Apple Cinnamon Rolls

 Apple Cinnamon Rolls are a warm, gooey, and delightful treat—perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack. The addition of apples adds a fruity twist to the classic cinnamon roll, making them even more irresistible. Here's a recipe to make them from scratch:

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup sugar

1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 cup whole milk, warmed

1/4 cup water, warmed

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

2 large eggs

For the Apple Filling:

2 large apples, peeled, cored, and finely chopped

1/4 cup brown sugar

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1 tbsp butter

For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling:

1/2 cup brown sugar

2 tbsp ground cinnamon

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar

2 tbsp milk

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Make the Dough:

In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, warm water, and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the mixture and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, softened butter, and eggs. Stir to combine and knead for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

2. Prepare the Apple Filling:

In a small skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped apples, cinnamon, and brown sugar. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the apples soften and the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let cool.

3. Roll Out the Dough:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about 12x18 inches.

4. Assemble the Rolls:

Spread the softened butter for the cinnamon sugar filling over the rolled-out dough.

Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough.

Spoon the cooled apple filling over the cinnamon sugar layer.

Starting from the longer side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Slice the rolled dough into 12 even pieces.

5. Bake the Rolls:

Place the rolls in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll. Cover with a cloth and let them rise for 30 minutes.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

6. Make the Glaze:

While the rolls bake, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make the glaze. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed.

7. Finish the Rolls:

Once the rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.

Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls, allowing it to soak in.

Serving:

Serve the Apple Cinnamon Rolls warm for the best experience. They’re perfect on their own or with a cup of coffee or tea.

Enjoy these soft, gooey, and comforting apple cinnamon rolls—an irresistible breakfast or dessert!