Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Name: Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 rolls
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast; 1 tsp salt; 1 cup milk, warmed; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 2 cups apples, peeled and diced; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1-2 tbsp milk (to desired consistency)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delightful apple cinnamon rolls topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that will make your breakfast a hit!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-04T18:46:51.227Z

These apple cinnamon rolls are a perfect blend of sweet and spicy, making them an ideal treat for any occasion. The addition of cream cheese frosting elevates them to a whole new level of deliciousness!

        Why You'll Love These Rolls
        Warm, gooey cinnamon rolls filled with tender apple pieces
Creamy cream cheese frosting that is utterly irresistible
Perfect for a cozy breakfast or a sweet afternoon snack

      

The Perfect Breakfast Treat

Imagine waking up to the warm aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your kitchen. These Apple Cinnamon Rolls are not just any rolls; they are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. With tender apple pieces nestled within a gooey cinnamon filling, each bite offers a comforting blend of flavors that will remind you of cozy autumn mornings.

Perfectly paired with a rich cream cheese frosting, these rolls take breakfast to a whole new level. The creamy topping adds a touch of decadence that complements the spiced apples beautifully. Whether enjoyed at the breakfast table or as a sweet afternoon snack, these rolls are sure to impress family and friends alike.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your Apple Cinnamon Rolls, make sure to use fresh apples that are firm and flavorful. Varieties such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work wonderfully, providing a nice balance of sweetness and tartness. Additionally, allowing the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free environment will help it become light and fluffy, resulting in rolls that are perfectly tender.

Don’t rush the baking process! Monitor the rolls closely, and remove them from the oven once they turn golden brown. This ensures that they are baked through yet still moist and gooey inside. Lastly, remember to let them cool slightly before adding the frosting to prevent it from melting away.

Variations and Customizations

While the classic apple filling is delicious, feel free to get creative with your own variations. Try adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for an added crunch, or incorporate raisins for a touch of sweetness. You could even experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg or ginger, to create unique flavor profiles that suit your taste.

For a fun twist, consider making mini cinnamon rolls by cutting the dough into smaller pieces. These bite-sized treats are perfect for sharing at gatherings or for those who want to enjoy just a taste. Regardless of how you choose to customize your rolls, they are bound to be a hit!

Ingredients

Dough

4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1 tsp salt
1 cup milk, warmed
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs

Filling

2 cups apples, peeled and diced
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

Frosting

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1-2 tbsp milk (to desired consistency)

Make sure to gather all the ingredients before you start preparing the rolls!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix the warmed milk, melted butter, and eggs. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.

Knead and Rise

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix until well combined. Set aside.

Roll and Fill

Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle. Spread softened butter over the surface, then sprinkle the apple mixture evenly on top. Roll the dough tightly into a log and slice into 12 rolls.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the rolls in a greased baking dish and let rise for another 30 minutes. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Make the Frosting

While the rolls are baking, beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth. Adjust milk for desired consistency.

Frost and Serve

Once the rolls are out of the oven, allow them to cool for a few minutes before spreading the cream cheese frosting on top. Serve warm and enjoy!

Enjoy your homemade apple cinnamon rolls!

Storing and Reheating

To keep your Apple Cinnamon Rolls fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you wish to enjoy them longer, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to a week. Just be sure to reheat them gently in the microwave or oven to restore their gooey texture.

If you want to make these rolls ahead of time, you can prepare the dough and filling the night before. Simply assemble the rolls, cover them tightly, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, allow them to come to room temperature before baking for a warm and fresh breakfast treat.

Serving Suggestions

These Apple Cinnamon Rolls are delightful on their own, but serving them with a side of fresh fruit or a light yogurt can elevate your breakfast experience. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of chopped nuts could add even more flavor and texture, creating a more indulgent treat.

For a special occasion, don’t hesitate to serve these rolls alongside a steaming cup of coffee or a warm mug of spiced cider. Their comforting flavors pair beautifully with warm beverages, making for a cozy and inviting breakfast or brunch spread.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, any apple variety that holds up well during baking, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, will work great.

→ How can I make these rolls ahead of time?

You can prepare the rolls up to the point before baking, refrigerate them overnight, and bake them fresh in the morning.

→ Can I freeze the rolls?

Yes, you can freeze unbaked rolls. Just let them rise, then freeze before baking. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?

You can use mascarpone cheese or a vegan cream cheese alternative for a different flavor.