Capture the cozy essence of fall baking with homemade Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls, layered with spiced apples and brown sugar. Rolled with care, these soft buns are swirled with tender diced apples before baking until golden. Topped with a rich cream cheese glaze, they’re the ultimate weekend brunch treat to share with friends over coffee.
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Ingredients for Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls
For the Dough
- All-purpose flour – The base of everything, so make sure it’s fresh and well-measured.
- Granulated sugar – Just the right amount of sweetness to balance the dough.
- Instant yeast – This is what gives the rolls that perfect rise.
- Salt – Don’t skip it—it’s essential for balancing flavors.
- Whole milk – Warm it up to activate the yeast and create a tender dough.
- Unsalted butter – Melted and ready to add richness to the dough.
- Egg – At room temperature to ensure it incorporates smoothly.
For the Apple Filling
- Granny Smith apples – Their tartness pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the rolls.
- Light brown sugar – Packed for that deep, caramel-like flavor.
- Ground cinnamon – A must for that classic apple pie vibe.
- Ground nutmeg – Just a pinch to add warmth and depth.
- Unsalted butter – Softened and spreadable for the filling layer.
For the Glaze
- Powdered sugar – The base of the glaze, so it’s smooth and sweet.
- Milk – Just enough to thin the glaze to the perfect consistency.
- Vanilla extract – A hint of vanilla takes the glaze to the next level.
Cook Time for Easy Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls
I love knowing exactly how long a recipe will take before I get started, especially on busy weekend mornings. This recipe for Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls is wonderfully straightforward.
You’ll spend about 35 minutes on prep, and the baking time is just 30 minutes. For an even faster start to your day, you can explore ideas from our overnight oats recipe.
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 35 minutes |
| Rise Time | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | Approx. 2 hours 35 minutes |
How to Make Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls recipe
Step 1: Make the Dough
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 packet instant yeast, and 1 teaspoon salt. Add 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F), 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter, and 1 large egg.
Mix on low speed for 2 minutes until a shaggy dough forms. Then increase to medium speed and knead for 5-6 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
Step 2: First Rise
Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
While the dough rises, make the apple filling. In a medium bowl, stir together 2 finely chopped Granny Smith apples, 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar, 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg.
Mix until the apples are evenly coated in all that spiced sweetness.
Step 4: Assemble the Rolls
Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough into a 12×16-inch rectangle. Spread 2 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter evenly over the surface.
Sprinkle the apple mixture evenly over the butter, leaving a 1-inch border on one long side.
Starting from the long side opposite the border, tightly roll the dough into a log. Use a sharp serrated knife to slice the log into 8 equal rolls.
Place the rolls in a greased 9-inch round cake pan. Cover the pan and let the rolls rise for 30 minutes until puffy.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped.
Step 6: The Final Glaze
While the rolls bake, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract in a small bowl until you have a smooth, pourable glaze.
Drizzle the glaze over the warm Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls before serving for the perfect finish.
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
After making these more times than I can count, I’ve picked up a few tricks to make these baked spiced apple filled sweet rolls even better. Here are my favorite ways to tweak the recipe.
- Flavor Swap: For a different twist, try using pear instead of apple. It creates a beautifully delicate and sweet variation that’s just as cozy.
- Diet Tweak: You can easily make these a bit lighter by swapping the whole milk for almond milk and using a sugar substitute in both the dough and glaze for a lower-calorie treat that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
- Texture Fix: For the fluffiest yeast dough with cinnamon apples, make sure your milk is warm but not hot. If it’s too hot, it can hinder the yeast. I always test it on my wrist—it should feel warm and comfortable.
- Storage Tip: These are best enjoyed the day they’re made, but they reheat beautifully. For more make-ahead inspiration, check out our guide to healthy baking recipes. You can also find great tips for storing baked goods in my soft dinner rolls recipe.
Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet instant yeast 2 1/4 teaspoons
- 1 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup whole milk warmed to about 110°F
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 large egg at room temperature
- 2 medium Granny Smith apples peeled and finely chopped
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar packed
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Equipment
- Stand Mixer
- 9-inch cake pan
- oven
Method
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Add the warm milk, 1/4 cup melted butter, and egg. Mix on low speed for 2 minutes until a shaggy dough forms, then increase to medium speed and knead for 5-6 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- While the dough rises, make the apple filling. In a medium bowl, stir together the chopped apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until the apples are evenly coated.
- Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough into a 12×16-inch rectangle. Spread the 2 tablespoons of softened butter evenly over the surface, then sprinkle the apple mixture evenly over the butter, leaving a 1-inch border on one long side.
