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Delicious apple pie cinnamon rolls topped with frosting and cinnamon sugar.

Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls bring a comforting twist to a beloved classic, merging the delightful flavors of apple pie with the soft, pillowy texture of cinnamon rolls.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Brunch, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour Spoon and level the flour for best results.
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp) Make sure yeast is fresh.
  • 1 cup warm milk Not hot.
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Apple Filling
  • 2 cups Granny Smith apples, peeled and finely chopped Other apple varieties can be used.
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for sautéing apples)
For the Glaze
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream Adjust for desired thickness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, whisk the warm milk, granulated sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
  2. Add the melted butter, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir well to combine.
  3. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 to 7 minutes until it is smooth and stretchy.
  5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Cook the Apples
  1. While the dough rises, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook for 5 minutes until the apples are tender. Let the mixture cool.
Assemble and Bake
  1. Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a large rectangle (about 12×18 inches) on a floured surface.
  2. Spread the cooled apple filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border at the edges.
  3. Roll the dough up tightly starting from the long side to form a long log.
  4. Cut the log into 12 even slices using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss.
  5. Place the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Cover and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
  7. In a small bowl, whisk the powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  8. Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls and serve immediately.

Notes

Serve warm, best enjoyed with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.
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