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 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast; 1/2 cup milk, warmed; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 cups peeled and diced apples; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons milk

Highlighted under: Sweet Bakes

Delight in these fluffy apple cinnamon rolls topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, perfect for breakfast or dessert.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-04T19:29:51.547Z

Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat, combining the warm flavors of cinnamon and sweet apples. Each bite is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making them a favorite at family gatherings.

        Why You'll Love These Rolls
        Soft and fluffy rolls filled with spiced apples
Creamy cream cheese frosting adds the perfect sweetness
Great for brunch or a cozy dessert

      

The Perfect Breakfast Treat

Apple cinnamon rolls are a delightful way to start your day. They bring together the warm and comforting flavors of cinnamon and sweet, juicy apples. Imagine waking up to the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your home. This recipe creates rolls that are not only delicious but also soft and fluffy, making them irresistible. Whether paired with a cup of coffee or enjoyed solo, these rolls are sure to elevate your breakfast experience.

These rolls are versatile enough to be served at any time of the day. They make a fantastic addition to brunch gatherings, where they can impress guests with both their taste and presentation. You can serve them warm out of the oven, or prepare them ahead of time and bake just before serving. With their delightful aroma and mouthwatering flavor, these apple cinnamon rolls are bound to become a staple in your recipe repertoire.

A Sweet Indulgence with Cream Cheese Frosting

The cream cheese frosting is the crowning glory of these apple cinnamon rolls. Its rich and creamy texture perfectly balances the sweetness of the rolls, creating a decadent treat that feels luxurious. Made with just a few simple ingredients, this frosting can be whipped up in no time, adding a wonderful finishing touch to your freshly baked rolls. The slight tang from the cream cheese enhances the overall flavor, making each bite a delightful experience.

Frosting your rolls while they are still warm allows it to melt slightly, creating a dreamy, gooey texture that will leave everyone wanting more. This frosting isn't just for the rolls; it can also be used on cupcakes, cakes, or even as a dip for fresh fruit. Once you try this delightful cream cheese frosting, you'll want to keep it in your kitchen arsenal for all your dessert needs.

Tips for Success

To ensure your apple cinnamon rolls turn out perfectly, pay close attention to the dough. Make sure your yeast is fresh and active; it should bubble and froth when mixed with warm milk and sugar. Kneading the dough until it's smooth and elastic is crucial for achieving that soft, fluffy texture. If you find the dough too sticky, don’t hesitate to add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much.

When it comes to filling, using a variety of apples can enhance the flavor profile. A mix of sweet and tart apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, can add depth to your rolls. Don’t rush the rising time; allowing the dough to rise properly will result in lighter rolls. If you're short on time, you can prepare the rolls the night before and refrigerate them, then bake them fresh in the morning for a delightful breakfast treat.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious apple cinnamon rolls:

Dough

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

Filling

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

Cream Cheese Frosting

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons milk

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can start making these delicious rolls!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your apple cinnamon rolls:

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. Add melted butter, egg, and salt.

Gradually mix in flour until a soft dough forms. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour.

Make the Filling

In a medium bowl, mix together diced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Set aside.

Roll Out the Dough

Once dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the apple mixture evenly on top.

Shape the Rolls

Starting from one long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut into 12 equal slices and place in a greased baking dish. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.

Bake the Rolls

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25 minutes, until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly.

Prepare the Frosting

In a bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix well. Stir in vanilla and milk until smooth.

Frost and Serve

Spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls and enjoy!

Enjoy your freshly baked apple cinnamon rolls!

Perfect Pairings

These apple cinnamon rolls pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or a steaming mug of tea. The warm spices and sweet flavors complement the bitterness of coffee, creating a harmonious balance. You can also serve them with a side of fresh fruit or yogurt for added freshness and nutrition. For a special treat, consider pairing with apple cider for a seasonal twist.

If you're looking to elevate your breakfast further, consider serving these rolls with a side of crispy bacon or sausage. The savory flavors of the meat contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the rolls, providing a satisfying brunch experience. No matter how you choose to serve them, these rolls are sure to be a hit.

Storing and Reheating

If you happen to have any leftovers, storing your apple cinnamon rolls properly is essential for maintaining their deliciousness. Allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To keep them fresh, you can also freeze them for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy your rolls again, reheating is simple. Just pop them in the microwave for a few seconds, or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. If you're reheating from frozen, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Enjoying these rolls fresh out of the oven again will remind you why they were such a hit in the first place!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, any firm apple such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp works well.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these rolls?

Yes, freeze unbaked rolls before the second rise. When ready to bake, let them thaw and rise before baking.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone or ricotta cheese for a different frosting flavor.