Cinnamon rolls hold a special place in my kitchen, and by that, I really just mean that we love them to pieces. Growing up, my mom would occasionally buy the cinnamon rolls that come from the can around the holidays. My brothers and I LOVED them. We looked forward to these cinnamon roll breakfasts every single year. These days we all know I choose to make my own, but still, we love a good cinnamon roll. And you know? Homemade really is best, and they’re really not that difficult to make. These apple cinnamon rolls are no exception. Everything from the rolls to the icing is pretty close to perfect. They might take a little time to make, because of the rising. But besides that, they really are quite easy. And the smells coming from the kitchen as they bake? Mmm, too good.
Let’s jump into the details
The dough is the simplest to make. Simply mix the yeast with warm milk and a small touch of brown sugar. It’s important to let that mix sit for a few minutes to allow the yeast to “activate”. Next, add the butter, eggs, flour, and salt. Mix until smooth and let the dough rest until doubled in size. Then it’s time to shape the rolls.
While the dough rests, mix the filling
It’s super simple. I love to use a mix of brown sugar, sugar, and cinnamon for the best consistency. The brown sugar adds a nice depth of flavor. And I go heavy on the cinnamon for sweet cinnamon swirls throughout. And of course, the apples. I like to use Honeycrisp apples, and yes, I do leave the skin on! If you prefer no skin, be sure to peel the apples first.
Assemble and bake
Spread the dough with butter, then sprinkle on the cinnamon sugar, and apples. Roll the dough up into a log, slice, and bake. The smells coming from the oven will be perfect. Think…fall candle and Christmas morning combined.
Finally, the icing
Brown the butter and mix it with the cream cheese, maple syrup, sugar, and a touch of vanilla. The maple is key. It pairs so well with the apples and cinnamon. As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, frost, serve, and enjoy every last sweet and delicious bite. They’re soft, fluffy, heavy in the cinnamon swirl, and perfectly spiced with warm autumn flavors. And gooey, SO gooey. These rolls are beyond good. Great for all the crisp fall weekends to come! Looking for other cinnamon recipes? Here are a few ideas: Cinnamon Apple Puffed Pancake Easy Fluffy Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls Baked Apple Cider Doughnuts with Cinnamon Maple Glaze Vanilla Chai Pumpkin Latte Cupcakes with Cinnamon Brown Sugar Frosting Lastly, if you make these Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Butter Maple Icing be sure to leave a comment and/or give this recipe a rating! Above all, I love to hear from you guys and always do my best to respond to each and every comment. And of course, if you do make this recipe, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram! Looking through the photos of recipes you all have made is my favorite!
