Name: Apple Cinnamon Rolls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 33 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 can refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing included).; 3 medium apples, peeled and diced.; 2 tbsp unsalted butter.; 2 tbsp brown sugar.; 1 tsp ground cinnamon.; ¼ tsp ground nutmeg.; 1 tbsp lemon juice.; ½ cup powdered sugar.; 1 tbsp milk.; ¼ tsp vanilla extract.

Apple Pie Stuffed Cinnamon Rolls take your classic cinnamon rolls to a new level with the addition of a warm, caramelized apple filling. The sweet and tangy apple mixture, cooked with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, is spread inside the rolls before they’re baked to golden perfection. These rolls are then topped with either the included icing or a homemade vanilla glaze for a delightful finishing touch. Perfect for a cozy breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls offer the best of both worlds—apple pie and cinnamon rolls in one delicious bite.

Apple Pie Stuffed Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect combination of soft, tender cinnamon buns and sweet, caramelized apple pie filling. The apples are cooked with brown sugar, cinnamon, and a hint of nutmeg, giving them a rich, comforting flavor. Once baked, the rolls are topped with a smooth glaze, making them a wonderful treat for breakfast or dessert. Whether you're hosting a brunch or looking for a cozy weekend treat, these rolls are sure to satisfy your cravings for both cinnamon rolls and apple pie.

INGREDIENTS

Refrigerated cinnamon rolls: 1 can, comes with icing included
Apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): 3 medium, peeled and diced, for the filling
Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp, for sautéing the apples
Brown sugar: 2 tbsp, adds sweetness to the apple filling
Ground cinnamon: 1 tsp, enhances the warm flavor of the apples
Ground nutmeg: ¼ tsp, adds a subtle spice to the filling
Lemon juice: 1 tbsp, helps balance the sweetness of the filling
Powdered sugar: ½ cup, for making the homemade glaze
Milk: 1 tbsp, thins the glaze for easy drizzling
Vanilla extract: ¼ tsp, adds flavor to the glaze

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Stir frequently and cook for 5-7 minutes until the apples are softened and caramelized. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
Step 2:: Preheat the oven according to the cinnamon roll package instructions. Grease a baking dish.
Step 3:: Unroll the cinnamon rolls slightly, spread a portion of the apple filling on each one, then roll them back up. Place the rolls into the prepared baking dish.
Step 4:: Bake according to the package instructions, typically 15-18 minutes, until golden brown.
Step 5:: While the rolls are baking, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more milk if necessary.
Step 6:: Once the rolls are done and slightly cooled, drizzle them with the icing from the package or the homemade glaze.

Serving and Storage Tips

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave before serving.
The apple filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Helpful Notes

For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle chopped pecans over the apple filling before rolling up the dough.
If you prefer a thicker glaze, reduce the amount of milk in the recipe or add extra powdered sugar.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Chef Suggestion: For an even richer flavor, add a teaspoon of maple syrup to the apple filling while cooking.

FAQs

Can I use homemade cinnamon roll dough instead of the canned version?

Yes, you can substitute homemade cinnamon roll dough for an even fresher taste, but it will require more time and preparation.

Can I use other fruits in place of apples?

Pears or peaches would also work well as a filling, but you may need to adjust the cooking time for the filling based on the fruit’s softness.

Summary

Apple Pie Stuffed Cinnamon Rolls bring together two classic treats—cinnamon rolls and apple pie—in one indulgent dessert. These cinnamon rolls are filled with a warm, caramelized apple mixture made with fresh apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. The rolls are baked to golden perfection and then drizzled with either the included icing or a homemade vanilla glaze. The apple filling adds a burst of flavor, making these rolls perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a sweet treat to enjoy with coffee. The tender, flaky dough combined with the gooey apple filling creates a mouthwatering dessert that is sure to impress family and friends.