If you’re dreaming of waking up to the perfect combination of warm, gooey cinnamon rolls with rich apple pie filling, then this recipe is your new best friend. These Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling offer a delightful twist on a classic treat—bringing together soft, fluffy dough swirled with cinnamon sugar and pockets of sweet, spiced apple filling. Whether you’re treating yourself on a weekend morning or impressing guests, this cozy, aromatic dish will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A perfect balance of flavors: The cinnamon’s spice blends beautifully with the sweet apple filling for a harmonious taste.
Soft, irresistible texture: Tender dough meets gooey filling for each bite to melt in your mouth.
Easy to prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe approachable for all skill levels.
Great for gatherings: These rolls are a guaranteed showstopper at brunches, holidays, or any special occasion.
Make-ahead friendly: Prepare in advance to enjoy fresh rolls whenever you want without stress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses basic pantry staples combined with fresh apples and warm spices, each ingredient chosen to create that perfect harmony of flavor, texture, and inviting color. Every component plays a key role in delivering these irresistibly scented Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling.

All-purpose flour: Forms the soft, stretchy base for the dough.
Yeast: Helps the dough rise light and fluffy.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps develop caramelization during baking.
Butter: Provides richness and tender crumb to the dough and filling.
Milk: Moisturizes the dough and contributes to a tender texture.
Cinnamon: A key spice that delivers warm, aromatic flavor throughout.
Apples: Fresh, preferably crisp apples for a sweet but slightly tart filling.
Brown sugar: Enhances the apple filling with deep molasses notes and moisture.
Lemon juice: Balances sweetness and keeps the apple filling bright.
Egg: Adds structure and richness to the dough.
Salt: Amplifies overall flavors and balances the sweetness.
Vanilla extract: Adds depth and a fragrant, sweet aroma.

Variations for Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

This base recipe is wonderfully adaptable, letting you customize it to your taste preferences or dietary needs. From fruit swaps to different spices, here are some ideas to personalize your batch of cinnamon rolls.

Pear substitution: Replace apples with pears for a softer and more floral fruit filling.
Vegan option: Use plant-based milk and butter substitutes, and replace the egg with flaxseed or mashed banana.
Nutty addition: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for extra crunch.
Spice it up: Add nutmeg or cardamom along with cinnamon for a more complex spice profile.
Gluten-free version: Use a gluten-free flour blend designed for yeast breads.

Irresistible Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

How to Make Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Step 1: Prepare the dough

Warm the milk and melt the butter, then combine with yeast and a little sugar to activate. Mix in flour, egg, salt, and vanilla to form a smooth dough. Knead until elastic and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Step 2: Make the apple pie filling

Peel and dice the apples into small pieces. In a skillet, cook the apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt until tender and caramelized. Set aside to cool.

Step 3: Roll out the dough

On a floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle. Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle generously with cinnamon sugar. Evenly distribute the cooled apple filling on top.

Step 4: Shape the rolls

Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, sealing the edges as you go. Cut into even slices about 1.5 to 2 inches thick and place them into a greased baking dish, leaving some space to expand.

Step 5: Final rise and bake

Cover the rolls and let them rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffy. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 6: Glaze and serve

Once slightly cooled, drizzle with a simple cream cheese or vanilla glaze for an extra indulgent touch. Serve warm for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Use room temperature ingredients: This helps the dough mix more easily and rise consistently.
Don’t overfill: Too much apple filling can make rolls soggy; balance is key for structure.
Let rolls rise fully: Patience ensures a light, airy texture rather than dense rolls.
Chill before baking: Refrigerating for 15 minutes after shaping can help rolls keep their shape.
Customize sweeteners: Adjust sugar levels in the filling to taste or based on apple variety sweetness.

How to Serve Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Garnishes

Sprinkle with powdered sugar or chopped nuts for extra texture. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a touch of whipped cream can elevate the warm rolls to a special dessert level.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee, chai tea, or warm apple cider to complement the cinnamon and apple flavors beautifully for a cozy breakfast or brunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Place individual rolls in pretty ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for charming single servings. You can also layer a few rolls in a trifle-style glass bowl with whipped cream and apple compote for an eye-catching dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain softness and flavor.

Freezing

Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Warm leftover rolls in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) covered with foil for 10 minutes to restore softness and gooeyness.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought apple pie filling instead of fresh apples?

Yes, store-bought filling can save time and still yield delicious results, but fresh apples offer a fresher texture and more balanced flavor.

How long do Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling stay fresh?

Stored properly at room temperature, they stay fresh for about 2 days, but they taste best when enjoyed the day they’re made.

Can I make these rolls gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend designed for yeast baking and adjust liquid as needed for dough consistency.

Is it necessary to let the dough rise twice?

Double rising helps develop flavor and texture, resulting in fluffier rolls, so it is highly recommended.

What’s the best way to store baked cinnamon rolls?

Place rolls in an airtight container or cover them tightly with plastic wrap to keep them moist and prevent drying out.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling—the aroma, the warmth, and the comforting taste are unbeatable. Whether it’s a slow weekend morning or a holiday celebration, these rolls will bring joy and smiles around your table. Grab your ingredients and start baking your own batch today—you won’t regret it!

Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

Print Recipe

Wake up to warm, fluffy cinnamon rolls filled with a rich, spiced apple pie filling. This recipe combines soft dough swirled with cinnamon sugar and pockets of sweet, tender apples for a cozy and irresistible treat perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any special occasion.

Author: Mary
Prep Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls 1x
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Can be adapted to Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup warm milk (around 110°F / 43°C)
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Filling Ingredients

3 medium fresh apples, peeled and diced
1/3 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/8 teaspoon salt (a pinch)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (for spreading)
2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for cinnamon sugar)
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for cinnamon sugar)

Glaze (Optional)

4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1–2 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the dough: Warm the milk and melt the butter. Combine the warm milk, melted butter, yeast, and 1 tablespoon sugar to activate the yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. In a large bowl, mix the flour, remaining sugar, egg, salt, and vanilla extract. Add the yeast mixture and stir to form a smooth dough. Knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until elastic and smooth. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
Make the apple pie filling: Peel and dice the apples into small pieces. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
Roll out the dough: On a floured surface, roll the risen dough into a large rectangle approximately 16×12 inches. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough. Mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon together, then sprinkle generously over the buttered dough. Evenly distribute the cooled apple filling on top of the cinnamon sugar.
Shape the rolls: Carefully roll the dough tightly from the long edge, sealing the seam by pinching the edges together. Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 12 slices about 1.5 to 2 inches thick. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish or pan, spaced evenly with some room to expand.
Final rise and bake: Cover the rolls loosely with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let them rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. If they brown too quickly, tent them loosely with foil.
Glaze and serve: Once the rolls are slightly cooled but still warm, prepare the glaze by beating cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and drizzly. Drizzle the glaze over the rolls and serve warm for the best melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Notes

Use room temperature ingredients to ensure even rising and better dough texture.
Don’t overfill the rolls with apple filling to avoid sogginess.
Allow the rolls to rise fully twice for light, airy texture.
Chilling the shaped rolls for 15 minutes before baking helps retain their shape.
Adjust sugar levels based on sweetness of apples or personal preference.
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Freeze wrapped rolls for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheat in microwave for 20-30 seconds or oven at 325°F (160°C) covered with foil for 10 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 roll
Calories: 320
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 190mg
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: cinnamon rolls, apple pie filling, breakfast rolls, cinnamon sugar rolls, apple cinnamon rolls, baked breakfast, weekend brunch, homemade cinnamon rolls