Indulging in the sweet, gooey goodness of Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls is an experience that elevates any breakfast or brunch gathering. These delightful treats combine the warm, comforting flavors of freshly baked cinnamon rolls with the nostalgic taste of caramelized apples, creating a perfect harmony of textures and tastes. As the aroma wafts through your kitchen, you’ll find it irresistible to dive in.
Moreover, the joy of pulling apart these luscious rolls and discovering the layers of apples and caramel sauce makes for a memorable treat any time of day. Whether you’re surprising family on a cozy weekend morning or adding a special touch to a festive occasion, these cinnamon rolls promise to be a crowd-pleaser. So, let’s explore how to make this delectable dessert!
Ingredients :
To create irresistible Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls, gather the following ingredients for both the dough and filling:
Cinnamon Roll Dough:
– 4 tablespoons melted salted butter (or ghee)
– ¾ cup milk (dairy or almond)
– ¼ cup water
– 3¼ – 3¾ cup all-purpose flour
– ¼ cup granulated sugar
– ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
– 2¼ teaspoon instant yeast
– 2 tablespoons powdered milk
– 1 egg, room temperature
Caramel Apple Filling:
– ⅔ cup light brown sugar, packed
– 5 teaspoons cinnamon
– ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
– 5 tablespoons salted butter, softened
– 1 large Granny Smith apple, cored and chopped
– ¼ cup toasted chopped pecans (optional)
– ¾ cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
These Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls combine sweet and tart flavors, making them perfect for breakfast or dessert. If you love apple-infused recipes, don’t miss out on this delicious apple crisp recipe to try alongside your rolls. With a delightful mix of spices and textures, these rolls are sure to become a seasonal favorite that everyone will cherish.
Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls:
Indulging in homemade Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls brings the delightful charm of autumn to your kitchen. Start by preparing your dough; combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast, allowing it to proof. Next, blend flour and salt, incorporating the yeast mixture gradually. Knead until smooth and let rise until doubled in size.
While the dough rises, prepare the apple filling. Chop fresh apples and mix them with cinnamon and sugar, creating a fragrant filling. Once the dough is ready, roll it out, spread softened butter, and layer the apple mixture over the surface. Roll tightly to form a log and slice into rolls.
For the crowning touch, make a simple caramel sauce by melting sugar until golden. Drizzle this over the baked rolls for a gooey finish. If you’re looking for other apple treats, check out this apple crisp recipe for a perfect pairing!
Baking Tips for Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls:
To create the perfect Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls, start with fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Use Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples for a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness. When making the dough, take care not to over-knead; a light touch promotes a fluffy texture. For the caramel sauce, consider following a recipe that details the process well, like this Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls guide. It ensures your sauce turns out perfectly rich and gooey.
As you roll out your dough, sprinkle a generous amount of cinnamon and brown sugar for a mouthwatering filling. Allow the rolls to rise adequately, as this step is crucial for achieving that airy, soft bite. Lastly, consider pairing your rolls with a warm cup of spiced apple cider or a slice of apple crisp for a delightful autumn treat. Enjoy every bite!
How to Prepare Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls:
To create delicious Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls, start by making the cinnamon roll dough. In a large bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of melted salted butter, ¾ cup of milk, and ¼ cup of warm water. Sprinkle in 2¼ teaspoons of instant yeast and let it activate for a few minutes. Next, mix in ¼ cup of granulated sugar, ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt, and 2 tablespoons of powdered milk. Add 1 room temperature egg and gradually incorporate 3¼ to 3¾ cups of all-purpose flour until a cohesive dough forms. Knead it until smooth, then let it rise for about an hour.
For the luscious filling, blend ⅔ cup of packed light brown sugar, 5 teaspoons of cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg with 5 tablespoons of softened butter. Fold in the chopped Granny Smith apple and optional pecans. Roll out the dough, spread the filling evenly, and drizzle with ¾ cup of caramel sauce. Roll up tightly, slice into portions, and bake until golden.
For more apple-inspired treats, check out my Apple Crisp recipe. Enjoy these delicious rolls warm, drizzled with extra caramel!
