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Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls

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  • Author: Stephanie
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Chill Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 rolls 1x
  • Category: Dessert, Breakfast
  • Cuisine: American

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:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and granulated sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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:

  1. In a medium bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
  2. Dice the apples into small pieces.

3. Assemble the Rolls:

  1. Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a 12×18-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
  2. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough.
  3. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the butter, then evenly distribute the diced apples on top.
  4. 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:

  1. Cover the rolls with a towel and let rise for 30 minutes, or until puffy.

5. Bake:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

6. Make the Caramel Sauce:

  1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and stir until dissolved.
  2. 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:

  1. 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.