Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing

Imagine soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls filled with warm spiced apples and topped with rich cream cheese icing — pure comfort in every bite! These Apple Cinnamon Rolls are a cozy twist on the classic, making them perfect for chilly mornings, weekend brunches, or special holiday breakfasts. Once you try them, you may never go back to plain cinnamon rolls again!

Ingredients:

For the dough:

• 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast

• ¼ cup sugar

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¾ cup warm milk (not hot)

• ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)

• 1 large egg

For the apple filling:

• 2 medium apples (peeled and finely chopped)

• ¼ cup brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

• 2 tablespoons butter

For the cream cheese icing:

• 4 oz (115g) cream cheese (softened)

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)

• ¾ cup powdered sugar

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1–2 tablespoons milk (to adjust consistency)

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Preparation:

1. Make the dough:
   In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. Add melted butter, egg, and salt. Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead for 5–7 minutes, then cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled.

2. Prepare the apple filling:
   In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add chopped apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook for 5–7 minutes until apples are soft and the mixture is slightly syrupy. Let cool.

3. Assemble the rolls:
   Roll the dough into a rectangle (about 12x16 inches). Spread the apple filling evenly over the dough. Roll it up tightly from the long side and slice into 12 even rolls.

4. Second rise:
   Place the rolls into a greased baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30–40 minutes.

5. Bake:
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.

6. Make the icing:
   Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, then milk as needed to achieve a smooth consistency.

7. Finish and serve:
   Spread icing over warm rolls and serve immediately. They’re best enjoyed fresh and gooey!

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