Name: Apple Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 3 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 2/3 cups diced Gala apple (about 200 g); 1/4 cup apple butter (65 g); 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (30 g); 2 tablespoons water; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt; 2 teaspoons water (for slurry); 1 teaspoon cornstarch; 3/4 cup water (155 g); 1/4 cup bread flour (32 g); 3 2/3 cups bread flour (485 g); 1/3 cup granulated sugar (66 g); 2 teaspoons instant yeast (approx. 7 g); 1 teaspoon fine sea salt; 1/3 cup whole milk, room temperature (78 g); 1/3 cup heavy cream, room temperature (78 g); 1 large egg, room temperature (about 55 g); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Tangzhong, prepared from above; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature (84 g); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (113 g); 2/3 cup brown sugar, packed (133 g); 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature (56 g); 2 ounces cream cheese, room temperature (57 g); 1 cup powdered sugar (115 g); 2 1/2 tablespoons heavy cream (37 g); 2 tablespoons apple butter (30 g)

There is nothing quite as comforting as warm, gooey Apple Cinnamon Rolls, a cozy treat that wraps tender cinnamon-spiced dough around a luscious apple filling. This recipe elevates the classic cinnamon roll by adding the delicate sweetness and slight tartness of Gala apples combined with fragrant cinnamon and a touch of apple butter, creating a magical fusion of flavors in every bite. Whether you share them at brunch with friends or savor one quietly in the morning, these Apple Cinnamon Rolls are a heartwarming delight that’s as beautiful as they are delicious.

Apple Cinnamon Rolls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Apple Cinnamon Rolls recipe plays an essential role in achieving that perfect balance of flaky, tender texture and rich, comforting flavors. From the smooth tangzhong that keeps the dough incredibly soft, to the spiced apple filling that melts into the swirls, every component works harmoniously to create these irresistible rolls.

Diced Gala apple: Provides juicy sweetness and subtle tartness that brighten the filling.
Apple butter: Adds an extra layer of deep, fruity richness throughout the filling and frosting.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the apple filling and dough gently without overpowering.
Lemon juice: Balances the sweetness with a hint of acidity, lifting the flavors.
Ground cinnamon: The classic warm spice that defines the flavor profile of the rolls.
Vanilla extract: Brings smooth sweetness and depth to both the dough and filling.
Bread flour: Creates the ideal gluten structure for soft, elastic dough with a slight chew.
Whole milk and heavy cream: Enrich the dough, making it tender and moist.
Instant yeast: The magic that helps the dough rise to fluffy perfection.
Unsalted butter: Used in the dough, filling, and frosting for luscious flavor and silkiness.
Cream cheese: Essential for the tangy, creamy frosting that elevates each roll.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting to just the right level of indulgence.
Cornstarch: Helps thicken the apple filling to the perfect jammy texture.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

Start by gently cooking diced Gala apples with apple butter, sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, vanilla, and a pinch of salt over medium heat. This careful simmer softens the apples while mingling all those lovely flavors. Once the apples are tender but still chunky, a cornstarch slurry thickens the mixture into a smooth but textured filling that is sweet, spiced, and bursting with fresh apple goodness. Let it cool to room temperature before assembling to avoid soggy dough.

Step 2: Make the Tangzhong

Next, whisk together water and bread flour in a small saucepan and cook over medium heat until it turns into a thick, pudding-like paste. This traditional Japanese technique, Tangzhong, is a game-changer—it locks moisture in to keep the dough incredibly soft and tender after baking.

Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Roll Dough

In your stand mixer, combine bread flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt. To this dry mix, add room temperature milk, heavy cream, an egg, vanilla, and your prepared tangzhong. Knead gently at first until a rough dough ball forms.

With the mixer still running on low, add room temperature butter, one tablespoon at a time, making sure it is fully mixed in before adding more. Then, continue kneading for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is exceptionally smooth and elastic—it should bounce back gently when poked.

