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Cinnamon rolls have long held a special place in the hearts of many home bakers and food lovers alike. Their warm, gooey layers and the comforting aroma that wafts through the kitchen as they bake make them an irresistible treat. Whether enjoyed at breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet indulgence during the day, cinnamon rolls are synonymous with comfort and nostalgia.

Irresistible Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulge in the delightful flavors of homemade Apple Cinnamon Rolls topped with creamy frosting. This recipe combines tender dough with a sweet apple and cinnamon filling, bringing warmth and comfort to any breakfast or brunch. With just a few basic ingredients and easy steps, you’ll create a batch of 12 irresistible rolls that are perfect for sharing or savoring on your own. Warm them up and enjoy the cozy aroma filling your kitchen!
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Ingredients
  

For the Dough:

4 cups all-purpose flour

1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast

½ cup warm milk (110°F)

¼ cup granulated sugar

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

2 large eggs

1 tsp salt

For the Filling:

2 cups peeled and diced apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

½ cup packed brown sugar

2 tsp ground cinnamon

¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

2 cups powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

1-2 tbsp milk (to adjust consistency)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.

    Mix Ingredients: Add melted butter, eggs, and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.

      First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

        Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine diced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. If using, add chopped nuts and set aside.

          Roll Out the Dough: Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle (about 18x12 inches). Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough.

            Add Filling: Evenly sprinkle the apple mixture over the buttered dough.

              Form Rolls: Starting from one long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal slices.

                Second Rise: Place the rolls in a greased 9x13 baking dish or on a lined baking sheet, cover, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

                  Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

                    Bake: Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Let them cool in the pan while you prepare the frosting.

                      Make Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy. Adjust with milk for desired consistency.

                        Frost the Rolls: Once the rolls have cooled slightly, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top.

                          Serve: Enjoy your fluffy and delicious Apple Cinnamon Rolls warm!

                            Prep Time: 30 mins | Total Time: 2 hrs | Servings: 12