Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls

Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls are a creative twist on the classic cinnamon roll recipe, infused with the flavors of apple and perfect for a delightful weekend morning treat. Kim Forni from Claremont, New Hampshire, decided to add an apple spin to the traditional cinnamon rolls, and the results were absolutely yummy! These rolls are made with a soft and elastic dough filled with a delicious mixture of chopped apples, brown sugar, walnuts, and cinnamon. To top it all off, the rolls are generously frosted with a creamy and tangy Apple Cider Cream Cheese Frosting.

This recipe is a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of apple and cinnamon in a comforting and indulgent breakfast treat. The rolls are made from scratch, allowing you to savor the delightful aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls filling your home. With a balance of sweetness and warm spices, Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls are sure to become a favorite for any cinnamon roll lover.

Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation steps to create these scrumptious Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls.

INGREDIENTS:

• 3¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 package (¼ ounce) quick-rise yeast
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup 2% milk
• ¼ cup apple cider or juice
• ¼ cup plus ⅓ cup butter, softened, divided
• 1 egg
• 2 cups finely chopped peeled tart apples
• 1¼ cups packed brown sugar
• ¾ cup finely chopped walnuts
• 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon

PREPARATIONS:

1. In a large bowl, combine 2¼ cups flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. In a small saucepan, heat the milk, apple cider or juice, and ¼ cup butter to 120°-130°F. Add the heated mixture to the dry ingredients and beat just until moistened. Add the egg and beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough (the dough will be sticky).
2. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Cover and let the dough rest for 10 minutes. Roll the dough into a 15×10-inch rectangle. Spread the remaining softened butter over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border. Combine the finely chopped apples, brown sugar, walnuts, and cinnamon, then sprinkle the mixture over the butter.
3. Roll up the dough jelly-roll style, starting with a long side, and pinch the seam to seal. Cut the rolled dough into 12 slices. Place the slices cut side down in a greased 13×9-inch baking dish. Cover and let them rise in a warm place for 30 minutes.
4. Bake the rolls at 325°F for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. While the rolls are baking, prepare the Apple Cider Cream Cheese Frosting.
5. For the frosting, place the apple cider or juice and cinnamon stick in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil and cook until the liquid is reduced to ¼ cup, about 20 minutes. Discard the cinnamon stick and let the reduced cider cool. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and softened butter until fluffy. Add the confectioners’ sugar and reduced cider, and beat until smooth. Spread the frosting over the warm rolls.

YIELD: 1 dozen rolls

PREP TIME: 1 hour (including rising time)

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Ensure the yeast is fresh and active to ensure proper rising of the dough.
• When rolling up the dough, make sure to roll it tightly to avoid gaps in the cinnamon filling.
• Let the rolls cool slightly before spreading the cream cheese frosting to achieve the perfect consistency.

TIPS:

• Serve the Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls warm for the best taste and texture.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container and reheat them briefly before serving to restore their freshness.
• Consider adding a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top of the cream cheese frosting for extra sweetness and visual appeal.

In conclusion, Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls are a delectable twist on the traditional cinnamon roll recipe, infused with the flavors of apple and cinnamon. Kim Forni from Claremont, New Hampshire, created this delightful recipe, and the results were absolutely yummy! These rolls feature a soft and elastic dough filled with a delicious mixture of finely chopped tart apples, brown sugar, walnuts, and cinnamon. They are then generously frosted with a tangy and creamy Apple Cider Cream Cheese Frosting.

Preparing these rolls from scratch allows you to experience the delightful aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls filling your home. The combination of apple, cinnamon, and warm spices creates a perfect balance of sweetness and comforting flavors. Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls are an ideal treat for a leisurely weekend morning or any time you want to indulge in a delightful breakfast or brunch.

The rolls are made using simple pantry ingredients and require a bit of preparation and rising time. The reward is a batch of homemade cinnamon rolls that are sure to impress. The Apple Cider Cream Cheese Frosting adds a tangy and creamy touch to the rolls, making them even more irresistible.

When serving the Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls, consider warming them slightly to enhance their taste and texture. Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and briefly reheated before enjoying.

Embrace the flavors of apple and cinnamon with these scrumptious Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls, and let their warm and comforting qualities brighten up your day.