![\"Top](\"https:\/\/cafedelites.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/Apple-Pie-Cinnamon-Rolls-IMAGE-34-1.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhy This Recipe Work<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
During recipe testing, my main goal was to get that perfect gooey texture right in the middle. I decided I preferred making my own pie filling since I was going to the trouble of making my own rolls from scratch, and it makes all the difference in the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If that\u2019s not enough, they are drizzled with a beautiful, thick, and creamy cream cheese frosting. With or without frosting, these rolls are so addictive. Proceed with caution. Whether you serve them for a weekend breakfast or as a sweet dessert, apple cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting are always a huge hit.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
What Goes Into Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"Flat](\"https:\/\/cafedelites.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/Apple-Pie-Cinnamon-Rolls-Ingredients-1.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n- Apple pie filling:<\/strong> You need a good, thick filling so the juices do not leak everywhere while baking. I prefer making my own pie filling since I am already making the dough from scratch, but you have options here (see the subs below!).<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Instant yeast:<\/strong> This is the secret to why there is no waiting overnight for the dough to rise! Instant or rapid-rise yeast gets the job done fast while keeping the dough incredibly soft.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- All-purpose flour:<\/strong> I stick to regular all-purpose flour for this dough. I have tried bread flour in the past, but all-purpose keeps the rolls perfectly tender and light rather than heavy or chewy.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Cream cheese:<\/strong> For that beautiful thick and creamy frosting, make sure you use full-fat block cream cheese softened to room temperature. The spreadable kind in a tub will make your frosting way too runny.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Note: <\/strong>Please see recipe card<\/a> at the bottom for a full list of ingredients with measurements.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nSubstitutions & Variations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n- The Apple Filling:<\/strong> As always, there are options with the recipe. You can either cheat and use canned apple pie filling, cutting the apple slices into smaller square pieces to better fit these rolls. OR you can make your own from scratch. As I mentioned before, during the recipe testing, I found both to TASTE THE SAME, with a similar gooey texture in the middle. However, it is completely up to you!<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Baking Style:<\/strong> If you bake these snug in a round baking dish, they puff up and merge together, practically turning into a delicious cinnamon roll pie.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Spices:<\/strong> If you want to add a little extra flavor, a pinch of nutmeg or even a little allspice in the dough works perfectly alongside the cinnamon.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Nuts:<\/strong> Chopped pecans or walnuts folded directly into the apple mixture add a great crunch if you like a bit of texture in your homemade apple pie cinnamon rolls.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n\n
How To Make Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Figuring out how to make the dough is surprisingly straightforward, especially since we skip the long rise times. Start by activating your yeast in warm milk and sugar until frothy. Once you mix in the flour, butter, and egg, turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead until smooth. You do not need to treat it like a delicate pie crust. This is a sturdy, forgiving dough.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How To Roll Them Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Roll the dough into a large rectangle and spread a generous layer of butter over the surface. Here is the best technique to get those perfect swirls:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Make sure your cooked apples have cooled slightly so they do not melt the butter underneath.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Spread the apple pie filling all the way to the edges so every slice gets plenty of flavor.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Roll the dough up tightly starting from the long end, keeping the apples tucked inside. You will end up with what looks like one giant apple pie cinnamon roll log!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Use unscented dental floss or a sharp knife to slice the log into even pieces. I like to arrange them in a buttered pie dish so they bake up closely together, keeping the edges soft. The smell from the oven will easily convince you this is the absolute best recipe for apple pie cinnamon rolls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cafedelites.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/Apple-Pie-Cinnamon-Rolls-COLLAGE-1-1024x768.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cafedelites.