Print

Apple Pecan Cinnamon Rolls

Delicious apple pecan cinnamon rolls that elevate your brunch with warmth and sweetness.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 packet instant yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup warm milk
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 cup apple pie filling
  • 1/2 cup toasted pecans (chopped)
  • 4 oz cream cheese
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 12 tablespoons milk (for frosting)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt until combined. In a separate bowl, combine the warm milk, melted butter, and the egg. Mix well. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until a rough dough starts to form.
  2. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
  3. Prepare the Filling: While the dough rises, mix your brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped pecans in a small bowl.
  4. Roll Out the Dough: Once your dough has risen, punch it down gently and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a large rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
  5. Add the Filling: Spread the apple pie filling over the dough, followed by the brown sugar mixture evenly on top. Roll the dough tightly from the long edge. Pinch the seam gently to seal it.
  6. Cut & Arrange: Using a sharp knife or dental floss, slice the roll into 1-inch thick pieces (you should get about 12). Place the slices in a greased baking dish, leaving some space between each roll for them to expand.
  7. Second Rise: Cover the dish with a towel and let the rolls rise for another 30-45 minutes. They should puff up nicely.
  8. Preheat & Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
  9. Make the Frosting: While the rolls are baking, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and 1 tablespoon of milk together until smooth. If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk.
  10. Frost & Serve: Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before frosting. Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm rolls.

Notes

For a dairy-free version, use almond milk and vegan cream cheese. These rolls are best enjoyed warm.

Nutrition

Keywords: cinnamon rolls, apple pecan, brunch, baking, fall recipes