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All-purpose flour is the foundation of the dough, providing structure and stability. Its protein content is just right for creating gluten, which gives the dough its elasticity. When kneaded properly, the flour helps the dough rise beautifully, leading to soft, fluffy rolls that are a joy to bite into. For the best results, ensure that your flour is fresh and accurately measured to avoid overly dense rolls.

Irresistible Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Get ready to indulge in these irresistible Apple Cinnamon Rolls topped with creamy frosting! Soft, fluffy dough meets a delicious apple and cinnamon filling, making every bite a delightful experience. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack, these rolls are easy to make and sure to impress. With just a few ingredients and a little love, you'll have a warm batch of gooey goodness ready to share (or keep for yourself)!
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Ingredients
  

For the Dough:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

¼ cup granulated sugar

1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast

½ tsp salt

1 tsp ground cinnamon

¼ cup milk, warmed

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

2 large eggs

For the Apple Filling:

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

½ cup brown sugar

1 tsp ground cinnamon

¼ cup walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional)

1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

4 oz cream cheese, softened

¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

1-2 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)

Instructions
 

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

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and cinnamon.

      Combine Ingredients: Add melted butter and eggs to the yeast mixture, then gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.

        Knead the Dough: On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm area until doubled, about 1 hour.

          Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, mix the diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, walnuts (if using), and lemon juice. Set aside.

            Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a 12x18 inch rectangle.

              Fill the Dough: Spread a thin layer of melted butter over the dough and then evenly sprinkle the apple filling over the top.

                Roll and Cut: Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a log. Cut into 12 equal rolls and place them in a greased baking pan.

                  Second Rise: Cover and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes.

                    Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

                      Make the Frosting: While the rolls are baking, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth, then add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing well. Adjust with milk for your desired consistency.

                        Frost the Rolls: Once the rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, generously frost them with the cream cheese frosting.

                          Serve and Enjoy: Enjoy the warm, gooey rolls straight from the oven or let them cool slightly for a few minutes before serving!

                            Prep Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours (including rising) | Servings: 12 rolls