- Starting from the long side opposite the border, tightly roll the dough into a log. Use a sharp serrated knife to slice the log into 8 equal rolls. Place the rolls in a greased 9-inch round cake pan. Cover the pan and let the rolls rise for 30 minutes until puffy.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped.
- While the rolls bake, whisk together the powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until you have a smooth, pourable glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls before serving.
Nutrition
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Nutrition and Health Benefits
These Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls are more than just a treat—they bring some wholesome goodness to your table too. While they’re certainly an indulgence, the apples add fiber and vitamins, and you can customize them to fit your nutritional needs.
I always feel better about serving sweets when I know there’s real fruit involved. The Granny Smith apples provide vitamin C and dietary fiber, which helps balance the natural sugars. If you’re looking for other ways to enjoy apples healthfully, try my healthy apple snacks for more inspiration.
According to Taste of Home easy apple cinnamon rolls, using fresh apples instead of canned filling boosts both flavor and nutrition. I’ve found that making these homemade rolls with Granny Smith apple filling lets me control the sugar content while maximizing that fresh fruit goodness.
For those watching their intake, remember that one roll contains about 320 calories. They’re perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a special weekend treat. If you’re interested in lighter baking options, browse my collection of healthy baking recipes for more ideas that won’t derail your goals.
A Lighter Version of Easy Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls
I know many of you appreciate healthier alternatives, so I’ve perfected a lighter version that doesn’t sacrifice any of that cozy comfort. These tweaks let you enjoy the same warm, spiced flavors while being mindful of your dietary choices.
Instead of whole milk, try using unsweetened almond milk in the dough—it works beautifully and cuts down on calories. For the sugar, I often replace half the brown sugar with monk fruit sweetener, which keeps that caramel-like flavor without all the calories. The fluffy yeast dough with cinnamon apples still rises perfectly with these substitutions.
When making the glaze, powdered erythritol works wonderfully in place of regular powdered sugar. It dissolves easily and provides the same smooth consistency. For more diabetic-friendly ideas, check out my healthy muffin recipes that use similar smart swaps.
Another great trick is to add an extra apple to the filling—the increased fruit volume means you can use less sugar overall while enhancing that natural sweetness. If you enjoy experimenting with fruit-based desserts, you might love my apple galette recipe, which uses a simple whole wheat crust for extra nutrition.
Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets
When my cousin was diagnosed as pre-diabetic several years ago, I started rethinking how I approach baking. I discovered that with a few thoughtful adjustments, I could create treats that everyone at the table could enjoy without feeling left out. It’s all about finding that balance between tradition and adaptation.
For sugar-conscious baking, I’ve had great success using stevia blends specifically designed for baking—they measure cup-for-cup like sugar but without the glycemic impact. Another option is xylitol, which works well in the apple filling and provides a pleasant sweetness that’s diabetic-friendly. Just remember that xylitol can be toxic to pets, so keep those no added sugar treats away from furry family members.
Portion control makes a big difference too—instead of making large rolls, try dividing the dough into 12 smaller portions. This creates perfect blood sugar friendly portions that satisfy cravings without spiking glucose levels. Serving these low glycemic treats with a protein-rich side like Greek yogurt helps further stabilize blood sugar response.
How to Serve Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls
I’ll never forget the first time I served these warm Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls to my book club—the silence that fell over the room was punctuated only by contented sighs and requests for seconds. There’s something magical about presenting a pan of freshly baked rolls, their cinnamon scent weaving through the air as you drizzle that creamy glaze over their golden tops.
For a complete fall breakfast spread, pair these holiday brunch recipes with savory dishes that balance their sweetness. I love serving them alongside scrambled eggs with herbs and a fresh green salad—the contrast makes everything feel more substantial. If you’re planning a special morning gathering, browse my Christmas breakfast ideas for more festive pairing inspiration.
Beverage pairings matter too! These baked spiced apple filled sweet rolls absolutely sing when enjoyed with hot coffee or black tea. The bitterness of the coffee cuts through the richness beautifully. For something truly special, try serving them with my celery apple juice—the refreshing, slightly savory notes create a wonderful contrast that keeps your palate interested.
When it comes to presentation, I always serve these no-fuss dessert rolls with vanilla glaze warm from the oven. Place them on a beautiful platter with the glaze drizzled artfully over the top, and watch faces light up. They’re perfect for lazy weekend mornings, holiday gatherings, or anytime you want to make an ordinary day feel extraordinary.
Mistakes to Avoid
Over the years, I’ve learned a few baking lessons the hard way, especially with delicate yeast dough like our Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls. I remember one particularly dense batch I made for a brunch—the dough just didn’t rise properly, and I knew exactly what went wrong. Let me share these common pitfalls so your homemade rolls with Granny Smith apple filling turn out perfectly every time.
