Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Name: Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 rolls
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast; 1/2 cup milk, warmed; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp salt; 2 cups apples, peeled and diced; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2-3 tbsp milk

Highlighted under: Deluxe Baking Inspirations

Delight in the warm, gooey goodness of homemade Apple Cinnamon Rolls topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for breakfast or dessert!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-04T21:37:51.561Z

These Apple Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Bursting with spiced apples and topped with a creamy frosting, they bring comfort and joy to any table.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Warm, fluffy rolls filled with sweet apple and cinnamon
Creamy frosting that adds the perfect finishing touch
Great for sharing with family and friends

      

The Perfect Breakfast Treat

Apple Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful way to start your day. They combine the comforting flavors of warm, spiced apples and fresh cinnamon, making them an irresistible breakfast option. Whether paired with a cup of coffee or enjoyed on their own, these rolls will fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that beckons everyone to the table.

The fluffy texture of the dough, coupled with the gooey filling and rich cream cheese frosting, creates a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Each bite is a delightful combination of sweet and savory, making these rolls a fantastic choice for breakfast gatherings or casual brunches.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Apple Cinnamon Rolls are not just for breakfast; they are versatile enough to be served as a dessert or a delicious snack at any time of the day. Their beautiful presentation and mouthwatering taste make them a hit at family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or even just a cozy Sunday at home.

The ease of preparation also makes these rolls a favorite for those new to baking. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can impress your friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the joy of pulling a warm tray of cinnamon rolls out of the oven is unmatched.

Storage and Serving Tips

If you happen to have any leftover Apple Cinnamon Rolls, storing them properly can ensure they stay fresh and delicious. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze. They can last up to three months in the freezer, ready to be thawed and enjoyed later.

When serving, consider warming the rolls slightly in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back that fresh-out-of-the-oven warmth. A light drizzle of additional cream cheese frosting on top just before serving can elevate their appeal and flavor, making each bite even more indulgent.

Ingredients

Dough

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1/2 cup milk, warmed
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 tsp salt

Filling

2 cups apples, peeled and diced
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 tsp ground cinnamon
2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

Frosting

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2-3 tbsp milk

Mix all the ingredients thoroughly for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. Add melted butter, eggs, and salt.

Gradually add flour, mixing until a dough forms. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth, then cover and let rise for 1 hour.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter until well combined.

Roll and Fill

Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the dough, then roll tightly into a log. Slice into 12 equal pieces.

Bake

Place the rolls in a greased baking dish and let rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25 minutes until golden brown.

Prepare the Frosting

While the rolls are baking, beat together cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until smooth. Add milk to reach desired consistency.

Frost and Serve

Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool slightly before spreading the cream cheese frosting on top. Serve warm and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious homemade apple cinnamon rolls!

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results, make sure your ingredients, especially the milk and butter, are at the right temperature. Using warm milk (not hot) helps activate the yeast properly, leading to a fluffy dough. Similarly, allowing the dough to rise in a warm environment will help it double in size, ensuring your rolls are light and airy.

When rolling out the dough, aim for an even thickness to ensure uniform baking. If you find the dough is too sticky, a light dusting of flour on your work surface can help prevent it from sticking.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with the filling! Adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can provide a delightful crunch and additional flavor. Alternatively, you can incorporate dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries for a sweet twist.

For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the filling. This can enhance the overall flavor profile and take these rolls to the next level, making them even more enjoyable for spice lovers.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, you can use store-bought dough to save time, but homemade dough will yield a better texture.

→ What type of apples are best for this recipe?

Sweet-tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work wonderfully for added flavor.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls the night before, refrigerate them, and bake in the morning.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.