Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat that combines warm, gooey cinnamon rolls with the sweet and tart flavor of apples. These rolls are perfect for any occasion, from cozy family breakfasts to festive holiday gatherings. With a luscious cream cheese frosting on top, they are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: The dough can be made ahead of time, simplifying your morning routine.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of warm cinnamon and fresh apples creates a comforting taste that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert; these rolls fit any meal.
• Impressive Presentation: Swirls of cinnamon and creamy frosting make these rolls visually stunning.
• Great for Sharing: With 12 servings, they are ideal for gatherings or family get-togethers.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your baking experience easier and more enjoyable. Below is a list of essential tools you will need to create these Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool makes kneading the dough effortless, ensuring a smooth texture.
• Rolling pin: A must-have for rolling out the dough evenly for perfect cinnamon roll swirls.
• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking your rolls, ensuring they cook uniformly.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to prepare these delicious Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls:

For the Dough

• 250g whole milk, lukewarm
• 50g Granulated Sugar
• 2 1/4 tsp active dried yeast
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 565g All-Purpose Flour
• 100g Unsalted Butter, at room temperature

For the Apple Filling

• 850g – about four medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced small
• 30g Unsalted Butter
• 80g Granulated Sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp Kosher salt
• 1 Tbsp Corn starch
• 125g Pecan Halves

For the Cinnamon Filling

• 190g Unsalted Butter, at room temperature
• 280g Brown Sugar
• 2 Tbsp plus 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp Kosher salt

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 115g Unsalted Butter, at room temperature
• 225g Cream Cheese, at room temperature
• 250g Powdered Sugar, sifted
• 1-2 Tbsp Heavy Whipping Cream
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt

How to Make Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine lukewarm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Add eggs and salt to the mixture and stir well.
3. Gradually mix in flour until a dough forms.
4. Knead in softened butter until smooth and elastic.

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

1. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean cloth.
2. Allow it to rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Step 3: Make the Apple Filling

1. In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add diced apples.
2. Stir in sugar, cinnamon, salt, and corn starch; cook until apples are tender (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat; fold in pecans once cool.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

1. Roll out the dough into a rectangle on a floured surface.
2. Spread softened butter over the dough followed by brown sugar mixed with cinnamon.
3. Spoon apple filling evenly across the surface.
4. Roll tightly into a log and slice into equal pieces.

Step 5: Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place rolls on a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 6: Make the Frosting

1. In a mixing bowl, beat together softened butter and cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing; adjust consistency with heavy whipping cream as needed.

Step 7: Serve

Once baked, allow rolls to cool slightly before drizzling with cream cheese frosting. Enjoy your Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls fresh out of the oven!

How to Serve Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Soft-baked apple cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s a cozy breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a festive dessert, these rolls are versatile and delicious.

Breakfast Delight

• Serve warm with a drizzle of cream cheese frosting for a sweet morning boost.

Afternoon Snack

• Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for an enjoyable mid-day pick-me-up.

Dessert Option

• Top with extra diced apples and caramel sauce for an indulgent dessert.

Brunch Centerpiece

• Present on a platter during brunch gatherings, garnished with fresh apple slices.

Holiday Treat

• Sprinkle with powdered sugar and serve during holiday celebrations for a festive touch.

How to Perfect Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls

To ensure your soft-baked apple cinnamon rolls turn out perfectly every time, consider the following tips:

• Use lukewarm milk: This helps activate the yeast properly, leading to fluffier rolls.

• Knead the dough well: Spend adequate time kneading to develop gluten, which gives the rolls their soft texture.

• Let it rise fully: Allow the dough to double in size before baking to achieve the best fluffiness.

• Avoid overbaking: Keep an eye on the rolls as they bake; they should be golden brown but not dry.

• Cool before frosting: Let the rolls cool slightly before adding frosting to prevent it from melting away.

Best Side Dishes for Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Pairing side dishes with your soft-baked apple cinnamon rolls can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.

2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy contrast that complements the rolls.

