Apple Cinnamon Soft Rolls (Print)

Fluffy cinnamon rolls packed with apples and topped with creamy vanilla glaze. Delicious for breakfast or dessert.

# Components:

→ Dough

01 - 4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
03 - 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
04 - 1/3 cup granulated sugar
05 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
06 - 1 large egg
07 - 1 teaspoon salt

→ Filling

08 - 2 cups peeled, diced apples (about 2 medium apples)
09 - 2/3 cup brown sugar, packed
10 - 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
11 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

→ Glaze

12 - 1 cup powdered sugar
13 - 2 tablespoons milk
14 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

# Method:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk with one tablespoon of sugar. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
02 - Add remaining sugar, melted butter, egg, and salt to the bowl. Stir until fully incorporated.
03 - Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead by hand or using a dough hook for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
04 - Transfer dough to a greased bowl, cover, and let rest in a warm area for 1 hour, or until doubled in volume.
05 - In a separate bowl, combine diced apples with brown sugar and ground cinnamon; set aside.
06 - Punch down the risen dough and roll it out onto a lightly floured surface to a 16x12 inch rectangle.
07 - Spread the softened butter evenly over the rolled dough. Distribute the apple mixture over the surface.
08 - Starting from one long side, roll dough tightly into a log. Cut into 12 equal sections.
09 - Arrange slices cut-side up in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Cover loosely and let rise for 30 minutes.
10 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake for 25 to 28 minutes until tops are golden brown.
11 - While rolls are baking, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
12 - Drizzle glaze generously over warm rolls before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses basic pantry staples and easy to find fresh apples
  • Soft pillowy texture with a comforting spiced filling
  • Perfect for breakfast dessert or holiday mornings
  • Can be made ahead for a stress free treat
02 -
  • High in cozy comforting flavors
  • Can be prepared ahead and baked in the morning
  • Suitable for vegetarians with simple swap options for dairy
03 -
  • Make sure to measure flour by spooning and leveling for the softest dough
  • Use the freshest apples you can find firm crisp apples taste best
  • Let the glaze soak into the rolls while they are still a little warm for maximum gooeyness

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