Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Butter Maple Icing Recipe

If you’re anything like me and adore the cozy charm of fall flavors rolled into tender, fluffy pastry, then you’re going to fall head over heels for this Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Butter Maple Icing Recipe. Seriously, these rolls bring together sweet, spiced apples folded into soft dough, all drenched in a luscious brown butter maple icing that’s just *chef’s kiss* magical. Stick with me as I share all the details, tips, and tricks to nail this recipe every single time—it’s my family’s ultimate weekend treat, and I promise you’ll love it just as much.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key here. I’ve found the combination of rich butter, fresh apples, and just the right dash of cinnamon really makes the filling pop. Plus, using real maple syrup in the icing gives it that natural sweetness and depth you can’t beat.

• Warm Milk: Helps activate the yeast – make sure it’s warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
• Active Dry Yeast: This brings the dough to life so your rolls rise beautifully.
• Brown Sugar: Adds that subtle molasses flavor, both in the dough and apple filling.
• Salted Butter: I always use salted butter here to balance sweetness and enrich the dough and filling.
• Eggs: They provide structure and help achieve a tender crumb.
• All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of your dough—soft yet structured enough to hold the filling.
• Kosher Salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the sweetness.
• Granulated Sugar: For sweetening the apple cinnamon filling without clumping.
• Cinnamon: The star spice that pairs impeccably with apples.
• Honeycrisp Apples: Crisp and tart, these apples hold their shape well inside the rolls.
• Cream Cheese: Adds creaminess and tang to the decadent icing.
• Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup for that rich, flavorful sweetness.
• Powdered Sugar: For smooth, sweet icing consistency.
• Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla brightens the brown butter maple icing.

Variations

I absolutely love giving this recipe little twists depending on the season or what I have on hand. Feel free to make it your own; the structure is super forgiving, and swapping in fun add-ins makes it exciting every time I bake it.

• Nutty Upgrade: I sometimes sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the apple filling before rolling—it adds a wonderful crunch.
• Spice It Up: Adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom alongside the cinnamon gives the apples a warm complexity that’s unforgettable.
• Dairy-Free Version: Swap butter for coconut oil and cream cheese for a dairy-free spread to suit dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
• Fruit Swap: Pears or peaches can be substituted for apples when they’re in season—and I’ve also tossed in dried cranberries for a tart surprise.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Butter Maple Icing Recipe

Step 1: Activating the Yeast and Preparing Your Dough

Start by mixing warm milk, yeast, and brown sugar in your stand mixer bowl. This little waiting game of 5 to 10 minutes until it bubbles? That’s your yeast waking up, and it’s a sure sign your rolls will rise beautifully. Then, add in the butter, eggs, flour, and salt. I use the dough hook attachment and let it knead for about 4 to 5 minutes until the dough feels smooth and just slightly tacky to touch. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle in a bit more flour a tablespoon at a time.

Step 2: First Rise—Patience Pays Off

Cover the dough bowl tightly with plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for about an hour. This is when the magic happens—the dough should double in size. I usually find a warm spot near my oven or a sunny window helps it rise faster. Don’t rush this step; it really helps with that soft, fluffy texture you’re aiming for.

Step 3: Preparing the Apple Cinnamon Filling and Rolling Out

While the dough’s rising, combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl—that’s going to be your sweet, spiced filling. Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish so your rolls don’t stick. Once your dough has doubled, punch it down gently to deflate and roll it out on a lightly floured surface. You want a nice rectangle roughly 12 by 18 inches.

Spread softened butter evenly over your dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture, and finally, spread the chopped apples evenly on top. I love using Honeycrisp apples here because they’re crisp and hold up well during baking without turning to mush.

Step 4: Rolling, Cutting & Second Rise

Carefully roll the dough tightly into a log starting from the long edge closest to you. Pinch the edges to seal so the filling doesn’t leak. Using a sharp knife, cut your log into 12 to 15 equal rolls and place them cut-side up in your buttered dish. Cover again with plastic wrap and let them rise another 20 to 30 minutes—you’ll notice the rolls puff up and get that irresistible pillowy look.

Step 5: Bake ‘Em Until Golden Brown

Set your oven to 350°F and bake the rolls for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll want to watch for that beautiful golden brown top. The smell at this point is just intoxicating—I usually have to remind myself to wait until they cool slightly before icing!

Step 6: Making the Brown Butter Maple Icing

Here’s where these rolls really become extraordinary. Melt your butter in a small pot over medium heat, stirring often. Keep a close eye—after 2 to 3 minutes, the butter will turn a gorgeous golden color and smell toasty. That’s your brown butter. Immediately remove from heat so it doesn’t burn. Then, whisk the brown butter with cream cheese, maple syrup, powdered sugar (start with 2 cups—add more if you want it thicker), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth and glossy. Spread this divine icing over the warm rolls while they’re still cozy from the oven.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Butter Maple Icing Recipe

Garnishes

When I’m serving these rolls, I like to add a sprinkle of toasted chopped pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon on top of the icing just before serving. It adds a bit of extra texture and eye appeal—and my family always asks for seconds when I garnish them this way.

Side Dishes

These rolls are the star on their own, but sometimes I pair them with a hot cup of chai tea or fresh-brewed coffee to complement those warming spices. For a brunch spread, serving alongside scrambled eggs and crispy bacon balances the sweetness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to bake the rolls in pretty ceramic or cast-iron pans, and serve them right in the dish—straight from the oven to the table, where everyone can pull rolls apart. If you’re hosting a holiday breakfast, try topping with a drizzle of extra maple syrup and a few fresh apple slices for a festive touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Since these rolls are best enjoyed fresh, I store leftovers covered tightly at room temperature for up to two days. In my experience, they stay soft and moist if you cover them well with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container.

Freezing

I’ve had great luck freezing *unbaked* rolls after assembling but before the second rise. I just wrap the pan tightly with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 3 months. When I’m ready to bake, I thaw them overnight in the fridge and allow the second rise at room temperature before popping them in the oven.

Reheating

For leftover baked rolls, I reheat gently in a 300°F oven wrapped in foil for about 10 minutes to warm them through without drying out. If you’re in a rush, a quick zap in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel does the trick, though texture won’t be quite as tender.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Butter Maple Icing Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it feels like a warm hug in food form. When I first made these, I was amazed at how the brown butter maple icing elevated the whole experience—adding that cozy, caramelized depth that you just can’t get from traditional frostings. If you try one thing from my kitchen to yours, make it these rolls. I promise they’ll make your mornings sweeter, your coffee breaks happier, and your loved ones utterly delighted. Enjoy every gooey, fragrant bite!

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