These Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect combination of sweet, spiced, and buttery goodness. The soft dough is generously filled with a rich apple butter and cinnamon mixture, then topped with a simple vanilla icing that adds just the right amount of sweetness. These rolls are perfect for a cozy breakfast or a comforting snack.
The warm aroma of cinnamon and apples fills the house as these rolls bake, making them an instant crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making them for a weekend brunch or a special holiday breakfast, these Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls are sure to impress everyone around the table.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 package (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
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1 cup warm milk (110°F)
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1/2 cup granulated sugar
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1/2 cup melted butter
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1 tsp salt
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2 eggs
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4 cups all-purpose flour
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1/2 cup apple butter
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1 tsp ground cinnamon
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1/4 cup brown sugar
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2 tbsp butter, softened (for rolling)
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1/2 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
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1 tbsp milk (for icing)
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1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for icing)
Directions:
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In a small bowl, combine yeast and warm milk. Stir and let sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
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In a large bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, salt, and eggs. Stir in the yeast mixture.
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Gradually add the flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth.
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Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a 12×18 inch rectangle.
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Spread the softened butter over the dough, then spread the apple butter and sprinkle with cinnamon and brown sugar.
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Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut into 12 equal slices. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish.
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Let the rolls rise for 30 minutes while the oven preheats. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
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In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to make the icing. Drizzle over the warm rolls before serving.
Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 12 rolls
What Makes Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls Special?
Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls stand out from traditional cinnamon rolls because of the apple butter filling. Apple butter is a spread made from slow-cooked apples, sugar, and spices, which creates a rich, deep flavor with a smooth consistency. When spread on the dough, it adds a unique sweetness and a touch of apple flavor that complements the cinnamon. The addition of apple butter also makes the dough soft and moist, ensuring that the rolls stay tender and gooey.
Unlike other cinnamon rolls that typically use a sugar and cinnamon filling, these rolls take things to the next level. The apple butter not only enhances the flavor but also provides a rich, fruity undertone that is perfect for fall. The combination of apple, cinnamon, and butter is truly a match made in heaven. This recipe is easy to follow and is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
The Importance of Using Apple Butter
Apple butter is the star of this recipe. It is made by simmering apples with sugar and spices for several hours until it becomes thick and concentrated. The slow cooking process deepens the flavor and gives apple butter its rich, smooth texture. The sweetness of apple butter is more intense than regular applesauce, which makes it ideal for recipes like cinnamon rolls.
You can find apple butter at most grocery stores, especially in the fall, but it’s easy to make your own at home. If you decide to make homemade apple butter, you can control the sweetness and spice levels, tailoring it to your taste. The richness of the apple butter, combined with the cinnamon and buttery dough, elevates these rolls to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Why You Should Make Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls
There are many reasons why Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls should be on your baking list. First and foremost, they are a perfect autumn treat. The warm cinnamon and apple flavors are comforting and ideal for the cooler months. If you’re looking for a way to make your mornings extra special, these rolls are a fantastic choice.
Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls are also versatile. They can be served for breakfast, brunch, or even as a dessert. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, a weekend brunch, or a simple family meal, these rolls will be a hit. The best part is that they can be made ahead of time and stored, making them a great option for busy mornings.
Perfect for Holiday Gatherings
These rolls are an excellent addition to any holiday spread. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, or another special occasion, Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls make a festive and delicious treat. Their warm, cinnamon aroma will fill your home with the cozy essence of the holidays, and they’re sure to be a crowd favorite. The rolls look beautiful when arranged on a platter and can be served alongside other holiday breakfast or dessert options.
How to Make the Dough Soft and Fluffy
One of the keys to making perfect Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls is ensuring the dough is soft and fluffy. The dough is made using a combination of warm milk, butter, sugar, and eggs, which help create a rich and tender texture. The yeast is activated by the warm milk, which causes the dough to rise and become airy.
Kneading the dough properly is crucial. After mixing the ingredients together, knead the dough for about 5 minutes to ensure the gluten develops, giving the rolls their soft texture. Allow the dough to rise until it has doubled in size, which should take about an hour to an hour and a half. This will result in a light, fluffy dough that will rise beautifully in the oven.
Rolling and Baking the Rolls
When it comes to rolling the dough, make sure to roll it out into a 12×18 inch rectangle, which will give you a good size for each roll. Spread a thin layer of softened butter on the dough before adding the apple butter and cinnamon filling. The key here is to evenly spread the apple butter and cinnamon mixture so each roll has a consistent filling. After rolling the dough into a log, make sure to cut it into even slices so that they bake uniformly.
The rolls should be placed in a greased baking dish, making sure they are close together. This helps them rise and become soft as they bake. Once they’re in the oven, bake them until they are golden brown, which should take about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to ensure they don’t over-bake.
Icing for the Rolls
The icing for Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls is simple but adds the perfect finishing touch. The icing is made with powdered sugar, milk, and a bit of vanilla extract. The icing should be drizzled over the warm rolls right after they come out of the oven. The warm rolls will absorb the sweetness of the icing, creating a delicious combination of flavors. You can adjust the consistency of the icing by adding more or less milk to suit your preference.
How to Store and Reheat Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls
If you have leftovers, Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. If you want to keep them fresh for a longer period, you can freeze them. To freeze, wrap the rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to a month.
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can reheat the rolls in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. The rolls will warm up nicely and taste almost as fresh as the day they were baked. You can also microwave individual rolls for about 20-30 seconds to enjoy a warm, gooey treat.
Conclusion
Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect addition to any breakfast, brunch, or holiday gathering. The combination of soft dough, spiced apple butter, and gooey cinnamon makes for a delicious treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re baking for your family or preparing for a special occasion, these rolls are sure to bring comfort and joy. Their sweet, warm flavors are a great way to celebrate fall and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
By following the easy steps in this recipe, you can enjoy the deliciousness of Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls right in your own kitchen. With the right ingredients, a little patience, and a love for baking, you’ll be able to enjoy these rolls fresh from the oven in no time. So, why not give them a try? Your taste buds will thank you!