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There's something undeniably comforting about the scent of freshly baked apple cinnamon rolls wafting through your home. These delightful pastries, with their sweet, tender dough and luscious filling, evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth that few treats can match. The combination of sweet apples, fragrant cinnamon, and soft, pillowy dough creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate, making them an irresistible comfort food staple.

Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Indulge in the warmth of homemade apple cinnamon rolls with this comforting recipe! These soft, pillowy rolls are packed with sweet apples and fragrant cinnamon, making them the perfect treat for cozy gatherings. Follow our step-by-step guide to create a delightful experience that brings the family together. Add a sweet glaze for an irresistible finish! Enjoy moments of nostalgia and joy with these heavenly cinnamon rolls. #baking #comfortfood #applecinnamonrolls #homemade #dessert #familyrecipes #fallbaking
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Ingredients
  

For the Dough:

2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)

½ cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)

¼ cup granulated sugar

¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and finely chopped (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)

½ cup brown sugar, packed

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

4 oz cream cheese, softened

¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1-2 tablespoons milk (to achieve desired consistency)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Dough:

    - In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.

      - In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix well.

        - Add the yeast mixture to the wet ingredients and stir to combine.

          - Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.

            - Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

              Prepare the Filling:

                - In a bowl, mix the chopped apples with brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.

                  Assemble the Rolls:

                    - After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle (about 16x12 inches).

                      - Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough.

                        - Sprinkle the apple mixture evenly over the buttered dough.

                          - Starting from the long side, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.

                            - Cut the log into 12 equal slices and place them in a greased baking dish.

                              Second Rise:

                                - Cover the rolls with a cloth and let them rise again for about 30 minutes, or until puffy.

                                  Bake the Rolls:

                                    - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

                                      - Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

                                        Prepare the Glaze:

                                          - In a medium bowl, beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and creamy. Adjust milk for consistency.

                                            Glaze and Serve:

                                              - Once the rolls are baked, let them cool for a few minutes before drizzling the cream cheese glaze over the top. Serve warm!

                                                Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours | Servings: 12 rolls