Name: apple pie cinnamon rolls Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 46 min
Total time: 3 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 7 large apples, peeled & diced (about 11 cups or 1130 grams); 1/4 cup salted butter (56 grams); 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed (110 grams); 1 tbsp lemon juice; 2 1/2 tsp cinnamon (6 grams); 1 tsp nutmeg (3 grams); 1/2 tsp ground cloves; 1/4 tsp allspices; Pinch of salt; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 2 tsp corn starch; 2 tsp water; 1/2 cup salted butter, melted (113 grams), at 115℉; 1 cup warm milk (240 mL), at 115℉; 2 large eggs, lightly beaten and at room temperature; 1/3 cup granulated sugar (70 grams); 2 1/2 tsp instant yeast (9 grams); 3/4 tsp salt; 4 cups + 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (528 grams), spooned & leveled; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (33 grams), spooned & leveled; 1/2 cup old-fashioned whole rolled oats (52 grams); 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed (55 grams); 1/8 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 cup salted butter, cold (56 grams); 1/2 cup salted butter, very softened (113 grams); 3/4 cup dark brown sugar, packed (165 grams) (light brown sugar also acceptable); 2 tsp cinnamon; Pinch of salt; 2 tbsp boiled apple cider

Jump to Recipe

If you love the comforting hug of warm cinnamon rolls and the sweet-tart burst of apple pie, these apple pie cinnamon rolls are going to become your new obsession. Imagine soft, pillowy rolls bursting with a rich cinnamon filling, pockets of tender spiced apples baked right in, then crowned with a creamy frosting, a luscious caramel apple cider sauce, and a crispy oat topping. Every bite melds the classic flavors of apple pie with the delightful indulgence of cinnamon rolls, creating an unforgettable treat that’s as perfect for cozy weekends as it is for special celebrations. Let me take you through how to make these showstoppers in your own kitchen!

apple pie cinnamon rolls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of these apple pie cinnamon rolls lies in their simplicity and quality ingredients. Each component—from juicy apples to creamy frosting—plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and that iconic golden color.

Apples (7 large, peeled & diced): These give the rolls their fresh, fruity centerpiece, providing the perfect blend of texture and natural sweetness.
Salted butter: Used throughout for richness and to balance flavors; ensure it’s fresh for the best taste.
Light brown sugar: Adds a deep molasses flavor that’s essential for caramelized sweetness both in filling and topping.
Cinnamon, nutmeg, ground cloves, allspice: These warming spices build the classic apple pie aroma and flavor that makes these cinnamon rolls irresistible.
Yeast and all-purpose flour: The fundamental building blocks for the soft, fluffy dough that rises with just the right structure.
Cream cheese and powdered sugar: Combine into a luscious frosting for that tangy, sweet finish that complements the spiced apples perfectly.
Old-fashioned rolled oats and flour: For that crispy crumble topping, adding delightful contrast to the soft rolls.

How to Make apple pie cinnamon rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling & Topping

Begin by peeling and dicing your apples, then cook them gently with butter, brown sugar, spices, and lemon juice over medium-high heat. Stir lazily to let those apples tenderize without losing their shape, adding water or apple cider if the mixture gets too dry. Finish this filling by thickening it with a cornstarch slurry until it’s beautifully saucy and glossy. This filling not only brings incredible tart and sweet notes but keeps those apple chunks juicy inside your rolls.

Step 2: Make the Dough and Let It Rise

Next, mix melted butter, warm milk, lightly beaten eggs, sugar, yeast, and salt, and then add the flour. Initially, the dough will be shaggy and sticky, but a good 5-7 minute knead with a dough hook will transform it into a smooth elastic ball ready for rising. Let this dough double in size in a lightly greased bowl, which usually takes about an hour. The rise is key to those soft, airy cinnamon rolls.

