Give classic cinnamon rolls a fruity fall twist with a sweet apple filling.
Apple cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting are a crowd-pleasing weekend baking project.
This autumn variation on the bakery classic is a great way to use up apples from fall apple picking.
Simply Recipe / Hannah Zimmerman
Apple cinnamon rolls consist of pillowy brioche dough, cinnamon apple filling, and maple cream cheese frosting.
Their sweet, warming flavors make them the perfect comfort food for chilly fall weather.
Serve apple cinnamon rolls for dessert or as an indulgent breakfast with a cup of coffee or tea.
Simply Recipe / Hannah Zimmerman
Some varieties that work well are Granny Smith, Fuji, Honeycrisp, Cortland, and Golden Delicious.
Steer clear of softer varieties, like McIntosh and Macoun, as they will become mushy while baking.
An extended proof time allows the flavors to meld together and splits up the prep work.
Simply Recipe / Hannah Zimmerman
To proof the dough overnight, make it the day before you plan to bake.
Place the ball of dough in a greased bowl and cover it with plastic wrap.
Store the frosting separately in an airtight container in the fridge.
Simply Recipe / Hannah Zimmerman
Leftover cinnamon rolls taste best if you reheat them.
Put a leftover cinnamon roll on a microwave-safe plate and add a dollop of cold frosting on top.
Microwave the cinnamon roll and frosting together for 20 to 30 seconds.
Simply Recipe / Hannah Zimmerman
Your cinnamon roll will come out melty, warm, and sooo delicious!
Let the mixture sit until the yeast becomes foamy, about 5 minutes.
Add the egg and egg yolk and mix until combined.
Simply Recipe / Hannah Zimmerman
Mix in the butter 2 tablespoons at a time, waiting until each addition is incorporated before adding more.
Once all of the butter is incorporated, knead the dough on medium speed for 8 minutes.
The dough should have a smooth, shiny surface.
Simply Recipe / Hannah Zimmerman
On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a 9x14 inch rectangle.
Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together in a small bowl.
Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture on top.
Simply Recipe / Hannah Zimmerman
Top with the chopped apples.
Tightly roll up the dough, starting at the shorter 9-inch side.
Transfer the cinnamon rolls to a greased 9x9 baking dish so the cut side is facing up.
Simply Recipe / Hannah Zimmerman
Cover with plastic wrap or a dish towel.
Once the dough has been rising for 20 minutes, preheat the oven.
Bake the cinnamon rolls until they are golden brown, about 25 minutes.
Simply Recipe / Hannah Zimmerman
A toothpick inserted into the center roll should come out clean.
Make the frosting while the cinnamon rolls are baking.
Add the maple syrup and vanilla and mix until incorporated.
Simply Recipe / Hannah Zimmerman
Let the cinnamon rolls cool for 10 minutes, then spread the frosting on top and serve warm.
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
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Simply Recipe / Hannah Zimmerman
Simply Recipe / Hannah Zimmerman
