Absolutely! Here’s a big, full Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls recipe with a rich introduction, detailed ingredients, step-by-step instructions, methods, history, formation, conclusion, and “lovers” (tips for apple pie & cinnamon roll lovers)—just like you asked. 🍎✨
Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls
The Ultimate Sweet Fusion of Apple Pie + Cinnamon Rolls
Introduction
If you’ve ever dreamed of biting into a warm cinnamon roll that tastes like apple pie, this recipe is your answer. These Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls combine the soft, buttery layers of a classic cinnamon roll with the sweet, cozy flavors of apple pie filling. The result is a pastry that’s soft, gooey, and loaded with apple-cinnamon goodness. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert—these rolls will disappear fast.
Ingredients
Dough
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm milk
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- ⅓ cup melted butter
- ½ tsp salt
Filling
- 2 cups apple pie filling, chopped
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp milk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
In a bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar.
Let it sit for 5–10 minutes, until foamy.
2. Make the Dough
Add remaining sugar, egg, melted butter, and salt. Mix well.
Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead & Rise
Knead the dough until smooth and elastic (about 8–10 minutes).
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled in size (about 1–1.5 hours).
4. Roll the Dough
Roll the dough on a floured surface into a large rectangle.
5. Add Filling
Spread softened butter evenly over the dough.
Sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon.
Spread chopped apple pie filling evenly over the top.
6. Roll & Slice
Roll dough tightly into a log.
Cut into even rolls (about 12–15 rolls).
7. Second Rise
Place rolls in a greased baking dish.
Cover and let rise until puffy (about 30–45 minutes).
8. Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
9. Make the Glaze
Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
10. Serve
Drizzle glaze over warm rolls.
Enjoy immediately!
Methods (Detailed)
Method 1: Traditional Yeast Dough
- Mix warm milk + yeast
- Add wet ingredients
- Add flour gradually
- Knead
- Let rise twice
- Bake
- Glaze
Method 2: Quick Rise (Faster Version)
- Use instant yeast
- Let dough rise only once
- Bake directly after rolling
(Still delicious, but less airy.)
History of Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls
The cinnamon roll dates back to Scandinavia, where it was a beloved sweet treat known as “kanelbulle.” Meanwhile, apple pie is an iconic American dessert rooted in European tradition. Combining these two classics became popular when bakers began experimenting with fusion pastries—especially in the U.S. where apple pie is a cultural symbol. The result is a modern favorite that brings together the best of both worlds.
Formation (How It Comes Together)
- Yeast + warmth activates the dough
- Kneading builds structure and softness
- Rising creates air pockets
- Rolling + filling layers in flavor
- Baking sets the shape
- Glazing adds sweetness and shine
Conclusion
These Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect blend of soft cinnamon dough and sweet apple filling. They’re comforting, aromatic, and ideal for sharing with family and friends. Serve them warm, and watch how quickly they disappear!
For Apple Pie Lovers
- Add 1 tsp nutmeg for deeper pie flavor
- Use caramel sauce drizzle instead of glaze
- Add chopped walnuts for crunch
For Cinnamon Roll Lovers
- Add 1 tsp vanilla into the dough
- Make extra glaze for “drip overload”
- Use cream cheese frosting instead of glaze
If you want, I can also: ✅ convert this into a printable recipe card
✅ add a cream cheese frosting version
✅ create a step-by-step photo guide
Just say the word!