There’s something truly special about homemade Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls. This recipe combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls with the delightful taste of apple pie, creating a treat that feels like a warm hug. I love to make these rolls on cozy weekends or for gatherings, filling the house with the sweet aroma of fresh-baked goodness. Each bite is a reminder of family traditions and laughter around the breakfast table. This tried-and-true favorite brings people together and is bound to impress anyone who gets a taste.

I remember making these with my mom, Eva. She would play classic tunes on her record player as we rolled out dough, laughing when we would accidentally drop apples on the floor. My Dad, James, always had a magical way of making sure we cleaned up our messes without fuss, turning those moments into cherished memories. Now, I love sharing this recipe with my sister, Jennifer, who is always eager to lend a hand.

Your Ingredients List

3/4 cup whole milk, heated to 110-120 degrees
1/3 cup plus 1 tsp. granulated sugar, divided
1 (1/4 oz.) packet active dry yeast
4 cups all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
6 Tbsp. unsalted butter, softened, plus more for bowl
1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
4 Honeycrisp apples, peeled, cored, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
2/3 cup packed light brown sugar
2 Tbsp. unsalted butter
1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp. kosher salt
1 1/4 cups water, divided
1 Tbsp. cornstarch
3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
10 Tbsp. unsalted butter, softened, divided
1/2 tsp. plus 1/8 tsp. kosher salt, divided
All-purpose flour, for dusting
2 oz. cream cheese, softened
1/2 tsp. pure vanilla extract
3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
2 Tbsp. whole milk

My Go-To Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Stand mixer
Skillet
Rolling pin
13×9 inch baking dish
Baking sheet
Whisk

The Simple Steps to Follow

In the large bowl of a stand mixer, stir the heated milk and 1 tsp. sugar.
Sprinkle yeast over the top and let sit until foamy, about 5 minutes.
Pour flour on top of the yeast mixture.
Add eggs, butter, salt, and remaining granulated sugar.
Mix on low speed until a rough dough forms; increase speed to medium-high and continue mixing until smooth and elastic, about 8 to 10 minutes.
Grease a large bowl with butter, transfer the dough, cover, and let it rise until doubled in size, about 60 to 75 minutes.
In a skillet over medium-high heat, bring apples, brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, salt, and 1 cup water to a simmer.
Reduce heat and cover, cooking until apples are softened (25-30 minutes).
Whisk cornstarch with 1/4 cup cold water; add to the apple mixture and cook until bubbling and thickened, about 30 seconds. Let cool completely.
Grease a 13×9 inch baking dish with butter.
Mix 3/4 cup brown sugar, 1 tsp. cinnamon, 8 Tbsp. butter, and 1/2 tsp. salt until smooth.
Roll out the dough into a 19×12 inch rectangle.
Spread the brown sugar mixture on top and then add the apple pie filling.
Roll tightly into a log, trim the ends, and cut into 12 pieces.
Arrange rolls cut side up in the prepared dish.
Cover and let sit at room temperature until puffy, about 25-35 minutes while preheating the oven to 350 degrees.
Bake rolls for 30-35 minutes until golden brown. Tent with foil if getting too dark.
In a bowl, mix cream cheese, vanilla, remaining butter, and salt.
Add confectioners’ sugar and milk, stir until smooth.
Let rolls cool for 5 minutes and drizzle with the cream cheese glaze. Serve warm.

Healthy Twists on a Classic

If you’re looking to make these rolls a bit healthier, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. This change will add more fiber and nutrients to the rolls. You can also cut down on the sugar by using less brown sugar in both the filling and glaze. Using a sugar substitute for the cream cheese glaze, like Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of honey, can give you that creamy texture while keeping calories in check.

Serving Suggestions From My Table

I love to serve Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls warm from the oven, drizzled with the cream cheese glaze. A sprinkle of extra cinnamon on top adds a nice touch. You can pair these rolls with a warm cup of coffee or chai tea to balance out the sweetness. For special occasions, adding a dollop of whipped cream on top takes these rolls to another level. Sometimes, I’ll serve them alongside fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.

