Description
These Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect blend of warm cinnamon spice, tender apples, and gooey caramel. Soft, pillowy rolls filled with apple-cinnamon goodness and topped with caramel drizzle make this a must-have fall treat!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Filling:
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Caramel Sauce:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
1. Make the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and granulated sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy.
- Add the melted butter, egg, salt, and 3 cups of the flour. Mix until a soft dough forms. Gradually add the remaining 1/2 cup of flour as needed.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 6-8 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- In a medium bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Dice the apples into small pieces.
3. Assemble the Rolls:
- Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a 12×18-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the butter, then evenly distribute the diced apples on top.
- Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice into 12 even rolls and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Second Rise:
- Cover the rolls with a towel and let rise for 30 minutes, or until puffy.
5. Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Make the Caramel Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and stir until dissolved.
- Slowly stir in the heavy cream and salt, and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat.
7. Glaze the Rolls:
- Drizzle the warm caramel sauce over the baked rolls. For extra indulgence, serve with additional caramel sauce on the side.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Prepare the rolls and let them rise in the fridge overnight. Bake fresh in the morning.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for gooey, fresh-tasting rolls.