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/ApplePieCinnamonRollsWithCreamCheeseFrosting-Step8-1-1-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\nTips For Making Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n- Use warm milk, not hot.<\/strong> I always make sure the milk is just warm to the touch, too hot and it\u2019ll kill the yeast before it even has a chance to work its magic.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Knead just enough.<\/strong> About two minutes of kneading is all you need. If the dough feels soft and stretchy, you\u2019re golden. Overdoing it will only make the rolls a little too firm.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Cool the apple filling slightly.<\/strong> Trust me on this one. Adding it while it\u2019s too hot will make your dough slippery and hard to roll, so let it cool for a few minutes first.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Slice evenly.<\/strong> I like using unflavored dental floss for this\u2014just slide it under the log and pull. It gives you perfect, round rolls every time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n
What To Serve With These Rolls<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
These rolls are quite sweet and filling on their own, so when I serve them for a weekend brunch, I like to balance the sweetness with a savory main. They pair beautifully next to a batch of protein-packed egg cups<\/a> or a simple spinach and cheese quiche. If you want something lighter, a refreshing fruit salad tossed in a bright citrus dressing<\/a> adds the perfect fresh contrast to the warm, gooey apple filling. if you’re hosting a full weekend spread, pair them with a stack of pancakes topped with warm caramel apples<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nFor drinks, you can never go wrong with a strong cup of coffee or an iced latte. If you are making these during the colder months or as a holiday treat, you can go all out and serve them alongside a warm mug of creamy hazelnut hot cocoa<\/a>. I also highly recommend having a few salty side options on the table, like crispy bacon or breakfast sausages, to cut through the sugar.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nRecipe FAQ’s<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\nWhat If My Dough Isn\u2019t Rising?<\/strong> Make sure your yeast is active and your milk is warm, not hot. A cozy spot in your kitchen, like near a window or oven, usually helps.<\/p> <\/div>
How Do I Keep The Rolls Soft After Baking?<\/strong> Once cooled, store them in an airtight container or cover with foil. Reheat gently before serving to bring back that just-baked softness.<\/p> <\/div>
What\u2019s The Best Way To Reheat Leftover Rolls?<\/strong> I like to pop one in the microwave for 15\u201320 seconds or warm them in a low oven until soft and gooey again.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"Apple](\"https:\/\/cafedelites.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/Apple-Pie-Cinnamon-Rolls-IMAGE-55-1.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n<\/div>\n\t\n\t\t![\"Top](\"https:\/\/cafedelites.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/Apple-Pie-Cinnamon-Rolls-IMAGE-34-300x300.jpg\")
<\/div>\n\t\t
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n- \n
- Apple pie filling:<\/strong> You need a good, thick filling so the juices do not leak everywhere while baking. I prefer making my own pie filling since I am already making the dough from scratch, but you have options here (see the subs below!).<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Instant yeast:<\/strong> This is the secret to why there is no waiting overnight for the dough to rise! Instant or rapid-rise yeast gets the job done fast while keeping the dough incredibly soft.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- All-purpose flour:<\/strong> I stick to regular all-purpose flour for this dough. I have tried bread flour in the past, but all-purpose keeps the rolls perfectly tender and light rather than heavy or chewy.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Cream cheese:<\/strong> For that beautiful thick and creamy frosting, make sure you use full-fat block cream cheese softened to room temperature. The spreadable kind in a tub will make your frosting way too runny.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Note: <\/strong>Please see recipe card<\/a> at the bottom for a full list of ingredients with measurements.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
Substitutions & Variations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- The Apple Filling:<\/strong> As always, there are options with the recipe. You can either cheat and use canned apple pie filling, cutting the apple slices into smaller square pieces to better fit these rolls. OR you can make your own from scratch. As I mentioned before, during the recipe testing, I found both to TASTE THE SAME, with a similar gooey texture in the middle. However, it is completely up to you!<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Baking Style:<\/strong> If you bake these snug in a round baking dish, they puff up and merge together, practically turning into a delicious cinnamon roll pie.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Spices:<\/strong> If you want to add a little extra flavor, a pinch of nutmeg or even a little allspice in the dough works perfectly alongside the cinnamon.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Nuts:<\/strong> Chopped pecans or walnuts folded directly into the apple mixture add a great crunch if you like a bit of texture in your homemade apple pie cinnamon rolls.