Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls

If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting fall dessert or breakfast option, Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls are a must-try! Combining the sweet warmth of cinnamon rolls with the rich flavors of caramel and apples, this recipe is perfect for cozy mornings or special occasions. Not only are these rolls indulgent and satisfying, but they’re also incredibly easy to make, ensuring that you can enjoy the deliciousness of homemade cinnamon rolls without all the hassle. Let’s dive into this tasty recipe that will surely become a fall favorite!

Ingredients for Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls:

For the dough:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 egg
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

For the caramel apple filling:

• 2 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well), peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the caramel glaze:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions:

this recipe

1. Prepare the Dough:

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture, melted butter, sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and egg. Mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add the flour (and cinnamon, if using), one cup at a time, mixing until the dough forms. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Caramel Apple Filling:

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir occasionally and cook for about 5 minutes until the apples are tender and coated in the sweet mixture.
2. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Set aside to cool slightly.

3. Roll and Assemble:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches.
3. Brush the dough with melted butter, then spread the caramel apple mixture evenly over the surface.
4. Carefully roll the dough up, starting from the long edge, and pinch the seam to seal it.
5. Slice the rolled dough into 12 even pieces and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Make sure to leave a little space between each roll for rising.

4. Bake the Cinnamon Rolls:

1. Cover the baking dish with a towel and allow the rolls to rise for 20-30 minutes, until slightly puffed.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the rolls are golden brown and cooked through.

5. Make the Caramel Glaze:

1. While the rolls are baking, prepare the caramel glaze by combining the butter, brown sugar, and heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.

6. Glaze the Rolls:

1. Once the cinnamon rolls are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes.
2. Drizzle the warm caramel glaze generously over the rolls, allowing it to soak into the layers and enhance the flavor.

Tips for Perfect Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls:

• Apple Choice: Choose apples that hold up well during cooking, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, for the best texture and flavor.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough and filling the night before. Just refrigerate the dough after rolling it up and slicing, then let it rise for 20-30 minutes before baking in the morning.
• Customize the Glaze: For an extra indulgent treat, add a touch of sea salt to the caramel glaze for a salted caramel version!

Why You’ll Love These Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls:

• Perfect for Fall: The combination of cinnamon, apples, and caramel gives these rolls a rich, comforting flavor that screams fall.
• Easy to Make: While these rolls look and taste impressive, they’re simple to prepare with a few basic ingredients.
• Versatile: These cinnamon rolls are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even as a snack with a warm cup of coffee or cider.

Conclusion:

These Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls are an irresistible treat that combines two favorite desserts—cinnamon rolls and caramel apples—into one mouthwatering dish. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, they’re a great way to celebrate the flavors of fall. With a soft, fluffy dough and a gooey, sweet filling, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. So grab your ingredients, bake a batch, and enjoy the delicious aroma filling your kitchen!

Serving and Storage Tips for Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Serving Tips:

1. Warm and Fresh: For the best flavor, serve your Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls warm. The gooey caramel and soft apples are most delightful when they’re fresh out of the oven or reheated.
2. Top with Extra Caramel Sauce: For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle some additional caramel sauce over the rolls before serving. You can even add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
3. Pair with Coffee or Tea: These rolls make an excellent accompaniment to your morning coffee or a warm cup of tea, enhancing the cozy, comforting experience.
4. Serve as a Crowd-Pleaser: These cinnamon rolls are perfect for family gatherings, brunches, or holiday meals. Arrange them on a platter and allow guests to serve themselves, making for a fun, communal experience.
5. Add Whipped Cream or Cream Cheese Frosting: If you prefer an extra creamy topping, a dollop of whipped cream or cream cheese frosting complements the caramel apple filling beautifully.

Storage Tips:

1. Store at Room Temperature: If you have leftovers, you can store the cinnamon rolls at room temperature. Simply cover them with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days.
2. Refrigerate for Longer Storage: For longer storage, place the rolls in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the fridge. They can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
3. Freezing the Rolls: If you want to make these ahead of time or save them for later, Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls freeze well. Place the cooled rolls in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven for 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
4. Reheating Tips: To reheat, place individual rolls in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in the oven for 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C). If you want the rolls to be extra moist, cover them with foil before reheating.

1. Can I use store-bought dough for this recipe?

Yes, you can use store-bought cinnamon roll dough to save time. While homemade dough adds a richer texture and flavor, pre-made dough can still yield delicious results. Just follow the instructions on the package for baking and proceed with the caramel apple filling and glaze as outlined in the recipe.

2. Can I make Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls without apples?

While apples are a key ingredient in this recipe, you can substitute them with other fruits like pears, peaches, or even cranberries for a different flavor. Just ensure the fruit you choose is firm enough to hold up during cooking. You could also try a simple cinnamon-sugar filling for a classic cinnamon roll version.

3. How can I make the caramel glaze less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet caramel glaze, reduce the amount of brown sugar or heavy cream in the glaze. You can also add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness and create a salted caramel flavor. Adjust the sugar to your taste for a more subtle caramel experience.

4. Can I prepare Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and filling the night before. Simply assemble the rolls, cover them tightly, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them rise for about 20-30 minutes before baking. This method allows you to enjoy fresh rolls with minimal effort on the day of serving.

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