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There's something undeniably comforting about the aroma of freshly baked apple cinnamon rolls wafting through your home. This delightful pastry combines the cozy flavors of autumn with the warm, sweet embrace of cinnamon and sugar, making it a favorite among many. Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy roll, each layer filled with tender apples and fragrant spices, all topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. These irresistible apple cinnamon rolls are not just a perfect breakfast treat; they also shine as a dessert for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive celebrations.

Irresistible Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulge in the cozy flavors of homemade Apple Cinnamon Rolls topped with creamy frosting. Made from scratch, this recipe combines tender dough with a delicious apple filling infused with cinnamon and nutmeg. Bake until golden brown and drizzle with a rich cream cheese frosting for the perfect finishing touch. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat, these rolls are sure to impress your family and friends. Try them today for a delightful experience!
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Ingredients
  

For the dough:

4 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 cup warm milk (110°F)

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 large eggs

For the apple filling:

3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

2 tsp cinnamon

1/4 tsp nutmeg

2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)

For the cream cheese frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

2 cups powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

2-3 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)

Instructions
 

Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, and eggs. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.

    Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

      Make the apple filling: While the dough is rising, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and softened butter in a bowl. If using, add the chopped pecans and mix well. Set aside.

        Roll out the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it into a large rectangle, approximately 16x24 inches.

          Assemble the rolls: Spread the apple filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log.

            Slice the rolls: Cut the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or a bench scraper. Place the rolls in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll.

              Second rise: Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes until puffy.

                Preheat the oven: While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

                  Bake the rolls: Bake the cinnamon rolls in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. If they begin to brown too quickly, cover them loosely with aluminum foil.

                    Prepare the cream cheese frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. If the frosting is too thick, add milk a tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

                      Frost and serve: Once the cinnamon rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful aroma!

                        Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours | Servings: 12