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There's something inherently comforting about homemade baked goods that warm the heart and soothe the soul. The aroma of freshly baked treats wafting through the kitchen can evoke cherished memories, drawing family and friends together for shared moments of joy. Among the countless varieties of baked delights, apple cinnamon rolls hold a special place in many hearts. These delectable rolls combine the warm, spicy notes of cinnamon with the sweet, tart flavor of apples, all topped off with a luscious cream cheese frosting that adds a creamy richness.

Irresistible Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Treat yourself to these irresistible apple cinnamon rolls topped with luscious cream cheese frosting! With a soft, warm dough infused with cinnamon, and a sweet apple filling, these rolls are perfect for breakfast or a delightful snack. Made with simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, they come together in just over two hours. The creamy frosting takes them over the top! Bake a batch and enjoy the sweet aroma filling your kitchen!
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Ingredients
  

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast

½ cup whole milk, warmed (about 110°F)

⅓ cup granulated sugar

1 large egg

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tsp salt

1 tsp ground cinnamon

2 medium apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work great)

½ cup brown sugar, packed

1 tsp ground nutmeg

½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

4 oz cream cheese, softened

¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

1-2 tbsp milk (to thin, if necessary)

Instructions
 

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.

    Add the melted butter, egg, and vanilla to the yeast mixture. Stir until well combined.

      In another bowl, combine the flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.

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

          While the dough is rising, prepare the apple filling. In a bowl, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. If desired, fold in the nuts. Set aside.

            Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle (about 12x18 inches).

              Spread the apple filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

                Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Slice the log into 1 ½-inch rolls and place them in a greased baking dish.

                  Cover the dish with a cloth and let the rolls rise for another 30-45 minutes.

                    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have doubled in size, bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

                      While they are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and mix until creamy. If too thick, add milk to reach desired consistency.

                        After removing the rolls from the oven, let them cool for about 10 minutes. Then, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm rolls.

                          Serve warm and enjoy your delicious, homemade apple cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting!

                            Prep Time: 30 min | Total Time: 2 hr 20 min | Servings: 12 rolls