Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

If you’re craving a treat that perfectly blends the comforting warmth of cinnamon rolls with the classic, nostalgic flavor of apple pie, you’ve just found your new obsession: Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls. These heavenly rolls offer tender, yeasty dough swirled with a luscious cinnamon filling, pockets of soft, spiced apple, and a melt-in-your-mouth cream cheese frosting that ties everything together. Whether you’re making breakfast for family or looking to wow guests, this recipe transforms two beloved desserts into one irresistible experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls lies in their simplicity and quality ingredients. Each component works in harmony—the tart apples balance the sweet and spicy cinnamon, while the soft dough provides a perfect fluffy canvas; not to mention the rich, creamy frosting that adds indulgence in every bite.

• 7 large apples, peeled & diced: Fresh apples provide natural sweetness and texture to the filling.
• 1/4 cup salted butter (56 grams): Adds richness to the apple mixture and dough.
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed (110 grams): Gives the filling a deep caramel note.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice: Brightens the apple flavor and balances sweetness.
• 2 and 1/2 tsp cinnamon (6 grams): Offers that signature warm spice essential for Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls.
• 1 tsp nutmeg (3 grams): Enhances the aromatic profile of the filling.
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves: Adds a subtle, spicy depth.
• 1/4 tsp allspices: Complements the other spices beautifully.
• Pinch of salt: Balances the flavors and amplifies sweetness.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a lovely roundness and warmth.
• 2 tsp corn starch: Thickens the apple filling perfectly.
• 2 tsp water: Helps activate the cornstarch for thickening.
• 1/2 cup salted butter, melted, 115℉ (113 grams): Key for the dough’s tender crumb.
• 1 cup warm milk, 115℉ (240 mL): Activates the yeast and hydrates the dough.
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten and at room temperature: Enrich the dough and provide structure.
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar (70 grams): Sweetens the dough subtly without overpowering.
• 2 and 1/2 tsp instant yeast (9 grams): The magic behind the dough’s rise and fluffiness.
• 3/4 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dough.
• 4 cups + 1 tbsp all-purpose flour, spooned & leveled or weighed (528 grams): The sturdy base of the dough.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (33 grams): Used for the topping and dusting.
• 1/2 cup old-fashioned whole rolled oats (52 grams): Creates the crispy topping’s delightful texture.
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed (55 grams): Sweetens the topping nicely.
• 1/8 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness in the topping.
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon: Adds warmth to the crumble topping.
• 1/4 cup salted butter, cold (56 grams): Chilled butter creates that perfect crumbly topping.
• 1/2 cup salted butter, very softened: Used in the cinnamon filling for richness.
• 3/4 cup dark brown sugar, packed (165 grams): Adds deep, molasses flavor to the filling.
• 2 tsp cinnamon: Essential spice in the cinnamon filling.
• Pinch of salt: Keeps the filling balanced.
• 2 tbsp boiled apple cider: Adds an incredible natural sweetness and apple flavor boost.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Rounds out the filling’s flavor.
• 2 tbsp heavy cream: Adds creaminess and richness to the filling.
• 1/2 cup salted butter, softened (113 grams): Used for the sauce.
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed (165 grams): Sweetens the apple cider caramel sauce wonderfully.
• 2 tbsp cinnamon: Deepens the spice in the caramel sauce.
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg: Warmth to the sauce’s flavor profile.
• Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness in the sauce.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds richness to the sauce.
• 1/3 cup heavy cream: For pouring over rolls before baking, creating a tender crumb.
• 6 ounces cream cheese, softened (170 grams): For the luscious frosting.
• 1 cup powdered sugar (115 grams): Sweetens the frosting perfectly.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Complements the cream cheese frosting.
• Pinch of salt: Balances the frosting’s sweetness.
• 1/8 tsp cinnamon (adjust to taste): Ties the frosting’s flavor to the cinnamon rolls beautifully.
• 2-3 tbsp milk or heavy cream: Adjusts frosting consistency to your liking.

How to Make Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Make the Apple Filling & Topping

Start by combining all the apple filling ingredients in a medium pan over medium-high heat. Stir the mixture lazily for 8 to 10 minutes until the apples soften just to your preferred tenderness. Keep an eye on the liquid; if it dries out, splash in a little more cider or water so the filling stays saucy and luscious. If you want the filling thicker like the gorgeous photos, mix cornstarch and water until smooth, then stir it in and cook for another minute to get those perfect, thick apple pockets you’ll adore in your rolls. This step can be done ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic time-saver.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough and Let It Rise

In your stand mixer bowl, whisk the melted butter, warm milk, eggs, sugar, yeast, and salt until combined. Swap to the paddle attachment and gradually add the flour. Mix on low until it looks shaggy and wet—this is exactly what you want. Let it rest for 5 minutes to hydrate the flour properly, then switch to the dough hook and knead on a low setting for 5-7 minutes. The dough will become smoother but stay slightly slack and elastic. Transfer to a clean, sprayed bowl and cover to rise for about an hour, or until it doubles in size and your fingertip leaves an indent. This rising time is essential for that fluffy, tender dough that makes Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls so spectacular.

