Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that fills your home with the warm aroma of apples and cinnamon, then these Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls are just the thing! Imagine waking up to a soft, gooey roll topped with creamy frosting—pure bliss! This recipe has been a family favorite for years, perfect for everything from lazy Sunday mornings to festive holiday gatherings. The best part? You can prepare the components ahead of time, so all you need to do is assemble and bake them in the morning!

These rolls are not just delicious; they also bring people together. Whether it’s a family brunch or a special occasion, they are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and wholesome ingredients, you’ll have these rolls ready without any fuss.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will be reaching for seconds (or thirds!) once they taste these delightful rolls.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the filling and dough in advance so you can enjoy fresh rolls with minimal morning effort.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet apples, crunchy pecans, and warm cinnamon creates an irresistible treat that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls is easy with these simple and wholesome ingredients. Gather the following:

For the Dough

• 250g whole milk, lukewarm
• 50g granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 tsp active dried yeast
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 565g all-purpose flour
• 100g unsalted butter, at room temperature

For the Filling

• 850g – about four medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced small
• 30g unsalted butter
• 80g granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tbsp corn starch
• 125g pecan halves

For the Frosting

• 190g unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 280g brown sugar
• 2 tbsp plus 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp kosher salt
• 115g unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 225g cream cheese, at room temperature
• 250g powdered sugar, sifted
• 1-2 tbsp heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Dried Fruit: For an extra burst of flavor, toss in some raisins or cranberries with your apple filling.
• Try Different Nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts or hazelnuts for a unique twist on texture and taste.
• Experiment with Spices: Add nutmeg or ginger to your cinnamon filling for additional warmth and spice.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute the butter with plant-based alternatives and use almond milk instead of whole milk.

How to Make Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine lukewarm whole milk and granulated sugar. Sprinkle active dried yeast over it and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast, which helps your rolls rise beautifully!

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

Add eggs, kosher salt, and half of your flour into the yeast mixture. Mix until combined. Gradually add in the remaining flour while kneading until smooth. Letting this dough rest allows it to rise properly—resulting in soft rolls.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, melt unsalted butter. Stir in diced apples, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, kosher salt, corn starch, and cook until tender—about 10 minutes. This step creates a deliciously gooey filling that adds moisture and flavor to each roll.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

Roll out your dough into a rectangle on a floured surface. Spread softened butter evenly over it before sprinkling on brown sugar mixed with cinnamon. Top it off with your cooked apple filling and chopped pecans. Roll tightly into a log shape before slicing into individual rolls.

Step 5: Bake

Place your rolls in a greased baking dish and let them rise again for about 30 minutes while preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. The smell alone will have everyone rushing into the kitchen!

Step 6: Frosting Time!

While your rolls cool slightly, beat together room-temperature cream cheese and unsalted butter until fluffy. Gradually mix in powdered sugar and heavy whipping cream until smooth. Drizzle this luscious frosting over warm rolls for that final touch of sweetness.

Now gather around the table with family or friends—these Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls are ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips for Making Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Making these cinnamon rolls can be a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfect every time!

• Use Lukewarm Milk: Ensuring your milk is lukewarm (not hot!) helps activate the yeast without killing it, leading to perfectly fluffy rolls.
• Don’t Skip the Proofing: Allowing the dough to rise until it doubles in size is essential; this step gives your rolls their soft texture and airy structure.
• Chop Apples Small: Cutting the apples into small pieces ensures even cooking and distribution throughout the rolls, preventing any large chunks from overwhelming each bite.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature butter and eggs when mixing the dough assists with better incorporation and a smoother dough consistency.
• Generous Frosting: Don’t be shy with that cream cheese frosting! A generous drizzle not only adds sweetness but also makes the rolls extra decadent and visually appealing.

How to Serve Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls

These soft-baked apple cinnamon rolls are perfect for sharing, whether it’s at a cozy breakfast gathering or as a sweet treat after dinner. Present them warm, allowing everyone to indulge in their gooey goodness straight from the baking dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped Pecans: Sprinkle some chopped pecans on top of your frosted rolls for an added crunch that complements the gooey sweetness well.
• Cinnamon Dusting: A light dusting of ground cinnamon over the frosting can add a touch of flavor and make your rolls look even more appetizing.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of cinnamon rolls, balancing out your meal beautifully.
• Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layering Greek yogurt with granola and berries offers a protein-packed complement that enhances breakfast or brunch spread while adding different textures.
• Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs make for a hearty side that pairs well with the sweetness of the rolls, creating a satisfying meal that’s both sweet and savory.
• Coffee or Herbal Tea: Serving these rolls alongside a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea rounds out your breakfast experience with comforting warmth and flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious breakfast with minimal effort. You can prepare the components ahead of time, making your mornings more relaxed!

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing

• Allow the cinnamon rolls to cool completely.
• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, microwave the roll for about 30 seconds or until warmed through.
• For a freshly baked taste, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the rolls on a baking sheet, and bake for 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Got questions? Here are some common queries about Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls!

Can I make Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls without pecans?

Absolutely! You can simply omit the pecans or replace them with another nut or seed if desired. The rolls will still be delicious without them.

How do I store Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls?

Store your Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, keep them refrigerated.

Can I prepare the dough in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and filling ahead of time. Just assemble the rolls in the morning before baking for a warm breakfast.

What kind of apples work best in this recipe?

You can use any variety of apples that are good for baking such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. Their sweetness and texture will enhance your cinnamon rolls!

Final Thoughts

These Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls are not just a treat; they’re a delightful way to bring warmth and comfort to your kitchen. With their gooey filling and smooth frosting, they’re sure to be a hit during any gathering or cozy morning at home. I hope you enjoy making these rolls as much as I do! Happy baking!