Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls (Soft, Gooey & Bakery-Style)

Introduction

Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls combine two beloved desserts—classic apple pie and soft, gooey cinnamon rolls—into one unforgettable treat. These rolls are pillowy and tender, packed with warm cinnamon-spiced apples, and finished with a sweet glaze that melts into every swirl. The result is a bakery-style indulgence that tastes like fall comfort in every bite.

What makes these rolls so special is the filling. Instead of just cinnamon sugar, a luscious apple pie filling is layered throughout the dough, bringing juicy apple flavor, cozy spices, and a hint of caramelized sweetness. As the rolls bake, the apples soften further, releasing their juices into the dough and creating that signature gooey center everyone loves.

Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for holidays, weekend brunch, family breakfasts, or anytime you want a show-stopping treat without complicated techniques. They can be made ahead, baked fresh, and served warm—making them as practical as they are impressive. If you love cinnamon rolls and apple pie, this recipe brings the best of both worlds together in one pan.

Ingredients
Cinnamon Roll Dough

3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

¼ cup granulated sugar

1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast

½ teaspoon salt

¾ cup warm milk

¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

1 large egg

Apple Pie Filling

2 cups apples, peeled and finely diced

¼ cup brown sugar, packed

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1 tablespoon butter

Cinnamon Sugar Layer

½ cup brown sugar

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

Icing

1 cup powdered sugar

2–3 tablespoons milk

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparation
Step 1: Make the Apple Filling

In a small saucepan, combine diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, cornstarch, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until apples are tender and the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Once risen, roll the dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Spread softened butter evenly over the dough.

Step 4: Add Filling and Roll

Sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon evenly over the buttered dough. Spoon cooled apple pie filling evenly across the surface. Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log.

Step 5: Slice and Bake

Slice into 12 equal rolls and place into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes, until golden and cooked through.

Variations

Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls: Drizzle caramel sauce over the icing.

Cream Cheese Frosting: Replace icing with cream cheese frosting.

Quick Version: Use refrigerated cinnamon roll dough and add apple filling.

Nutty Apple Rolls: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling.

Extra Spice: Add a pinch of cloves or allspice to the apples.

Cooking Notes

Cool apple filling completely before spreading to prevent soggy dough.

Do not overfill or the rolls may unravel.

Cover loosely with foil if browning too fast.

Rolls are done when centers reach 190°F (88°C).

Serving Suggestions

Serve Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls warm with icing drizzled generously over the top. They pair perfectly with coffee, hot cider, or tea. Ideal for holiday mornings, brunch tables, or cozy weekend breakfasts.

Tips

Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.

Slice rolls with dental floss for clean cuts.

Make ahead and refrigerate overnight before baking.

Reheat leftovers briefly for fresh-from-the-oven softness.

Prep Time

30 minutes

Cooking Time

35 minutes

Total Time

2 hours 5 minutes (including rising time)

Nutritional Information (Approximate per roll)

Calories: 420

Protein: 7g

Sodium: 260mg

FAQs

Can I make Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate overnight, then bake fresh in the morning.

What apples work best?
Firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape best.

Can I freeze baked rolls?
Yes, freeze unfrosted rolls for up to 2 months.

Why are my rolls dry?
Overbaking or too much flour can cause dryness—measure carefully.

Conclusion

Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate comfort bake, blending soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls with warm, spiced apple pie filling. Gooey, fragrant, and irresistibly sweet, they’re perfect for special mornings or anytime you want a bakery-style treat at home. Once you make them, these rolls are guaranteed to become a seasonal favorite you’ll crave again and again.

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