Warm and Gooey Apple Cinnamon Rolls

These apple cinnamon rolls are a perfect blend of soft, buttery dough, sweet cinnamon-sugar filling, fresh apples, and a luscious caramel icing drizzle. Warm, gooey, and made completely from scratch, this recipe is ideal for fall mornings or any time you crave a comforting treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the best of cinnamon rolls and apple pie

• Rich, pillowy homemade dough

• Sweet caramel icing adds indulgence

• Perfect for holidays, brunches, or special occasions

• Includes overnight and freezer-friendly options

• Make-ahead friendly for busy mornings

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the dough:

• 1 cup whole milk, warmed to 100°F (38°C)

• 2/3 cup granulated sugar, divided

• 1 and 1/2 tablespoons instant yeast (or 2 standard packets)

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened and quartered

• 2 large eggs, room temperature

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 4 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus more as needed)

For the filling:

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

• 1/2 cup packed light or dark brown sugar

• 1 and 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

• 2 cups peeled, chopped apples (about 2 medium apples)

For the caramel icing:

• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 tablespoons milk

• 2 tablespoons warmed salted caramel sauce

Directions

1. Activate the yeast: In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk, 2 tablespoons sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5 minutes until foamy.

2. Make the dough: Add remaining sugar, butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually add flour and mix until dough forms. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth and tacky.

3. First rise: Transfer dough to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 2 hours until doubled.

4. Shape the rolls: Punch down dough and roll into a 12×18-inch rectangle. Spread butter, sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar mix, and top with apples. Roll tightly into a log and slice into 12 rolls.

5. Second rise: Place rolls in a greased 9×13-inch pan. Cover and let rise for 45–60 minutes until puffy.

6. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (191°C). Bake for 25 minutes, covering with foil halfway to prevent over-browning.

7. Make the icing: Whisk all icing ingredients until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Yield: 12 rolls
Prep Time: 4 hours (includes rises)
Bake Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes or overnight

Variations

• Use cream cheese icing or maple glaze instead of caramel

• Add pecans or walnuts for crunch

• Try cardamom or nutmeg in the filling for a twist

• Swap apples for pears for a seasonal variation

Storage/Reheating

• Room temperature: Store tightly covered for up to 2 days

• Refrigerator: Store up to 5 days

• Freezer: Freeze baked or unbaked rolls for up to 3 months

• Reheating: Warm individual rolls in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes

FAQs

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, prepare them through the shaping step and refrigerate overnight. Let rise in the morning before baking.

Can I freeze them?

Yes! Freeze before or after baking. Par-bake or freeze fully baked and iced rolls.

What type of apples work best?

Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji are ideal for their balance of sweetness and firmness.

Can I use non-dairy milk?

Yes, almond or oat milk can be used, though whole milk gives the best richness.

Why is my dough sticky?

Sticky dough is normal. Use only a light dusting of flour to keep it soft, not dry.

Can I make these without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can mix and knead by hand. It just takes a bit more effort.

Do I have to use caramel in the icing?

No, but it adds a great flavor. Vanilla icing or maple glaze are excellent alternatives.

How do I know the dough has risen enough?

It should double in size and slowly bounce back when gently poked.

What’s the best way to chop the apples?

Finely dice for even distribution and texture. You can also sauté them slightly if you prefer softer apples.

Can I add nuts to the filling?

Absolutely. Chopped pecans or walnuts work great with the apple-cinnamon combo.

Conclusion

These apple cinnamon rolls bring all the warmth and comfort of fall to your breakfast table. With their rich dough, sweet apple-cinnamon filling, and indulgent caramel drizzle, they’re the kind of treat that turns an ordinary morning into something memorable. Make a batch, share with loved ones, and savor every bite.