These easy apple cinnamon rolls are a perfect breakfast or brunch to feed a crowd. Even though they are made from scratch, they are simple to make and perfectly light and fluffy.
In a saucepan over medium heat, add milk and butter. Stir until melted and remove from heat.
In a mixing bowl, combine 2 ¼ c flour, sugar, salt. Add lukewarm milk mixture and egg. Sprinkle yeast over the top and combine.
Using the dough hook attachment on your mixer, knead while gradually adding in 1 cup flour until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the edges of the bowl. You can also knead by hand.
Let dough rest for 10 minutes. Preheat oven to 350℉.
Make Filling and Create Rolls
On a floured surface, roll out dough into a rectangle. Spread melted butter on top and then add diced apples. Combine cinnamon, apple pie spice and brown sugar and sprinkle on top.
Using a knife or pizza cutter, cut 10 strips. Roll and place in a baking dish or cast iron skillet.
Let Rise Again
Turn oven off. Cover rolls with a damp towel and allow to rise 25 minutes. Remove from oven, preheat again to 350℉.
Just Before Baking
Cover rolls in ¼ cup heavy cream. Bake 15-20 minutes, or until slightly golden.
For Icing
Mix icing ingredients until smooth and drizzle over rolls.
Notes
You can knead the dough by hand or in a stand mixer. Kneading by hand will take about 10 to 12 minutes and in a mixer it will take around 8 to 10 minutes.
If you prefer to make your glaze thinner, just add a little more cream.
If you are making larger rolls (as pictured here), allow the extra 25 minutes for the dough to rise in the warm oven.
Take a little seasoning shortcut and make my apple pie spice ahead of time to store in your pantry!