Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting and Optional Crumb Topping

These apple cinnamon rolls are a delicious twist on the classic cinnamon roll, combining soft, fluffy dough with a sweet cinnamon and apple filling. Topped with a rich cream cheese frosting and an optional crumb topping for extra texture, these rolls are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a special treat. The combination of warm cinnamon, tender apples, and creamy frosting makes these rolls irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls with the freshness of apples. The dough is soft and fluffy, the apple filling adds a fruity twist, and the cream cheese frosting makes it extra indulgent. The crumb topping adds a delightful crunch, making these rolls feel special and bakery-worthy. Despite the layered flavors, they’re surprisingly simple to make, and the result is a treat that’s sure to impress.

The Perfect Occasion

These apple cinnamon rolls are perfect for a cozy breakfast, a holiday brunch, or an afternoon snack. They’re a wonderful treat for fall, when apples are in season, but they can be enjoyed any time of the year. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a special occasion, or just for fun, these cinnamon rolls are a surefire hit.

Decoration Tips

After adding the cream cheese frosting, sprinkle the crumb topping over the top for added texture and flavor. You can also dust the finished rolls with powdered sugar for a simple, elegant touch. If you want to make them extra indulgent, drizzle a little caramel sauce on top. For a more festive look, you can garnish the rolls with thin slices of fresh apple or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup milk (add gradually, more if needed)
• 2 tsp instant yeast
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• 60g (1/4 cup) room temperature butter

For the Apple Filling:

• 3 apples, peeled and diced
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 3 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• A pinch of salt
• 25g (2 tbsp) butter

For the Cinnamon Filling:

• 70g (5 tbsp) room temperature butter
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 180g cream cheese, room temperature
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1-2 tbsp heavy cream or milk

Optional Crumb Topping:

• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 40g (3 tbsp) melted butter (cooled)

Instructions:

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Gradually add the milk and egg, mixing until a dough forms.
2. Add the softened butter and knead the dough for about 8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. Cover the dough and let it rise for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

1. In a saucepan, combine the apples, cinnamon, sugar, cornstarch, salt, and butter. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften slightly.
2. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling

1. In a bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon together until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

1. Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a large rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.
2. Sprinkle the cooled apple mixture over the cinnamon filling.
3. Roll the dough into a log and slice it into individual rolls. Place the rolls in a greased baking pan and cover. Let them rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 5: Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. While the rolls are baking, mix the cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream (or milk) until smooth.

Step 7: Make the Crumb Topping (Optional)

1. In a bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add the cooled melted butter and mix until crumbs form. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 8 minutes, until golden.

Step 8: Frost and Serve

1. Once the rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting over them. If using, sprinkle the crumb topping on top.

Enjoy!