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 perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful dessert. They feature tender apples wrapped in fluffy dough, infused with warm spices and a hint of apple butter for extra flavor. Topped with rich cream cheese frosting, these rolls are sure to impress at any gathering or cozy morning at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor – The combination of apples, cinnamon, and apple butter creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a holiday brunch or a simple family breakfast, these rolls fit right in.
• Homemade Goodness – Made from scratch, these rolls offer a warm and comforting experience that store-bought can’t match.
• Customizable Filling – Feel free to adjust the filling ingredients based on your preferences; add nuts or dried fruit for an extra twist.
• Impressive Presentation – With their beautiful swirl design and luscious frosting, they’re visually stunning and will wow your guests.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having the right equipment will streamline the process and ensure delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Whisk
• Stand mixer (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls – Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Rolling pin – Helps you roll out the dough evenly for perfect-sized rolls.
• Baking sheet – Provides a sturdy surface to bake your cinnamon rolls evenly.
• Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Ingredients

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
• 2 teaspoons water
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch

For the Dough

• 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)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)

For the Topping

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 2/3 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 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 Filling

Begin by mixing the filling ingredients:
1. In a bowl, combine diced apples, apple butter, granulated sugar, water, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, fine sea salt, cornstarch, and additional water.
2. Stir until well combined and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Dough

Next, prepare your dough:
1. In a bowl or stand mixer, combine warm water with bread flour. Mix until smooth.
2. Add remaining flour, sugar, yeast, salt, milk, cream, egg, vanilla extract, Tangzhong, and softened butter.
3. Knead until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

Allow your dough to rise:
1. Place it in a greased bowl; cover it with plastic wrap or a damp cloth.
2. Let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 90 minutes).

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Once risen:
1. Punch down the dough gently to remove air bubbles.
2. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about ½ inch thick.

Step 5: Fill & Roll

Spread the filling:
1. Evenly distribute filling over rolled-out dough.
2. Starting from one long side, roll up tightly into a log shape.

Step 6: Cut & Second Rise

Cut into rolls:
1. Slice the log into equal pieces about 1 inch thick.
2. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet; cover again and let rise until puffy (about 30 minutes).

Step 7: Bake

Bake your rolls:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 8: Frosting & Serve

Prepare frosting:
1. Beat together softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and heavy cream until smooth.
2. Drizzle over warm rolls before serving.

Enjoy these delightful Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling fresh out of the oven!

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Serving apple cinnamon rolls with apple pie filling can elevate any breakfast or brunch. These delightful rolls are perfect for sharing and can be enjoyed in various ways.

Pair with Coffee

• A warm cup of coffee complements the sweetness of the rolls perfectly, enhancing their flavor.

Top with Ice Cream

• Drizzle vanilla ice cream over a warm roll for a delicious dessert experience that combines hot and cold sensations.

Add Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside slices of fresh fruit, such as pears or berries, to add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

Enjoy with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream on top transforms your apple cinnamon rolls into a decadent treat for special occasions.

Serve with Maple Syrup

• Pouring a little maple syrup over your rolls adds an extra layer of sweetness and pairs beautifully with cinnamon.

How to Perfect Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Perfecting apple cinnamon rolls takes a few key steps. Follow these tips to ensure your rolls turn out fluffy and flavorful every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your egg, milk, and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and rising.

• Knead Properly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This helps create the perfect texture for your rolls.

• Let Dough Rise: Allow the dough to rise fully in a warm place. A good rise will give you fluffy, airy rolls.

• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time to prevent dryness. The rolls should be golden brown when done.

• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to add nuts or other spices to your filling for extra flavor or texture variations.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Apple cinnamon rolls are delightful alone but can be even better with some complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Bacon
   Crispy bacon adds a savory contrast that balances the sweetness of the rolls nicely.

2. Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad brings freshness and brightness, making it an excellent side dish for brunch.

3. Yogurt Parfait
   Layered yogurt with granola and fruit provides a creamy, crunchy element alongside your sweet rolls.

4. Sausage Links
   Juicy sausage links pair well with cinnamon flavors, adding protein and heartiness to your meal.

5. Scrambled Eggs
   Fluffy scrambled eggs enhance breakfast’s savory side while complementing the sweet rolls perfectly.

6. Hash Browns
   Crispy hash browns offer texture and flavor diversity that makes any meal more satisfying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using cold ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature. Cold eggs or milk can hinder dough rising properly.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough rolls. Mix until just combined for a softer texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid adding too much flour, which can make your rolls dense.
• Skipping the resting time: Allowing the dough to rest is crucial for developing flavor and achieving a soft texture. Don’t rush this step!
• Ignoring the filling: Make sure your apple pie filling isn’t too watery. Drain excess liquid to prevent soggy rolls.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Best enjoyed within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing.
• They can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual rolls on high for about 20-30 seconds. Adjust time as needed based on your microwave’s power.
• Stovetop: Place rolls in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling.

Can I use store-bought apple pie filling?

Yes! Store-bought apple pie filling saves time and still tastes delicious in these rolls.

How do I make the dough rise faster?

A warm, draft-free environment helps dough rise quicker. You can place it in a turned-off oven with a bowl of hot water.

Can I add nuts or raisins to my rolls?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts or raisins can add extra texture and flavor to your apple cinnamon rolls.

What should I do if my rolls don’t rise?

Check that your yeast is fresh and active. If not, you might need to start over with new yeast.

Final Thoughts

These Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling are an irresistible treat that combines cozy flavors into one delightful dish. They are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet dessert. Feel free to customize them by adding nuts, using different apples, or adjusting spices according to your taste!