3. Maple Syrup Drizzle: Offer maple syrup on the side for those who enjoy an extra sweet touch.

4. Scrambled Eggs: Lightly seasoned scrambled eggs provide protein and balance out the sweetness.

5. Crispy Hash Browns: The savory flavor of crispy hash browns contrasts nicely with the sweet rolls.

6. Nutty Granola: Serve alongside for added crunch and texture, perfect for a breakfast spread.

7. Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea can complement the flavors while warming you up.

8. Cheese Platter: Include a selection of mild cheeses for guests who might prefer something savory alongside their sweet treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls can be a delightful experience, but it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls.

• Boldly skip the proofing: Not allowing the dough to rise properly can lead to dense rolls. Make sure to let the dough rest until it doubles in size.
• Boldly overlook ingredient temperatures: Using cold ingredients can affect the dough’s texture. Always ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature.
• Boldly rush the filling preparation: A rushed apple filling may turn out watery. Cook the apples with sugar and cinnamon until soft for best results.
• Boldly ignore oven calibration: Every oven is different. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for perfect results.
• Boldly forget about spacing: Crowding your rolls on the baking sheet can cause uneven baking. Leave enough space between each roll for optimal heat circulation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow rolls to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best flavor.

Reheating Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover rolls with foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual rolls on a microwave-safe plate for about 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place rolls in a skillet over low heat, covered, and warm for about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls.

Can I use other fruits in Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls?

You can substitute apples with pears or peaches for a different flavor profile. Just ensure they are cooked down similarly.

How do I make a healthier version of Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls?

Consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour and reducing the sugar by half. You can also add nuts or seeds for extra nutrition.

What can I serve with Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls?

These rolls pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert!

Can Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls be made vegan?

Yes! Substitute dairy butter with plant-based butter and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs. The rolls will still be delicious!

Final Thoughts

Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls are a perfect treat that brings warmth and comfort any time of year. Their gooey texture and sweet apple filling make them irresistible. Feel free to customize them with different nuts or spices to suit your taste!

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Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls

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• Author: Saphira
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Makes 12 servings 1x

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Description

Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls are a warm, gooey delight that will make any breakfast or gathering truly special. These rolls feature a luscious filling of tender apples, spiced with cinnamon and wrapped in a soft, fluffy dough. Topped with a creamy frosting, they offer a perfect balance of sweetness and comfort. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or reheated for an afternoon treat, these cinnamon rolls are sure to impress family and friends alike. Ideal for cozy mornings or festive celebrations, this recipe is both easy to follow and versatile enough to adapt with your favorite fruits or nuts.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 250g lukewarm whole milk
• 50g granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 tsp active dried yeast
• 2 large eggs
• 565g all-purpose flour
• 850g diced apples
• 190g unsalted butter (for filling)
• 225g cream cheese (for frosting)
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 30g unsalted butter (for apple filling)
• 80g granulated sugar (for apple filling)
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (for apple filling)
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt (for apple filling)
• 1 Tbsp corn starch (for apple filling)
• 125g pecan halves (for apple filling)
• 280g brown sugar (for cinnamon filling)
• 2 Tbsp plus 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for cinnamon filling)
• 1/8 tsp kosher salt (for cinnamon filling)
• 115g unsalted butter (for frosting)
• 250g powdered sugar (for frosting)
• 1–2 Tbsp heavy whipping cream (for frosting)
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt (for frosting)

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Instructions

1. Combine lukewarm milk, sugar, and yeast in a bowl; let sit until frothy.
2. Mix in eggs and salt; gradually add flour until a dough forms.
3. Knead in softened butter until smooth; let rise for about an hour.
4. Cook diced apples with butter, sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch until tender.
5. Roll out the dough, spread softened butter, sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon mixture, then layer apple filling.
6. Roll tightly into a log; slice into equal pieces and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes.
7. Prepare frosting by mixing room temperature cream cheese and unsalted butter with powdered sugar; drizzle over cooled rolls.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 roll (100g)
• Calories: 340
• Sugar: 25g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 55mg