The scent of sweet cinnamon and warm apple cider wafts through my kitchen as I whip up a batch of Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls with Browned Butter. There’s something magical about the combination of tender, fluffy dough swirled with juicy apples and spice, paired with a drizzle of rich, browned butter cream cheese icing. Not only are these rolls a delight to bake, but they also bring a cozy warmth to chilly mornings and make for the perfect centerpiece at autumn gatherings. This recipe is straightforward enough for a beginner yet offers a rewarding payoff that even seasoned bakers will savor. Curious about how these rolls can transform your breakfast table? Let’s dive into the step-by-step process and embrace the comfort of homemade goodness! Why Are These Rolls So Irresistible? Warm, Comforting Flavors: The infusion of apple cider with warm spices creates a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen, making it impossible to resist these rolls. Perfectly Soft Texture: Each roll boasts a tender, fluffy dough that melts in your mouth, ensuring every bite is pure bliss. Decadent Icing: The browned butter cream cheese icing adds a rich, creamy finish that elevates these rolls to a whole new level, reminiscent of sweet treats enjoyed at cozy gatherings. Versatility at Play: Ideal for any occasion, they make a scrumptious breakfast, a delightful afternoon snack, or a stunning centerpiece for fall celebrations. Whether paired with a cup of coffee or served at brunch, these rolls will steal the show. Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the dough the night before, letting it rise in the fridge, so you can enjoy warm, freshly baked rolls with minimal morning effort. Just like my Cinnamon Focaccia, these are sure to become a favorite in your home! Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients • Here’s everything you need to create these delightful Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls with Browned Butter. For the Dough Warm Water – Activates yeast and creates a soft dough; you can use milk if preferred. Traditional Dry Yeast – Essential leavening agent for fluffy rolls; no substitutions are acceptable. Warm Apple Cider (or Juice) – Adds a rich flavor to both dough and filling; substitute with white grape juice if needed. Butter (Melted) – Provides a rich, buttery taste to the dough; use unsalted for better control over saltiness. Eggs (Beaten) – Contributes to the dough’s structure; consider flaxseed as an egg substitute for a vegan option. Sugar – Sweetens the dough and filling; brown sugar can deepen the flavor. Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice; feel free to experiment with nutmeg for extra flavor. Salt – Enhances the flavors and helps control fermentation; it’s a must for balanced taste. All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the dough; gluten-free all-purpose flour is a suitable alternative for those avoiding gluten. For the Filling Apples (Peeled and Finely Diced) – Brings a tart and sweet element to the filling; Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are great choices. Apple Cider – Enhances the apple flavor in the filling; if not available, lemon juice or additional apple juice can work. Cornstarch – Thickens the apple filling for the perfect texture; there’s no direct substitute for best results. Brown Sugar (Packed) – Imparts sweetness and richness; white sugar can be used in a pinch. For the Icing Cream Cheese – Provides a creamy texture that melds perfectly with browned butter; vegan cream cheese can serve as an alternative. Icing Sugar – Sweetens the icing; necessary for that perfect frosting consistency, so no substitutes. Dive into this ingredient list, and let your kitchen fill with the warm, comforting scents of homemade Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls with Browned Butter Step 1: Prepare Dough In a mixing bowl, combine warm water with a pinch of sugar and dry yeast, letting it sit for 5 minutes until bubbly. Next, add warm apple cider, melted butter, beaten eggs, and sugar to the yeast mixture. Gradually incorporate all-purpose flour, cinnamon, and salt, mixing until combined. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours or until doubled in size. Step 2: Make Apple Filling While the dough rises, prepare the apple filling by sautéing finely diced apples in melted butter over medium heat. Add apple cider and lemon juice, cooking until the apples soften, about 5-7 minutes. In a separate bowl, mix together brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and salt before adding this mixture to the cooked apples. Stir until everything is combined and thickened, then remove from heat and let it cool. Step 3: Prepare Cinnamon Filling In a small bowl, blend softened butter, packed brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth and creamy, creating a rich cinnamon filling that will be spread over the dough. This should take about 2-3 minutes with a hand mixer or whisk. Set this mixture aside, as it will add warmth and spice to your Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls. Step 4: Assemble Rolls Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about ¼ inch thick. