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When the chill of autumn sets in and the leaves begin to turn, there’s nothing quite as comforting as the aroma of freshly baked apple cinnamon rolls wafting through the kitchen. These delightful pastries, with their warm spices and gooey apple filling, evoke a sense of nostalgia that transports us back to family gatherings and cozy mornings spent around the breakfast table. The combination of tender, pillowy dough, sweet juicy apples, and a luscious cream cheese frosting makes these rolls irresistible to both young and old alike.

Irresistible Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulge in these irresistible apple cinnamon rolls topped with creamy frosting! With a soft, fluffy dough and a sweet apple filling spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, they make the perfect treat for breakfast or dessert. The delicious cream cheese frosting takes them to the next level. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, these rolls will quickly become a family favorite. Try this comforting recipe and enjoy warm, gooey goodness!

Ingredients
  

For the Dough:

4 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast

1 tsp salt

1/2 cup whole milk, warmed

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 large eggs

For the Filling:

3 medium apples, peeled and chopped (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work well)

1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

2 tsp ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp nutmeg

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

2 cups powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

2-3 tbsp heavy cream (adjust for desired consistency)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix the warm milk, melted butter, and eggs. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until a dough forms.

    Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour until doubled in size.

      Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix the chopped apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.

        Roll out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle approximately 18x12 inches.

          Add the Filling: Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough rectangle, and then sprinkle the apple mixture across the dough.

            Form the Rolls: Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased 9x13 baking dish.

              Second Rise: Cover the rolls with a cloth and let them rise again for about 30-40 minutes, until puffed up.

                Bake the Rolls: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top.

                  Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Add heavy cream one tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

                    Frost and Serve: Once the rolls are out of the oven, allow them to cool slightly before drizzling the cream cheese frosting over the top. Serve warm and enjoy!

                      Prep Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes | Servings: 12 rolls.