Oh my goodness, let me just tell you, Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls are a true slice of heaven on a plate! These delightful rolls are the epitome of cozy comfort food, and they hold a special place in my heart. I remember the first time I made them—it was a chilly autumn morning, and the smell of cinnamon and apples wafted through my kitchen, transforming it into a warm and inviting space. I could hardly wait to pull them out of the oven!
What I love most about these rolls is how they beautifully blend the flavors of sweet apple butter with warm spices, enveloped in a soft, pillowy dough. They are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a special afternoon treat with a cup of coffee. Plus, they make your home smell like a bakery, which is an instant mood booster. So let’s dive into this deliciousness together, shall we?
What’s in Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls?
All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of our roll dough. I prefer to use unbleached all-purpose flour for a rich flavor and better texture.
Instant yeast: Give these rolls their fluffy rise! Instant yeast is my go-to because it’s fast-acting and doesn’t require proofing.
Sugar: A tad bit of sweetness is necessary for the dough. I usually use granulated sugar, but you can also experiment with brown sugar for a richer flavor.
Salt: This helps balance the sweetness and enhances overall flavor—don’t skip it!
Milk: Warmed up to just the right temperature, milk contributes to a tender dough. I use whole milk for creaminess, but any milk will work here.
Butter: Melted and mixed into the dough, it adds a luscious richness. I use unsalted butter because I like to control the saltiness of my baked goods.
Egg: This adds structure and helps bind everything together, creating a moist roll.
Apple butter: The star of the show! This sweet and spiced apple spread brings a luscious, fruity flavor to our rolls. Homemade is wonderful, but store-bought works great too—especially on busy mornings!
Cinnamon: The beloved spice that gives us that warm, cozy feeling and delicious aroma. Always a must when making cinnamon rolls!
Powdered sugar: For the icing! It creates that dreamy, sweet drizzle that completes the rolls.
Is Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls Good for You?
These rolls are definitely a treat, so they’re perfect for those special occasions or weekend brunches! Here’s the scoop:
Apple butter: This ingredient is great because it’s made from real apples and often contains no added sugars, especially if you make your own. It’s a good source of fiber and naturally has some vitamins.
Whole milk: Utilized in moderation, whole milk provides some calcium and vitamin D. However, if you’re lactose intolerant, feel free to substitute with almond or oat milk.
Butter: While delicious, butter is high in saturated fats, so it’s best to enjoy these rolls as an occasional indulgence rather than an everyday treat.
In short, while Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls aren’t the healthiest breakfast option, they have some redeeming ingredients. They’re best enjoyed as an occasional delight that brings joy and comfort!
Ingredients:
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, warmed
– ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup apple butter (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
– 1 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
This recipe will make about 12 delicious rolls!
How to Make Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls?
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, instant yeast, granulated sugar, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the warmed milk, melted butter, and egg. Mix well.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, and mix until a dough begins to form.
4. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes on a floured surface until it’s smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
7. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle (about 1/4-inch thick).
8. Spread the apple butter evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
9. In a small bowl, mix together the cinnamon and remaining sugar, then sprinkle it over the apple butter.
10. Starting from one edge, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log.
11. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.
12. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
13. While the rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar and a splash of milk to make a smooth icing.
14. Once the rolls are done, drizzle the icing on top while they’re still warm.
Sweet Tips for Creating Yummy Rolls!
– If you’re short on time, you can make the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge overnight. Just bring it back to room temperature before rolling it out.
– You can mix in some chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for added crunch and flavor!
– If you want to make them extra festive, sprinkle some nutmeg along with the cinnamon for a unique twist.
– Serve these rolls warm, fresh from the oven, with a dollop of extra apple butter or cream cheese frosting on the side.
I hope you give these delightful Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls a try! They might just become a new family favorite for you, too. When you take that first gooey bite, you’ll be transported to a world of cozy, sweet bliss. I’d love to hear your thoughts—share your experience with me once you bake a batch!