Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful fusion of two beloved desserts—cinnamon rolls and apple pie. This innovative recipe transforms the classic cinnamon roll into a mouth-watering treat filled with spiced apple pie filling and topped with a crunchy streusel. Perfect for autumn mornings, special brunches, or as a treat for the holidays, these rolls bring a cozy warmth to any table.
Ingredients:
- Pillsbury Grands Cinnamon Rolls: 2 packs (5 count each, not the 8 count)
- Butter: For greasing muffin tin
For the Apple Pie Filling:
- Apples: 4 large (2 Honeycrisp, 2 Granny Smith)
- Brown Sugar: 1/3 cup
- Cinnamon: 1 tsp
- Lemon Juice: 1 tbsp
- Melted Butter: 1/4 cup
- Cornstarch: 2 tbsp dissolved in 3 tbsp water
For the Streusel Topping:
- Butter: 5 tbsp (partially melted)
- All-Purpose Flour: 1/2 cup
- Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup
- Ground Cinnamon: 1/2 tsp
For the Cinnamon Buttery Icing:
- Melted Butter: 1/4 cup
- Powdered Sugar: 1 cup
- Milk: 2 tbsp
- Vanilla Extract: 1/2 tsp
- Cinnamon: 1/2-1 tsp (based on preference)
Directions:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Grease each cup of a muffin tin with softened butter.
- Prepare the Dough: Press the cinnamon rolls into each muffin cup, shaping the dough up the sides to create a cavity for the filling.
- Make the Apple Pie Filling: Peel, slice, and dice the apples. Combine with brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, melted butter, and cornstarch mixture. Heat until the mixture thickens and apples soften.
- Assemble the Rolls: Distribute the apple mixture into the cavities formed by the cinnamon roll dough.
- Add Streusel Topping: Mix streusel ingredients until crumbly. Sprinkle over the apple-filled rolls.
- Bake: Bake for 15 minutes, covering with foil for the first 5 minutes and rotating the pan halfway through.
- Prepare and Apply Icing: Whisk icing ingredients until smooth and drizzle over the slightly cooled rolls.
Notes
- Apple Varieties: Using a mix of Honeycrisp and Granny Smith apples provides a balance of sweetness and tartness.
- Icing Consistency: Adjust the amount of milk in the icing to reach your desired consistency.
- Serving Tip: Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I prepare these rolls in advance? A: Yes, assemble the rolls the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake the next morning, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: Can I use homemade cinnamon roll dough instead? A: Absolutely! Homemade dough can be used for a more traditional baking experience.
Q: How should I store leftover rolls? A: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to five days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls are an exciting twist on traditional baked goods, offering the best of both worlds with their rich cinnamon dough and spiced apple filling. Whether for a festive brunch or a comforting snack, these rolls are sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face with their aromatic appeal and delicious taste. Perfect for any baker looking to impress with a creative and tasty treat.
