Delicious Apple Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Looking for a delightful twist on classic cinnamon rolls? Look no further than these Easy Apple Cinnamon Rolls! Perfect for fall mornings or special occasions, these rolls are a true crowd-pleaser. The secret lies in the apple cider reduction that adds a burst of flavor to both the dough and the luscious frosting.

Last autumn, I discovered this recipe while searching for a way to use up a surplus of apples from a local orchard. The sweet aroma of apple and cinnamon wafting through the kitchen is sure to draw in friends and family, just like it did with my neighbor who couldn’t resist staying for coffee. These rolls have a way of bringing loved ones together and creating unforgettable moments around the table.

Whether you serve them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these apple cinnamon rolls are sure to become a new family favorite. The extra steps and ingredients are well worth it, as attested by my father-in-law, who couldn’t get enough of them. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to bake a batch of these irresistible treats that are bound to become a cherished tradition in your home.

Quick Benefits

• Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of apple cider reduction in the dough and frosting, along with the gooey apple butter filling, creates a truly extraordinary flavor that sets these cinnamon rolls apart.
• Crowd-Pleasing: These apple cinnamon rolls have a magical way of bringing people together around the table, making them perfect for family gatherings, brunches, or special occasions.
• Versatile: Serve warm for a cozy fall breakfast, pair with savory dishes for brunch, or enjoy as a dessert with ice cream. They are a versatile treat suitable for any occasion.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the rolls in advance, refrigerate overnight, and bake in the morning for a stress-free breakfast. The apple cider reduction and filling can also be made ahead, making the morning assembly quicker.

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Apple Cinnamon Rolls Recipe Recipe

• Perfect Fall Treat: The combination of apple cider reduction, apple butter filling, and warm spices in these rolls captures the essence of autumn in every bite.
• Impressive Flavor Profile: The unique ingredients like apple cider reduction and apple butter elevate these cinnamon rolls to a whole new level, making them stand out from traditional recipes.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These rolls have been tried and loved by friends and family, proving to be a hit at gatherings and family events. They bring people together around the table with their irresistible aroma and flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Whether enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these apple cinnamon rolls are a versatile treat that can be savored on various occasions and paired with different dishes.
• Make-Ahead Option: With the option to prepare the rolls ahead of time and refrigerate overnight, these cinnamon rolls are perfect for busy mornings or special occasions, allowing you to enjoy a freshly baked treat without the stress.
• Family Tradition: The recipe has become a beloved tradition in the author’s family, with members requesting these rolls for special occasions and creating lasting memories around the table.

Ingredients for Delicious Apple Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Apple Cider Reduction

• 3 cups fresh apple cider

Apple Cider Dough

• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 cup warm whole milk (about 110°F)
• ½ tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ½ cup very soft unsalted butter
• 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
• 4¾ cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar for blooming yeast
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• 2 large eggs, whisked
• ¼ cup apple cider reduction

Apple Butter Filling

• ⅓ cup apple butter
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1½ tablespoons ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
• ¼ cup heavy cream, room temperature (for between rolls)
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• ½ cup very soft unsalted butter
• Pinch of salt

Apple Cider Cream Cheese Frosting

• ¼ cup apple cider reduction
• 6 tablespoons very soft unsalted butter
• 6 ounces cold cream cheese
• 1½ cups powdered sugar

How to Make Delicious Apple Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Make the Apple Cider Reduction

Simmer apple cider in a saucepan over medium-low heat for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until reduced to ½ cup. Transfer to a measuring cup and let cool completely before using.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 teaspoon sugar in a small bowl. Allow to sit for 10 minutes until foamy. In a large stand mixer bowl with whisk attachment, mix flour, spices, salt, and 2 tablespoons sugar. Add eggs, butter, vanilla, then incorporate yeast mixture and ¼ cup cider reduction. Switch to dough hook and knead for 7-10 minutes until dough forms a ball and springs back when pressed.

Step 3: First Rise

Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel, and allow to rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 ½ hours until it doubles in size.

Step 4: Make the Filling

Combine soft butter, brown sugar, spices, salt, and apple butter in a small bowl until well mixed while the dough is rising.

Step 5: Shape and Fill Rolls

Prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish. Deflate the risen dough, roll out on a floured surface to a 18×12 inch rectangle, about ¼ inch thick. Evenly spread filling over dough, then tightly roll into a log. Cut into 12 rolls, approximately 1½ inches wide, using unflavored floss or a sharp knife.

Step 6: Second Rise

Arrange rolls in baking dish, pour room temperature heavy cream over them, cover with plastic wrap, and allow to rise in a warm place for approximately 1 hour until doubled in size.

