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There’s something undeniably comforting about the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through the house. The soft, pillowy texture combined with the warm, spiced aroma creates an atmosphere of homeliness and warmth. Homemade cinnamon rolls are a labor of love, and they have a unique charm that store-bought versions simply can't replicate. Among the various flavors of cinnamon rolls, none can rival the delightful combination of apple and cinnamon, especially when topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting.

Irresistible Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulge in the deliciousness of homemade apple cinnamon rolls topped with creamy frosting! This recipe combines fluffy dough with a sweet apple filling, featuring warm spices and optional nuts for added crunch. Perfect for breakfast or a cozy dessert, these rolls are easy to make and will fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. With a total time of 2 hours and 30 minutes, your family will love enjoying these soft, gooey treats fresh from the oven.
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Ingredients
  

For the dough:

4 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup granulated sugar

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

1 tsp salt

1 cup whole milk, warmed

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 large eggs

For the filling:

2 large apples, peeled and diced (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

1/2 cup brown sugar

1 tbsp ground cinnamon

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For the cream cheese frosting:

4 oz cream cheese, softened

2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

1-2 tbsp milk (to achieve desired consistency)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.

    Mix the Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.

      Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the melted butter and eggs to the yeast mixture, then gradually incorporate the flour mixture. Stir until a soft dough forms.

        Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.

          First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

            Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, mix the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, softened butter, and nuts (if using). Set aside.

              Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a large rectangle (about 18x12 inches) on a floured surface.

                Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the apple filling mixture over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

                  Roll and Cut: Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss.

                    Second Rise: Place the cinnamon rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes.

                      Bake the Rolls: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

                        Make the Frosting: While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Add milk as needed to reach your desired consistency.

                          Frost and Serve: Once the rolls are out of the oven, allow them to cool for about 10 minutes before generously spreading the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls.

                            Enjoy! Serve warm and enjoy the delightful combination of apple, cinnamon, and cream cheese.

                              Prep Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes | Servings: 12 rolls