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Indulging in homemade baked goods is one of life's simple pleasures, and nothing captures that joy quite like a warm batch of apple cinnamon rolls. These delightful treats are not only visually appealing but also offer a combination of comforting flavors and textures that make them irresistible. This recipe merges tender, fluffy dough with a luscious apple filling and a creamy frosting that elevates these rolls to the next level. Whether you're looking to impress guests at a brunch or treat your family to a cozy dessert, these irresistible apple cinnamon rolls will surely become a favorite.

Irresistible Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Treat yourself to these irresistible Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting! Soft, fluffy dough is filled with sweet, spiced apples and baked to golden perfection. Topped with a rich and creamy frosting, these rolls are perfect for breakfast or brunch. Easy to make and sure to impress, this recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that will fill your kitchen with the wonderful aroma of cinnamon. Indulge in this sweet slice of comfort!

Ingredients
  

For the Dough:

4 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast

1 cup warm milk (110°F)

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 large eggs

1 tsp salt

For the Filling:

2 cups peeled, diced apples (preferably Granny Smith)

1/2 cup brown sugar

1 tbsp cinnamon

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

2 cups powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

1-2 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)

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Instructions
 

Prepare the Dough:

    - In a bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.

      - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.

        - Add the melted butter and eggs to the yeast mixture and stir well.

          - Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.

            - Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

              - Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

                Make the Filling:

                  - In a medium bowl, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter. Mix well.

                    Roll Out the Dough:

                      - Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle (about 16x12 inches).

                        - Spread the apple mixture evenly over the dough.

                          - If using, sprinkle the chopped nuts over the apple mixture.

                            Form the Rolls:

                              - Starting from one long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log.

                                - Cut the log into 12 equal slices and place them cut side up in a greased baking dish.

                                  Second Rise:

                                    - Cover the baking dish with a cloth and let the rolls rise for 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.

                                      Bake the Rolls:

                                        - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

                                          - Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

                                            Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:

                                              - While the rolls are baking, beat together cream cheese and butter in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy.

                                                - Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well.

                                                  - Add milk if needed to achieve a spreadable consistency.

                                                    Frost the Rolls:

                                                      - Once the cinnamon rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for about 10 minutes.

                                                        - Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm rolls.

                                                          Serve:

                                                            - Enjoy these delicious rolls warm, and savor the delightful combination of apples and cinnamon topped with creamy frosting!

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                                                                Prep Time: 30 mins | Total Time: 2 hours | Servings: 12 rolls