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Perfect Apple Cinnamon Rolls: 12 Hugs

Apple Cinnamon Rolls

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These apple cinnamon rolls are a warm, comforting treat perfect for fall baking. They feature a soft, spiced dough filled with sweet apples and cinnamon, topped with a simple glaze.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 cup finely chopped apples (like Honeycrisp or Fuji)
  • ½ cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • ¼ cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Whisk in the remaining granulated sugar, egg, melted butter, and salt into the yeast mixture.
  3. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  6. Meanwhile, prepare the filling. In a small bowl, combine chopped apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
  7. Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll into a 12×18 inch rectangle.
  8. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, leaving a small border.
  9. Sprinkle the apple-cinnamon mixture evenly over the butter.
  10. Starting from a long side, tightly roll up the dough. Pinch the seam to seal.
  11. Cut the roll into 12 equal slices.
  12. Place the slices, cut-side up, in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
  13. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  14. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
  15. While the rolls are baking, prepare the glaze. Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  16. Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool slightly before drizzling with the glaze.

Notes

  • For best results, use room temperature ingredients.
  • Ensure your milk is warm but not too hot, as it can kill the yeast.
  • You can add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the filling for extra warmth.
  • These are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

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