Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of apples with the warm spices of cinnamon. Perfect for any occasion, these rolls make an excellent addition to your holiday breakfast or brunch table. Their gooey texture and rich cream cheese frosting set them apart from regular cinnamon rolls, making them a standout dessert that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of apples, cinnamon, and pecans creates a mouthwatering taste that is hard to resist.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the filling and dough in advance, allowing for quick assembly in the morning.
• Perfect for Gatherings: These rolls are perfect for Thanksgiving or any family gathering, ensuring there’s enough to share.
• Customizable: Feel free to add other nuts or spices to personalize your rolls further.
• Gooey Texture: The soft-baked nature ensures each bite is moist and delicious.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes baking so much easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to create these Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowls
• Baking dish
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing dough, ensuring it’s well combined.
• Rolling pin: Helps achieve an even thickness when rolling out the dough for uniform baking.
• Baking dish: Provides a perfect environment for the rolls to rise and brown evenly.

Ingredients

These Apple Pecan Cinnamon Rolls are super gooey and delicious. They are filled with a cinnamon brown sugar filling, a cooked apple pie filling, and toasted pecans. They are then finished off with a smooth cream cheese frosting. The components for these Cinnamon Rolls can be made ahead of time, meaning the rolls just need to be assembled in the morning for the perfect Thanksgiving breakfast!

Dough Ingredients

• 250g whole milk, lukewarm
• 50g Granulated Sugar
• 2 1/4 tsp active dried yeast
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 565g All-Purpose Flour
• 100g Unsalted Butter, at room temperature

Apple Filling Ingredients

• 850g – about four medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced small
• 30g Unsalted Butter
• 80g Granulated Sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp Kosher salt
• 1 Tbsp Corn starch
• 125g Pecan Halves

Cinnamon Sugar Filling Ingredients

• 190g Unsalted Butter, at room temperature
• 280g Brown Sugar
• 2 Tbsp plus 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp Kosher salt

Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients

• 115g Unsalted Butter, at room temperature
• 225g Cream Cheese, at room temperature
• 250g Powdered Sugar, sifted
• 1-2 Tbsp Heavy Whipping Cream
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt

How to Make Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine lukewarm milk and granulated sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Add eggs, salt, flour, and softened butter into the bowl.
3. Mix on low speed until combined, then increase speed to medium and knead until smooth.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1 hour).

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

1. In a skillet over medium heat, melt unsalted butter.
2. Add diced apples, sugar, cinnamon, kosher salt, and corn starch. Cook until apples are tender (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Stir in pecan halves; remove from heat and let cool.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Once dough has risen, punch it down on a floured surface.
3. Roll it out into a rectangle (about 18×12 inches) with a rolling pin.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

1. Spread softened butter over rolled-out dough evenly.
2. Sprinkle brown sugar mixture across the surface followed by ground cinnamon.
3. Evenly distribute apple filling over this layer.

Step 5: Roll Up and Cut

1. Tightly roll up the dough from one long edge to another.
2. Cut into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss.

Step 6: Bake

1. Place cut rolls into a greased baking dish with space between them.
2. Cover with plastic wrap; let rise again for about 30 minutes.
3. Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

Step 7: Frost

1. While rolls bake, prepare cream cheese frosting by beating together unsalted butter and cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually mix in powdered sugar until fully incorporated; add whipping cream as needed for consistency.
3. Once rolls have cooled slightly, spread frosting generously on top.

Enjoy your freshly baked Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls!

How to Serve Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Serving Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls is an enjoyable experience that can be tailored to fit any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy morning at home or a festive gathering, these rolls are sure to impress.

Enjoy with Coffee

• Pair your cinnamon rolls with freshly brewed coffee for a delightful breakfast treat.

Add Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside sliced strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing contrast to the sweet rolls.

Drizzle Extra Frosting

• For those with a sweet tooth, add an extra drizzle of cream cheese frosting on top for added indulgence.

Sprinkle Extra Cinnamon

• A light dusting of ground cinnamon enhances the aroma and flavor of the rolls.

