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As the golden leaves begin to flutter down and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through your home. This fall, indulge in the delightful fusion of two beloved desserts with our homemade Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls. Imagine the warm, comforting flavors of classic apple pie seamlessly wrapped in the soft, pillowy texture of cinnamon rolls. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a cozy brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or simply indulging in a sweet afternoon snack.

Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls – A Fall Favorite!

Embrace the flavors of fall with homemade Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls. This delightful recipe merges the warm, spiced essence of apple pie with soft, pillowy cinnamon rolls, perfect for brunch or an afternoon treat. You'll experience the sweetness of apples, aromatic spices, and a creamy glaze that ties it all together. Follow our step-by-step guide to create this comforting dessert that will fill your home with the inviting aroma of freshly baked goodness. Enjoy a delicious slice of autumn!

Ingredients
  

For the Dough:

2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)

¾ cup warm milk (110°F)

¼ cup granulated sugar

1 large egg

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

3 ½ to 4 cups all-purpose flour

½ teaspoon salt

For the Apple Filling:

3 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

¼ cup brown sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

¼ teaspoon nutmeg

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

For the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:

¾ cup brown sugar

2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

4 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup powdered sugar

2 tablespoons milk

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Prepare the Dough:

    - In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.

      - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, melted butter, egg, and salt. Add the frothy yeast mixture and stir until combined.

        - Gradually add flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

          Make the Apple Filling:

            - In a separate bowl, combine diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and flour. Mix well and set aside.

              Roll Out the Dough:

                - After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to a large rectangle (about 16x24 inches).

                  Add the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:

                    - Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle this mixture evenly on top of the buttered dough.

                      Add the Apple Filling:

                        - Distribute the apple filling evenly over the cinnamon sugar mixture.

                          Roll and Slice:

                            - Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seams to seal. Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal rolls.

                              Second Rise:

                                - Place the rolls in a greased 9x13 baking dish, cover, and let rise for another 30 minutes.

                                  Bake:

                                    - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have puffed up, bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool for 10 minutes in the pan.

                                      Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze:

                                        - In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

                                          Drizzle and Serve:

                                            - Drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the warm cinnamon rolls. Serve while warm and enjoy the comforting flavors of fall!

                                              Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours | Servings: 12 rolls