Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls – Easy Recipe for Breakfast

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Apple cinnamon rolls are the epitome of cozy, indulgent breakfasts or snacks, bringing together soft, pillowy dough, warm cinnamon filling, and a tangy cream cheese frosting. This easy recipe is ideal for a comforting start to your day or even a show-stopping treat for a special occasion. Whether you are looking to make them ahead of time or bake them fresh, these baked apple cinnamon rolls will impress your guests and fill your kitchen with delightful aromas.

Why You’ll Love These Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls

These baked apple cinnamon rolls are a perfect blend of tender brioche dough, cinnamon-sugar filling, and soft apples. The addition of toasted pecans brings an irresistible crunch that pairs wonderfully with the gooey texture. They’re easy to prepare, and because you can make the components in advance, you’ll have more time to enjoy the process and less stress in the morning.

Ingredients

To make these delicious apple cinnamon rolls, you will need the following ingredients. Each ingredient plays a key role in making the rolls moist, flavorful, and irresistible:

Brioche Dough: Forms the soft, pillowy base that holds all the delicious filling and frosting.
Whole Milk: Activates the yeast and creates a smooth dough.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps the yeast rise.
Active Dried Yeast: The key to a fluffy, light texture in your rolls.
Eggs: Adds richness and tenderness to the dough.
Unsalted Butter: Helps create a smooth, flavorful dough.
All-Purpose Flour: Forms the structure of the dough.
Apple Pie Filling: Provides the sweet and fruity element with tender apples.
Brown Sugar and Cinnamon: The classic filling for cinnamon rolls, offering sweetness and spice.
Toasted Pecans: Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
Cream Cheese Frosting: A tangy, smooth topping that makes the rolls even more indulgent.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you are looking for alternatives or substitutions for certain ingredients, here are a few suggestions:

Vegan Option: Substitute dairy products like butter and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives such as coconut butter and vegan cream cheese.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Nuts-Free: Skip the toasted pecans if you prefer nut-free rolls or if there is a nut allergy in the house.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making these apple cinnamon rolls is a simple process, and with a little prep, you’ll be enjoying them in no time.

Prepare the Brioche Dough: Start by mixing the lukewarm milk, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to activate the yeast. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine flour, salt, and the remaining sugar. Add the yeast mixture and eggs, then mix until smooth. Gradually add the softened butter and knead for 10 minutes until the dough is soft and elastic. Let the dough rise for about 2 hours in the fridge or until doubled in size.
Make the Apple Pie Filling: While the dough is rising, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced apples, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cook for about 5 minutes until the apples soften, then stir in cornstarch to thicken the mixture. Let it cool before using.
Prepare the Brown Sugar Cinnamon Filling: Mix together softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl to create a thick paste.
Assemble the Rolls: Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle. Spread the brown sugar cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, then top with the apple filling and toasted pecans. Roll the dough tightly and slice it into even rolls. Place the rolls in a baking dish and allow them to rise for an hour.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and bake the rolls for about 35 to 40 minutes or until golden brown and bubbling. Once out of the oven, allow them to cool slightly before frosting.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a mixer, combine softened butter and cream cheese. Add powdered sugar and cream, and whip until smooth and fluffy. Spread generously over the rolls.

Tips & Tricks

Make Ahead Option: To save time in the morning, prepare the brioche dough, apple pie filling, and toasted pecans the night before. Store the components separately and simply assemble the rolls in the morning for an easy breakfast.
Check Doneness with a Thermometer: To ensure your rolls are perfectly baked, check the internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer. Aim for around 190°F (90°C).
Avoid Overbaking: Since the rolls contain a gooey cinnamon filling, they can appear slightly underdone in the center. If you are unsure, let them rest for a few minutes to set before serving.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

These baked apple cinnamon rolls are delicious on their own, but you can make them even more delightful with some fun additions:

Serve with a Hot Drink: Pair your rolls with a warm cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or even a spiced apple cider for a perfect breakfast or brunch.
Add More Spices: For extra flavor, you can sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom in the cinnamon filling for added warmth.
Toppings: Consider drizzling extra caramel sauce over the top for a sweeter treat.

A Sweet, Cozy Breakfast for Every Season

These apple cinnamon rolls are perfect for any time of year, but they’re especially great for the colder months when warm spices and comfort foods are extra inviting. They’re a great addition to holiday gatherings, a Sunday morning breakfast, or a simple weekday treat that’s sure to please the whole family.

With their rich, gooey texture, balanced sweetness, and comforting flavors, these baked apple cinnamon rolls will quickly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Perfect for making ahead, they bring a little extra magic to your mornings or any special occasion. Enjoy!

Conclusion

These Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat that everyone will love, making them a perfect choice for any breakfast, brunch, or holiday gathering. The combination of soft, fluffy brioche dough, sweet cinnamon filling, tender apple pie filling, and creamy frosting creates a dessert-like breakfast that will leave your taste buds begging for more. Whether you’re making them ahead of time or enjoying them fresh out of the oven, they are guaranteed to be a hit. Enjoy the process of making them and savor every warm, gooey bite—it’s an experience you won’t forget!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make these baked apple cinnamon rolls without the nuts?

Yes, you can easily skip the toasted pecans if you have nut allergies or simply prefer a nut-free version. The rolls will still be delicious with just the apple and cinnamon filling.

How do I store leftovers?

To store leftover baked apple cinnamon rolls, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the rolls. Just make sure to reheat them in the microwave or oven before serving for the best texture.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the brioche dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge overnight. This not only makes the dough easier to handle but also adds great flavor and texture to your cinnamon rolls. In the morning, just assemble the rolls and bake.

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