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Step 3: Prepare the Filling
While the dough is rising, make the apple-cinnamon filling. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter. Stir until well mixed. Set aside.
Peel, core, and dice the apples into small cubes. Sauté them in a pan over medium heat for 4-5 minutes, until they become soft and start to caramelize slightly. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
Step 4: Assemble the Rolls
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches.
Spread the cinnamon-sugar butter mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border along the edges. Sprinkle the sautéed apples over the cinnamon filling. Carefully roll the dough from the longer side to form a log, pinching the seams together to seal.
Using a sharp knife, cut the rolled dough into 12 even slices. Place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll.
Step 5: Second Rise
Cover the pan with a cloth and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes, allowing them to puff up.
Step 6: Bake the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. The kitchen will soon be filled with the mouthwatering aroma of apples and cinnamon!
Step 7: Make the Glaze (Optional)
While the rolls are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Once the rolls are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes. Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls for a sweet finishing touch.
Tips for Perfect Apple and Cinnamon Rolls
- Use fresh apples: Opt for apples that hold their shape well when baked, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These apples will maintain their texture and provide a great contrast to the soft dough.
- Don’t overfill the rolls: When adding the apple-cinnamon filling, don’t overstuff the dough, as it may cause the rolls to burst open during baking.
- Rest the dough: Give the dough time to rise properly for the fluffiest, softest rolls. The longer the dough rises, the more flavor it will develop.
- Try a cream cheese glaze: If you prefer something a little richer, you can swap the powdered sugar glaze for a cream cheese frosting for an extra indulgent touch.
Serving Suggestions
These Apple and Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for any occasion. Serve them as a:
- Morning Breakfast: Enjoy them with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
- Afternoon Snack: Pair them with a glass of fresh juice or milk.
- Holiday Brunch: Make them a part of your festive meal spread during holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas.
Conclusion
These Apple and Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate fall-inspired treat that combines the comforting warmth of cinnamon with the sweetness of apples. Whether you’re serving them to guests or indulging in them yourself, they are sure to become a favorite. Fluffy, soft, and bursting with flavor, these rolls are the perfect way to elevate any meal or occasion.
So, grab your apples, cinnamon, and dough, and enjoy a batch of homemade apple-cinnamon goodness!
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