These Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls are a sweet treat! They combine warm, fluffy rolls with gooey caramel and spiced apples. Perfect for breakfast or a yummy dessert!
What’s not to love about soft dough filled with cinnamon and topped with a luscious caramel glaze? Just writing this makes my mouth water! 🍏😋
I love making these on weekends when I have a little extra time. The smell of them baking is the best way to wake up—it fills the whole house with warmth and sweetness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Active Dry Yeast: This is key for making the dough rise. If you don’t have active dry yeast, you can use instant yeast instead. Just add it directly to the flour without proofing it first.
Warm Milk: Whole milk is ideal for a rich flavor, but you can substitute with 2% or almond milk if needed. Just ensure it’s warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
Tart Apples: Granny Smith apples work well for their tartness, balancing the sweetness of the rolls. Other options include Honeycrisp or Fuji apples. You can also replace apples with pears for a different twist.
Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar gives the caramel a nice flavor. Dark brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor, but it may make the caramel a bit stronger.
What’s the Best Way to Make Your Dough Fluffy?
A fluffy dough is the heart of these cinnamon rolls. Start by activating your yeast properly; it should foam in warm milk. This shows it’s alive! Knead the dough well for 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic—this helps develop the gluten.
- Let the dough rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, which usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Don’t rush the second rise after assembling the rolls; this step allows the rolls to puff up, making them light and airy.
Follow these steps, and you’ll be rewarded with light, fluffy rolls filled with delicious flavors! Enjoy your baking! 🌟
How to Make Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup warm whole milk (about 110°F/43°C)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
For the Apple Cinnamon Filling:
- 2 medium tart apples (such as Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and finely chopped
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Caramel Sauce:
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 2 hours total. You’ll need around 15 minutes for preparation, and about 1 to 1.5 hours for the dough to rise. Baking time is around 25-30 minutes. It’s best to serve them warm and gooey right out of the oven!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
Start by sprinkling the yeast over the warm milk in a small bowl. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes until it gets foamy, which means the yeast is active! In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, melted butter, salt, and eggs. Now, add the foamy yeast mixture to this bowl. Gradually stir in the flour until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it’s nice and smooth. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it up, and let it rise in a warm place until it’s doubled in size, which should take about 1 to 1.5 hours.
2. Prepare the Caramel Sauce:
While your dough is rising, let’s make the caramel sauce! In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in the brown sugar and salt. Bring it to a boil and let it bubble for 1-2 minutes. Then take it off the heat and stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract until it’s nice and smooth. Set it aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Filling:
In a separate bowl, toss your chopped apples with granulated sugar and cinnamon. This combo will add a sweet and spicy flavor to your rolls. Melt the butter and keep it nearby.
4. Assemble the Rolls:
After your dough has risen, punch it down gently and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle (about 16×12 inches). Brush the melted butter evenly over the surface of the dough. Now spread the apple mixture evenly on top of the butter. Starting at the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log shape. Slice the log into 12 equal rolls.
5. Bake the Rolls:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the caramel sauce into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Place the rolls cut-side down on top of the caramel in the dish. Cover and let them rise for another 30 minutes. Uncover and bake for 25-30 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve:
Once baked, let the rolls cool for about 5 minutes. Carefully invert them onto a serving plate so the caramel sauce glazes the top. Serve warm and indulge in the warm, gooey, apple-filled goodness!
These Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for breakfasts, brunches, or just whenever you want a sweet treat. Enjoy your baking adventure! 🍏🍬
Can I Use Instant Yeast Instead of Active Dry Yeast?
Yes, you can! If using instant yeast, simply add it directly to the flour without proofing in warm milk. This saves time and still gives you a great rise in your dough!
How Do I Store Leftover Rolls?
Store any leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just reheat in the microwave or oven before serving for the best taste!
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream in the Caramel Sauce?
You can substitute heavy cream with whole milk or a non-dairy milk, but keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich and creamy. You can also use half-and-half if that’s available for a nice balance!
Can I Prepare the Dough the Night Before?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, let it rise, and then refrigerate it overnight in a well-greased bowl. The next morning, just take it out, let it come to room temperature, then proceed with rolling and filling before baking.