Step 3: Create the Crisp Topping and Caramel Apple Cider Sauce

While the dough is resting, whisk together oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cut cold butter into the mixture until crumbly, then bake until golden and crisp for your crumble topping. For the sauce, beat together softened butter, dark brown sugar, cinnamon, boiled apple cider, vanilla, and cream. Spread this syrupy caramel sauce in your baking dish as the delicious base for the rolls.

Step 4: Make the Cinnamon Filling

Combine softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla into a creamy filling. This thick mixture will generously coat your dough before you add apple filling, ensuring every bite oozes spice and sweetness.

Step 5: Assemble the apple pie cinnamon rolls

Roll out your risen dough on a floured surface to a large rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly, then dot with the apple filling. Instead of rolling into one big log, slice strips and roll each into individual cinnamon rolls. Nestle these rolls snugly atop the caramel sauce in your prepared pan, then cover and allow a second rise for about 30-40 minutes, until puffy and yielding to a gentle poke.

Step 6: Bake and Frost

After the second rise, pour warmed cream over the rolls and bake until golden and cooked through, about 40 to 46 minutes. While baking, whip together the cream cheese frosting, adding powdered sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and a splash of milk or cream to achieve the perfect creamy texture.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Remove the rolls from the oven and immediately frost them generously. Then spoon more warm apple filling on top and sprinkle the crisp oat crumble for textural contrast and extra flair. Serve warm to enjoy a heavenly blend of apple pie and cinnamon roll goodness.

How to Serve apple pie cinnamon rolls

Garnishes

Adding a spoonful of warm apple filling on top alongside the oatmeal crumble brings a rustic elegance and a delightful contrast of soft and crunchy textures. Consider a light dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce for sparkle and sweetness that make each serving irresistible.

Side Dishes

Serve these rolls with a simple bowl of vanilla ice cream or a generously frothed cup of your favorite coffee or chai tea. The warm spices pair beautifully with creamy or lightly spiced beverages, making for a comforting, balanced treat.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun breakfast or brunch twist, slice the rolls and stack them on a platter with layers of fresh apple slices and a drizzle of extra caramel apple cider sauce. Alternatively, serve individual rolls in rustic ramekins topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These apple pie cinnamon rolls stay moist and flavorful for 2-3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the frosting separate if you want to avoid softening until ready to serve again.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked assembled rolls wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, allow them to rise again briefly, then bake fresh for a homemade taste anytime you crave apple pie cinnamon rolls.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftover rolls in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a warm oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. Add fresh frosting or warmed apple filling before serving to revive that just-baked experience.

FAQs

Can I use frozen apples for the filling?

Fresh apples deliver the best texture for the filling, but if you’re using frozen, thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in your rolls.

Do I have to use instant yeast?

Instant yeast works wonderfully here due to its quick action, but you can substitute active dry yeast by proofing it first in warm milk with a pinch of sugar.

Can these rolls be made vegan?

Yes! Swap butter with plant-based margarine, milk for any nut milk, and eggs with flax or chia seed eggs; though results may vary slightly in texture.

Why is the second rise important?

This second proof lets the dough relax and expand, ensuring soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls rather than dense or tough ones.

What’s the best apple variety to use?

Tart apples like Granny Smith or a mix with sweeter varieties strike the perfect balance of flavor and texture in the apple pie cinnamon rolls.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about apple pie cinnamon rolls that brings comfort and joy with every bite. Whether you’re baking for a holiday brunch, a cozy weekend, or simply to make the day sweeter, these rolls promise to delight and impress. Give this recipe a try—you’ll be basking in the warm embrace of apples, cinnamon, caramel, and cream in no time, and your kitchen will smell like pure happiness.

apple pie cinnamon rolls Recipe

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5.2 from 21 reviews

Delight in these irresistible Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls, which combine fluffy cinnamon-spiced dough swirled with a rich cinnamon filling, tender apple pie filling, and a crisp oat crumble topping. They’re finished with a luscious caramel apple cider sauce baked beneath and a creamy cinnamon cream cheese frosting, making them the perfect sweet treat for brunch or dessert.

