Sweet Autumn Bliss: Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls (Decadent Apple Pecan Cinnamon Rolls)

Welcome to a world where gooey sweetness meets warm, spiced delight! Imagine waking up to the aroma of freshly baked Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls wafting through your home, each roll bursting with luscious apple pie filling and a medley of toasted pecans. Topped with a creamy layer of smooth cream cheese frosting, these rolls are not just a breakfast treat; they are an experience, a celebration of autumn’s best flavors wrapped in a cozy pastry embrace. Perfect for Thanksgiving morning or any lazy Sunday, these rolls will have everyone begging for seconds!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate indulgence, and here’s why:

– Big, Bold Flavors: The combination of cinnamon and sweet apples creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.
– Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or brunch with friends, everyone will rave about these delightful rolls.
– Make-Ahead Magic: Prep the components in advance, so all you need to do in the morning is assemble and bake!
– Warm & Gooey Goodness: With a soft, pillowy texture and a gooey filling, each bite is a taste of heaven.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s dive into the star lineup for these heavenly Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls! Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that melt-in-your-mouth experience.

– 250g whole milk, lukewarm
– 50g granulated sugar
– 2 1/4 tsp active dried yeast
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 tsp kosher salt
– 565g all-purpose flour
– 100g unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 850g (about four medium) apples, peeled, cored, and diced small
– 30g unsalted butter
– 80g granulated sugar
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp kosher salt
– 1 Tbsp cornstarch
– 125g pecan halves
– 190g unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 280g brown sugar
– 2 Tbsp plus 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/8 tsp kosher salt
– 115g unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 225g cream cheese, at room temperature
– 250g powdered sugar, sifted
– 1-2 Tbsp heavy whipping cream
– 1/2 tsp kosher salt

*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*

Variations

These Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls are incredibly versatile! Here are some fun tweaks to make this recipe your own:

– Go Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a gluten-free delight.
– Add Extra Protein: Stir in some chopped cooked bacon or sausage for a savory twist.
– Make it Spicier: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the filling for an extra kick.
– Swap the Dressing: Infuse the cream cheese frosting with maple syrup for a lovely autumn flair.
– Colorful Additions: Add dried cranberries or raisins to the apple mixture for a pop of color and sweetness!

How to Make Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Ready to roll? Let’s get baking these delightful Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls! Follow these simple steps for a gooey masterpiece.

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a bowl, combine lukewarm milk and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until frothy and bubbly.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and kosher salt into the yeast mixture. Gradually add in the flour and softened butter, mixing until a sticky dough forms.

Step 3: Knead & Rise

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size (about 1 hour).

Step 4: Prepare the Apple Filling

While the dough rises, melt the unsalted butter in a pan. Add diced apples, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, kosher salt, cornstarch, and pecan halves. Cook until the apples are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside to cool.

Step 5: Roll It Out

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Aim for about 1/4-inch thickness.

Step 6: Spread the Filling

Spread the apple mixture evenly across the dough. In a separate bowl, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, and kosher salt. Sprinkle this mixture over the apples.

Step 7: Roll & Cut

Starting from one end, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut into 12 even pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.

Step 8: Second Rise

Cover the rolls with a cloth and let them rise again for about 30 minutes until they puff up.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown and the aroma fills your kitchen with pure bliss!

Step 10: Frost and Serve

While the rolls are baking, make the cream cheese frosting by blending cream cheese, powdered sugar, heavy whipping cream, and kosher salt until smooth. Once the rolls are out of the oven, generously drizzle the frosting over the warm rolls and get ready to indulge!

Pro Tips for Making Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls

– Temperature Matters: Ensure your milk is lukewarm (not hot!) when activating the yeast for the perfect rise.
– Don’t Rush the Dough: Allow enough time for the dough to rise; this ensures a light and fluffy roll!
– Apple Choice: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for a balanced flavor profile.
– Frosting Consistency: For a thicker frosting, reduce the amount of heavy whipping cream.

How to Serve Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Garnishes

Top your rolls with a sprinkle of chopped pecans or a dash of cinnamon for added texture and flavor!

Side Dishes

Pair these rolls with freshly brewed coffee, spiced chai, or even a warm bowl of oatmeal for a delightful breakfast spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve them on a beautiful platter or in individual cups for a charming brunch display. You could also box them up for a cozy gift idea!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’ll stay delightfully soft and scrumptious!

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze these rolls! Place them in a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag after cooling and they’ll keep for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.

Reheating

To enjoy your rolls warm again, pop them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or you can reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend if needed.

Is this recipe spicy?
Not at all! The flavors are warm and comforting, thanks to the cinnamon, but no spiciness here.

Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes! You can make the dough and filling a day ahead and assemble them in the morning.

How do I make this dairy-free?
Use nut milk and dairy-free butter alternatives for the dough and frosting for a delicious dairy-free version.

Final Thoughts

These Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls are more than just a recipe; they’re a warm hug on a plate, a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall, and an irresistible treat that will have everyone coming back for more. So grab your apron, gather your loved ones, and dive into this sweet adventure. You’ve got this, and trust me, the smiles will be worth every minute spent in the kitchen! Enjoy your baking! 🍏✨