Storage Tips for Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls:
To keep your Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls fresh and delicious, proper storage is essential. First, allow the rolls to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, place them gently in an airtight container. Line the bottom with parchment paper to absorb any excess moisture. If you plan to eat them within a few days, store the container in the refrigerator. For longer storage, you can freeze your cinnamon rolls. Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This method helps to preserve their flavor and texture.
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven or microwave. For a twist, try serving them with a drizzle of homemade caramel sauce, reminiscent of the delightful toppings in Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars. This adds an extra layer of indulgence to each bite!
Serving Suggestions for Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls:
Elevate your Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls by pairing them with a warm, spiced Apple Cider Bourbon Slush. This delightful beverage enhances the comforting flavors of the rolls while providing a refreshing contrast. For an additional treat, consider serving alongside Luscious Country Apple Fritter Bread. These combinations will satisfy all your autumn cravings!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What’s the best way to prepare caramel for the rolls?
The key to a perfect caramel for your Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls is patience. Start by melting sugar over low to medium heat, stirring gently until it becomes liquid and amber in color. Quickly add cream and butter off the heat, stirring continuously until smooth and glossy.
Can I use store-bought dough for these rolls?
Absolutely! Using store-bought dough can save time and effort. Just ensure it is suitable for cinnamon rolls. You’ll still enjoy the delightful flavors of caramel and apple without all the mixing and kneading.
What kind of apples should I use?
For optimal flavor, use tart apples like Granny Smith. Their acidity perfectly balances the sweetness of the caramel and the rich cinnamon, making your cinnamon rolls a mouthwatering delight.
How can I make these rolls ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough and filling a day in advance. Simply assemble your Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls, cover them tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake them fresh in the morning for a warm breakfast treat.
Can I freeze leftover rolls?
Yes, freezing is an excellent option! First, make sure the rolls cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. For a sweet breakfast treat, thaw and warm them when you’re ready to enjoy.
What are some good pairings for these rolls?
Consider serving your rolls with a side of creamy vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce. Alternatively, a flavorful cup of cinnamon apple cider, like the one found in our Cinnamon Apple Cider Sangria recipe, complements the rolls beautifully.
Print
Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls that Will Make You Smile!
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulging in the sweet, gooey goodness of Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls is an experience that elevates any breakfast or brunch gathering. These delightful treats combine the warm, comforting flavors of freshly baked cinnamon rolls with the nostalgic taste of caramelized apples, creating a perfect harmony of textures and tastes. The layers of apples and caramel sauce make for a memorable treat, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cinnamon Roll Dough:
4 tablespoons melted salted butter (or ghee)
¾ cup milk (dairy or almond)
¼ cup water
3¼ – 3¾ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup granulated sugar
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
2¼ teaspoons instant yeast
2 tablespoons powdered milk
1 egg, room temperature
Caramel Apple Filling:
⅔ cup light brown sugar, packed
5 teaspoons cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
5 tablespoons salted butter, softened
1 large Granny Smith apple, cored and chopped
¼ cup toasted chopped pecans (optional)
¾ cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions
Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine the melted salted butter, warm milk, and water. Sprinkle in the yeast and allow it to activate for 5 minutes.
Add the granulated sugar, kosher salt, powdered milk, and egg. Gradually incorporate 3¼ to 3¾ cups of flour until a cohesive dough forms.
Knead the dough until smooth, then cover and allow it to rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Add the softened butter and stir until a smooth mixture forms.
Fold in the chopped Granny Smith apple and toasted pecans (if using).
Assemble the Rolls:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread the softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over it.
Spread the apple mixture on top and drizzle with caramel sauce. Roll the dough tightly into a log, then slice it into 12-15 rolls.
Place the rolls in a greased baking dish. Let them rise for 20-30 minutes.
Bake the Rolls:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Serve:
Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the rolls once they’re out of the oven. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Use Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples for a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
If you prefer, you can substitute store-bought dough to save time.
For added richness, you can also add a cream cheese frosting.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
Keywords: caramel, apple, cinnamon rolls, fall recipe, breakfast treat