Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that brings warmth and happiness, these Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls are just the ticket! There’s something truly special about the aroma of fresh cinnamon rolls wafting through the house. The combination of sweet apple butter and soft, fluffy dough creates a delightful experience that’s perfect for busy mornings or family gatherings. Whether you’re hosting brunch or simply treating yourself, these gooey rolls will surely become a favorite in your home.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to make. It uses wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Plus, they’re absolutely irresistible when topped with creamy cinnamon frosting. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making these Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Sweet: The apple butter filling makes each roll moist and bursting with flavor.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone from kids to grandparents will enjoy these delightful rolls.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or dessert, they fit right in!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep them ahead of time and bake when you’re ready.
• A Cozy Aroma: Your kitchen will smell heavenly while these bake—who can resist?

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for these rolls is a breeze! You’ll find that they are simple and wholesome, making it easy to whip up a batch whenever the craving strikes.

For the Dough

• 1 cup 2% or higher fat milk (warmed to 110-115º Fahrenheit)
• 1 package Red Star Platinum Yeast (or any instant yeast)
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1/2 cup salted butter (melted, but not over 110º Fahrenheit)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4-4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

For the Filling

• 1 cup apple butter
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar (packed)
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon

For the Frosting

• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 6 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
• 5 tablespoons butter (room temperature)
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.
• Use Different Spices: Try adding nutmeg or allspice to the filling for a unique twist.
• Fruit Swaps: Substitute apple butter with pumpkin puree for a fall-inspired version.
• Glaze Instead of Frosting: Drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk if you prefer something lighter.

How to Make Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Pour the warm milk into the bowl of your stand mixer and sprinkle the yeast over top. Let it rest for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast, getting your dough ready to rise beautifully.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add in those lovely eggs, softened butter, and granulated sugar. Mix gently until everything is combined. This mix creates a rich base for your rolls!

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Now, sprinkle in the salt and 4 cups of flour. Use the beater blade just until everything is barely mixed together. Letting it rest for 5 minutes allows the flour to soak up those yummy liquids—trust me; this makes a big difference!

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Scrape off any sticky dough from the beater blade and attach your dough hook. Beat on medium speed, adding more flour if needed until you form an elastic and smooth dough. Kneading helps develop gluten which gives your rolls that wonderful chewy texture.

Step 5: First Rise

Lightly grease a large bowl with cooking spray and transfer your dough into it. Cover it with a towel or wax paper and place it in a warm spot to rise until doubled in size—about 30 minutes works well! This is where all that fluffy goodness comes from.

Step 6: Roll Out the Dough

Sprinkle flour on your pastry mat and turn out your risen dough onto it. Roll it out into roughly a 24×15 inch rectangle. This doesn’t need to be exact; just try to keep things even so every bite has that delicious filling!

Step 7: Add Filling

Spread that sweet apple butter all over your rolled-out dough. Then sprinkle on brown sugar and cinnamon like confetti! This combination is what dreams are made of—so flavorful!

Step 8: Shape Your Rolls

Starting from one long edge, roll up your dough tightly into a jelly roll shape. Cut this beauty into twelve slices and place them in a greased baking pan. Cover them again and let them rise for another 20 minutes while you preheat your oven.

Step 9: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375º Fahrenheit while warming up some heavy cream until it’s just warm—not hot! Pour this cream over your risen rolls before baking; it adds moisture during cooking.

Step 10: Frost Your Rolls

Bake those rolls for about 25-30 minutes until they’re golden brown on top. While they’re cooling slightly, whip together softened cream cheese, room temperature butter, powdered sugar, and cinnamon for frosting—smooth as silk!

Spread that creamy frosting generously over warm rolls before serving—they’re best enjoyed fresh out of the oven!

And there you have it—delicious Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls that will fill your home with joy! Enjoy every gooey bite!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls

Making these delightful rolls can be a breeze with just a few handy tips! Here are some suggestions to ensure your Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls turn out perfect every time.

• Use fresh yeast: Fresh yeast provides the best rise and fluffiness. If your yeast isn’t active, your rolls may not rise well, resulting in dense rolls.
• Don’t rush the dough rising: Allowing the dough to rise properly is key to achieving that soft, pillowy texture. Keep it in a warm environment until it has doubled in size for the best results.
• Measure flour accurately: Too much flour can lead to dry rolls. Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour to avoid adding too much.
• Soak the rolls in cream: Pouring warm heavy cream over the rolls before baking ensures they stay moist and adds an irresistible richness that enhances flavor.
• Serve warm: These rolls are best enjoyed fresh from the oven or slightly warmed. The gooey apple butter and creamy frosting are most delightful when they’re just a bit warm.

How to Serve Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls

Presentation can make all the difference, especially when it comes to these scrumptious rolls! Here are some fun ways to serve them that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans or walnuts: A sprinkle of chopped nuts on top adds a nice crunch and complements the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls.
• Drizzle of caramel sauce: For an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle warm caramel sauce over the frosted rolls before serving.
• Fresh apple slices: Thinly sliced apples arranged around the plate add a refreshing contrast and enhance the apple flavor.

Side Dishes

• Fruit salad: A colorful medley of seasonal fruits balances out the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls and adds freshness to your breakfast spread.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a light yet filling side dish that pairs nicely with sweet cinnamon rolls.
• Scrambled eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs offer protein and savory flavor, creating a well-rounded meal when served alongside sweet rolls.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea makes for an excellent beverage pairing, enhancing both flavors while providing warmth to your cozy brunch.

Enjoy creating beautiful moments with your homemade Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls! They’re sure to become a favorite at any gathering or simple family breakfast.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful breakfast treat any day of the week! Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just want to indulge yourself, these rolls can be made ahead and stored for later use.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the rolls to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
• Store at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate.

Freezing

• After baking, let the rolls cool completely.
• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen rolls, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Warm in an oven preheated to 350ºF for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• You can also microwave individual rolls for about 20-30 seconds until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls!

Can I make Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute eggs with a mixture of unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas (1/4 cup per egg) for moisture and binding.

How can I make Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

You can prepare the dough and fillings in advance, assemble the rolls, and then refrigerate them overnight. Simply allow them to rise before baking the next day.

Can I customize my Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, raisins, or other spices like nutmeg or ginger to your filling for a personal twist on this delicious recipe.

What should I serve with my Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls?

These rolls pair wonderfully with coffee or tea. You could also serve them alongside fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced breakfast!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these gooey and comforting Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls! They are not only a treat but also a delightful way to start your mornings. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience! Happy baking!