Easy Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling Recipe

Are you craving something warm, sweet, and utterly irresistible? Let me introduce you to the perfect treat: Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling. Imagine soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls wrapped around a gooey, spiced apple filling that tastes just like autumn in every bite. If you’re looking for a cozy, homemade dessert or even a special breakfast, this recipe is exactly what you need. It’s easy to make, even if you’re a beginner, and best of all—it’s a healthier version with no pork or alcohol, so you can enjoy every bite guilt-free!

You’re going to love how simple it is to prepare these delightful rolls, and once you taste them, you’ll never look back. They’re a delicious mix of flavors that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family gathering, a brunch date, or a cozy weekend treat. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out! Keep reading to find out how to make these mouthwatering rolls and impress everyone with your baking skills!

Discover the Magic of Cinnamon Rolls with a Twist of Apple Pie

A Perfectly Sweet Combination of Cinnamon and Apples

Cinnamon rolls with apple pie filling are a delightful treat that combines two of the most comforting desserts into one. The warm, spiced apples inside the cinnamon rolls create an irresistible combination with the soft, fluffy dough. The cinnamon enhances the sweetness of the apples, making every bite a warm hug for your taste buds. You’ll love the balance of flavors—it’s like a cozy, fall-inspired dessert that you can enjoy any time of year. If you’ve ever wanted something easy to make but packed with flavor, this is your answer. You can make it with just a few ingredients and a bit of time, but the results will leave everyone impressed.

Why Apple Pie Filling Elevates Your Cinnamon Rolls

Apple pie filling adds a special touch to cinnamon rolls. It’s not just about the sweetness—it brings moisture and a bit of tang that makes each roll extra flavorful. Using apple pie filling makes it easy to get that homemade, rich taste without too much effort. Plus, it keeps the rolls from drying out, ensuring they stay soft and tender for longer. The apple filling’s spices—like cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove—complement the roll’s dough perfectly, creating a harmonious flavor profile. Let’s look at some additional benefits:

Benefit	Description
Moisture	Apple filling helps keep the rolls soft.
Flavor Boost	Cinnamon and apple spices work beautifully.
Less Prep Time	Pre-made pie filling cuts down on effort.

How to Make Flaky Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch

The Secret to Soft and Pillowy Dough

Making the perfect cinnamon rolls starts with the dough. The secret to soft, pillowy rolls is all in the mixing and resting time. First, ensure your yeast is active before starting—this helps the dough rise properly. You’ll need to knead the dough gently for about 5 minutes to develop its elasticity. Don’t overdo it, or you risk making it tough! After kneading, let the dough rise in a warm spot. This is when the magic happens—your dough will puff up and become light and airy. When rolling the dough, remember not to roll it too thin; you want enough dough to hold the apple filling without tearing.

Tips for Rolling and Shaping Cinnamon Rolls Perfectly

Rolling your dough correctly is key to getting those perfect spiral rolls. Here are some helpful tips:

• Use a Light Hand: Roll gently to avoid tearing.
• Even Thickness: Make sure the dough is rolled evenly for consistent rolls.
• Cutting: Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut clean slices.

Tip	Description
Choose a Glass Dish	Even heat distribution for perfect baking.
Size of Dish	Make sure the rolls fit without squishing.
Don’t Overcrowd	Give rolls room to rise and expand.

Baking Tips for the Best Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Achieving the Ideal Golden-Brown Finish

The key to perfect cinnamon rolls is achieving that golden-brown color. First, preheat your oven to the right temperature—this ensures even baking. As the rolls bake, they’ll start to rise and become golden, but keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent overbaking. You’ll want them to be golden all over with a slight crisp on the edges, but soft and gooey inside. If you want that extra shine, brush the tops of the rolls with a little butter right before baking. It’ll create a beautiful finish and add some richness to the flavor.

Using a Baking Dish for Even Cooking

Using the right baking dish ensures even cooking and browning. Here are a few tips for choosing the right one:

• Glass Dish: A glass dish retains heat well, giving you a nice even bake.
• Size Matters: Ensure the dish is the right size to let the rolls rise without overcrowding.
• Spacing: Leave just enough room between the rolls to allow them to expand as they bake.

Tip	Description
Choose a Glass Dish	Even heat distribution for perfect baking.
Size of Dish	Make sure the rolls fit without squishing.
Don’t Overcrowd	Give rolls room to rise and expand.

