Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls

If you’re looking for a warm, comforting treat to brighten your day, you’ve come to the right place! These Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls are a cherished family recipe that fills your kitchen with the delightful aroma of cinnamon and sweet apples. They’re perfect for cozy weekends, special brunches, or even just when you want to indulge a little. I promise once you take a bite of these gooey rolls topped with creamy frosting, you’ll understand why they hold such a special place in my heart.

These rolls are not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to make! Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or just craving something sweet for yourself, these Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls will quickly become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be enjoying these rolls in no time!
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves cinnamon rolls! These are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance and let it rise overnight in the fridge for an effortless morning treat.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of apple butter and cinnamon creates an irresistible filling that makes each bite heavenly.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls fit right in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you might already have on hand. Get ready to whip up something truly delicious!

Ingredients:
– 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; just softened is fine)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4-4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup apple butter
– 3/4 cup light brown sugar (packed)
– 1 tablespoon cinnamon
– 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! Feel free to get creative with flavors and fillings. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts mixed into the filling add a lovely crunch.
• Mix in dried fruits: Raisins or cranberries can add a nice chewy texture alongside the apple butter.
• Experiment with spices: Try adding nutmeg or cardamom for an extra layer of warmth.
• Top with fruit preserves: Instead of frosting, consider drizzling with your favorite fruit jam for a lighter finish.

How to Make Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Pour the warm milk into the bowl of your stand mixer and sprinkle the yeast on top. Let it rest for about 2–3 minutes until it gets foamy. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast, ensuring your rolls rise beautifully.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Next, add in the eggs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix gently until everything is combined. This mixture forms the base of your dough, providing moisture and sweetness.

Step 3: Add Flour and Salt

Now it’s time to incorporate salt and about 4 cups of flour into the mix. Using the beater blade, combine until barely mixed. Allowing it to rest for 5 minutes helps the flour absorb some liquid—this will improve texture.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Scrape off any bits from the beater blade and switch to a dough hook. Beat on medium speed while gradually adding up to an additional half cup of flour if needed. Knead for about 5–7 minutes until your dough becomes elastic and smooth. Don’t worry if it’s slightly tacky—that’s just part of making soft rolls!

Step 5: First Rise

Transfer your dough into a greased bowl using a rubber spatula. Cover it with a towel or wax paper and place it in a warm spot so it can rise until double in size—about 30 minutes should do!

Step 6: Roll Out the Dough

Once risen, sprinkle flour on your pastry mat and turn out the dough. Roll it into approximately a 24×15 inch rectangle—not exact measurements needed here! Spread apple butter across this surface and sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon generously over top.

Step 7: Shape the Rolls

Starting from one long edge, roll up your dough tightly like a jelly roll. After rolling, cut into twelve equal slices and place them in a greased baking pan. Cover them again and let them rise for another 20 minutes until puffy.

Step 8: Preheat Oven & Add Cream

Preheat your oven to 375º Fahrenheit while warming up your heavy cream until it’s just barely warm—this will help keep those rolls moist as they bake!

Step 9: Bake Your Rolls

Once risen, pour that lovely cream over your rolls so it seeps down around them before placing them in the oven. Bake for about 25–30 minutes until they’re lightly golden brown—keep an eye on them after about twenty minutes!

Step 10: Make Frosting & Enjoy!

While those delicious rolls cool slightly, whip up your frosting by mixing cream cheese and room-temperature butter together until creamy. Blend in powdered sugar and cinnamon before spreading over warm rolls. Enjoy every gooey bite!

With these Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls as part of your baking repertoire, you’ll always have something special to share with friends and family! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls

Making these delightful rolls can be a breeze with a few handy tips up your sleeve. Here are some suggestions to ensure your Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls turn out perfectly!

• Use fresh yeast: Always check the expiration date on your yeast package. Fresh yeast ensures that your dough rises beautifully, giving you those soft and fluffy rolls.
• Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing the dough to rest after mixing helps the flour absorb moisture, which results in a better texture. This small step can make a big difference in the final product!
• Check your oven temperature: Ovens can vary in temperature, so it’s a good idea to use an oven thermometer. This way, you’ll bake your rolls at the perfect temperature for that golden-brown finish.
• Soak with cream: Pouring warm heavy cream over the rolls before baking ensures they stay moist and adds richness. This little trick makes every bite indulgent!
• Top with frosting while warm: Spreading frosting over warm rolls allows it to melt slightly, creating a delicious glaze that seeps into every nook and cranny of your cinnamon rolls.

How to Serve Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls

These Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls don’t just taste heavenly; they also present beautifully! Whether for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert, these rolls are sure to impress.

Garnishes

• Chopped walnuts or pecans: A sprinkle of chopped nuts adds a delightful crunch and complements the sweetness of the apple butter.
• Fresh apple slices: Thinly sliced apples on top not only add color but also enhance the apple flavor in each roll.

Side Dishes

• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers a bright contrast to the rich cinnamon rolls and balances out the meal.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a creamy side dish that adds texture and nutrition to your breakfast spread.
• Scrambled eggs: Light and fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and savory flavors that pair wonderfully with sweet rolls, perfect for a brunch gathering.
• Chai tea or coffee: A warm cup of chai tea or freshly brewed coffee works beautifully alongside these cinnamon rolls, enhancing their comforting flavors.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to create an unforgettable experience around your homemade Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls! Enjoy every gooey bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and store or freeze them for later, ensuring you have a delicious breakfast or snack option ready when you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, place the rolls in the refrigerator, where they will keep fresh for about a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Be sure to label the container with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat from the refrigerator, microwave individual rolls for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• For frozen rolls, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight and then reheat as mentioned above or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might arise while making these delightful treats.

Can I use homemade apple butter for Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls?

Absolutely! Homemade apple butter adds a personal touch and unique flavor that complements these cinnamon rolls wonderfully.

How do I ensure my Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls rise properly?

Make sure your yeast is fresh and active. Additionally, allowing the dough to rise in a warm environment will help it double in size beautifully. Avoid over-proofing to maintain the right texture!

Can I make Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute eggs with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce per egg. This will help maintain moisture and binding in your rolls.

What pairs well with Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls?

These rolls are delicious on their own but pair wonderfully with coffee or tea. You can also serve them alongside fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls as much as I do! They bring warmth and sweetness to any morning or gathering. The combination of soft dough filled with luscious apple butter and topped with creamy frosting is simply irresistible. Give this recipe a try, and let your kitchen fill with the comforting aroma of cinnamon and apples—it’s bound to become a cherished favorite!