Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls
Soft-baked apple cinnamon rolls are a delightful combination of fluffy dough, sweet apple filling, and a luscious cream cheese frosting that creates the perfect balance of flavors. This indulgent treat is not only ideal for breakfast but also makes for a splendid dessert recipe. In this article, we will explore the presentation of these delightful rolls, the ingredients needed, step-by-step instructions, the benefits of making them, expert tips, and so much more.
Presentation
The presentation of soft-baked apple cinnamon rolls is key to their appeal. Once baked, the rolls emerge from the oven with a golden-brown hue, their aromatic cinnamon scent wafting through the air. Topping them with a generous drizzle of sweet cream cheese frosting creates a beautiful contrast against the warm, fluffy rolls. To serve, arrange them on a decorative platter, sprinkle with some extra chopped pecans, and consider using a light dusting of powdered sugar for enhanced visual appeal. A side of warm caramel sauce can take it a notch higher, inviting everyone to indulge in this comforting treat.
Ingredients
To create these soft-baked apple cinnamon rolls, you will need the following ingredients:
- 250g whole milk, lukewarm
- 50g granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 tsp active dried yeast
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 565g all-purpose flour
- 100g unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 850g (about four medium) apples, peeled, cored, and diced small
- 30g unsalted butter
- 80g granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- 1 Tbsp corn starch
- 125g pecan halves
- 190g unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 280g brown sugar
- 2 Tbsp plus 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp kosher salt
- 115g unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 225g cream cheese, at room temperature
- 250g powdered sugar, sifted
- 1-2 Tbsp heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Brioche Dough: Start by warming the whole milk until it is lukewarm. In a mixing bowl, combine the lukewarm milk, 50g of granulated sugar, and 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dried yeast. Allow the mixture to sit for about five minutes until it becomes foamy.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the all-purpose flour and kosher salt. Once the yeast mixture is ready, add the eggs and the butter. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough formed.
- Knead and Rise: Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.
- Prepare the Apple Filling: In the meantime, prepare the apple filling. In a saucepan, melt 30g of butter over medium heat, then add the diced apples, 80g of granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1 tablespoon of corn starch. Cook until the apples are softened and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the chopped pecans and set aside.
- Make the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture: In a bowl, combine 280g of brown sugar, 2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/8 teaspoon of kosher salt. Set this mixture aside for later use.
- Roll and Assemble: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a large rectangle. Spread 115g of softened unsalted butter over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar evenly. Spread the apple filling across the surface, followed by the pecan halves.
- Shape the Rolls: Roll the dough tightly from the long edge to form a log. Cut the log into individual rolls and place them in a greased baking dish. Cover the dish and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffed.
- Bake the Rolls: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes until they are golden brown and baked through.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: While the rolls are baking, prepare the frosting by beating 225g of softened cream cheese, 250g of powdered sugar, 1-2 tablespoons of heavy whipping cream, and 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt until smooth and creamy.
- Frost and Serve: Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before drizzling with the cream cheese frosting. Serve warm and enjoy!
Benefits of This Craft
Making soft-baked apple cinnamon rolls at home is not only a delightful culinary endeavor but also offers numerous benefits. Firstly, baking from scratch allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring that your rolls are free from preservatives and artificial flavors. Furthermore, the process of preparing these rolls can be therapeutic, allowing you to de-stress while indulging in the art of baking. The delightful aroma that fills your home while these rolls bake can lift your spirits and provide a sense of warmth and comfort, making it an ideal family activity.
Tips
To ensure the best results when making soft-baked apple cinnamon rolls, consider the following tips:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Using eggs and butter at room temperature helps create a better dough texture.
- Don’t Rush the Rising: Allowing the dough to rise fully is crucial for achieving soft and fluffy rolls.
- Use Fresh Apples: Opt for a mix of tart and sweet apples for a balanced flavor in the filling.
- Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Every oven is different, so monitor your rolls to avoid over-baking.
What Taste Look Like?
Soft-baked apple cinnamon rolls present an irresistible combination of flavors. Each bite reveals the delicate sweetness of caramelized apples uniquely complemented by warm cinnamon. The addition of toasted pecans adds a pleasing crunch, while the rich cream cheese frosting delivers a creamy, velvety texture that ties everything together beautifully. This delightful treat is a harmony of flavors and textures, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
How to Store
To store leftover soft-baked apple cinnamon rolls, allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to a week. You can also freeze them by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and inserting them into a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Conclusion
Soft-baked apple cinnamon rolls are a delectable treat that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. Their fluffy texture, sweet apple filling, and creamy frosting make them a perfect addition to breakfast tables or dessert spreads. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can create your batch of these delightful rolls. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy family gathering, they are sure to impress and be loved by all.
FAQ
Can I use other fillings besides apples?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fruits, such as pears or berries, or incorporate additional fillings like chocolate or caramel.
Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead of time, let it rise, and then refrigerate it overnight. Just bring it back to room temperature before rolling it out.
Is it possible to make these rolls vegan?
Yes, you can substitute non-dairy milk and yogurt for the milk and butter. There are many vegan cream cheese options available for the frosting as well.
What can I serve with these rolls?
These rolls pair well with a cup of coffee, tea, or warm apple cider, making for a cozy breakfast or snack option.
How long do these rolls stay fresh?
When stored properly, these rolls can stay fresh for about two days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. In the freezer, they can last for a couple of months.
Soft-Baked Apple Cinnamon Rolls
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful soft-baked apple cinnamon rolls with a sweet apple filling and cream cheese frosting, perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
- 250g whole milk, lukewarm
- 50g granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 tsp active dried yeast
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 565g all-purpose flour
- 100g unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 850g apples, peeled, cored, and diced small
- 30g unsalted butter
- 80g granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- 1 Tbsp corn starch
- 125g pecan halves
- 190g unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 280g brown sugar
- 2 Tbsp plus 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp kosher salt
- 115g unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 225g cream cheese, at room temperature
- 250g powdered sugar, sifted
- 1-2 Tbsp heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Brioche Dough: Warm the milk, combine with sugar and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix flour and salt. Add the prepared yeast mixture, eggs, and butter gradually, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead and Rise: Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1-2 hours until doubled.
- Prepare the Apple Filling: Melt 30g butter, add apples, sugar, cinnamon, salt, and cornstarch. Cook for 5-7 minutes until caramelized. Stir in pecans and set aside.
- Make the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture: Combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl.
- Roll and Assemble: Punch down risen dough, roll into a rectangle, spread butter, sprinkle cinnamon sugar, then spread apple filling and pecans.
- Shape the Rolls: Roll tightly from the long edge, cut into individual rolls, and place in greased dish. Cover and rise for 30-45 minutes.
- Bake the Rolls: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and salt until smooth.
- Frost and Serve: Cool the rolls slightly, drizzle with frosting, and enjoy warm.
Notes
Using room temperature ingredients helps create a better dough texture. Allow the dough to rise fully for soft and fluffy rolls.