Creative Variations to Customize Your Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Experimenting with Spices and Add-ins for a Unique Twist

Cinnamon rolls with apple pie filling are already delicious, but you can customize them to make them even more exciting! Experiment with different spices like cardamom or ginger to add an unexpected depth of flavor. You can also add raisins, chopped walnuts, or even caramel bits to the filling for extra texture and sweetness. If you love a bit of a salty contrast, try adding a pinch of sea salt on top before baking. The beauty of this recipe is how easy it is to adjust to your taste. Get creative with what you add to the rolls, and you’ll have a new favorite treat every time.

How to Add a Glaze for Extra Flavor

Adding a glaze on top of your cinnamon rolls is a fun way to enhance the flavor and sweetness. Here’s how to do it:

• Classic Powdered Sugar Glaze: Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract for a smooth, sweet glaze.
• Cream Cheese Glaze: For a richer, tangier flavor, blend cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla.
• Cinnamon Glaze: Add a little cinnamon to the glaze for a spicy kick.

Glaze Type	Ingredients	Flavor Profile
Powdered Sugar	Powdered sugar, milk, vanilla	Sweet and creamy
Cream Cheese	Cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla	Rich and tangy
Cinnamon Glaze	Powdered sugar, cinnamon, milk	Sweet with a spicy touch

Enjoying Your Cinnamon Rolls: Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Perfect Drink Pairings for a Cozy Dessert Experience

Pairing your cinnamon rolls with the right drink can take the experience to the next level. A hot cup of coffee is always a classic choice, especially if you enjoy a slightly bitter contrast to the sweetness of the rolls. If you prefer something lighter, a warm cup of apple cider will complement the apple pie filling beautifully. For a more indulgent treat, try a vanilla latte or a creamy chai tea. No matter your choice, these drinks will bring out the best in your cinnamon rolls and create a cozy atmosphere.

Serving Cinnamon Rolls as a Special Breakfast or Dessert

These cinnamon rolls aren’t just for dessert—they make the perfect breakfast too! Serve them with a side of fresh fruit like berries or orange slices for a balance of sweetness. Here are some ideas for serving:

• Breakfast: Enjoy with a side of scrambled eggs or yogurt.
• Dessert: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Occasion	Serving Suggestion
Breakfast	Pair with eggs, yogurt, or fresh fruit
Dessert	Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream

Ingredients

First, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need to create these delicious Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling!

• 1 cup warm milk – This helps activate the yeast and gives the dough a smooth, soft texture. The warm milk will encourage the yeast to work its magic.
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast – The yeast is essential for making the rolls fluffy. It causes the dough to rise, creating light, airy layers.
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar – This small amount of sugar feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness to the dough.
• 4 tablespoons salted butter, at room temperature – Butter adds richness and flavor to the dough, making it tender and delicious.
• 3 large eggs – Eggs help bind the dough and provide a rich, soft texture that makes these rolls irresistible.
• 3 1/2 – 4 cups all-purpose flour – Flour gives structure to the dough and allows it to rise perfectly.
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt – Salt balances out the sweetness and enhances the flavor of the rolls.

For the Apple Filling:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar – Adds sweetness and richness to the apple filling.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar – Provides additional sweetness that contrasts perfectly with the cinnamon.
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon – The key spice in these rolls, cinnamon brings that warm, comforting flavor everyone loves.
• 6 tablespoons salted butter, at room temperature – Butter helps bind the filling together, making it gooey and delicious.
• 2 Honeycrisp apples, chopped – The star of the filling! These apples add sweetness, texture, and a burst of flavor.

For the Brown Butter Maple Icing:

• 4 tablespoons salted butter, at room temperature – Adds a rich, buttery base to the icing that enhances the maple flavor.
• 6 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature – Cream cheese provides a tangy creaminess that balances the sweetness of the icing.
• 1/4 cup maple syrup – The maple syrup adds a delightful sweetness with a bit of earthiness to the icing.
• 2-3 cups powdered sugar – The powdered sugar thickens the icing and makes it perfectly spreadable.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Vanilla adds a lovely warm depth to the icing.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get baking! Here’s how to make these amazing Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling.

