Apple Cinnamon Rolls

If you’re looking for the perfect weekend treat or a cozy breakfast that fills your kitchen with the irresistible scent of warm apples and cinnamon, these Apple Cinnamon Rolls are your go-to recipe. Soft, fluffy rolls are swirled with a spiced apple filling and finished with a simple, sweet glaze. This recipe blends the comforting familiarity of classic cinnamon rolls with the fresh, juicy sweetness of chopped apples. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or warmed up the next day, these rolls are guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Why Apple Cinnamon Rolls is Worth Your Time

Making Apple Cinnamon Rolls from scratch might sound like a big project, but trust me, it’s easier than you think and the results are so worth every minute. The dough is soft and tender thanks to the milk and butter, while the active dry yeast makes sure they rise beautifully. What sets these rolls apart is the delightful apple cinnamon filling, which adds a fresh fruity twist to the usual cinnamon roll experience.

Adding chopped apples inside the rolls creates a moist, flavorful bite that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon and brown sugar. Plus, the optional turkey bacon adds a savory crunch for those who want a bit of contrast. These rolls are perfect for a festive brunch, a special holiday morning, or whenever you want to treat yourself to a bakery-quality pastry at home.

If you love the flavors of apple and cinnamon, you might also enjoy my take on Apple Pancakes, which are equally comforting and easy to whip up.

Ingredient Checklist

• 2 cups all-purpose flour – the base for a tender, fluffy dough
• 1/4 cup sugar – adds just the right amount of sweetness to the dough
• 1 packet active dry yeast – helps the dough rise and become airy
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness and enhances flavor
• 1/2 cup milk – warms and softens the dough
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter – adds richness and moisture
• 1 large egg – binds ingredients and adds tenderness
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – adds depth and warmth to the dough
• 1 cup chopped apples – fresh, juicy, and sweet, the star filling
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – the classic spice that pairs perfectly with apples
• 1/4 cup brown sugar – caramel-like sweetness for the filling
• 1/4 cup turkey bacon, cooked and chopped (optional) – for a savory twist
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar – for the simple icing
• 2 tablespoons milk (for icing) – to create a smooth glaze

Kitchen Gear Checklist

• Mixing bowls – for combining your dough and filling ingredients
• Measuring cups and spoons – accuracy is key for perfect rolls
• Whisk – to mix wet ingredients smoothly
• Rolling pin – to roll out the dough evenly
• Sharp knife or pizza cutter – for cutting the roll log into even slices
• Baking pan (9×9 inch works great) – to bake the rolls in
• Pastry brush – optional, for brushing melted butter
• Kitchen towel or plastic wrap – to cover the dough while it rises

Build Apple Cinnamon Rolls Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by warming the milk until it’s lukewarm (about 110°F or 43°C). In a large bowl, sprinkle the active dry yeast over the warm milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This means the yeast is active and ready.

Next, add the sugar, salt, unsalted butter (melted and cooled slightly), egg, and vanilla extract to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.

Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing with a spoon or your hands, until a soft dough forms. You may need a little more or less flour depending on humidity and the exact flour brand.

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Filling

While the dough rises, combine the chopped apples, ground cinnamon, and brown sugar in a small bowl. If you’re using turkey bacon, cook it until crispy, chop finely, and set aside.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down gently and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle roughly 12×9 inches.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

Brush the dough lightly with melted butter (optional for extra richness). Spread the apple cinnamon mixture evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cooked turkey bacon (if using) on top.

Starting at the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the log into 9 equal rolls.

Step 5: Second Rise

Place the rolls cut-side up in a greased 9×9 inch pan, leaving a little space between each roll. Cover again and let rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 7: Prepare the Icing

While the rolls bake, whisk together powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of milk until smooth. Adjust consistency by adding a little more milk if too thick.

Step 8: Glaze and Serve

Once the rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle the icing over the top. Serve warm and enjoy!

For a fun twist and more cinnamon roll inspiration, you might want to try the Russian Cinnamon Buns Plushki recipe, which features a unique texture and preparation style.

Dietary Customizations

• For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with almond or oat milk, and use a plant-based butter alternative.
• Use gluten-free flour blends in place of all-purpose flour to make these rolls gluten-free (results may vary slightly).
• Omit the turkey bacon for a vegetarian-friendly option or replace it with chopped nuts for added crunch.
• For a vegan version, replace egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) and swap butter and milk with vegan alternatives.

Cook’s Commentary

One of the best parts about making Apple Cinnamon Rolls is how versatile the recipe is. The apples add moisture and natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon-spiced sugar. I love the optional addition of turkey bacon—it adds a savory depth that balances the sweetness, but feel free to leave it out or swap it for a vegetarian option.

Be patient with the dough rising—this is key to getting soft, fluffy rolls. If your kitchen is cold, try placing the dough near a warm oven or on top of a warm appliance to speed up the process.

The glaze is simple but essential. It adds just enough sweetness and a lovely finish without overpowering the apple and cinnamon flavors.

These rolls taste amazing fresh but also reheat beautifully. Just pop them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm them in a low oven.

Storing Tips & Timelines

• Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the baked rolls (without icing) in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, leave frozen rolls overnight in the refrigerator or warm them gently in the oven.
• If freezing unbaked rolls after the first rise, wrap tightly and freeze, then thaw and bake as usual.

Quick Q&A

Can I use another type of apple for the filling?

Absolutely! Granny Smith apples are tart and hold their shape well, but you can use Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala apples depending on your sweetness preference. Just chop them finely so they cook evenly inside the rolls.

Is it necessary to cook the turkey bacon before adding it?

Yes, cooking the turkey bacon beforehand ensures it’s crispy and adds a nice texture contrast. Adding raw bacon would not cook fully during the roll baking time.

Can I prepare these rolls the night before baking?

Yes! After assembling the rolls in the pan, cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, allow them to come to room temperature and rise for 30-45 minutes before baking.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover rolls?

Reheat in a microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven for 5-10 minutes. Cover loosely with foil to prevent drying out.

Healthy-ish Favorites

• Homemade Apple Butter – a naturally sweet spread with no added preservatives
• Apple Pancakes – a lighter breakfast option bursting with apple flavor
• Russian Cinnamon Buns Plushki – a traditional cinnamon roll variation with a soft, airy crumb

Save & Share

Love these Apple Cinnamon Rolls? Save this recipe to your favorite recipe organizer or print it out so you can make it again and again. Don’t forget to share the joy with friends and family—these rolls make an unforgettable gift or brunch centerpiece. Tag your photos on social media and spread the warm, cozy vibes of homemade apple cinnamon goodness!

Whether it’s a special occasion or just a craving for something sweet and comforting, these Apple Cinnamon Rolls deliver. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and treat yourself to a little slice of homemade happiness. Happy baking!

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