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If you're searching for the ultimate comfort food, look no further than homemade apple cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting. These delightful pastries are not only a feast for the eyes but also a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Each fluffy roll is swirled with a luscious filling made from tender apples, fragrant cinnamon, and a hint of nutmeg, all topped off with a rich, creamy frosting that perfectly balances sweetness with a touch of tang.

Irresistible Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Treat yourself to soft and fluffy Apple Cinnamon Rolls topped with luscious cream cheese frosting! This delicious recipe combines the tartness of Granny Smith apples with warm cinnamon and nutmeg, all wrapped in a homemade dough that's easy to make. With simple ingredients and a bit of love, you'll have a delightful breakfast or dessert that everyone will crave. Perfect for gatherings or cozy weekends, serve warm and watch them disappear!

Ingredients
  

For the Dough:

4 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup granulated sugar

2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup milk, warmed

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 large eggs

For the Filling:

3 medium apples, peeled and diced (preferably Granny Smith)

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

2 teaspoons cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2-3 tablespoons milk (optional for desired consistency)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.

      Combine Ingredients: Add the melted butter and eggs to the yeast mixture, mix well, then gradually add this to the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms.

        Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

          First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

            Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, toss the diced apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

              Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle (about 16x12 inches).

                Add Filling: Spread soft butter evenly over the dough, then layer the apple mixture on top, leaving a small border around the edges.

                  Form Rolls: Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut into 12 equal pieces.

                    Second Rise: Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover with a cloth, and let rise for another 30 minutes while preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C).

                      Bake the Rolls: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

                        Make the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy. If desired, add milk for a smoother consistency.

                          Frost the Rolls: Once the rolls are slightly cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top.

                            Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm and enjoy the delightful combination of apple, cinnamon, and cream cheese!

                              Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours and 10 minutes | Servings: 12 rolls