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There’s something irresistible about the smell of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen, especially when it’s infused with the warm, sweet aroma of apples and cinnamon. These Apple Cinnamon Cream Rolls bring together soft, pillowy dough and a luscious apple filling enriched with butter, sugar, cream, and a touch of cinnamon spice. It’s a classic combination that feels both nostalgic and indulgent, making it a wonderful recipe to enjoy for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or a cozy afternoon treat. The rolls are golden on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and feature a gooey filling that makes every bite unforgettable. Whether you’re baking them for your family, sharing with friends, or preparing a special treat for the holidays, these rolls are bound to win hearts.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

500–550 g all-purpose flour (4 cups)
1 tablespoon sugar
13 g fresh yeast (½ oz)
125 ml warm water (½ cup)
125 ml warm milk (½ cup)
50 g butter (1.5 oz)
20 ml olive oil (2 tablespoons)
1 egg + 1 egg yolk
5–6 g salt (½ teaspoon)

For the filling:

3 medium-sized apples
1 teaspoon cinnamon
50 g butter (3.5 tablespoons)
100 g sugar (½ cup)
50 ml heavy cream 30% (about 3.5 tablespoons)
10 g cornstarch (1 teaspoon)

For brushing:

Egg-milk mixture (1 egg yolk whisked with a little milk)

Cooking Directions

In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water with 1 tablespoon sugar and let it sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center.
Add the yeast mixture, warm milk, melted butter, olive oil, egg, and egg yolk into the well.
Mix together and knead into a smooth, elastic dough for about 8–10 minutes. If it’s sticky, gradually add more flour until manageable.
Place the dough into a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise for 50–60 minutes or until doubled in size.
Meanwhile, prepare the filling. Peel, core, and dice the apples. In a saucepan, melt the butter, add apples, sugar, and cinnamon, and cook until softened.
Stir in cornstarch mixed with heavy cream to thicken the mixture. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle. Spread the apple filling evenly across the surface.
Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut it into equal pieces.
Place the rolls onto a greased baking dish, cover lightly, and let them rise again for 20 minutes.
Brush with the egg-milk mixture.
Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Let them cool slightly before serving warm.

Nutrients

Calories: ≈ 250–280 per roll
Carbohydrates: Rich in complex carbs from flour and apples
Protein: Moderate amount from flour, milk, and eggs
Fats: Butter and cream add richness and healthy fats from olive oil
Fiber: Apples provide dietary fiber for digestion
Vitamins: Vitamin C from apples, Vitamin A from eggs, and some B vitamins from yeast

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These rolls strike the perfect balance between bread and dessert. They are fluffy, sweet, buttery, and filled with the comforting taste of apples and cinnamon. The cream enriches the filling, making it velvety and slightly indulgent without being too heavy. They’re easy enough for beginner bakers but impressive enough to serve at gatherings. Plus, they make your kitchen smell absolutely heavenly.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

Apple and cinnamon have been paired together in European baking traditions for centuries. This recipe is inspired by classic apple strudels from Austria and cinnamon rolls from Scandinavia but adapted into a soft, enriched bread dough that makes it universal and approachable. It’s a blend of old-world comfort and modern simplicity, creating a dish that feels like home no matter where you are.

Ingredient Spotlight

Apples: Choose sweet-tart varieties like Gala, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith for the best flavor. They add natural sweetness and a juicy bite.
Cinnamon: A spice that enhances the flavor and aroma of baked goods, giving warmth and depth.
Heavy Cream: Adds richness to the filling, making it smooth and slightly caramelized.
Yeast Dough: Enriched with milk, butter, egg, and oil, it gives the rolls their tender, fluffy texture.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These rolls are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 1–2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for 8–10 minutes, or microwave for 20–30 seconds. If frozen, let them thaw at room temperature before reheating.

Common Variations to Try

Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for extra crunch.
Glazed Rolls: Drizzle with a simple glaze of powdered sugar and milk after baking for added sweetness.
Raisin Addition: Mix raisins or dried cranberries into the apple filling.
Spiced Rolls: Add nutmeg, cardamom, or allspice for a deeper flavor profile.

Pairing Recommendations

These rolls pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or spiced apple cider. They also make a lovely addition to a holiday breakfast spread alongside savory egg dishes. For dessert, you could even serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Health Benefits

While these rolls are an indulgent treat, they also have redeeming qualities. Apples bring fiber and Vitamin C, helping with digestion and boosting immunity. Cinnamon may help regulate blood sugar levels and adds antioxidants. The dough provides energy-rich carbs, while olive oil contributes healthy fats. Moderation is key, but this recipe proves that indulgence and nourishment can happily coexist.

Conclusion

Apple Cinnamon Cream Rolls are more than just baked goods—they’re a cozy experience wrapped in layers of soft dough and spiced sweetness. They connect us to timeless traditions while giving us a chance to enjoy the simple pleasures of home baking. Whether you’re baking them for a festive occasion, a family breakfast, or simply to treat yourself, these rolls will always deliver warmth, comfort, and pure deliciousness.