Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

These Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls are a fall-inspired twist on the classic cinnamon roll, bringing together the rich flavors of cinnamon, caramel, and sweet, tart apples. Perfectly soft and gooey, these rolls have a filling made of sautéed caramelized apples, a layer of cinnamon-sugar, and a topping of warm caramel sauce that seeps into each roll for an indulgent finish. These rolls are ideal for a special brunch, holiday breakfast, or any time you want to treat yourself to a sweet, cozy dessert. Let’s get baking!

Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect blend of classic cinnamon rolls and the warm, comforting flavors of caramel apples. These rolls are not only deliciously sweet and tender but also have a luscious caramel glaze that makes each bite feel like a little piece of autumn. This recipe guides you through the process of making fluffy homemade dough, a spiced apple filling, and a gooey caramel sauce that brings everything together. Even if you’re new to baking, these step-by-step instructions make it easy to create this decadent treat at home.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: Pour the warm milk (around 110°F) into a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle the yeast and ¼ cup of sugar over the milk, and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step ensures that the yeast is active.
2. Combine Ingredients: Add the melted butter, eggs, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until everything is combined.
3. Add Flour Gradually: Slowly add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until the dough starts to come together.
4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, but avoid adding too much to keep the dough soft.
5. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm area for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Making the Caramelized Apple Filling

1. Sauté the Apples: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir to combine.
2. Cook Until Soft: Cook the apples for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and caramelized. If the filling is too runny, add 1 teaspoon of cornstarch to thicken it slightly.
3. Cool the Filling: Remove from heat and set the apple mixture aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Assembling the Rolls

1. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches.
2. Spread Butter and Sugar: Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon for the cinnamon layer. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered dough.
3. Add the Apple Filling: Distribute the caramelized apple mixture evenly over the cinnamon-sugar layer.
4. Roll and Cut the Dough: Starting from the long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Slice the log into 12 even rolls and arrange them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Second Rise: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and let the rolls rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they are slightly puffy.

Step 4: Baking the Cinnamon Rolls

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake: Once the rolls have risen, bake them for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through. If the tops are browning too quickly, tent the dish with foil.
3. Cool Slightly: Remove from the oven and let the rolls cool slightly before adding the caramel sauce.

Step 5: Adding the Caramel Topping

1. Prepare the Caramel Sauce: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar, stirring constantly. It will start to form clumps and eventually melt into a golden-brown liquid. Be careful not to burn it.
2. Add Butter and Cream: Once the sugar is melted, add the butter and stir until it’s fully combined. Slowly pour in the heavy cream (it may bubble up), stirring constantly. Add the vanilla extract and salt.
3. Drizzle Over Rolls: Let the caramel cool slightly, then drizzle it generously over the warm rolls.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls are best served warm, ideally fresh from the oven while the caramel is still gooey and the rolls are soft. You can serve them as is, or add a few extra toppings for added flavor and texture. Here are some ideas:

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the richness of the rolls.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert-like treat.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts on top for a crunchy texture.
• Powdered Sugar Drizzle: For a more classic cinnamon roll topping, make a simple icing with powdered sugar and milk and drizzle it over the rolls.
• Extra Caramel Sauce: For an extra indulgent treat, serve with a side of warm caramel sauce for dipping.

Variations:

• Salted Caramel: Add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel sauce for a sweet-salty contrast.
• Pecan Caramel Rolls: Add a handful of chopped pecans to the caramel apple filling for a nutty twist.
• Maple Cinnamon Rolls: Replace the caramel sauce with a maple syrup glaze for a unique flavor.
• Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting: Skip the caramel sauce and top with a cream cheese frosting for a classic cinnamon roll variation.

Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls

1. Use Warm Ingredients: Ensure the milk and butter are slightly warm, as this helps the yeast activate faster and creates a fluffier dough.
2. Roll Tightly: When rolling up the dough, make sure it’s rolled tightly to prevent gaps and to keep the filling well-distributed.
3. Don’t Overbake: Check the rolls around the 25-minute mark. Overbaking can make the rolls dry, so aim for a golden color on top.
4. Make Caramel Sauce Carefully: Keep an eye on the caramel, as it can burn quickly. Use medium heat and stir constantly.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Storing: These cinnamon rolls can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days if covered tightly. For longer storage, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to a week.
• Freezing: Freeze the baked and cooled rolls (without the caramel sauce) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm the rolls in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes. Drizzle fresh caramel sauce over them if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes! Granny Smith apples are a great option for tartness, but you can also use Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala for a sweeter filling.

Q2: Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare the rolls and arrange them in the baking dish. Cover and refrigerate overnight, then bake the next day.

Q3: What’s the best way to cut the rolls?
Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to slice the rolls cleanly without squishing them.

Q4: Can I make the caramel sauce ahead?
Yes, the caramel sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat it gently before drizzling.

Q5: Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, store-bought caramel sauce is a convenient option if you’re short on time. Just warm it up and pour it over the rolls.

Conclusion

Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls are an incredible treat that combines classic cinnamon rolls with the warmth of caramel apples. The soft dough, spiced apple filling, and gooey caramel sauce make these rolls an unforgettable addition to any brunch, holiday celebration, or cozy autumn day. Plus, with simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is accessible even if you’re new to baking.

Enjoy making these delicious Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls and sharing them with family and friends! They’re sure to be a hit with anyone who loves fall flavors and comforting desserts.

Yield: 12 Rolls

Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

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These Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls are a fall-inspired twist on the classic cinnamon roll, bringing together the rich flavors of cinnamon, caramel, and sweet, tart apples. Perfectly soft and gooey, these rolls have a filling made of sautéed caramelized apples, a layer of cinnamon-sugar, and a topping of warm caramel sauce that seeps into each roll for an indulgent finish. These rolls are ideal for a special brunch, holiday breakfast, or any time you want to treat yourself to a sweet, cozy dessert. Let's get baking!

Prep Time 25 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Rising Time 1 hour

Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes

Ingredients

• Dough:
• 3 1/4 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 whole milk, warmed
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• Filling:
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large apples, peeled and finely chopped
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• Caramel Sauce:
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Cream Cheese Icing (Optional):
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Make the Dough:
   In a large bowl, mix the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
   Add the warmed milk, melted butter, and egg. Stir until a dough forms.
   Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add a little extra flour if the dough is sticky.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
   
2. Prepare the Filling:
   While the dough is rising, peel and finely chop the apples. Toss them with the brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl.
   
3. Roll Out the Dough:
   Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface.
   Roll it out into a 12x18 inch rectangle, and brush the melted butter over the surface.
   
4. Add the Filling:
   Sprinkle the apple mixture evenly over the buttered dough.
   Roll up the dough tightly from the longer side to form a log. Cut into 12 even slices.
   
5. Second Rise:
   Place the rolls in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Cover and let them rise for an additional 20-30 minutes.
   
6. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   
7. Bake the Rolls:
   Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown.
   
8. Make the Caramel Sauce:
   While the rolls bake, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and heavy cream, stirring until smooth.
   Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes, then remove from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
   
9. Drizzle with Caramel Sauce and Optional Icing:
   Once the rolls are out of the oven, drizzle the warm caramel sauce over them.
   For an optional cream cheese icing, beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle or spread over the rolls.
   
10. Serve:
    Enjoy the rolls warm! They’re best served fresh but can be reheated for a few seconds in the microwave.

Notes

• Apple Variety: Use firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith for a perfect balance of flavor.
• Reheating: Leftover rolls can be stored in an airtight container and reheated in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
• Caramel Drizzle: Save any extra caramel sauce to drizzle over individual rolls before serving.