Step 3: Create the Crisp Topping

Preheat your oven to 350℉ and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Whisk the flour, oats, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon together. Cut the cold butter into little chunks, then use a pastry blender or forks to work it into the dry mixture until crumbly. Spread the crumble evenly on the sheet and bake for 12-16 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent burning. This crunchy topping adds an irresistible contrast to the soft rolls.

Step 4: Make the Apple Cider Caramel Sauce

Combine the sauce ingredients in a medium bowl and beat until well mixed. Spray a 9×13-inch pan with nonstick spray and spread the caramel sauce evenly on the bottom. This sticky, flavorful foundation will infuse every bite with deep, buttery apple goodness.

Step 5: Whip Up the Cinnamon Filling

Beat all the cinnamon filling ingredients in the same medium bowl until thick and creamy. This rich, spiced filling is the heart of the rolls and what makes Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls stand out from ordinary cinnamon rolls.

Step 6: Assemble the Rolls

Flour your work surface generously and roll out the risen dough to a large rectangle about 14 by 22 inches. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough with an offset spatula, then add dollops of the apple filling on top. Carefully slice the dough into strips about 1 3/4 inches wide, then roll each strip into a tight spiral. For smaller strips on the edges, combine two by rolling one around the other—this helps everything bake evenly. Place these rolls snugly in your prepared pan over the apple cider caramel sauce. Cover with a towel and let them rise again for 30-40 minutes until puffed and ready.

Step 7: Bake the Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Before sliding the rolls into the preheated 350℉ oven, pour room temperature heavy cream over and between them. This trick gives the rolls extra moisture and tenderness. Bake for 40-46 minutes until they’re beautifully golden and an instant-read thermometer reads about 205 to 210℉ in the center. The combination of that golden crust, gooey apple pockets, and soft dough is pure magic.

Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Mix the frosting ingredients until creamy and smooth. If you prefer a thinner glaze, add milk or heavy cream gradually, but if you want thick, luxurious frosting to dollop generously, keep it a little stiffer. The slight cinnamon in the frosting perfectly complements the roll’s spiced filling, tying all the flavors together gorgeously.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked and slightly cooled, slather the warm rolls with frosting, then top with more apple filling and a generous sprinkle of your crispy crumble. Serve immediately for the best experience and watch everyone fall in love bite by bite.

How to Serve Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Garnishes

To elevate your Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls presentation, try sprinkling extra crumble or chopped toasted pecans on top. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a pretty, snowy effect, and a drizzle of warm caramel sauce can take these treats into pure indulgence territory.

Side Dishes

Pair these rolls with strong, freshly brewed coffee, chai tea, or a cinnamon-spiced latte for a café-style experience at home. For a brunch gathering, serve alongside scrambled eggs or fresh fruit salad to balance the sweetness and make it a more substantial meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, bake the rolls in individual muffin tins for personalized servings, or create a pull-apart style bread by placing them side-by-side in a round pan. If you want to impress guests, serve warm rolls with a dollop of homemade whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days. To keep them moist, reheat gently and cover partially while warming.

Freezing

These rolls freeze beautifully! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil or use freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat rolls in a 350℉ oven for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave individually for 20-30 seconds to enjoy them warm, soft, and freshly baked tasting all over again.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples for the filling?

Absolutely! Varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work beautifully. Just choose apples that hold their shape well during cooking for the best texture.

Is it okay to make the dough and filling ahead of time?

Yes! The apple filling can be made up to three days in advance and refrigerated, and the dough can be prepared the day before and kept in the fridge, just be sure to bring it to room temperature before rising.

What if I don’t have a stand mixer?

You can mix and knead the dough by hand! It will take a bit of elbow grease, about 8-10 minutes kneading on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.

How can I make the rolls extra gooey?

Pouring the heavy cream over the rolls before baking is key for extra gooeyness, plus don’t skip the apple cider caramel sauce—it’s pure liquid gold.

Can these Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls be made vegan?

With some ingredient swaps like plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and egg replacers, you can adapt this recipe for vegan diets, though the texture and flavor will be slightly different.

Final Thoughts

Making Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls is like bringing a warm hug straight from the oven to your kitchen. They’re a crowd-pleaser that blends cozy flavors and textures into one unforgettable bite. I promise once you bake these, they’ll become a cherished staple for holidays, weekend breakfasts, or whenever you need a sweet moment of joy. Give this recipe a try—you’ll be so glad you did.

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