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Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls with Browned Butter Icing

Warm Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls with Browned Butter Icing Bliss

Indulge in soft and gooey Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls with Browned Butter Icing, perfect for fall baking and sharing.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 12 rolls
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 0.25 cups Warm Water Activates yeast to help the dough rise.
  • 2.25 teaspoons Traditional Dry Yeast Leavening agent that creates lightness in rolls.
  • 0.75 cups Warm Apple Cider Provides flavor and moisture to dough.
  • 8 tablespoons Salted Butter Adds richness and flavor.
  • 2 large Eggs, beaten Provides structure and richness to the dough.
  • 0.33 cups Sugar Sweetens dough and aids browning.
  • 4.5 cups All-Purpose Flour Main structure component of the rolls.
Apple Filling Ingredients
  • 4 medium Granny Smith Apples, peeled and finely diced Main filling adds tartness that balances sweetness.
  • 0.33 cups Brown Sugar, packed Sweetens apple filling and helps create a caramelized flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Cornstarch Thickens apple filling.
  • 1 tablespoon Cinnamon Flavors the filling and enhances aroma.
Icing Ingredients
  • 6 ounces Cream Cheese, softened Base for the icing that adds creaminess.
  • 2.5 cups Icing Sugar Sweetens and thickens the icing.

Equipment

  • Stand mixer
  • baking pan
  • Stovetop pan

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Activate the yeast by combining warm water, a pinch of sugar, and traditional dry yeast. Let sit for about 5 minutes until bubbly.
  2. In a stand mixer, combine warm apple cider, melted butter, eggs, and the yeast mixture. Gradually add flour, cinnamon, and salt. Knead for about 5 minutes.
  3. Transfer the dough to a greased bowl and cover. Let rise in a warm area for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
  4. Prepare the apple filling by cooking the diced apples with butter, apple juice, and lemon juice until slightly tender. Mix in brown sugar, cornstarch, and cinnamon. Allow to cool.
  5. In a separate bowl, create the cinnamon filling by combining softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth.
  6. Punch down the dough and roll into a rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling and apple filling over it. Roll into a log and cut into 12 pieces. Let rise again for 30 minutes.
  7. Prepare the icing by browning butter and mixing it with cream cheese and icing sugar until smooth.
  8. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 25-35 minutes until lightly browned. Spread warmed icing on top once cooled slightly.

Notes

These rolls are perfect for sharing and have a make-ahead option. Store the leftovers properly to maintain freshness.