Description

Fluffy caramel apple cinnamon rolls combining tender dough, fresh diced apples, warm cinnamon spice, and luscious caramel sauce. Perfectly soft and gooey, these rolls offer a balanced sweetness and an aromatic comfort that fills your kitchen with irresistible cozy aromas, ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough

3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt

Filling

3 cups peeled and diced apples (such as Fuji or Gala)
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for spreading on dough)
1/2 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)

Optional Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk or plant-based milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Garnishes

Chopped toasted pecans or walnuts
Cinnamon powder

Instructions

Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, active dry yeast, and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until bubbly and foamy, indicating the yeast is active. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add eggs, softened butter, vanilla extract, and the yeast mixture. Knead the mixture until it forms a smooth, elastic dough. Cover and set aside in a warm place to rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling: While the dough rises, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add diced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon, sautéing gently until the apples are soft and fragrant but not mushy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
Assemble the Rolls: On a floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle roughly 16×12 inches. Spread softened butter evenly over the dough. Evenly scatter the cooled apple mixture on top, then drizzle the caramel sauce generously over the apples. Starting on the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut into 12 even slices. Place the slices into a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between rolls.
Second Rise and Bake: Cover the assembled rolls and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes until puffy. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and the caramel is bubbling.
Glaze and Serve: Let the rolls cool slightly. Mix powdered sugar, milk or plant-based milk, and vanilla extract to create a smooth glaze if desired. Drizzle glaze or extra caramel sauce over the warm rolls. Serve immediately for the best gooey, warm experience.

Notes

Ensure milk is warm, not hot, to properly activate yeast without killing it.
Do not overfill the rolls to avoid leaking and soggy bottoms.
Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut rolls cleanly without squashing.
Allow proper rising times to achieve a fluffy, airy dough.
Choose fresh, crisp apples like Fuji or Gala for optimal texture and sweetness.
These rolls can be prepared the night before assemble, cover and refrigerate overnight, then bake fresh in the morning.
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze individual rolls wrapped tightly for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat gently in microwave or oven to restore gooey softness.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 roll
Calories: 330
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: caramel apple cinnamon rolls, caramel rolls, apple cinnamon rolls, fall dessert, breakfast rolls, cozy treats, cinnamon rolls with apples