Description
These soft and fluffy cinnamon rolls are filled with a sweet apple butter and cinnamon swirl, then topped with creamy frosting. They’re perfect for cozy mornings, holiday gatherings, or anytime you want a comforting homemade treat.
Ingredients
For the Dough
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1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
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2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet)
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⅓ cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs, room temperature
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⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
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1 teaspoon salt
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4 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for kneading)
For the Filling
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
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¾ cup apple butter
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1 cup brown sugar, packed
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2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
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4 ounces cream cheese, softened
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¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 ½ cups powdered sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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2–3 tablespoons milk (to reach desired consistency)
Instructions
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Warm the milk until about 110°F. Combine it with yeast and sugar in a bowl. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
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Add eggs, melted butter, and salt. Stir in flour gradually until a dough forms. Knead by hand for 8–10 minutes or with a mixer and dough hook for 5 minutes.
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Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1–1 ½ hours until doubled.
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Mix softened butter, apple butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the filling.
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Punch down dough and roll into a 16×12-inch rectangle. Spread filling evenly.
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Roll dough into a log and slice into 12 rolls using a sharp knife or dental floss.
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Arrange in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise 30–45 minutes until puffy. Preheat oven to 350°F.
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Bake 25–30 minutes until golden brown. Cover loosely with foil if tops brown too quickly.
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Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk. Mix until fluffy.
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Spread frosting over warm rolls and serve.
Notes
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Make the rolls ahead by refrigerating overnight after slicing; bring to room temperature before baking.
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Adjust sugar based on the sweetness of your apple butter.
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Spread frosting on warm rolls for extra gooey swirls.
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Rolls can be stored at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus rising)
- Cook Time: 30 minutes