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, followed by the cooled apple filling, ensuring an even distribution. Carefully roll the dough tightly from one edge to the other to form a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking pan, spacing them slightly apart. Cover and let them rise for another 30 minutes. Step 5: Bake Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the rolls rise. Once they have puffed up, bake the Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls for 25-35 minutes until they are golden brown and the smell of cinnamon fills your kitchen. The rolls are done when they spring back lightly when touched. Remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Step 6: Prepare Icing To make the decadent browned butter cream cheese icing, melt butter over medium heat in a saucepan, swirling it until it becomes nutty and foamy—about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. In a mixing bowl, whip together the browned butter, softened cream cheese, and icing sugar until smooth and creamy. This delicious icing is the perfect complement to your warm rolls. Step 7: Frost and Serve Spread the icing generously over the warm Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls, allowing it to melt into every nook and cranny. Serve them warm for the best texture and flavor, and relish the sweet, comforting taste of your homemade creation! Make Ahead Options These delightful Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls with Browned Butter are perfect for those of us with busy schedules! You can make the dough up to 24 hours in advance; just prepare it as usual, then cover and refrigerate after the first rise. When ready to bake, simply allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before proceeding with the second rise and baking steps. Additionally, the apple filling can be made up to 3 days ahead—just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This way, you can enjoy warm, freshly baked rolls with minimal morning effort, totally maintaining that soft, gooey texture! Storage Tips for Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls Room Temperature: Keep fresh rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful softness and flavor. Fridge: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to a week. Ensure they are wrapped tightly to prevent drying out. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze rolls individually wrapped in plastic wrap, then placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheating: To enjoy them warm again, reheat the Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Expert Tips for Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls Yeast Activation: Ensure water temperature is between 105°F to 115°F when activating yeast; too hot will kill it, resulting in flat rolls. Dough Consistency: Knead dough until soft and elastic for a fluffy texture. Over-kneading can make it tough; stop when it’s smooth. Layering Flavors: Don’t skimp on the cinnamon and apple filling! An even spread of these flavors is vital for deliciously spiced rolls. Cooling Before Icing: Allow browned butter to cool slightly before mixing with cream cheese; it should be warm, not hot, to avoid melting. Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container; gently reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore that gooey warmth of the Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls. Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls Variations Feel free to dive into your culinary creativity and personalize these rolls to match your taste and dietary needs. Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based butter and vegan cream cheese to make these rolls suitable for a vegan lifestyle. Nutty Delight: Add finely chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a delightful crunch that enhances the flavor profile. Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend for a gluten-free version that’s equally delicious. Spiced Up: Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or ginger into the filling for a warm, spiced twist that complements the cinnamon beautifully. Extra Sweet: Drizzle some maple syrup into the icing for a cozy, autumnal flavor that will keep everyone coming back for more. Fruit Variations: Experiment with different apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji, or add in chopped dried fruit like cranberries for a delightful tartness. Heat It Up: For spice lovers, add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the apple filling for a surprising kick that pairs wonderfully with sweetness. Cinnamon Swirl: For a bolder cinnamon flavor, increase the quantity in the filling or layer in some cinnamon sugar between the dough before rolling it up. No matter how you decide to customize your Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls, the result will be a cozy treat bursting with flavors! And if you’re looking for more inspiration, don’t miss my Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake for another sweet and spicy delight! What to Serve with Sweet Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls with Browned Butter? Imagine your kitchen filled with the aroma of freshly baked rolls, inviting friends and family to gather around the table for a soul-soothing feast. Hot Apple Cider: The perfect companion, this warm drink enhances the flavors of the rolls and adds to that cozy ambiance. Crisp Bacon: The salty savoriness of crispy bacon offers a beautiful contrast to the sweetness of the rolls, balancing your breakfast spread. Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream brings a light and airy element, ideal for those who love a creamy touch on their treats. Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and a touch of acidity, elevating the overall flavor profile of your meal. Pumpkin Spice Latte: For coffee lovers, this fall favorite provides a warming spice that beautifully complements the apple and cinnamon flavors. Toasted Nuts: Pecans or walnuts add a delightful crunch, giving your rolls an unexpected texture that enhances each bite. Vanilla Ice Cream: For a fun dessert twist, a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on top of a warm roll creates a decadent treat for any occasion. Maple Syrup: A drizzle of pure maple syrup enhances the sweetness, making each roll even more indulgent, especially at brunch. Chai Tea: This aromatic spiced tea makes for a comforting beverage option while pairing wonderfully with the cinnamon rolls and browned butter. Chocolate Ganache: Elevate your dessert game by serving with a rich chocolate ganache—an unexpected but delightful way to embrace indulgence. Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls with Browned Butter Recipe FAQs How do I select the best apples for the filling? Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet varieties such as Honeycrisp. Look for apples that are firm and free from dark spots. If possible, choose organic apples, as they often have a more vibrant taste without the added pesticides. What is the best way to store leftover Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls? Store your delicious rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft. If you have them left longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week; just ensure they’re well-wrapped to prevent drying out. Can I freeze the rolls for later enjoyment? Yes, indeed! To freeze your Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Next, place the wrapped rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat at 350°F for about 10 minutes. What if the dough doesn’t rise properly? Very common! If your dough hasn’t risen after 1.5 hours, check the water temperature used for activating the yeast; it should be between 105°F to 115°F. If the yeast was expired or the environment was too cold, these could also hinder rising. To troubleshoot, try placing the dough in a warmer spot (like an oven with the light on) and allow extra time to rise. Can these Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls be made allergen-friendly? Absolutely! You can easily substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those avoiding gluten. For a dairy-free option, use vegan butter and cream cheese. Also, Flaxseed mixed with water can serve as an egg replacement, making these rolls completely vegan if desired. Just remember to adjust baking times as needed. How can I prevent my rolls from drying out? To maintain that irresistible gooeyness, always store the rolls in an airtight container. If you need to warm them up, avoid the microwave, as it can make them tough. Instead, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, allowing them to regain their tender texture. Gooey Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls with Browned Butter Bliss Delicious Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls with Browned Butter, perfect for cozy autumn mornings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 40 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsRising Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes minsTotal Time 2 hours hrs 40 minutes mins Servings: 12 rollsCourse: BreakfastCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dough1 cup Warm Water Activates yeast2 1/4 Traditional Dry Yeast Essential leavening agent1 cup Warm Apple Cider Adds rich flavor1/2 cup Butter (Melted) Use unsalted for better control2 Eggs (Beaten) Contributes to dough structure1/4 cup Sugar Sweetens dough2 tsp Cinnamon Adds warmth and spice1 tsp Salt Enhances flavors4 cups All-Purpose Flour Forms structure of doughFor the Filling2 cups Apples (Peeled and Finely Diced) Tart and sweet element1/4 cup Apple Cider Enhances apple flavor2 Tbsp Cornstarch Thickens apple filling1/4 cup Brown Sugar (Packed) Imparts sweetnessFor the Icing4 oz Cream Cheese Provides creamy texture2 cups Icing Sugar Necessary for frosting consistency Equipment mixing bowlbaking pansaucepanwhiskHand Mixerspatula Method Dough PreparationIn a mixing bowl, combine warm water with a pinch of sugar and dry yeast, letting it sit for 5 minutes until bubbly.Add warm apple cider, melted butter, beaten eggs, and sugar to the yeast mixture.Gradually incorporate all-purpose flour, cinnamon, and salt, mixing until combined.Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.Apple Filling PreparationPrepare the apple filling by sautéing finely diced apples in melted butter over medium heat.Add apple cider and lemon juice, cooking until the apples soften, about 5-7 minutes.Mix together brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and salt before adding this mixture to the cooked apples.Stir until thickened, then remove from heat and let cool.Cinnamon Filling PreparationIn a bowl, blend softened butter, packed brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth and creamy.Roll AssemblyOnce the dough has risen, roll it out into a large rectangle, about ¼ inch thick.Spread the cinnamon filling over the dough, followed by the cooled apple filling.Roll the dough tightly to form a log, cut into 12 pieces, and place in a greased baking pan.Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.BakingPreheat oven to 350°F (175°C) while rolls rise.Bake for 25-35 minutes until golden brown.Allow to cool for a few minutes.Icing PreparationMelt butter over medium heat in a saucepan until nutty and foamy.Let it cool slightly before mixing with cream cheese and icing sugar until smooth.Frosting and ServingSpread icing generously over warm rolls and serve. Nutrition Serving: 1rollCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 4gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 2gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure yeast activation with the right water temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
