Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Introduction

Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate comfort treat—a warm, fluffy dough rolled with a spiced apple-cinnamon filling, baked until golden, and drizzled with a luscious glaze. They combine the soft, pillowy texture of classic cinnamon rolls with the sweet-tart flavors of baked apples, making each bite taste like autumn in pastry form.

I love this recipe because it feels like a hug in food form. The apples become tender and caramel-like, while the cinnamon sugar swirls throughout the soft dough. It’s not just a dessert—it can also be a breakfast indulgence or a cozy afternoon snack with tea or coffee.

This is a must-try dish because it transforms the classic cinnamon roll into something more seasonal, special, and decadent. The scent of apples, cinnamon, and freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen makes it worth every step. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser—perfect for family gatherings, brunches, or festive holidays.

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes (plus 1–1.5 hours rising time)
• Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: About 2–2.5 hours
• Servings: 12 rolls
• Calories (per roll): ~280–300 kcal (without glaze)

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: American, European-inspired
• Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Brunch, Snack

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg, room temperature

For the Apple-Cinnamon Filling:

• 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and diced small)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• ½ cup light brown sugar
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
• 1 tsp lemon juice

For the Glaze (optional):

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp milk or cream
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Make a soft yeast dough and let it rise.
2. Cook diced apples with butter, sugar, and spices for the filling.
3. Roll out the dough, spread filling, and roll into a log.
4. Slice into rolls, place in a baking dish, and let rise again.
5. Bake until golden brown.
6. Drizzle with glaze before serving.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add melted butter, egg, and salt. Mix well.
3. Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
4. Knead for 7–10 minutes on a floured surface (or 5 minutes in a stand mixer with a dough hook) until smooth and elastic.
5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Apple-Cinnamon Filling

1. In a pan, melt butter and add diced apples.
2. Stir in brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
3. Cook for 5–7 minutes until apples are softened but not mushy. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

1. Roll dough into a 12x18-inch rectangle.
2. Spread apple mixture evenly over the dough.
3. Roll tightly from the long edge into a log.
4. Slice into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss.

Step 4: Second Rise

1. Arrange rolls in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Cover and let rise again for 30–40 minutes, until puffy.

Step 5: Bake

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Cool slightly before glazing.

Step 6: Glaze (Optional)

1. Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
2. Drizzle over warm rolls before serving.

How to Serve

• Serve warm, drizzled with glaze.
• Pair with coffee, chai, or hot chocolate for a cozy treat.
• For brunch, serve with fresh fruit or scrambled eggs for balance.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best texture.
• Don’t overstuff with apples—too much moisture may make rolls soggy.
• For extra indulgence, add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling.

Variations

• Caramel Apple Rolls: Add caramel sauce instead of glaze.
• Apple-Cream Cheese Rolls: Spread cream cheese frosting on top instead of glaze.
• Vegan Version: Use almond milk, vegan butter, and skip the egg.
• Mini Rolls: Slice into smaller pieces for bite-sized treats.

Freezing & Storage

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Lasts 4–5 days. Reheat in microwave or oven.
• Freezing (Unbaked): Freeze sliced rolls before second rise. Thaw overnight in the fridge, let rise, then bake.
• Freezing (Baked): Freeze cooled rolls (without glaze) for up to 2 months. Warm before glazing.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl or stand mixer with dough hook
• Rolling pin
• 9x13-inch baking dish
• Sharp knife or dental floss (for slicing rolls)
• Small saucepan (for apple filling)

Conclusion

Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls are a heavenly blend of soft, fluffy bread, spiced apple filling, and sweet glaze. They’re cozy, aromatic, and versatile enough to enjoy for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or just to fill your home with the comforting smell of cinnamon and apples, this recipe is sure to win hearts.