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Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Sugar Glaze

Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Sugar Glaze for Fall Bliss

Delightful Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Sugar Glaze, perfect for cozy fall breakfasts.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Rise Time 50 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12 rolls
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour Can substitute whole wheat flour for a richer flavor.
  • 1 packet active dry yeast 2 ¼ tsp; ensure it's fresh for optimal rising.
  • ½ cup warm milk Should be about 110°F (43°C) for best results.
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar Adds sweetness and helps with yeast activation.
  • ½ cup unsalted butter (melted) Coconut oil is a great dairy-free substitute.
  • 2 large eggs Room temperature eggs mix better.
  • 1 tsp salt Enhances flavor and controls yeast activity.
For the Filling
  • ½ cup packed brown sugar Light brown sugar works too.
  • 2 tbsp ground cinnamon Freshly ground is best for flavor.
  • 2 medium apples (peeled and diced) Tart varieties like Granny Smith are ideal.
  • ¼ cup chopped pecans (optional) Walnuts or skipping entirely are good alternatives.
For the Glaze
  • 1 cup powdered sugar Sugar alternatives can lower calories.
  • ¼ cup packed brown sugar (for glaze) Imparts sweetness that enhances flavor.
  • 2 tbsp milk Any milk type works, or use non-dairy for a vegan option.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract Enhances sweetness and overall flavor profile.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking dish
  • Rolling Pin
  • Oven
  • Small bowl

Method
 

Prepare Dough
  1. Combine ½ cup warm milk, ¼ cup granulated sugar, and 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast in a large bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy. Add ½ cup melted unsalted butter, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon salt. Gradually fold in 4 cups all-purpose flour until a soft dough forms. Cover and let rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes.
Prepare Filling
  1. Mix together ½ cup packed brown sugar and 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Peel, core, and dice 2 medium apples into small pieces.
Roll Dough
  1. Turn risen dough onto a floured surface and roll out to ¼ inch thick. Spread the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the dough. Sprinkle diced apples and ¼ cup chopped pecans on top.
Shape Rolls
  1. Tightly roll the dough from one long edge into a log shape. Slice the log into 12 equal pieces and place in a greased baking dish. Cover and let rise for an additional 20 minutes.
Bake
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes, until golden-brown. The warm aroma of cinnamon and apples will signal they are done!
Prepare Glaze
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, ¼ cup packed brown sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust consistency if needed.
Glaze & Serve
  1. Drizzle the brown sugar glaze generously over warm rolls and serve immediately for a delightful breakfast or dessert.

Nutrition

Serving: 1rollCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 210mgPotassium: 130mgFiber: 1gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For optimal freshness, check yeast expiration, use room temperature eggs, and allow the dough to rise fully.

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