Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Cider Caramel Sauce and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you love the warm, cozy flavors of autumn, you’re in for a serious treat with this Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Cider Caramel Sauce and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. Imagine pillowy soft cinnamon rolls bursting with tender apple pie filling, baked over a luscious apple cider caramel base, and topped with a tangy-sweet cream cheese frosting. Honestly, when I first tried this combination, I felt like I’d discovered the ultimate comfort dessert that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or anytime you need a hug in pastry form. Stick around—I’m sharing every little detail so that your rolls come out perfect and your kitchen smells like fall heaven.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient here plays a part in balancing flavor, texture, and that iconic cinnamon roll softness. I recommend fresh, crisp apples for the filling (I love Gala or Fuji), and real butter for richness. Also, the apple cider caramel sauce is a game-changer—you’ll want to pick a good-quality cider or boil your own to concentrate the flavor.

• Apples: Peeled and diced, these bring natural sweetness and texture—don’t skimp on quality here!
• Salted Butter: Both melted for the dough and cold for the crisp topping, butter adds richness and flakiness.
• Light Brown Sugar: I use packed for the filling and topping to keep that deep molasses flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Keeps the apple filling bright and balances the sweetness.
• Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves, and Allspice: Classic autumn spices that warm up this recipe beautifully.
• Vanilla Extract: Deepens flavor in both the filling and frosting.
• Cornstarch & Water: Helps thicken the apple filling so it’s perfectly saucy without being runny.
• Warm Milk: At about 115°F, it activates the yeast without killing it. (If too hot or cold, your dough won’t rise properly!)
• Eggs: Bring structure and richness—make sure they’re at room temp for a smooth dough.
• Granulated Sugar: For sweetness in the dough and filling balance.
• Instant Yeast: Your best friend for a reliable, fluffy rise.
• All-Purpose Flour: Go for a spooned and leveled measurement for accuracy and consistent texture.
• Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: Add to the crisp topping for texture and a hint of nuttiness.
• Heavy Cream: Used both in the apple cider caramel sauce and poured over the rolls before baking for extra moisture and indulgence.
• Cream Cheese: Base for the frosting—softened for easy mixing and that perfect tang.
• Powdered Sugar: For smooth, luscious frosting texture.

Variations

I’m all about making this recipe your own! Over the years, I’ve played with a few tweaks depending on seasons and mood. Feel free to swap in your favorite apples, or make this gluten-free by swapping the flour. I love adding chopped toasted pecans for a nutty crunch, but you can omit if desired. This recipe is pretty forgiving and lends itself to creativity.

• Apple Varieties: I’ve used Granny Smith for tartness and Fuji for extra sweetness—try mixing kinds for a layered flavor.
• Nut-Free Option: Simply leave out any nuts, the texture and flavor are fantastic on their own.
• Vegan Version: You can replace butter with vegan margarine, use plant-based milk, and a vegan cream cheese alternative for frosting.
• Less Sweet: If you prefer, cut back slightly on sugars in the filling and frosting, but I find the balance just right for that apple pie vibe.

How to Make Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Cider Caramel Sauce and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Apple Filling

Start by combining all the apple filling ingredients in a medium pan over medium-high heat. Stir often, lazily but consistently, for about 8-10 minutes until your apples get tender but not mushy. If the liquid starts drying up too fast, splash in a bit more apple cider or water. Once the apples are just right, thicken the mixture by stirring cornstarch into water and mixing it in—this step is key for that perfect gooey filling that holds up inside the rolls without leaking out.

Step 2: Make the Dough and First Rise

In your stand mixer bowl, whisk melted butter, warm milk, eggs, sugar, yeast, and salt—make sure the milk is heated to about 115°F to activate the yeast perfectly. Add the flour and mix on low until it disappears into a shaggy dough. Let it rest 5 minutes (this helps hydrate the flour). Then, switch to the dough hook and knead on low for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic, but still slightly soft. Spray your bowl with nonstick spray, place the dough back in, and let it rise covered for 1 hour or until doubled, pressing gently to check if the indent holds. I’ve learned that rising times vary based on room temperature, so keep an eye on the texture—not the clock.

