Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of autumn with these Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls. This recipe combines the spiced sweetness of apples with rich, homemade caramel, all rolled up in soft, fluffy dough. Each bite is a delightful mix of gooey caramel, tender apples, and aromatic cinnamon encased in a pillowy roll.
Why You'll Love This Recipe: These Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls are irresistibly delicious with their perfect balance of sweetness and spice. The homemade caramel adds a luxurious touch that elevates these rolls from ordinary to extraordinary. Additionally, the joy of pulling apart a freshly baked roll, warm and dripping with caramel, is an experience like no other.
Perfect Occasion: These cinnamon rolls are perfect for a cozy weekend breakfast, a special brunch, or a festive treat during the fall season. They're also wonderful for holiday mornings, bringing a sweet start to any celebration.
Decoration Tips: For an extra special touch, drizzle additional caramel over the rolls once they've slightly cooled. You can also sprinkle a dash of powdered sugar or a few finely chopped nuts for added texture and flavor. Serving them on a platter with a sprinkle of cinnamon sticks or autumn leaves as decor can enhance the festive feel.
Ingredients:
- Dough:
- 1/4 cup fine white sugar
- 2 tsp salt
- 7 oz unsalted butter, softened
- 7 oz milk
- 4.5 cups bread flour
- 2 eggs
- 2 tsp instant yeast
- Filling:
- 1 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
- 5 oz unsalted butter, softened
- 2 green apples, chopped
- 1 tbsp cinnamon
- Caramel:
- 1 cup white sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 tsp salt
Directions:
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar, salt, softened butter, milk, bread flour, eggs, and yeast. Mix well for a few minutes, then knead until the dough is smooth and elastic. Allow the dough to rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour.
- Make the Filling: While the dough is rising, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Refrigerate the mixture to firm it up, making it easier to handle later. Chop the green apples into small pieces.
- Assemble the Rolls: Roll out the risen dough into a rectangle about 90 x 45 cm. Evenly spread the chilled filling over the dough, and scatter the chopped apples on top. Carefully roll the dough into a log, and use a string or sharp knife to cut it into rolls.
- Bake: Place the rolls in a baking pan, leaving some space between them for expansion. Apply an egg wash (beat an egg with a splash of milk) over each roll. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Add Caramel: While the rolls are hot, drizzle the freshly made caramel over them.
Enjoy these warm, gooey, and utterly delicious Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls, perfect for a sweet treat any time of the day!