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Homemade apple cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat that captures the essence of comfort food. With their warm, gooey centers and a sweet, creamy topping, these rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a special dessert. The aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your kitchen is enough to make anyone's mouth water, and the combination of tender dough, spiced apples, and rich cream cheese frosting is simply irresistible.

Irresistible Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulge in these irresistible apple cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting that are perfect for breakfast or dessert. Made with fluffy dough and a delicious filling of apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon, each bite is a sweet delight. Top them off with a creamy homemade frosting for the ultimate treat. This recipe is easy to follow, making it a great weekend baking project. Enjoy warm or at room temperature for maximum flavor!
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Ingredients
  

For the Dough:

4 cups all-purpose flour

2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)

½ cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F (43°C)

⅓ cup granulated sugar

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

½ cup brown sugar, packed

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

2 cups powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2-3 tablespoons milk (to desired consistency)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

    Mix Dough Ingredients: Add the melted butter, eggs, and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually incorporate the flour until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

      Let it Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

        Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix the diced apples with brown sugar and cinnamon until well combined. Set aside.

          Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 16x24 inches.

            Spread Butter & Filling: Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the apple mixture across the surface, spreading it out evenly.

              Roll and Cut: Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal slices using a sharp knife or dental floss.

                Prepare for Baking: Place the rolls in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, leaving some space between them. Cover and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.

                  Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown.

                    Make the Frosting: While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Add milk as needed to reach desired consistency.

                      Frost the Rolls: Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for about 10 minutes. Generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls.

                        Serve and Enjoy: Enjoy these irresistible apple cinnamon rolls warm or at room temperature!

                          Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 3 hours (including rising) | Servings: 12 Rolls