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Cinnamon rolls are a beloved treat that has captured the hearts of many, offering a warm, comforting bite that evokes feelings of home and nostalgia. Their fluffy, sweet dough swirled with aromatic cinnamon sugar makes them a staple in bakeries and kitchens worldwide. Now, imagine elevating this classic pastry by introducing the sweet and tart taste of apples, all topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. This combination not only enhances the traditional flavors but also brings a unique twist that makes these apple cinnamon rolls truly irresistible.

Irresistible Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Get ready to enjoy these irresistible Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting! Bursting with sweet apple flavor and a hint of cinnamon, these soft and fluffy rolls are perfect for breakfast or brunch. With a simple dough made from basic ingredients, plus a creamy frosting to top it all off, they're a delightful treat that everyone will love. Bake a batch and savor the sweet aroma filling your kitchen! Perfect for cozy mornings or special occasions.
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Ingredients
  

For the Rolls:

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour

½ cup granulated sugar

2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)

1 teaspoon salt

¾ cup warm milk (110°F)

¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Filling:

2 large apples, peeled, cored, and finely chopped (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

¼ cup brown sugar

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

2 cups powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1-2 tablespoons milk (to desired consistency)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. Add melted butter, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and salt. Gradually incorporate the flour, mixing until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

    First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

      Prepare the Filling: While the dough is rising, in a separate bowl, mix the chopped apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon until the apples are well coated.

        Roll Out the Dough: Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 14x24 inches.

          Add the Filling: Spread the softened butter over the rolled-out dough. Evenly distribute the apple mixture across the dough. Sprinkle nuts if using.

            Form the Rolls: Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal. Cut the log into 12 slices and place them in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish or on a baking sheet.

              Second Rise: Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes until puffy.

                Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

                  Make the Frosting: While the rolls bake, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and creamy.

                    Frost the Rolls: Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for about 10 minutes. Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm rolls.

                      Serve and Enjoy: These delightful apple cinnamon rolls are best served fresh and warm. Enjoy them with a warm beverage or as a sweet brunch treat!

                        Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours | Servings: 12 rolls