Cinnamon Apple Pie Rolls

Imagine the warm, comforting aroma of cinnamon and baked apples wafting through your kitchen. These irresistible Cinnamon Apple Pie Rolls are everything you crave in a dessert (or even a sweet lunch treat). With their soft, flaky texture and ooey-gooey cinnamon-apple filling, they’re like a portable version of your favorite apple pie. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your recipe collection!

This recipe is perfect for those moments when you want the flavors of a homemade apple pie but don’t have the time to make an entire pie from scratch. It’s quick, fun, and incredibly satisfying. Not to mention, it’s a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings, potlucks, or even a cozy night at home. Let’s dive in together!

The Story Behind Cinnamon Apple Pie Rolls

Apple pie is such a classic dessert; it’s hard not to feel nostalgic just thinking about it. For me, it brings back memories of autumn days spent baking with my grandmother. She’d always have a fresh pie cooling on the windowsill, the scent of cinnamon and apples filling her little kitchen. These Cinnamon Apple Pie Rolls are my modern twist on that beloved tradition.

While the classic pie is timeless, these rolls are perfect for when you’re craving something a little easier to handle. They’re inspired by the cinnamon rolls we all know and love but with an apple pie filling twist. Think of them as the best of both worlds!

Plus, they’re incredibly versatile. While they’re great year-round, they’re especially fitting for fall when apples are in season and at their peak. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to serve on Thanksgiving or just a cozy treat for a crisp afternoon, these rolls are a fantastic choice.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Apple Pie Rolls

Let’s break down the ingredients to make sure you get the best possible results. Each component adds a special touch to these delicious rolls.

• Apples: Granny Smith apples are my go-to here because their tartness balances the sweetness of the filling. If you prefer sweeter rolls, Honeycrisp or Fuji apples work wonderfully too.
• Brown Sugar: The molasses in brown sugar adds richness to the filling. You can use light or dark brown sugar depending on how deep you want the flavor to be.
• Cinnamon: The star of the show! Freshly ground cinnamon will give you the most vibrant flavor, but pre-ground works just fine.
• Butter: Use unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness of the recipe. Make sure it’s softened for easy spreading.
• Pie Dough: Store-bought pie dough works in a pinch, but if you’re feeling ambitious, homemade pie crust will take these rolls to the next level.
• Powdered Sugar: For the glaze, powdered sugar is non-negotiable. It creates a silky, sweet drizzle that ties everything together.
• Milk: Just a splash to thin out the glaze. You can substitute with almond or oat milk if needed.

Feel free to adjust the sweetness or spice levels to suit your taste. If you’re out of cinnamon, nutmeg or allspice can add a unique twist to the rolls.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need anything fancy to make these Cinnamon Apple Pie Rolls, but having the right tools will make the process even smoother.

• Rolling Pin: Essential for evenly rolling out the dough.
• Baking Sheet: A good-quality non-stick baking sheet ensures your rolls bake evenly without sticking.
• Pastry Brush: Perfect for brushing butter or glaze over the rolls.
• Knife or Pizza Cutter: Use this to slice your rolled dough into even pieces.
• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a few bowls for preparing the filling and glaze.

If you don’t have a rolling pin, a clean wine bottle works in a pinch! And if you’re short on baking sheets, line a casserole dish with parchment paper as an alternative.

How to Make Cinnamon Apple Pie Rolls

1. Prepare the Filling: Peel and dice 3 medium apples into small chunks. In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons (28 g) of butter over medium heat. Add the apples, 1/3 cup (70 g) of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the apples are soft. Let cool.
2. Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out your pie dough into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) thick.
3. Spread the Filling: Spread 2 tablespoons (28 g) of softened butter over the dough. Evenly distribute the apple mixture on top.
4. Roll and Slice: Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the log into 1-inch (2.5 cm) rolls.
5. Bake: Place the rolls cut-side up on a lined baking sheet. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Prepare the Glaze: Mix 1/2 cup (60 g) of powdered sugar with 1-2 tablespoons (15-30 ml) of milk until smooth. Drizzle over the warm rolls.

And there you have it! A batch of warm, fragrant Cinnamon Apple Pie Rolls ready to be devoured.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are a few useful tips to make your rolls truly irresistible:

• Don’t overfill: Too much filling can make it hard to roll the dough and might cause leaks during baking.
• Chill the dough: If your dough becomes too soft while rolling, pop it in the fridge for 10 minutes to firm up.
• Even slicing: To get uniform rolls, use dental floss to slice through the dough cleanly.
• Adjust the sweetness: If you like your rolls less sweet, reduce the brown sugar in the filling to 1/4 cup (50 g).

Remember, practice makes perfect. Even if your first batch isn’t visually stunning, the taste will still win everyone over!

Variations & Adaptations

There are so many ways to make these rolls your own! Here are a few ideas:

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pie dough to make these rolls suitable for gluten-intolerant friends.
• Vegan-Friendly: Swap the butter for plant-based butter and use non-dairy milk for the glaze.
• Caramel Drizzle: Replace the glaze with a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
• Nutty Addition: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a bit of crunch.
• Seasonal Twist: Mix in some cranberries for a festive holiday version.

Feel free to experiment and let your creativity shine!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve your Cinnamon Apple Pie Rolls warm for the ultimate comfort dessert. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A cup of hot coffee or apple cider makes the perfect beverage companion.

For storage, keep leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months—just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each roll is approximately:

• Calories: 120
• Fat: 5 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Protein: 1 g

Apples are packed with fiber and antioxidants, making these rolls a slightly better-for-you dessert option compared to heavier treats. Plus, you can feel good knowing they’re made with simple, wholesome ingredients.

Conclusion

These Cinnamon Apple Pie Rolls are a delightful mix of nostalgia and convenience. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, they’re sure to bring a smile to your face. I love how versatile and easy they are to make, and I hope you’ll find them as irresistible as I do.

If you give this recipe a try, let me know in the comments below! Share your photos, variations, or any fun stories about how they turned out. I can’t wait to hear from you. Happy baking!

FAQs

Can I use puff pastry instead of pie dough?

Yes, puff pastry works beautifully for a flakier texture. Just adjust the baking time slightly as puff pastry browns faster.

What type of apples are best for this recipe?

Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness, but Honeycrisp or Fuji apples work well if you prefer a sweeter filling.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the rolls, cover them tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?

Make sure to roll the dough tightly and avoid overfilling. Chilling the dough before slicing can also help.

Can I freeze the rolls?

Yes, freeze the unbaked rolls on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

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