Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Name: Apple Cinnamon Rolls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 12 rolls
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 packet active dry yeast; 1 cup milk; 1/3 cup butter; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 2 cups peeled and finely chopped apples; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup butter, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience the warm, comforting blend of sweet apples and aromatic cinnamon in these delightful Apple Cinnamon Rolls. Perfectly fluffy and gooey, these rolls are a festive addition to your Thanksgiving dessert table, impressing family and friends alike. Topped with a creamy glaze, they make for an irresistible treat to celebrate the season.

Created by

Sam Johnson

Last updated on 2025-11-05T14:28:24.214Z

The journey of creating the perfect cinnamon roll culminates in these luscious Apple Cinnamon Rolls. Bursting with flavor and comfort, they are a testament to the joy of baking.

        Why You'll Love These Rolls
        Soft and fluffy texture
Pleasant apple and cinnamon aroma
Easy to prepare
Perfect for festive occasions

      

The Perfect Holiday Treat

Apple Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful way to bring the flavors of fall to your festive table. Imagine the cozy aroma of baked cinnamon wafting through your home, filling the air with warmth and cheer. These rolls are not just any dessert; they are an experience. Each fluffy bite melts in your mouth, revealing tender apples intertwined with rich cinnamon. Their inviting scent and appealing appearance make them an ideal centerpiece for your Thanksgiving or holiday breakfast gatherings, ensuring that guests will remember your festivities long after the last roll is gone.

The combination of soft, sweet dough and the spiced filling creates a balance that is simply irresistible. No matter the occasion, these Apple Cinnamon Rolls will have your family and friends coming back for seconds. Plus, they're easy to make, allowing you to spend more time enjoying time with loved ones rather than spending hours in the kitchen.

A Versatile Recipe

One of the best aspects of these Apple Cinnamon Rolls is their versatility. While they're perfect for Thanksgiving, they can also serve as a delightful dessert for Christmas gatherings, weekend brunches, or even a substitute for the classic cinnamon roll on any given morning. Feel free to experiment with different types of apples to find your perfect flavor profile; tart apples like Granny Smith add a nice contrast to the sweetness of the brown sugar filling.

Additionally, you can customize the filling by adding nuts, dried cranberries, or even a drizzle of caramel for extra indulgence. The glaze can also be modified with spices such as nutmeg or allspice to elevate the flavor even further. This flexibility makes these rolls not only enjoyable but also a canvas for your creativity in the kitchen.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Apple Cinnamon Rolls turn out perfectly every time, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, make sure your milk is warmed to the right temperature when preparing the dough; it should feel warm to the touch but not hot. This will activate the yeast properly, helping the dough rise beautifully. It’s also important to knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic, which will create the fluffy texture everyone loves.

When rolling out the dough, take care not to roll it too thin, as this could make it difficult to roll up without the filling spilling out. Instead, aim for about a quarter-inch thickness. Lastly, don’t rush the rising process; allowing the dough to rise fully will result in light and airy rolls that your guests will rave about. Patience pays off when it comes to baking, and these rolls are certainly worth the wait.

Ingredients

For the Dough

4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1 packet active dry yeast
1 cup milk
1/3 cup butter
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs

For the Filling

2 cups peeled and finely chopped apples
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 cup butter, softened

For the Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, sugar, and active dry yeast. In a saucepan, heat milk and butter until warm (not hot) and then mix into the dry ingredients along with salt and eggs. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic.

Let the Dough Rise

Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and place it in a warm area to rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix chopped apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Set aside.

Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to a rectangle. Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the apple mixture evenly on top.

Shape the Rolls

Starting from one long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.

Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

Make the Glaze

While the rolls are baking, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth.

Glaze and Serve

Once rolls are done, drizzle the glaze over warm rolls and serve.

Enjoy these delicious treats warm or at room temperature!

Storage and Freezing

If you find yourself with leftover Apple Cinnamon Rolls, storing them is easy. Simply place the cooled rolls in an airtight container at room temperature where they can stay fresh for up to two days. If you're looking to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap the rolls in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months, making them a great make-ahead option for those busy holiday seasons.

To reheat, simply take out the number of rolls you want and microwave them for about 15-20 seconds, or place them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Drizzle with glaze afterwards for that freshly-baked taste and enjoy your delightful dessert once again.

Pairing Suggestions

Apple Cinnamon Rolls can be enjoyed on their own, but they also make an excellent match with various beverages. For a warm complement, consider serving them with a cup of spiced apple cider or a rich coffee blend. The warm spices in these drinks harmonize beautifully with the cinnamon in the rolls, enhancing the overall flavor experience.

Alternatively, for a light and refreshing contrast, you might pair the rolls with a glass of cold milk or a creamy chai tea. These combinations will elevate your tasting experience, making each bite and sip a joyous occasion. No matter how you choose to serve them, these rolls will surely be the star of your gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rolls and refrigerate them before baking. Just let them come to room temperature before baking.

→ What type of apples are best for baking?

Varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best due to their firmness and flavor.