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\nHow To Make Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Figuring out how to make the dough is surprisingly straightforward, especially since we skip the long rise times. Start by activating your yeast in warm milk and sugar until frothy. Once you mix in the flour, butter, and egg, turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead until smooth. You do not need to treat it like a delicate pie crust. This is a sturdy, forgiving dough.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How To Roll Them Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Roll the dough into a large rectangle and spread a generous layer of butter over the surface. Here is the best technique to get those perfect swirls:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Make sure your cooked apples have cooled slightly so they do not melt the butter underneath.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Spread the apple pie filling all the way to the edges so every slice gets plenty of flavor.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Roll the dough up tightly starting from the long end, keeping the apples tucked inside. You will end up with what looks like one giant apple pie cinnamon roll log!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Use unscented dental floss or a sharp knife to slice the log into even pieces. I like to arrange them in a buttered pie dish so they bake up closely together, keeping the edges soft. The smell from the oven will easily convince you this is the absolute best recipe for apple pie cinnamon rolls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n <\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\nTips For Making Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Use warm milk, not hot.<\/strong> I always make sure the milk is just warm to the touch, too hot and it\u2019ll kill the yeast before it even has a chance to work its magic.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Knead just enough.<\/strong> About two minutes of kneading is all you need. If the dough feels soft and stretchy, you\u2019re golden. Overdoing it will only make the rolls a little too firm.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Cool the apple filling slightly.<\/strong> Trust me on this one. Adding it while it\u2019s too hot will make your dough slippery and hard to roll, so let it cool for a few minutes first.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Slice evenly.<\/strong> I like using unflavored dental floss for this\u2014just slide it under the log and pull. It gives you perfect, round rolls every time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\nWhat To Serve With These Rolls<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
These rolls are quite sweet and filling on their own, so when I serve them for a weekend brunch, I like to balance the sweetness with a savory main. They pair beautifully next to a batch of protein-packed egg cups<\/a> or a simple spinach and cheese quiche. If you want something lighter, a refreshing fruit salad tossed in a bright citrus dressing<\/a> adds the perfect fresh contrast to the warm, gooey apple filling. if you’re hosting a full weekend spread, pair them with a stack of pancakes topped with warm caramel apples<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For drinks, you can never go wrong with a strong cup of coffee or an iced latte. If you are making these during the colder months or as a holiday treat, you can go all out and serve them alongside a warm mug of creamy hazelnut hot cocoa<\/a>. I also highly recommend having a few salty side options on the table, like crispy bacon or breakfast sausages, to cut through the sugar.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
Recipe FAQ’s<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\nWhat If My Dough Isn\u2019t Rising?<\/strong>Make sure your yeast is active and your milk is warm, not hot. A cozy spot in your kitchen, like near a window or oven, usually helps.<\/p> <\/div>
How Do I Keep The Rolls Soft After Baking?<\/strong>Once cooled, store them in an airtight container or cover with foil. Reheat gently before serving to bring back that just-baked softness.<\/p> <\/div>
What\u2019s The Best Way To Reheat Leftover Rolls?<\/strong>I like to pop one in the microwave for 15\u201320 seconds or warm them in a low oven until soft and gooey again.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n<\/div>\n\t\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t - Knead just enough.<\/strong> About two minutes of kneading is all you need. If the dough feels soft and stretchy, you\u2019re golden. Overdoing it will only make the rolls a little too firm.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Use warm milk, not hot.<\/strong> I always make sure the milk is just warm to the touch, too hot and it\u2019ll kill the yeast before it even has a chance to work its magic.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Baking Style:<\/strong> If you bake these snug in a round baking dish, they puff up and merge together, practically turning into a delicious cinnamon roll pie.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Instant yeast:<\/strong> This is the secret to why there is no waiting overnight for the dough to rise! Instant or rapid-rise yeast gets the job done fast while keeping the dough incredibly soft.<\/li>\n\n\n\n