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There's something undeniably enchanting about the aroma of freshly baked apple cinnamon rolls wafting through your home. The combination of warm, tender dough infused with sweet apples and aromatic cinnamon, all topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, creates a delightful experience for both the palate and the senses. Whether you’re enjoying them as a cozy breakfast treat or a sweet afternoon snack, these irresistible apple cinnamon rolls are sure to capture the hearts of everyone at your table.

Irresistible Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulge in these irresistible Apple Cinnamon Rolls topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting! Made with scratch dough that’s soft and fluffy, each roll is filled with sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples. Perfect for breakfast or a delightful treat, these rolls are easy to make and sure to impress. Warm them up and drizzle with rich frosting for a deliciously gooey experience. Your cozy mornings just got better!
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Ingredients
  

For the dough:

3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting

1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup milk, warmed to 110°F (45°C)

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 large eggs

For the filling:

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

1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

For the cream cheese frosting:

4 oz cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)

Instructions
 

Prepare the dough: In a bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it's frothy. In a separate large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the melted butter, eggs, and the yeast mixture to the flour mixture. Stir until a dough forms.

    Knead the dough: On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

      Prepare the filling: While the dough is rising, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Set aside.

        Roll out the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle about 16x24 inches and 1/4 inch thick.

          Assemble the rolls: Spread the softened butter for the filling evenly over the rolled-out dough. Sprinkle the apple mixture evenly across the surface, pressing it down lightly. Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seams to seal.

            Cut the rolls: Using a sharp knife or a dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal-sized rolls. Place them in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, leaving some space between each roll. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.

              Bake the rolls: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.

                Make the cream cheese frosting: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. If the frosting is too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.

                  Frost the rolls: Once the rolls are slightly cooled, drizzle the cream cheese frosting generously over the top.

                    Serve: Enjoy your warm and gooey apple cinnamon rolls right away, or store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

                      Prep Time: 30 min | Total Time: 2 hr | Servings: 12 rolls