Step 7: Bake the Rolls

Preheat oven to 350°F and bake rolls for 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown.

Step 8: Make the Frosting

Beat softened butter until fluffy. Add cream cheese and mix until combined. Gradually sift in powdered sugar on low speed. Mix in ¼ cup apple cider reduction until smooth.

Step 9: Frost and Serve

Allow rolls to cool for 5 minutes before spreading with cream cheese frosting while still warm. Serve immediately for optimal enjoyment.

Storage Tips

To store the finished apple cinnamon rolls, you can cover them tightly and refrigerate them overnight after cutting and placing them in the pan. When ready to bake, remove them from the refrigerator about 1-2 hours before baking to allow them to come to room temperature and complete their second rise. This method ensures that you can prepare the rolls in advance and have freshly baked cinnamon rolls ready in the morning without the hassle of starting from scratch.

Additionally, the apple cider reduction, which adds a delicious flavor to both the dough and frosting, can be made up to a week ahead and stored in the refrigerator. This allows you to have the reduction ready to use whenever you plan to make these apple cinnamon rolls. For special occasions or to save time on busy mornings, consider preparing the apple cider reduction and filling a day ahead so that the morning assembly process is quicker and more convenient. By planning ahead and utilizing these storage tips, you can enjoy these delightful apple cinnamon rolls whenever you desire, whether for a cozy family breakfast, holiday gathering, or as a special treat for your loved ones.

Ingredient Substitutions

For the Easy Apple Cinnamon Rolls recipe, you can make a few ingredient substitutions based on availability or dietary preferences. If you don’t have fresh apple cider, you can use applesauce or apple juice as a replacement. This will still give the rolls a delicious apple flavor. Additionally, if you prefer a different type of milk or have a dietary restriction, you can use almond milk or soy milk instead of whole milk in the recipe. This substitution will work well in the dough and won’t significantly alter the taste of the rolls.

In the filling, if you’re looking to reduce the sweetness or want a different flavor profile, you can replace the apple butter with pumpkin butter or apricot preserves. This swap will give the rolls a unique twist while still providing a fruity and spiced filling. Moreover, for the cream cheese frosting, if you’re lactose intolerant or prefer a dairy-free option, you can use a vegan cream cheese alternative and plant-based butter. This substitution will still give the rolls a creamy and tangy frosting without the use of dairy products.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion with these delicious apple cinnamon rolls, try turning them into a decadent dessert by slicing them into thick pieces and lightly toasting them. Serve them warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of warm caramel sauce for an irresistible treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Another fun idea is to create a DIY cinnamon roll bar for your next brunch gathering. Set out a variety of toppings such as chopped nuts, dried fruit, mini chocolate chips, and different flavored drizzles like caramel and chocolate. Let your guests customize their apple cinnamon rolls with their favorite toppings for a fun and interactive dining experience that everyone will enjoy.

FAQs for Delicious Apple Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Can I make the apple cider reduction ahead of time?

Yes, the apple cider reduction can be made up to a week ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Making it ahead of time can help streamline the preparation process when you’re ready to bake the cinnamon rolls.

Can I refrigerate the rolls overnight before baking?

Yes, you can prepare the rolls through cutting and placing them in the pan, then cover tightly and refrigerate overnight. Before baking, allow them to come to room temperature for 1-2 hours to complete their second rise. This make-ahead step can save time in the morning and still result in delicious freshly baked rolls.

Can I make the filling and frosting a day ahead?

Absolutely! For special occasions, you can make the filling and frosting a day ahead of time. Preparing these components in advance can help speed up the assembly process on the morning you plan to bake the rolls, allowing you to enjoy freshly baked apple cinnamon rolls with less stress.

What’s the best way to serve these apple cinnamon rolls?

These apple cinnamon rolls are best served warm. Enjoy them with a steaming mug of apple cider or coffee for a cozy fall breakfast. They also make a delightful dessert when slightly warmed and topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pair them with a savory dish for brunch or savor them on a lazy weekend morning with the Sunday paper.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Easy Apple Cinnamon Rolls have truly become a beloved tradition in my home and have brought so much joy to those who have tried them. The enticing aroma of apple and cinnamon wafting through the house as they bake is just the beginning of the delight these rolls bring. Whether shared with neighbors, enjoyed at a festive gathering, or savored quietly on a lazy morning, these rolls have a way of creating unforgettable moments and cherished memories.

So, go ahead and give these Easy Apple Cinnamon Rolls a try. Embrace the process, enjoy the journey of making them, and relish in the smiles they bring to those around your table. May these rolls become a favorite in your home as well, uniting loved ones and creating new traditions one delicious bite at a time. Happy baking and savoring these scrumptious treats!