Step 1: Make the Dough

Start by combining the warm milk, yeast, and brown sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until the mixture becomes bubbly. This helps activate the yeast. Then, add the butter, eggs, 3 1/2 cups flour, and salt. Use the dough hook and mix everything together for 4-5 minutes until the flour is fully incorporated. If the dough is still sticky, gradually add more flour until it’s smooth to the touch. The dough should feel soft and slightly tacky, but not overly sticky.

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. This step is crucial for creating the light, fluffy texture of the rolls.

Step 3: Prepare the Apple Filling

While the dough is rising, mix together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Set this mixture aside. Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish to prepare it for the rolls.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out into a large rectangle, about 12 x 18 inches. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle on the apples and cinnamon-sugar mixture. Starting from the long edge closest to you, carefully roll the dough into a log, keeping it tight. When you reach the end, pinch the dough to seal it. Cut the log into 12-15 rolls using a sharp knife. Place the rolls into the prepared baking dish and cover with plastic wrap. Let them rise for 20-30 minutes.

Step 5: Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have risen, bake them for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top. The aroma will fill your kitchen, and you’ll know they’re almost ready!

Step 6: Make the Brown Butter Maple Icing

While the rolls are baking, melt the butter in a pot over medium heat. Let it cook until it turns a light golden-brown color and releases a nutty, toasted aroma—this will take about 2-3 minutes. Remove from the heat. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream cheese, maple syrup, powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy. Once the rolls are out of the oven, pour the warm icing generously over them. Serve and enjoy!

Serving

Once your cinnamon rolls with apple pie filling are ready, it’s time to serve up this delicious treat!

• This recipe makes enough to serve 12 people, perfect for a family gathering or a cozy brunch.
• You can enjoy these rolls on their own, or serve them alongside a fresh side salad, crispy bread, or a chilled drink. For an added twist, try serving the rolls with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top.

What to Serve with Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Butter Maple Icing

• Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls – A savory bite to balance the sweetness of the rolls.
• Chili Dog Casserole – A hearty, comforting dish to enjoy alongside cinnamon rolls.
• Strawberry Crunch Cake – Add a refreshing fruity dessert after your cinnamon rolls.
• Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls – For an extra twist on your cinnamon roll experience.

Tips and Hacks

• Tip 1: Make your rolls extra soft by adding a tablespoon of honey to the dough.
• Tip 2: For a richer, gooier filling, sauté the apples in butter before adding them to the dough.
• Tip 3: Switch up the apple variety for different flavor profiles. Granny Smith apples add a tart contrast to the sweetness of the filling.
• Tip 4: You can prepare the dough the night before! Just cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate it overnight. The dough will rise slowly, and you can bake the rolls fresh in the morning.

Nutrition Facts

• Serving size: 1 roll
• Calories: 270
• Fat: 14g
• Carbs: 35g
• Protein: 3g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fiber: 2g

Please note: These values are estimates based on the ingredients used and portion sizes.

Prep Time

• Prep time: 25 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Please note: Prep time includes the dough rising time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why put heavy cream on cinnamon rolls before baking?

Adding heavy cream to cinnamon rolls before baking makes them extra soft and moist. The cream creates a rich texture and helps the rolls stay tender. It’s like giving them a little bath of deliciousness! First, pour the cream over the rolls before baking. Then, let it absorb while they cook. The result? Perfectly fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth cinnamon rolls with apple pie filling!

How do you get fillings to stay in cinnamon rolls?

To keep the filling in your cinnamon rolls, be sure to roll the dough tightly. Also, press the edges together to seal them. When you add the apple pie filling, spread it evenly, but don’t overfill it. If you do, the filling might spill out while baking. Lastly, let the rolls rise before baking. This helps the dough hold the filling in place during cooking!

What is the secret ingredient in Cinnabon cinnamon rolls?

The secret ingredient in Cinnabon cinnamon rolls is their unique cinnamon blend. It’s a perfect mix of cinnamon and sugar, giving their rolls that irresistible, warm flavor. The special touch? They also use a bit of butter in the filling, making each bite extra rich and gooey. You can recreate something similar by adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a fun twist in your cinnamon rolls with apple pie filling!

Should you cook apples before putting them in a pie?

For cinnamon rolls with apple pie filling, it’s best to cook the apples first. This helps them soften and release their flavors. Cooking the apples also prevents them from becoming too watery during baking. Simply sauté them with a little butter, sugar, and cinnamon. This will make your rolls even more flavorful and prevent the filling from becoming runny while baking.