Step 3: Prepare the Crisp Topping

While the dough rises, preheat the oven to 350°F and line a sheet pan with parchment. Whisk together oats, flour, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Cut in cold chunks of butter until your mixture is crumbly, then spread evenly on your baking sheet. Bake 12-16 minutes, stirring halfway, to create delicious crunchy bits that will finish your rolls with a delightful texture contrast.

Step 4: Make the Apple Cider Caramel Sauce

Mix all the caramel sauce ingredients until thick and glossy. Spray a 9×13 ceramic or metal pan, then spread this mixture evenly across the bottom. Trust me, this sticky, cider-infused layer is where all the magic begins—your rolls will soak up these heavenly flavors as they bake!

Step 5: Mix the Cinnamon Filling

Whip together the filling ingredients until creamy and smooth. You can even use the same bowl from the caramel sauce step to save dishes. This rich cinnamon spread is what makes every bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

Step 6: Roll and Assemble the Cinnamon Rolls

Flour your counter generously once the dough has risen. Roll the dough out to about 14×22 inches (or up to 15×24)—it should be a thin, even rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly with an offset spatula, then dot 1½ cups of the apple filling over it. Instead of rolling into one big log, slice strips about 1¾ inches wide from the long side. Roll each strip into a cinnamon roll, placing them snugly over your pre-spread apple cider caramel sauce in the pan. For any smaller strips at the edges, roll two together into one, placing those in the center for even baking. Cover loosely and let rise 30-40 minutes until puffy and passing the indentation test.

Step 7: Bake the Rolls

Before baking, pour room-temperature heavy cream over and between the rolls—this trick adds moisture and tenderness while baking. Bake at 350°F for 40-46 minutes until golden brown and an instant-read thermometer shows 205-210°F in the center. If your rolls still feel doughy, give them a few extra minutes—they’ll thank you for it.

Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting and Finish

Beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, a pinch of salt, and milk or cream until smooth and creamy. Don’t overbeat if you want a thicker frosting. Slather the warm rolls with it right out of the oven, then spoon the remaining apple filling on top and sprinkle generously with crisp crumble. The first time I did this, my family went crazy for the balance of tangy, sweet, and spicy—all wrapped up in those melt-in-your-mouth rolls.

How to Serve Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Cider Caramel Sauce and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

I like to finish these rolls with fresh apple slices or a tiny sprinkle of extra cinnamon on the frosting for a pretty, seasonal touch. Sometimes, a few toasted pecans or a pinch of flaky sea salt on the caramel sauce just before serving take them to the next level. Not necessary but highly recommended if you want to impress guests.

Side Dishes

For brunch, I often pair these with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the sweetness. A cup of hot cider or a robust coffee also complements the flavors beautifully. If you’re going all out, a creamy egg casserole or a spicy sausage dish rounds out the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a holiday gathering, I’ve baked these cinnamon rolls in muffin tins for individual servings. It’s super cute and helps with portion control. Another time, I arranged them in a wreath shape for a festive centerpiece that guests loved to break apart while chatting. The rustic crumble topping always steals the show, so don’t skip it!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After my first batch, I had leftovers (not many!) and stored them in an airtight container in the fridge. They stayed moist and delicious for 2-3 days. Just cover them loosely with foil or plastic wrap so they don’t dry out, and they’ll treat you well the next morning.

Freezing

I often freeze unbaked cinnamon rolls for convenience. After shaping and placing them in the pan, I cover tightly and freeze. When ready to bake, I thaw overnight in the fridge and then let them rise before baking. This method works like a charm and means you can enjoy fresh rolls anytime.

Reheating

For reheating, I use a low-temp oven (around 300°F) covered loosely with foil to warm the rolls gently without drying out the frosting or interior. A few minutes in the microwave works too, but I prefer the oven method for better texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Cider Caramel Sauce and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe turns out every single time. It’s become my go-to autumn indulgence and the centerpiece for holiday mornings. The combination of spiced apple filling, tender cinnamon rolls, gooey caramel, and rich cream cheese frosting is nothing short of magical. I’m pretty sure if you give these a try, you’ll find yourself making them again and again—trust me, your family and friends will thank you for it!

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