Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting


  • Author: Harper Callahan
  • Total Time: 2.5 hours (includes rising)

Description

Welcome to your new favorite fall baking project! These Apple Cinnamon Rolls are soft, fluffy, and stuffed with tender spiced apples, then topped with a dreamy maple cream cheese frosting. Perfect for weekend brunches, holiday mornings, or anytime you crave a warm, gooey treat.


Ingredients

Dough

  • 3–4¼ cups (405g–570g) all-purpose flour (start with 3 cups)

  • 2¼ tsp instant yeast (or active dry yeast, proofed first)

  • 1 tsp salt

  • ¾ cup warm milk *(almond, dairy, or oat milk, 110°F/45°C)*

  • ½ cup warm water (same temp as milk)

  • â…“ cup neutral oil (avocado, vegetable, or melted coconut oil)

  • ¼ cup maple syrup (or honey/brown sugar)

Filling

  • ½ cup softened butter (divided, vegan butter works too)

  • ¾ cup brown sugar or coconut sugar

  • 1 tbsp cinnamon

  • Pinch of nutmeg & ginger (optional but cozy!)

  • 4 apples (peeled & finely diced—Granny Smith + Gala mix ideal)

  • â…“ cup water (for cooking apples)

Frosting

  • 4 oz cream cheese (or mascarpone, softened)

  • 4 oz softened butter

  • 3–4 tbsp maple syrup (adjust to taste)

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • Pinch of cinnamon (optional)


Instructions

1. Make the Dough *(20 mins + 1 hr rise)*

  1. Activate yeast: Whisk warm milk, water, oil, and maple syrup in a bowl. Sprinkle yeast on top. Let sit 5 mins until frothy.

  2. Mix dough: Stir in salt and 3 cups flour. Knead 5–8 mins on a floured surface until smooth (add more flour if sticky).

  3. First rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise 1 hour in a warm spot (until doubled).

2. Cook the Apples (10 mins)

  • In a saucepan, simmer diced apples + water for 5–7 mins until soft. Drain all liquid and cool.

3. Assemble Rolls *(15 mins + 30 min rise)*

  1. Roll dough: Punch down risen dough, then roll into a 12×16-inch rectangle.

  2. Add filling: Spread ¼ cup softened butter over dough. Mix remaining ¼ cup butter with sugar and spices into a paste; spread evenly. Scatter cooked apples on top.

  3. Roll & slice: Tightly roll from the long edge. Use dental floss to cut into 12 even rolls.

  4. Second rise: Place rolls in a greased 9×13 dish, cover, and rise 30–40 mins.

4. Bake & Frost (25–30 mins)

  • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 mins until golden.

  • Frosting: Beat cream cheese, butter, maple syrup, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls.

Notes

  • Yeast issues? Liquid should be warm but not hot (110°F). No bubbles? Start over.

  • Avoid soggy rolls: Drain apples thoroughly and cool before using.

  • Make ahead: Refrigerate shaped rolls overnight; bake next morning.

  • Freeze unbaked: Wrap tightly, freeze. Thaw + rise before baking.

  • Prep Time: 30 min
  • Cook Time: 25–30 mins

Nutrition

  • Calories: 320 kcal per serving
  • Sugar: 22g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 4g