introduction
These apple cinnamon rolls are warm, soft, and easy to make. You use a can of refrigerated cinnamon roll dough and add a simple apple filling. They bake fast and taste like home.
why make this recipe
This recipe is quick and needs few ingredients. It turns store-bought dough into a fresh apple pastry. You get a cozy apple-cinnamon taste with less work than making dough from scratch. It is great for a quick breakfast or a simple dessert.
how to make Apple Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients :
1 can refrigerated cinnamon rolls, 1 cup diced apples, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg, 1 tablespoon flour (optional for thickening), Icing (from the cinnamon roll package or homemade)
Directions :
- Preheat the oven according to the cinnamon roll package instructions.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the diced apples, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour.
- Roll out the refrigerated cinnamon roll dough on a flat surface.
- Spread the apple mixture evenly over the dough.
- Roll the dough back up and cut it into individual rolls.
- Place the rolls into a greased baking dish.
- Bake according to package instructions until golden brown.
- Drizzle icing over warm rolls before serving.
how to serve Apple Cinnamon Rolls
Serve the rolls warm. Put extra icing on top if you like them sweeter. They go well with coffee, tea, or milk. You can also add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert.
how to store Apple Cinnamon Rolls
Let the rolls cool to room temperature. Store them in an airtight container. Keep at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the cooled rolls in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm in the oven or microwave until hot.
tips to make Apple Cinnamon Rolls
- Use small, firm apples so the filling keeps shape.
- Dice apples small so they spread easily.
- If mixture is watery, add the optional tablespoon of flour to thicken.
- Press the apple filling gently into the dough so rolls hold together.
- Bake until edges turn light brown for best texture.
- Warm the icing slightly before drizzling for a smooth finish.
variation (if any)
- Add chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans) to the filling for crunch.
- Mix in a tablespoon of brown sugar for deeper flavor.
- Use pre-cooked apples for a softer filling.
- Swap nutmeg for a pinch of cardamom for a different spice note.
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh homemade dough instead of refrigerated rolls?
A: Yes. Roll out your dough the same way and follow the same steps.
Q: What type of apple is best?
A: Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work well. They hold shape and give a nice texture.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes. Assemble the rolls, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Or freeze the unbaked rolls and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
Q: Do I need to peel the apples?
A: You can leave the peel on for more texture and nutrients, but peeling gives a softer filling.
Q: How do I prevent soggy rolls?
A: Dice apples small, use the flour to thicken if needed, and avoid overfilling the dough.
Conclusion
For more ideas and different icing options, see Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Butter Maple Icing. For another simple approach and tips, check Apple Cinnamon Rolls – Sally’s Baking.

Apple Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven according to the cinnamon roll package instructions.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the diced apples, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and optional flour.
- Roll out the refrigerated cinnamon roll dough on a flat surface.
- Spread the apple mixture evenly over the dough.
- Roll the dough back up and cut it into individual rolls.
- Place the rolls into a greased baking dish.
- Bake according to package instructions until golden brown.
- Drizzle icing over warm rolls before serving.