Author: Maya
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 46 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 12–15 cinnamon rolls 1x
Category: Breakfast, Dessert, Brunch
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Make the Apple Filling & Topping: Combine diced apples, butter, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, salt, and vanilla extract in a medium pan over medium-high heat. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring gently until apples reach desired tenderness. If liquid evaporates, add a splash of apple cider or water to maintain sauce consistency. For thickening, dissolve cornstarch in water, add to the pan, and cook for 30-60 seconds until juices thicken. Set aside or refrigerate up to 3 days.
Make the Dough & First Rise: In a stand mixer bowl, whisk melted butter, warm milk, eggs, sugar, yeast, and salt until combined. Add flour and mix on low speed until just combined. Rest dough for 5 minutes. Switch to dough hook attachment and knead on low speed for 5-7 minutes until dough pulls away from bowl sides and becomes elastic but slightly slack. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover loosely, and let rise for 1 hour until doubled and indent holds when poked.
Make the Crisp Topping: Preheat oven to 350℉ and line a baking sheet with parchment. Whisk together flour, oats, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Cut cold butter into chunks and cut into dry ingredients with a pastry blender or forks until crumbly. Spread evenly on baking sheet and bake 12-16 minutes, stirring halfway, bringing edges to center to prevent burning. Cool and set aside.
Make the Caramel Apple Cider Sauce: In a medium bowl, beat together softened butter, dark brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, boiled apple cider, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until fully combined. Spray a 9×13 inch ceramic or metal baking dish with nonstick spray, then spread the sauce evenly across the bottom.
Make the Cinnamon Filling: In a medium bowl, beat softened butter, light brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla extract on medium-high speed until thick and creamy. Set aside.
Assemble the Rolls: After the dough has doubled, generously flour a countertop. Roll out dough to approximately 14×22 inches. Evenly spread the cinnamon filling over the dough using an offset spatula, reaching near edges. Dot 1 1/2 cups of the apple filling evenly on top. Cut the dough lengthwise into 1 3/4 inch strips. Roll each strip into individual rolls. Arrange rolls tightly in the prepared dish on top of the caramel sauce; smaller pieces can be rolled together and placed in the center to ensure even baking. Cover loosely with a towel and let rise 30-40 minutes until indent holds. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350℉.
Bake: Pour room-temperature heavy cream gently over and between the rolls before baking. Bake for 40 to 46 minutes until golden brown and center registers 205-210℉ with an instant-read thermometer. Check for raw dough on thermometer probe and bake longer if needed.
Make the Frosting: While baking, beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, salt, cinnamon, and 2-3 tbsp milk or heavy cream until smooth and creamy. Adjust liquid for desired consistency but avoid overbeating for thicker frosting.
Serve & Store: Spread frosting immediately over warm rolls, then top each with a generous spoonful of reserved apple topping and a sprinkle of crisp topping. Enjoy fresh. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and gently reheat before serving.

Notes

Use warm milk and melted butter at about 115℉ to activate yeast properly.
Boiled apple cider for the caramel sauce enhances flavor and consistency.
Dough rising times vary based on ambient temperature; look for doubling and finger indent test rather than strict timing.
Keep heavy cream for pouring warm but do not mix into cinnamon filling; it helps create a moist, tender crumb during baking.
The smaller cinnamon rolls placed in the center bake a bit slower, ensuring all rolls finish evenly.
These rolls are best enjoyed fresh but reheat well wrapped in foil and warmed gently in the oven.
For a dairy-free version, substitute suitable vegan butters, milk, and cream alternatives, adjusting consistency as needed.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cinnamon roll (approx. 1/12 of recipe)
Calories: 480 kcal
Sugar: 30 g
Sodium: 250 mg
Fat: 23 g
Saturated Fat: 14 g
Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
Trans Fat: 0.3 g
Carbohydrates: 60 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 6 g
Cholesterol: 85 mg

Keywords: apple pie cinnamon rolls, cinnamon rolls, apple filling, caramel apple sauce, cinnamon frosting, brunch recipe, sweet rolls