These Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect blend of classic flavors and modern convenience. With their gooey, soft texture and a delightful brown sugar apple filling, they are sure to impress at any gathering, from breakfast to brunch or even as an afternoon treat. The combination of cinnamon and apples gives these rolls a unique twist on traditional cinnamon rolls, making them a must-try for apple lovers!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The sweet and spicy blend of apples and cinnamon creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
- Easy to Make: This recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps, so even novice bakers can succeed.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert, these rolls fit any meal or celebration.
- Soft and Fluffy Texture: The dough is light and fluffy, providing the perfect base for the sticky apple filling.
- Impressive Presentation: These cinnamon rolls look beautiful when served fresh out of the oven, making them great for entertaining.

Tools and Preparation
To make your baking experience seamless, gather these essential tools. They will help you create delicious apple pie cinnamon rolls with ease.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Rolling pin: This tool helps you roll out the dough evenly, ensuring consistent thickness for perfect rolls.
- Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet is essential for evenly baking your cinnamon rolls without burning.
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple mixing bowls allows you to prepare different ingredients without mixing them prematurely.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 500 g all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp salt
- 2¼ tsp instant dry yeast
- 120 g sugar
- 240 ml lukewarm milk
- 60 g unsalted melted butter cooled to room temperature
- 1 egg at room temperature
- ½ tsp vanilla extract or essence
For the Filling
- 900 g apples (I like to use Pink Lady, Fuji or Royal Gala)
- 60 g unsalted butter
- 170 g brown sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp water
How to Make Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, instant dry yeast, and sugar.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the lukewarm milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients while stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5–7 minutes until smooth.
Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel.
- Allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Prepare the Apple Filling
- Peel and slice the apples into thin pieces.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
- Add sliced apples along with brown sugar, ground cinnamon, cornstarch, salt, and water; cook until softened.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
- Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it into a rectangular shape on a floured surface.
- Spread the prepared apple filling evenly over the rolled-out dough.
Step 5: Roll Up and Slice
- Starting from one long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log shape.
- Slice it into equal pieces (about 10), placing them cut-side up in a greased baking dish.
Step 6: Bake
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Bake for approximately 30–40 minutes or until golden brown.
Enjoy your warm Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls fresh from the oven!
How to Serve Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls
Serving apple pie cinnamon rolls can elevate your breakfast or brunch experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy these sweet treats.
Enjoy with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Cream cheese frosting adds a tangy and sweet flavor that beautifully complements the cinnamon rolls. Spread it generously on top for an indulgent treat.
Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream
- The warmth of the rolls combined with cold vanilla ice cream creates a delicious contrast. A scoop on the side will take your dessert to the next level.
Serve with Fresh Fruit
- Fresh fruit, like sliced strawberries or berries, adds a refreshing touch. It balances the sweetness of the rolls while enhancing their flavor profile.
Drizzle with Caramel Sauce
- A drizzle of warm caramel sauce over your cinnamon rolls brings extra sweetness and richness. It’s a perfect way to make them even more decadent.
Accompany with Hot Beverages
- Pairing apple pie cinnamon rolls with coffee, tea, or hot cocoa enhances the cozy experience. These beverages complement the spices in the rolls perfectly.
How to Perfect Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls
To achieve the best apple pie cinnamon rolls, consider these helpful tips.
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Use fresh apples: Fresh apples ensure maximum flavor and texture in your filling. Choose varieties that hold up well during baking, like Pink Lady or Fuji.
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Knead well: Proper kneading develops gluten, giving your dough that fluffy texture. Aim for about 5-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
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Don’t rush rising: Allow your dough to rise until it doubles in size for soft, fluffy rolls. This may take longer in cooler environments, so be patient.
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Check oven temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated properly before baking. An accurate temperature helps achieve that golden-brown finish without undercooking.
Best Side Dishes for Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls
Adding side dishes can enhance your meal when serving apple pie cinnamon rolls. Here are some great options to consider:
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Scrambled Eggs: Soft and fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and balance the sweetness of the rolls.
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Bacon Strips: Crispy bacon adds a savory crunch that contrasts nicely with gooey cinnamon rolls.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a light yet satisfying side that complements the richness of the rolls.
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Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns add texture and heartiness, making for a well-rounded brunch plate.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate and brighten up your meal’s flavors.
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Sausage Links: Savory sausage links bring a hearty component that pairs wonderfully with sweet pastries like these cinnamon rolls.
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Chia Pudding: For a healthier option, chia pudding offers creaminess and fiber while not overpowering the sweetness of your roll.
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Oatmeal Bowl: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts or fruits provides comfort and nutrition alongside your apple pie cinnamon rolls.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making apple pie cinnamon rolls, it’s easy to encounter a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Using cold ingredients: Cold milk or eggs can hinder the dough’s rise. Always use room temperature ingredients.
- Overworking the dough: Kneading too much can make rolls dense. Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Not measuring accurately: Inaccurate measurements can ruin the balance. Use kitchen scales or measuring cups for precision.
- Skipping the second rise: The second rise is crucial for fluffiness. Allow your dough to rest properly before baking.
- Not adjusting baking time: Each oven is different. Keep an eye on your rolls and test for doneness instead of relying solely on time.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store apple pie cinnamon rolls in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls
- Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual rolls on medium power for about 20-30 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through, around 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about apple pie cinnamon rolls:
Can I use other types of apples?
Yes, you can use different varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Each will give a unique flavor profile.
How do I store leftover apple pie cinnamon rolls?
Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and keep it in the fridge overnight before shaping and baking.
What if my apple filling is too runny?
If your filling is too watery, add more cornstarch to help thicken it up during cooking.
Are these apple pie cinnamon rolls suitable for breakfast?
Definitely! They make a wonderful breakfast treat or brunch option that everyone will love.
Final Thoughts
Apple pie cinnamon rolls are a delightful blend of flavors that bring comfort and joy. Their gooey sweetness makes them perfect for any occasion, from cozy mornings to festive gatherings. Feel free to customize with your favorite nuts or dried fruits for added texture and taste. Don’t hesitate—try this recipe today!
Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls
Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, merging the comforting flavors of homemade apple pie with the soft, fluffy goodness of cinnamon rolls. With a gooey apple filling infused with warm spices and a hint of sweetness, these rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any special gathering. Easy to make and visually impressive, they’re sure to be a hit among family and friends. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or topped with cream cheese frosting for an extra indulgent treat.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 500 g all-purpose flour
- 120 g sugar
- 240 ml lukewarm milk
- 60 g unsalted melted butter
- 1 egg
- 900 g apples (Pink Lady, Fuji, or Royal Gala)
- 170 g brown sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1½ tsp salt
- 2¼ tsp instant dry yeast
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp water
Instructions
- Combine flour, salt, yeast, and sugar in a large bowl.
- In another bowl, whisk together milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Gradually mix into dry ingredients until soft dough forms.
- Knead dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth. Let rise in a greased bowl covered with a towel for about 1 hour.
- Prepare the apple filling by cooking sliced apples with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, cornstarch, salt, and water until softened.
- Roll out dough into a rectangle, spread apple filling evenly on top, roll tightly from one edge to form a log, then slice into equal pieces.
- Place slices in a greased baking dish and bake at 180°C (350°F) for approximately 30–40 minutes until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (100g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
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