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Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Delightfully sweet and gooey rolls filled with cinnamon-spiced apples, perfect for fall celebrations.
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine American, Fall
Servings 12 rolls
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup milk Whole or 2% works best.
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened Vital for tenderness.
  • 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour Use the scoop-and-sweep method for measurement.
  • 2 teaspoons instant yeast A quicker option that ensures fluffiness.
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar Adds sweetness to the dough.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Enhances flavors.
  • 1 large egg Brings richness and moisture.
  • 1/4 cup water Hydrates and jumpstarts the yeast.

Filling Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon cinnamon Mingles beautifully with apples and caramel.
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg Adds depth of flavor.
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed Creates a gooey sweetness.
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened For spreading on dough.
  • 1 cup Granny Smith apple, chopped Offers a tart balance.

Caramel Glaze Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter Good quality butter for the glaze.
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar Adds sweetness to the glaze.
  • 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk For a rich, luscious glaze.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and softened butter; stir until smooth.
  • Add the instant yeast and let it sit for about 5 minutes to activate.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  • In a separate bowl, beat the egg and combine it with the yeast mixture. Pour into the dry ingredients and mix well.
  • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
  • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.
  • Prepare the filling by mixing together brown sugar, softened butter, and cinnamon until smooth.

Assembly

  • Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll into a rectangle about 16x12 inches.
  • Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough and sprinkle with chopped Granny Smith apple.
  • Roll the dough tightly, starting from the long end, and seal the edges well.
  • Slice into 12 rolls and place in a greased baking dish. Let rise for another 30 minutes.

Baking

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
  • Meanwhile, prepare the caramel glaze by melting the butter in a small saucepan and adding brown sugar and condensed milk. Stir until bubbly and smooth.
  • Once rolls are out, drizzle warm caramel glaze over them.

Notes

These rolls are best served warm and can be stored in an airtight container for 3 days at room temperature. They freeze well for up to a month.
Keyword Apple dessert, Autumn Recipes, Baked Goods, Caramel Sauce, Cinnamon Rolls