Shape the dough into a tight ball and place it seam-side down in a greased bowl. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes, allowing the dough to relax before rolling.

Step 4: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

While the dough rests, combine brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon until smooth and creamy. This filling is what provides that classic cinnamon roll sweetness with a rich buttery nuance.

Step 5: Assemble the Rolls

Lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough into a 15×21 inch rectangle, with the long side closest to you. Spread the cinnamon sugar filling evenly over the dough, leaving a border at the top. Then, dollop and gently spread the cooled apple pie filling over the cinnamon layer, being careful not to overload.

Using a pizza cutter, slice the dough into twelve 1 3/4-inch strips and roll each strip away from you tightly. Place each roll, spiral side up, into a parchment-lined 9×13 inch pan.

Step 6: Proof and Bake

Cover the pan with plastic wrap and allow the rolls to rise in a warm spot until they double in size, about 1-2 hours. This final rise creates those beautiful fluffy layers we’re all here for!

Preheat your oven to 325°F (162°C). Bake the rolls for 30-40 minutes until golden and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center registers 185°F. Let the rolls cool slightly while you prepare the luscious cream cheese frosting.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Garnishes

A generous swirl of cream cheese frosting with a spoonful of apple butter drizzled on top makes these Apple Cinnamon Rolls irresistible. For extra flair, consider sprinkling chopped toasted pecans or a pinch of extra cinnamon for a lovely finish and a little crunch.

Side Dishes

These rolls are perfect alongside a steaming mug of spiced chai, a robust cup of coffee, or a creamy latte. For a heartier meal, serve with scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit salad to balance the sweet richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual rolls on petite dessert plates with a dusting of powdered sugar or cinnamon. Another charming idea is to arrange mini Apple Cinnamon Rolls in a pull-apart bread style for sharing. Wrapping a warm roll in parchment paper tied with twine also makes a darling breakfast gift for friends or family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Apple Cinnamon Rolls fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay moist and flavorful for up to 4-5 days, making it easy to enjoy a sweet treat anytime.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked or baked rolls individually wrapped in plastic wrap then stored in a freezer-safe container. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge (for baked) or let rise again before baking (for unbaked). This method keeps the flavor and texture just as delightful as fresh!

Reheating

To reheat, pop a roll in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes until soft and gooey again. Add a quick extra spread of frosting or apple butter to revive that just-baked magic.

FAQs

What type of apples work best for Apple Cinnamon Rolls?

Gala apples are a fantastic choice because they balance sweetness and firmness, holding their texture well in the filling. You can also use Fuji or Honeycrisp for a similar effect.

Can I make the dough without tangzhong?

Yes, but tangzhong helps retain moisture and keeps the dough incredibly soft and tender longer. Without it, your rolls might be slightly less fluffy and have a shorter shelf life.

How do I know when the rolls are fully baked?

The best test is to bake until the rolls are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 185°F. This ensures the dough is cooked through but still moist and soft.

Can I substitute cream cheese frosting with something else?

Absolutely! A simple vanilla glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla works beautifully if you prefer a lighter finish. However, the cream cheese frosting adds that perfect tangy contrast to the sweet apple filling.

How far in advance can I assemble the rolls before baking?

You can assemble the rolls and refrigerate them covered overnight. In the morning, allow them to come to room temperature and rise before baking for fresh-tasting Apple Cinnamon Rolls any time you want.

Final Thoughts

Baking these Apple Cinnamon Rolls is like inviting a warm hug into your kitchen. The charming blend of tender dough, sticky cinnamon sugar, and bright apple filling make them a true crowd-pleaser any day of the year. Roll up your sleeves, bring your favorite mug, and share these irresistible treats — once you try them, Apple Cinnamon Rolls will surely become one of your most beloved go-to recipes!

