Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Name: Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 rolls
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 packet instant yeast; 1 cup milk, warmed; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup butter, melted; 2 eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 cups apples, peeled and diced; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon cinnamon; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience the warm and comforting flavors of autumn with these delightful Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls. Soft, pillowy dough is swirled with cinnamon, sugar, and juicy apple filling, then topped with a creamy glaze that brings all the flavors of apple pie right to your breakfast table. Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings or cozy brunches, these rolls are sure to impress everyone with their irresistible taste and beautiful presentation.

Created by

Violet Hart

Last updated on 2025-11-27T06:56:05.926Z

These Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls blend the classic flavors of a warm apple pie with the delightful soft texture of cinnamon rolls.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls are not just a sweet treat; they are a versatile addition to any meal. Whether you're hosting a Thanksgiving dinner, having a Sunday brunch, or simply indulging in a weekend breakfast, these rolls will elevate the experience. Their warm, comforting flavors bring a sense of nostalgia and celebration, making them the perfect choice for gatherings or holiday festivities. With their delightful apple filling and sweet glaze, these rolls provide a cozy way to bring everyone together.

What makes these rolls truly special is their ability to impress without requiring hours of effort. The dough is simple to prepare, and the filling is quick to whip up. You can even make them ahead of time, store them in the refrigerator overnight, and bake them fresh in the morning. Your family and friends will be amazed at how delicious these rolls are, and you’ll enjoy the process just as much as the results.

Baking Tips for Success

Achieving the perfect Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls is all about the details. For the dough, make sure your milk is warm, not hot, as too much heat can kill the yeast. When kneading the dough, aim for a smooth, elastic texture; this will help create a soft roll that rises beautifully. If your dough isn’t rising as expected, try placing it in a warm, draft-free area. A cozy oven or a spot near a sunny window typically works wonders.

When it comes to the filling, using a mix of sweet and tart apples enhances the flavor complexity of the rolls. Granny Smith apples, combined with sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp, provide a delightful balance. For extra flair, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts or dried fruits to the filling. This not only adds texture but also brings a new layer of taste that complements the apple and cinnamon beautifully.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls are baked and glazed, they are best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They can also be refrigerated for up to a week, although they may lose some softness. To revive their freshness, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving or warm them in the oven at low heat.

These rolls are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them further by pairing them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Serve them with a cup of hot coffee or apple cider for the perfect autumn-themed breakfast or snack. You might even consider presenting them on a beautiful platter, garnished with fresh apple slices and a sprinkle of cinnamon for that extra touch.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Dough

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet instant yeast
1 cup milk, warmed
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup butter, melted
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt

Filling

2 cups apples, peeled and diced
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to have everything ready before you start assembling.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls!

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. In another bowl, mix warm milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and knead until smooth.

Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Set aside.

Roll the Dough

Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread the apple filling evenly over the surface.

Shape the Rolls

Roll the dough tightly into a log and slice into 12 equal pieces. Place in a greased baking dish.

Bake the Rolls

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown.

Add the Glaze

While the rolls are baking, prepare the glaze by combining powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Drizzle over warm rolls once they come out of the oven.

Enjoy your freshly baked Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls!

Nutritional Benefits

While Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls are a treat, they can also incorporate some nutritional benefits. The apples used in the filling are rich in dietary fiber, which is great for digestion. They contain essential vitamins, particularly vitamin C, and antioxidants that help improve overall health. By using whole ingredients and minimizing processed sugars, you can make these rolls slightly healthier without sacrificing flavor.

Moreover, you can experiment with the recipe by using whole wheat flour in the dough to add more fiber and nutrients. Although it might change the texture slightly, the flavor remains delicious, and you’ll enjoy a more wholesome roll that complements your desire for comfort food.

Customizing Your Rolls

One of the wonderful aspects of baking is the ability to personalize recipes to suit your taste. For these Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls, consider adding spices such as nutmeg or allspice to the filling for a deeper flavor profile. Alternatively, you can drizzle caramel sauce over the glaze for an extra layer of sweetness and indulgence. Experimenting with different fillings, such as cream cheese, chocolate chips, or cream, can yield unique variations of these rolls.

You can also get creative with your glaze; adding maple syrup or pumpkin spice can provide a delightful twist. Whatever modifications you choose, these Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls represent a canvas for your creativity in the kitchen, allowing you to showcase your personal flair while still delivering a classic comfort food that everyone will love.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the dough in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling.

→ What type of apples are best for this recipe?

Granny Smith apples work well for their tart flavor, but you can use any apple that holds its shape when baked.