A Delightful Twist on Classic Cinnamon Rolls
Apple rolls are a delectable fusion of tender dough, sweet cinnamon-spiced apples, and a hint of vanilla. Whether you’re seeking a cozy breakfast or a comforting dessert, these rolls are sure to satisfy your cravings. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of making these delightful treats, exploring variations, and offering tips to perfect your baking experience.
What Are Apple Rolls?
Apple rolls are a variation of traditional cinnamon rolls, incorporating thinly sliced apples into the filling. The apples are often sautéed with cinnamon and sugar before being rolled into the dough, creating a warm, gooey center. These rolls are typically baked until golden brown and can be topped with a glaze or frosting for added sweetness.
For a visual guide and step-by-step instructions, consider checking out this Apple Cinnamon Rolls Recipe with Easy Vanilla Glaze.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make approximately 12 apple rolls, gather the following ingredients:
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Dough:
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3½ cups all-purpose flour
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½ cup granulated sugar
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1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
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1 tsp salt
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1 cup whole milk
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¼ cup unsalted butter
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2 large eggsCookies and Cupslittlespicejar.com+3Recipe Cart+3GreedyEats+3
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Filling:
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2 large apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and thinly sliced
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¾ cup brown sugar
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2 tsp ground cinnamon
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2 tbsp unsalted butter, meltedRecipe Cart
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Glaze (optional):
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1 cup powdered sugar
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2 tbsp milk
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½ tsp vanilla extractTasting Table+21Cookies and Cups+21Lil’ Luna+21
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Step-by-Step Recipe for Homemade Apple Rolls
1. Prepare the Dough
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In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
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In a saucepan, heat milk and butter until the butter is melted and the mixture is warm (about 110°F or 43°C).
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Add the warm milk mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
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Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5–7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
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Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling
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In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon.
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Melt the butter and set aside.
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Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples.
3. Assemble the Rolls
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a 16×12-inch rectangle.
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Brush the dough with melted butter, then sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
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Distribute the sliced apples over the cinnamon-sugar layer.
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Roll the dough tightly from the long edge, then cut into 12 equal pieces.
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Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, cover, and let them rise for about 30 minutes.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown.
4. Prepare the Glaze
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While the rolls are baking, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
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Once the rolls are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
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Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls before serving.
Variations of Apple Rolls
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Vegan Apple Rolls: Substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives, such as almond milk and vegan butter.
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Gluten-Free Apple Rolls: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and ensure other ingredients are gluten-free.
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Caramel Apple Rolls: Add a layer of caramel sauce between the dough and apple slices for an extra indulgent treat.
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Apple Walnut Rolls: Incorporate chopped walnuts into the filling for added crunch and flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Apple Rolls
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Not letting the dough rise properly: Ensure the dough doubles in size during the first rise for optimal texture.
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Overfilling the rolls: Too much filling can cause the rolls to become soggy or difficult to roll up.
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Not using the right apples: Opt for firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to maintain texture during baking.
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Skipping the glaze: The glaze adds sweetness and moisture, enhancing the overall flavor of the rolls.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
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With Coffee or Tea: Apple rolls pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making them perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
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With Ice Cream: Serve warm apple rolls with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a delightful dessert.
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With Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the rolls for an extra layer of sweetness.
Nutritional Breakdown of Apple Rolls
| Nutrient | Amount per Roll |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~300 kcal |
| Protein | ~4g |
| Carbohydrates | ~50g |
| Fat | ~10g |
| Fiber | ~2g |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use store-bought dough for apple rolls?
Yes, you can use store-bought dough such as puff pastry or crescent roll dough. However, homemade dough allows for customization and may yield a fresher taste.
How do I store leftover apple rolls?
Store leftover apple rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to a month.
Can I freeze apple rolls before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled rolls before baking. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Conclusion
Apple rolls are a delightful treat that combines the flavors of cinnamon, sugar, and apples in a soft, buttery dough. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, dessert, or as a special snack, these rolls are sure to please. Experiment with different variations to find your perfect combination, and enjoy the comforting taste of homemade apple rolls