First, avoid using cold ingredients. Yeast is a living thing and needs warmth to activate. If your milk or eggs are too cold, the yeast won’t bubble properly, leading to a dense dough. I always set my ingredients on the counter for about 30 minutes before I start. For more tips on working with yeast, my soft dinner rolls recipe has a great guide.
Another common error is over-flouring the dough. When the dough feels a bit sticky, it’s tempting to keep adding flour, but this makes the rolls tough. Instead, lightly oil your hands and work surface. The dough should be tacky but not stick to your fingers. As noted in the Allrecipes apple pie cinnamon rolls community tips, a soft, slightly sticky dough is key for that fluffy texture.
Finally, don’t rush the rising process. I’ve tried to speed things up by placing the dough in an overly warm spot, which can kill the yeast. A warm, draft-free spot is best. And don’t overbake! The rolls should be golden brown, but the center should still feel soft. If you’re exploring other baked goods, my cottage cheese bread recipe also relies on perfect rising for a light crumb.
How to Store Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls
My grandma always said a good baker knows how to make a treat last, and she was right. I love having a batch of these Easy Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls on hand for busy mornings or unexpected guests. Storing them properly keeps that fresh-baked taste alive for days.
For short-term storage, let the rolls cool completely after glazing. Then, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and soft for about 2 days. If you’ve made a larger batch, freezing is your best friend. I individually wrap each chewy pastry swirled with brown sugar in plastic wrap, then place them all in a large freezer bag. They keep beautifully for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy, you can reheat a frozen roll directly in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds. For a crisper top, thaw it first and then warm it in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes. It tastes just like it came out of the oven! For more ideas on using apples throughout the week, check out my healthy apple snacks for inspiration.
If you find yourself with leftover apple peels from making the filling, don’t toss them! They make a wonderfully fragrant apple peel tea. It’s a cozy, zero-waste drink that pairs perfectly with these rolls.
Try This Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls Yourself
I truly hope you feel inspired to bake a pan of these comforting Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls. There’s nothing quite like the smell of cinnamon and apples filling your kitchen, a feeling that takes me right back to my childhood. It’s a simple joy that I love sharing with my own family now.
This recipe is a wonderful starting point for your own kitchen adventures. Maybe you’ll add a handful of walnuts to the filling or a dash of cardamom to the dough. However you make them, I’d love to hear about it. Baking these no-fuss dessert rolls with vanilla glaze is about creating your own warm memories.
If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love my pumpkin cinnamon rolls for another cozy fall treat. For a healthier start to your day, my apple cinnamon overnight oats are a lifesaver. And if you’re looking for more creative ways to use apples, my apple cider vinegar coleslaw and refreshing apple cider vinegar drink are always popular.
For those with dietary needs, my gluten-free bagels are a great alternative, and the creamy soup from my apple squash recipe is perfect for a chilly evening. Happy baking!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make apple pie cinnamon rolls with Pillsbury dough?
Absolutely! Using a can of Pillsbury cinnamon rolls is a fantastic shortcut for a quick version of this recipe. Simply unroll the dough, spread your homemade apple filling, roll it back up, and bake according to the package directions. It’s a great hack for a busy morning.
What is the pioneer woman’s apple pie cinnamon rolls recipe like?
The Pioneer Woman’s recipes are known for their hearty, from-scratch approach, often featuring a rich, homemade dough and a generous amount of filling. Her version likely emphasizes that classic, comforting flavor, much like our recipe here which focuses on a fluffy yeast dough with cinnamon apples.
Are there 2-ingredient apple pie cinnamon rolls?
Yes, a popular 2-ingredient version uses canned apple pie filling and a sheet of puff pastry or crescent roll dough. While not as fluffy as a yeast dough, it’s an incredibly fast way to get that delicious apple cinnamon flavor. For a from-scratch version that’s still simple, our Easy Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls are a great middle ground.
How do I make old fashioned apple pie cinnamon rolls?
Old-fashioned rolls typically mean a from-scratch yeast dough, just like this recipe! The key is allowing time for the dough to rise properly, which creates that tender, traditional texture. Using warm spices and fresh apples, as we do here, really captures that old-fashioned, homestyle taste.
More Cozy Fall Baking Ideas
If you loved these cinnamon rolls, you’ll adore these other comforting recipes perfect for the season.
Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls – A spiced, fluffy roll filled with creamy pumpkin and a sweet glaze for the ultimate autumn treat.
Apple Galette – A rustic, free-form tart that’s easier than pie but delivers all the same cozy, fruity flavor.
Healthy Apple Muffins – Start your day right with these wholesome muffins packed with apple chunks and warm spice.
Festive Christmas Morning Pancakes – Make your holiday morning special with these light, fluffy pancakes that feel like a celebration.
