Homemade Apple Pie Filled Cinnamon Rolls

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There’s nothing quite like the smell of fresh cinnamon rolls baking in the oven, especially when they’re filled with the sweet and comforting flavors of apple pie.

If you’re a fan of soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls and love the taste of homemade apple pie, then you’re in for a treat! This recipe combines the best of both worlds, creating a delightful pastry that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet afternoon snack.

Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to become a new family favorite.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

The beauty of homemade apple pie filled cinnamon rolls lies in their versatility.

You’re not just getting the quintessential cinnamon roll experience, but each bite is bursting with the rich and warm flavors of apple pie filling.

This treat is perfect for cozy family gatherings, especially during the fall season when apples are at their prime.

Plus, making them from scratch means you have full control over the ingredients—no preservatives, just pure homemade goodness.

So grab your apron, and let’s get baking!

Ingredients

• 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk, warm (between 105° and 115°F or 40° and 46°C)
• ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 1 packet (7 g) instant yeast (about 2 ¼ teaspoons)
• 4 tablespoons (56 g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 4 ½ cups (540 g) all-purpose flour

How To Make Homemade Apple Pie Filled Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Create the Dough

Start by warming the whole milk until it’s just about hot to the touch, ideally between 105° and 115°F.

In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, granulated sugar, and instant yeast.

Let this mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it’s bubbly.

It means the yeast is active and ready to work its magic!

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

Once your yeast mixture is bubbly, stir in the melted butter and eggs.

Mix well until everything is combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt.

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Lightly flour your countertop and turn your dough out onto the surface.

Knead the dough for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

If the dough is too sticky, add a little bit of flour as needed.

Step 5: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1 to 2 hours.

Step 6: Make the Apple Filling

While your dough is rising, prepare the apple pie filling.

Peel and chop 2-3 medium-sized apples into small pieces.

Toss them with a mix of sugar, cinnamon, and a bit of lemon juice to preserve their color and flavor.

Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 7: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.

Turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle, about 16 inches by 24 inches.

Step 8: Assemble the Rolls

Spread a layer of melted butter over the dough, and sprinkle with brown sugar and ground cinnamon.

Evenly distribute the apple filling over the cinnamon mixture, making sure to cover it well.

Step 9: Roll and Slice

Starting from the long side of the rectangle, roll the dough tightly into a log.

Once you have a log, slice it into 12 equal pieces.

Place each roll cut side up in a greased baking pan, leaving a little space between each roll.

Step 10: Second Rise

Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise again until they fluff up, about 30-45 minutes.

Step 11: Bake the Cinnamon Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Bake the cinnamon rolls for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Step 12: Prepare the Glaze

While the rolls are baking, prepare a simple glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a splash of milk and vanilla extract until smooth.

Adjust the consistency to your liking—thicker or thinner based on how you prefer it.

Step 13: Glaze and Serve

Once the cinnamon rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top.

Serve warm and watch everyone enjoy!

Expert Tips

• For the best texture, make sure your eggs and milk are at room temperature before mixing them with the dough.
• Don’t rush the rising times. Allow the dough to rise fully for the fluffiest cinnamon rolls.
• Feel free to use different types of apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a unique flavor!
• If you want an extra indulgent treat, add some pecans or walnuts in with the apple filling for added crunch.

Variations and Customizations

• Use a different type of filling, such as blueberries or cherries, for a fruity variation.
• Experiment with flavors by adding spices like nutmeg or coriander to the filling.
• Try inserting a cream cheese layer in the filling for a rich twist.
• Add a streusel topping for added texture and sweetness before baking.

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your homemade apple pie filled cinnamon rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze the baked rolls.

Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.

When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature and reheat in the oven for a few minutes.

FAQ

Can I use non-dairy milk instead of whole milk?

Yes, non-dairy milk such as almond milk or oat milk can be used as a substitute.

Just make sure it’s warm and unsweetened.

How can I tell if my yeast is still active?

If your yeast mixture becomes bubbly and frothy after sitting for 5-10 minutes, it’s active and ready to use.

Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls and place them in the fridge overnight.

Take them out about 30 minutes before baking to allow them to come to room temperature.

Is there a way to make these rolls gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture.

Conclusion

Homemade apple pie filled cinnamon rolls are a delightful twist on traditional cinnamon rolls, bringing together the best tastes of fall into a soft, cozy treat.

Perfect for sharing with family and friends, this recipe is simple and incredibly rewarding.

So next time you’re craving something sweet and comforting, give these rolls a try.

They might just become a new favorite in your baking repertoire! Happy baking!

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