Serve with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream on the side makes for a rich and creamy accompaniment.

How to Perfect Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls

To achieve the perfect Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature helps create a smoother dough and frosting.

• Knead thoroughly: Kneading the dough until it’s smooth and elastic will yield softer rolls.

• Don’t rush the rising time: Allowing the dough to rise fully helps create airy and fluffy cinnamon rolls.

• Check oven temperature: An accurate oven temperature ensures even baking. Use an oven thermometer if needed.

• Experiment with filling: Feel free to mix in other spices like nutmeg or use different nuts based on your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Pairing your Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and balance out the sweetness of the rolls.

2. Bacon Strips: Crispy bacon adds a savory crunch that complements the soft sweetness of cinnamon rolls beautifully.

3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a healthy contrast to the rich flavors of the rolls.

4. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and bright flavors that enhance your meal.

5. Hash Browns: Golden crispy hash browns offer a satisfying texture that’s perfect alongside sweet pastries.

6. Cheese Platter: Include a selection of cheeses for a savory option that pairs well with sweet cinnamon flavors.

7. Chia Seed Pudding: This nutritious pudding can serve as a light side, providing fiber and creaminess without overwhelming sweetness.

8. Maple Syrup Drizzle: Offering maple syrup on the side allows guests to enjoy additional sweetness as they desire.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls can be a delightful experience, but it’s important to avoid common pitfalls to achieve the best results.

• Incorrect Yeast Activation: If your yeast isn’t active, your rolls won’t rise. Always check the expiration date and ensure the milk is lukewarm before mixing.
• Overmixing Dough: Overmixing can lead to tough rolls. Mix until just combined for a soft and fluffy texture.
• Skipping the Rest Time: Not allowing the dough to rest can yield dense rolls. Be sure to let it rise as instructed for optimal fluffiness.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Using too much or too little of any ingredient can throw off your recipe. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can affect how well your dough rises. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container in the fridge.
• item They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls

• item Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
• item They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat rolls for about 15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual rolls for about 20-30 seconds on high power.
• Stovetop: Place in a covered skillet over low heat, warming for about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

How do I know when my Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls are done?

You can tell they are done when they are golden brown on top and bounce back when lightly pressed.

Can I make Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and filling the night before, then assemble and bake them in the morning.

What apples work best for this recipe?

For the best flavor, use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They balance well with sweetness from sugar.

Can I add nuts or other fillings to my Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with additional nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips for extra flavor.

How should I store leftover Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze them for longer storage as mentioned earlier.

Final Thoughts

Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls are not only indulgent but also versatile. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, these rolls can be customized with various fillings and toppings. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors that suit your taste. Enjoy baking these delightful treats!

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Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavor of Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls, a perfect blend of juicy apples, warm cinnamon, and crunchy pecans. This easy-to-follow recipe combines gooey apple filling and rich cream cheese frosting for a breakfast treat that will impress your family and friends. Ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy weekend brunches, these rolls can be made ahead of time, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying delicious moments with loved ones. Experience the comfort of homemade goodness with every soft, fluffy bite.

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Ingredients

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• 250g whole milk
• 50g granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 tsp active dried yeast
• 2 large eggs
• 565g all-purpose flour
• 850g diced apples
• 190g unsalted butter
• 280g brown sugar
• 225g cream cheese

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Instructions

1. Prepare the dough by mixing lukewarm milk, sugar, and yeast; let it foam. Add eggs, salt, flour, and butter; mix until smooth. Cover and let rise for about 1 hour.
2. For the apple filling, cook diced apples with butter, sugar, cinnamon, salt, and cornstarch until tender; stir in pecans.
3. Roll out the dough into a rectangle. Spread softened butter, sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon mixture, then evenly distribute apple filling.
4. Roll tightly from one edge to another; cut into 12 pieces. Place in a greased baking dish and let rise for another 30 minutes.
5. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
6. While baking, prepare cream cheese frosting by beating together butter and cream cheese; gradually add powdered sugar.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 roll (100g)
• Calories: 340
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 170mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 40mg