. Knead until smooth and elastic. Allowing this dough to rise will create those fluffy rolls we love.

Step 4: Roll Out and Fill

Once your dough has risen beautifully, roll it out into a rectangle on a floured surface. Spread softened butter over it and sprinkle brown sugar mixed with cinnamon evenly across. Spoon your delicious apple filling onto this layer and carefully roll it up!

Step 5: Slice and Rise Again

Slice your rolled dough into equal pieces—about 12 should do nicely! Place them into a greased baking dish and let them rise again until puffy. This second rise is crucial for achieving those light and airy rolls.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Preheat your oven and bake those beauties until golden brown on top—the smell will be incredible! Baking time usually ranges around 30 minutes.

Step 7: Frost While Warm

After pulling them from the oven, let them cool slightly before slathering them with cream cheese frosting made from whipped butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and apple butter. The warmth of the rolls helps melt in that frosting beautifully!

Enjoy every delicious bite of these homemade Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling! They’re bound to become a cherished favorite in no time!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Making these rolls can be a delightful experience! Here are some pro tips to ensure your Apple Cinnamon Rolls turn out perfectly every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter, milk, and egg to room temperature helps create a smooth dough that rises beautifully. Cold ingredients can slow down the yeast activity, resulting in denser rolls.

• Knead the dough well: Kneading develops gluten, which gives the rolls their fluffy texture. Aim for about 10 minutes of kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic.

• Don’t rush the rising time: Allowing the dough to rise properly is crucial. A warm environment will help it double in size, leading to light and airy rolls. If your kitchen is cool, try placing the dough in an oven (turned off) with just the oven light on.

• Use fresh spices and ingredients: Fresh ground cinnamon and quality apple butter will enhance the flavor of your rolls significantly. When using spices, freshness can make a world of difference!

• Experiment with fillings: While apple pie filling is fantastic, feel free to mix in other fruits or nuts for added texture and taste. Chopped pecans or walnuts could add a delightful crunch!

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

These Apple Cinnamon Rolls are not just delicious; they also make for a beautiful presentation! Here are some ideas on how to serve them up.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts on top for extra crunch and flavor.
• Cinnamon sugar dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar adds a sweet finishing touch that complements the flavors perfectly.
• Drizzle of caramel sauce: A drizzle of caramel sauce over the cream cheese frosting takes these rolls over the top!

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the rolls.
• Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy contrast that pairs wonderfully with cinnamon rolls.
• Herbal Tea: A calming herbal tea like chamomile or peppermint complements the warm spices without overpowering them.
• Coffee or Latte: The rich flavors in coffee enhance the sweetness of the rolls, making it a perfect pairing for breakfast or brunch.

Enjoy these comforting Apple Cinnamon Rolls with delightful accompaniments, creating a warm atmosphere perfect for sharing with family and friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, store them properly, and enjoy them fresh whenever you like.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Once cooled, freeze the rolls individually by wrapping each one 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 the bag with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, allow frozen rolls to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the rolls on a baking sheet and cover loosely with aluminum foil.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual rolls for about 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might pop into your mind while making these delightful rolls!

Can I use other types of apples for these Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling?

Absolutely! While Gala apples work wonderfully, you can use any firm variety such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. Each will bring its unique flavor and texture!

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

To achieve that fluffy texture, ensure your dough has enough time to rise. Also, be sure not to over-knead the dough; it should be soft and slightly tacky but not sticky.

Can I substitute almond milk for whole milk in this recipe?

Yes! Almond milk is a great dairy-free alternative. Just make sure it’s unsweetened and at room temperature for the best results.

What if I don’t have apple butter?

You can replace apple butter with extra applesauce or even homemade purée made from cooked apples blended until smooth. It will still give a lovely apple flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling! They truly combine the warmth of freshly baked cinnamon rolls with that comforting taste of apple pie. Whether you’re enjoying them on a cozy morning or sharing them with loved ones at brunch, these rolls are sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!