Apple Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 15 reviews

Delight in these soft and gooey Apple Cinnamon Rolls featuring a homemade apple pie filling layered within a sweet cinnamon sugar swirl. Topped with luscious cream cheese frosting blended with apple butter, these rolls offer a perfect balance of fruity and spiced flavors. Ideal for a comforting breakfast or a special treat any time of day.

Author: Ella
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls 1x
Category: Breakfast, Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Apple Pie Filling

1 2/3 cups diced Gala apple (about 200 g)
1/4 cup apple butter (65 g)
2 tablespoons granulated sugar (30 g)
2 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt
2 teaspoons water (for slurry)
1 teaspoon cornstarch

Tangzhong

3/4 cup water (155 g)
1/4 cup bread flour (32 g)

Cinnamon Roll Dough

3 2/3 cups bread flour (485 g)
1/3 cup granulated sugar (66 g)
2 teaspoons instant yeast (approx. 7 g)
1 teaspoon fine sea salt
1/3 cup whole milk, room temperature (78 g)
1/3 cup heavy cream, room temperature (78 g)
1 large egg, room temperature (about 55 g)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Tangzhong, prepared from above
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature (84 g)

Cinnamon Sugar Filling

1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (113 g)
2/3 cup brown sugar, packed (133 g)
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Cream Cheese Frosting

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature (56 g)
2 ounces cream cheese, room temperature (57 g)
1 cup powdered sugar (115 g)
2 1/2 tablespoons heavy cream (37 g)
2 tablespoons apple butter (30 g)

Instructions

Make the Apple Filling: In a pot over medium heat, combine diced Gala apples, apple butter, granulated sugar, water, lemon juice, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Cook for 12-13 minutes until the mixture becomes jammy with some apple chunks remaining. In a small bowl, mix 2 teaspoons water with cornstarch, then stir into the apple mixture. Cook for 1 more minute until thickened. Transfer to a bowl and let cool.
Prepare the Tangzhong: In a small pot, whisk together water and bread flour. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly for 4-5 minutes until thick and paste-like. Scrape into a bowl and set aside to cool.
Mix Dough Ingredients: In a stand mixer bowl, combine bread flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Add whole milk, heavy cream, egg, vanilla extract, and the prepared tangzhong. Knead on low speed with a dough hook for 2-3 minutes until a rough dough forms.
Add Butter and Knead: With the mixer running on low speed, add softened unsalted butter one tablespoon at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Continue kneading for an additional 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
First Dough Rest: Remove the dough, shape it into a smooth ball by folding the edges underneath. Place it seam-side down in the bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rest for 30 minutes.
Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Filling: In a bowl, combine unsalted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until smooth. Set aside.
Shape the Rolls: Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll the rested dough into a 15×21 inch rectangle with the longest side facing you. Spread the cinnamon sugar filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border at the top. Then gently spread the cooled apple pie filling over the cinnamon sugar in the same manner.
Cut and Roll: Use a pizza cutter to slice the dough into twelve 1 3/4-inch strips. Roll each strip away from you tightly and place each roll in the prepared pan.
Second Rise: Cover the pan with plastic wrap and let the rolls rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size. Preheat the oven to 325°F (162 °C) during the last 30 minutes of rising.
Bake the Rolls: Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the internal temperature of center rolls reaches 185°F. Remove and allow to cool slightly while preparing frosting.
Make Cream Cheese Frosting: In a bowl, mix cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar until smooth. Whisk in heavy cream and apple butter until creamy and spreadable.
Frost and Serve: Spoon the frosting over warm rolls, swirl in extra apple butter if desired. Enjoy the rolls warm for best texture.

Notes

Measure flour accurately using the spoon-and-level method or kitchen scale to avoid dense dough.
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Reheat in microwave or oven before serving.
Yeast amount equals approximately 7 grams for 2 teaspoons of instant yeast.
Use room temperature dairy ingredients for optimal dough texture.
Ensure dough rises fully for light, fluffy cinnamon rolls.