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There's something undeniably comforting about the scent of fresh-baked goods wafting through your home, especially when those goods take the form of warm, gooey apple cinnamon rolls. This delightful treat combines the sweetness of apples with the warm spices of cinnamon, all enveloped in a soft dough and topped with luscious cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply indulge in a cozy weekend morning, these apple cinnamon rolls are sure to bring joy and satisfaction.

Irresistible Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulge in the cozy flavors of homemade apple cinnamon rolls topped with luscious cream cheese frosting! This delightful recipe features soft, fluffy dough filled with sweet, spiced apples that create the perfect breakfast treat or dessert. With easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have 12 irresistible rolls ready to enjoy in just a few hours. Pair them with your favorite coffee or tea for the ultimate comfort experience. Perfect for sharing or savoring all by yourself!

Ingredients
  

For the Dough:

4 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup granulated sugar

2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup whole milk, warmed (110°F)

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Filling:

2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced (preferably Granny Smith)

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/2 cup brown sugar

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

2 cups powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2-3 tablespoons milk (adjust for consistency)

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Instructions
 

Make the Dough:

    - In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt.

      - In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.

        - Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

          Let it Rise:

            - Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for 1-1.5 hours or until it has doubled in size.

              Prepare the Filling:

                - While the dough is rising, toss the diced apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a medium bowl. Set aside.

                  Roll out the Dough:

                    - Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll out the dough into a rectangle approximately 16x12 inches.

                      Assemble the Rolls:

                        - Spread the softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough. Evenly sprinkle the apple mixture over the buttered dough, making sure to distribute the apples well.

                          - Starting from one long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seams to seal.

                            Cut the Rolls:

                              - Cut the log into 12 equal slices (about 1.5 inches each). Place them into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, leaving space between each roll.

                                Second Rise:

                                  - Cover the rolls with a cloth and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.

                                    Bake:

                                      - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

                                        Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:

                                          - While the rolls are baking, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together in a bowl until smooth. Gradually add in powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well. Add milk 1 tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

                                            Frost and Serve:

                                              - Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for about 10 minutes before drizzling the cream cheese frosting generously over the top.

                                                Enjoy:

                                                  - Serve warm, and enjoy these irresistible apple cinnamon rolls with a cup of coffee or tea!

                                                    Prep Time: 30 mins | Total Time: 3 hrs | Servings: 12