Pin it
Step into your kitchen and create these indulgent breakfast rolls that combine two beloved favorites - spiced apples and creamy cheesecake. Each soft, pillowy bun reveals swirls of cinnamon-scented apples nestled in velvety cream cheese filling, making every bite a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Last weekend, I made these for a family brunch. The moment they came out of the oven, everyone gathered in the kitchen, drawn by the irresistible aroma of baking apples and cinnamon.
Essential Ingredients
- Choose unbleached all-purpose flour for the softest texture
- Fresh, active yeast ensures proper rising
- Room temperature cream cheese blends smoothly
- Firm, tart apples hold their shape while baking
- Real vanilla extract enriches the filling
- Unsalted butter lets you control saltiness
Pin it
Detailed Instructions
- Prepare The Dough:
- Combine warm milk and water with yeast, letting it bloom until foamy. Mix in melted butter, egg, and sugar. The liquid should feel like warm bath water - this temperature activates the yeast perfectly.
- Build The Base:
- Gradually add flour and salt, kneading until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. When poked, it should spring back like a pillow. Place in a warm spot until doubled in size.
- Create Fillings:
- Beat cream cheese until completely smooth - any lumps now will show in the final buns. Cook apples slowly until tender but not mushy, letting the cinnamon and nutmeg work their magic.
- Shape With Care:
- Roll dough into a rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Spread cream cheese first, then layer with spiced apples. Roll tightly, sealing the edges well.
- Form Perfect Swirls:
- Use unflavored dental floss to cut clean slices without squishing. Place them in your pan with room to expand.
My grandmother taught me to test yeast by seeing if it foams in warm liquid before adding it to flour. This extra step has saved many batches of dough from failure.
Perfect Pairings
Serve these buns warm with coffee or hot apple cider. For brunch, pair with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit. They're also delicious with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
Creative Twists
Replace apples with pears or peaches when in season. Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch. Swirl in caramel sauce before rolling. Try different spice combinations like cardamom or ginger.
Keep Them Fresh
Store cooled buns in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat individually in the microwave for 20 seconds. Freeze unfrosted buns for up to a month, then thaw overnight before warming.
These rolls taught me that patience makes perfect dough. The time spent waiting for rises creates that irresistible tender texture.
Pin it
Making these buns reminds me of Sunday mornings at my grandmother's house. That magical combination of apples, cinnamon, and yeasted dough still brings back those warm memories.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Which apples work best?
- Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples are ideal for their tart flavor and crisp texture.
- → Can I freeze these buns?
- Yes, freeze unbaked rolls and bake fresh when needed.
- → Why did my filling leak?
- Spread filling evenly and not too thick to prevent leaking during baking.
- → Can I make these ahead?
- Prepare through slicing, refrigerate overnight, let rise before baking.
- → Is the glaze necessary?
- The glaze is optional but adds extra sweetness and moisture to the buns.