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Best Apple Cinnamon Rolls Recipe (Easy, Step-by-Step)

Make Apple Cinnamon Rolls with pantry staples, clear cues, and flexible swaps.
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Servings: 12
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • --- Dough ---
  • 1 cup warm milk 110°F
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast 1 packet
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 1/2 – 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • --- Apple Cinnamon Filling ---
  • 2 cups diced apples peeled and cored
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar packed
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter softened
  • --- Cream Cheese Glaze ---
  • 4 oz cream cheese softened
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 –3 tablespoons milk to thin, if needed

Method
 

  1. Warm milk to about 110°F. Stir in yeast and sugar. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix in melted butter, salt, and egg. Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms.
  3. Knead dough on a floured surface for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  4. In a bowl, mix apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  5. Punch down dough and roll into a large rectangle (about 14x9 inches). Spread softened butter over dough, then evenly distribute apple mixture.
  6. Roll tightly from the long side and slice into 12 rolls. Place in a greased 9x13 baking dish.
  7. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes while oven preheats to 350°F (175°C).
  8. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
  9. Meanwhile, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until creamy.
  10. Spread glaze over warm rolls before serving.