Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the best of both worlds, these Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling are just what you need! Imagine fluffy rolls filled with tender apples and warm spices, all topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. This recipe is perfect for cozy weekends, family gatherings, or even a sweet surprise for a busy weeknight. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone rushing to the table!

What makes these rolls extra special is the use of apple butter and fresh apples, giving them that homemade pie flavor without all the fuss. They’re not just delicious; they also bring a bit of warmth and love to any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have these rolls in the oven in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves cinnamon rolls, and the addition of apple makes them even more irresistible!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance, leaving you more time to enjoy your family or friends.
• Deliciously comforting: The combination of warm spices and sweet apples creates a cozy vibe that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling use simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delicious treat!

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or dietary needs.

• Add nuts: Throw in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
• Mix up the spices: Try adding nutmeg or ginger for a different spice profile.
• Change the fruit: Substitute with pears or berries if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of bread flour for a gluten-free version.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by combining your diced apples, apple butter, granulated sugar, water, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, fine sea salt, and cornstarch in a bowl. Mix everything together gently. This filling is what brings that classic apple pie flavor to your rolls! Let it sit while you prepare the dough so that those flavors can meld together beautifully.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In another bowl, mix together your water and bread flour to create tangzhong. This technique helps keep your rolls soft and fluffy. In a large mixing bowl, combine the remaining bread flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, fine sea salt, whole milk, heavy cream, egg, vanilla extract, and your tangzhong mixture. Knead until smooth. This might take about 5-10 minutes—don’t rush this part! Kneading develops gluten which gives your rolls their structure.

Step 3: First Rise

Place your dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm spot until it has doubled in size—about an hour. This step is crucial as it allows air bubbles to form in the dough which creates those lovely fluffy rolls.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

Once your dough has risen beautifully, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle shape. Spread softened unsalted butter generously over the surface before sprinkling on brown sugar and ground cinnamon evenly. Then add your prepared apple filling on top. Roll it up tightly from one end to another—this forms those beautiful swirls we all love!

Step 5: Second Rise

Cut your rolled dough into slices and place them into a greased baking dish. Cover again with a towel and let them rise until puffy—this usually takes about another hour. It’s worth waiting; this second rise ensures they turn out light and airy.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake those heavenly rolls for about 30 minutes until golden brown. Your kitchen will smell like pure heaven during this time!

Step 7: Prepare Frosting

While they bake, whip up some cream cheese frosting by mixing room-temperature cream cheese with powdered sugar and heavy cream until smooth. Add more heavy cream if needed for desired consistency.

Step 8: Enjoy!

Once baked to perfection and slightly cooled, drizzle that creamy frosting over each roll generously. Each bite will remind you why you fell in love with baking! Enjoy these Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling fresh out of the oven or warm them up later for that cozy comfort anytime!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Making these delightful apple cinnamon rolls can be a breeze with a few helpful tips. Here’s how to ensure your baking experience is as sweet as the rolls themselves!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh apples and high-quality apple butter. Fresh ingredients enhance the flavors and textures, making your rolls taste even more delicious.

• Perfect Dough Temperature: Ensure your liquids (milk and cream) are at room temperature before mixing. This helps activate the yeast properly, resulting in a fluffier dough.

• Knead Well: Don’t rush the kneading process! Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This develops gluten, giving your rolls that perfect chewy texture.

• Let It Rise: Be patient during the rising stages. Allowing the dough to double in size ensures that your rolls will be light and airy.

• Customize Your Filling: Feel free to add nuts or raisins to your apple filling for extra texture and flavor. It adds a delightful crunch and sweetness that complements the cinnamon beautifully.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Serving these apple cinnamon rolls is an opportunity to impress your guests or treat yourself! Here are some ideas to present this scrumptious dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped Pecans or Walnuts: Sprinkle some chopped nuts on top of the frosting for added crunch and flavor.
• Apple Slices: Thinly sliced apples arranged on the side make for a lovely presentation while reinforcing the apple theme.
• Cinnamon Sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon over the frosting adds a warm touch that ties all the flavors together.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits complements the richness of the cinnamon rolls while adding freshness to your plate.

• Yogurt Parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and berries creates a creamy and tangy side that balances out the sweetness of the rolls.

• Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea pairs excellently with apple cinnamon rolls, enhancing their cozy appeal while providing a comforting beverage option.

• Maple Syrup Drizzle: Serving alongside some warmed maple syrup allows guests to drizzle their rolls, adding an extra layer of sweetness that everyone loves!

Enjoy making these apple cinnamon rolls with apple pie filling; they’re sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy the cozy flavors whenever you want.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
• Label the bag with the date and type of rolls for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen rolls, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator.
• Warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• For a quick option, microwave individual rolls on high for about 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might arise while making these delicious rolls!

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

Yes! While Gala apples work wonderfully, you can use any sweet variety like Fuji or Honeycrisp. Just ensure they’re diced evenly for consistent cooking.

How do I make my Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling even more flavorful?

Enhancing your rolls is easy! Consider adding additional spices like nutmeg or allspice. You could also mix in some raisins or chopped nuts to add texture!

Can I substitute dairy products in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use almond milk or oat milk instead of whole milk and coconut cream as a substitute for heavy cream. These alternatives will still yield delicious results.

How long do these apple cinnamon rolls last?

If stored properly, they can last up to 2 days at room temperature or about a week in the fridge. They also freeze well for up to 3 months!

Final Thoughts

These Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling are not just a treat; they’re a warm hug on a plate! The blend of tender apples, sweet cinnamon, and creamy frosting makes each bite unforgettable. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I loved sharing it with you. Don’t hesitate to try it out; your kitchen will smell amazing, and your taste buds will thank you!