Getting It Just Right

To ensure your Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls turn out perfectly, keep an eye on the dough during its rise. It should roughly double in size. The temperature of your milk is also crucial. Too hot can kill the yeast, and too cool will prevent it from activating. When baking, every oven behaves differently, so check them a few minutes before the recommended bake time to make sure they don’t overcook.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any rolls left, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. You can also refrigerate the rolls for longer storage. To reheat, a microwave works well, but a brief time in the oven can help retain the texture. Simply keep them covered with foil and warm at 350 degrees for about 10 minutes.

Enjoy Every Moment

Baking is as much about the journey as it is about the final result. Enjoy the process of making these Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls, from measuring out the ingredients to savoring the first bite with loved ones. Remember, it’s the little moments shared over food that create lasting memories.

A Few Common Questions

What is the best type of apple for Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls?

I suggest using Honeycrisp apples for this recipe because they hold their shape well during cooking and offer a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. However, you can also mix in Granny Smith apples for a tart kick or use your favorite varieties.

Can I make the dough ahead of time and store it for later?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then punch it down and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling it out. If you want to go further, you can freeze the rolled and cut rolls. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before baking.

How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

To check for doneness, look for a golden-brown color and a firm structure. You can also tap the bottom of a roll; if it sounds hollow, it is likely fully cooked. Using a toothpick, insert it into the center of a roll; if it comes out clean, they are done.

If you’re in the mood for more delicious treats, check out our Peach Pie Cinnamon Rolls or indulge in some Apple Cider Whoopie Pies for another flavor twist. And when you’re ready for a delightful banana treat, don’t miss our Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting!

Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Author: sarah
Total Time: 90 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Delicious homemade cinnamon rolls infused with the flavors of apple pie for a comforting treat.

Ingredients

Scale

3/4 cup whole milk, heated to 110-120°F
1/3 cup plus 1 tsp. granulated sugar, divided
1 (1/4 oz.) packet active dry yeast
4 cups all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
6 Tbsp. unsalted butter, softened, plus more for bowl
1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
4 Honeycrisp apples, peeled, cored, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
2/3 cup packed light brown sugar
2 Tbsp. unsalted butter
1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp. kosher salt
1 1/4 cups water, divided
1 Tbsp. cornstarch
3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
10 Tbsp. unsalted butter, softened, divided
1/2 tsp. plus 1/8 tsp. kosher salt, divided
All-purpose flour, for dusting
2 oz. cream cheese, softened
1/2 tsp. pure vanilla extract
3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
2 Tbsp. whole milk

Instructions

In the large bowl of a stand mixer, stir the heated milk and 1 tsp. sugar.
Sprinkle yeast over the top and let sit until foamy, about 5 minutes.
Pour flour on top of the yeast mixture.
Add eggs, butter, salt, and remaining granulated sugar.
Mix on low speed until a rough dough forms; increase speed to medium-high and continue mixing until smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes.
Grease a large bowl with butter, transfer the dough, cover, and let it rise until doubled in size, about 60-75 minutes.
In a skillet over medium-high heat, bring apples, brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, salt, and 1 cup water to a simmer.
Reduce heat and cover, cooking until apples are softened (25-30 minutes).
Whisk cornstarch with 1/4 cup cold water; add to the apple mixture and cook until bubbling and thickened, about 30 seconds. Let cool completely.
Grease a 13×9 inch baking dish with butter.
Mix 3/4 cup brown sugar, 1 tsp. cinnamon, 8 Tbsp. butter, and 1/2 tsp. salt until smooth.
Roll out the dough into a 19×12 inch rectangle.
Spread the brown sugar mixture on top and then add the apple pie filling.
Roll tightly into a log, trim the ends, and cut into 12 pieces.
Arrange rolls cut side up in the prepared dish.
Cover and let sit at room temperature until puffy, about 25-35 minutes while preheating the oven to 350°F.
Bake rolls for 30-35 minutes until golden brown. Tent with foil if getting too dark.
In a bowl, mix cream cheese, vanilla, remaining butter, and salt.
Add confectioners’ sugar and milk, stir until smooth.
Let rolls cool for 5 minutes and drizzle with the cream cheese glaze. Serve warm.

Notes

Enjoy warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a side of coffee or tea.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 75 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 roll
Calories: 320
Sugar: 25g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: apple pie, cinnamon rolls, dessert, baking, comfort food