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Cinnamon rolls have long held a special place in the hearts of food lovers, celebrated for their comforting sweetness and delightful aroma that wafts through kitchens, inviting everyone to gather around the breakfast table. These soft, pillowy pastries are synonymous with cozy mornings and festive gatherings, often baked to perfection and drizzled with sugary glazes. While traditional cinnamon rolls are undeniably delicious, they can be elevated to new heights with a unique twist—adding fresh apples and a luscious cream cheese frosting.

Irresistible Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulge in the sweet and warm flavors of homemade Apple Cinnamon Rolls topped with creamy frosting! This delicious recipe combines a soft, buttery dough filled with fresh apples, brown sugar, and a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, each roll is drizzled with velvety cream cheese frosting, making it irresistible. Gather your ingredients and delight your family with this delightful treat that’s sure to impress!
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Ingredients
  

For the Dough:

4 cups all-purpose flour

1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast

½ cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F

¼ cup granulated sugar

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

2 large eggs

½ tsp salt

For the Apple Filling:

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

½ cup brown sugar, packed

2 tsp ground cinnamon

¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

1 tsp vanilla extract

¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

4 oz cream cheese, softened

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

1 tsp vanilla extract

2 cups powdered sugar

1-2 tbsp milk (as needed)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Dough:

    - In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and instant yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.

      - Add the melted butter, eggs, and salt. Mix well.

        - Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, until a dough forms.

          - Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

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

              Make the Apple Filling:

                - In a medium bowl, mix the diced apples, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, softened butter, and vanilla extract until the apples are well coated. If using nuts, fold them in as well.

                  Assemble the Rolls:

                    - Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle (about 16x24 inches).

                      - Spread the apple mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

                        - Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log.

                          - Cut the log into 12 equal rolls and place them in a greased baking dish. Cover with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

                            Bake the Rolls:

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

                                - Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.

                                  Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:

                                    - In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.

                                      - Add the vanilla extract and slowly mix in the powdered sugar until fully combined. Add milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

                                        Frost and Serve:

                                          - Drizzle the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls before serving. Enjoy the delightful combination of apple and cinnamon with rich frosting!

                                            Prep Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours | Servings: 12 rolls