Print

Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls
Print Recipe

Warm and gooey Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls blend tender cinnamon-spiced dough with sautéed apple chunks and luscious caramel sauce, making the perfect cozy treat for crisp fall mornings. These rolls offer a delightful balance of sweet, tart, and spiced flavors, ideal for sharing with family and friends or enjoying fresh out of the oven.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Apple Filling

  • 3 medium tart apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and diced
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Additional Ingredients

  • Softened unsalted butter (for spreading on dough, about 1/4 cup)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar mixed with 2 teaspoons cinnamon (cinnamon sugar)
  • Caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought), 3/4 to 1 cup, warmed

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: Activate the yeast by dissolving it in warm milk with a little granulated sugar. In a large bowl, combine flour, melted butter, egg, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and stir to form a smooth dough. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until elastic and soft. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
  2. Prepare the Apple Filling: While the dough rises, peel and dice the apples into small bite-sized pieces. In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter, then add apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Sauté until apples are tender but still hold their shape, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle roughly 12 by 18 inches. This will be the base for your filling.
  4. Add Filling and Roll: Spread softened butter evenly over the dough surface. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar evenly, then scatter the sautéed apple filling on top. Starting from the long edge closest to you, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut the log into about 12 evenly sized rolls.
  5. Second Rise and Bake: Place the rolls on a greased baking pan or dish, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the rolls lightly with melted butter for moisture and golden color. Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
  6. Drizzle with Caramel: Once the rolls have cooled slightly from the oven, generously drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top. Serve warm for the gooey, irresistible texture that defines these rolls.

Notes

  • Ensure your yeast is fresh and active for the best rise.
  • Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, which hold their shape and balance sweetness.
  • Use good-quality caramel sauce or make your own for the richest flavor.
  • Keep the dough warm during rising to encourage proper fermentation.
  • Brush rolls with butter before baking to add moisture and a beautiful golden finish.
  • To prevent sogginess, avoid excess apple juice in the filling and bake until golden.
  • For nutty texture, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top right after caramel drizzle.
  • Vegan options include plant-based milk, vegan butter, and flax egg replacements.
  • Store leftovers in airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate up to a week; warm before serving.
  • Rolls freeze well before or after baking; thaw in fridge overnight and reheat before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: caramel apple cinnamon rolls, fall recipe, cinnamon rolls, apple dessert, cozy breakfast, caramel sauce, cinnamon

Find it online: https://marysplate.com/caramel-apple-cinnamon-rolls/