Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls

In the realm of comfort food, few things evoke as much warmth and nostalgia as the scent of freshly baked goods wafting through the home. Baking at home not only fills your kitchen with delightful aromas but also creates an inviting atmosphere that brings people together. Among the myriad of baked treats, apple butter cinnamon rolls stand out as a scrumptious twist on the classic cinnamon roll, making them an ideal choice for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. These rolls combine the sweet and spicy notes of cinnamon with the rich, deep flavor of apple butter, creating a unique culinary experience that is sure to please both family and guests alike.

Transform your kitchen into a cozy haven with the irresistible aroma of homemade apple butter cinnamon rolls. These delightful treats offer a unique twist on the classic cinnamon roll, featuring a luscious filling made from apple butter that brings warmth and nostalgia. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, they are easy to make and adaptable for dietary needs. Indulge in their moist texture and rich flavors, and make them a new favorite for your family and friends. Happy baking!

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Ingredients

For the dough:

4 cups all-purpose flour

1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)

2 large eggs

For the filling:

1 cup apple butter (homemade or store-bought)

1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

For the glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar

2-3 tablespoons milk (adjust for desired consistency)

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

A pinch of salt

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Instructions

Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let the mixture rest for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.

Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and ground cinnamon until evenly mixed.

Combine everything: Add the melted butter and eggs to the activated yeast mixture. Gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, then cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm environment for 1-1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.

Prepare the filling: In a small bowl, mix together the packed brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Set aside for assembly.

Roll out the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air, then transfer it to a floured surface. Roll the dough into a rectangle approximately 1/4 inch thick.

Apply the apple butter and filling: Evenly spread the softened butter across the rolled-out dough. Follow by spreading the apple butter on top. Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly over the apple butter.

Roll up the dough: Starting from one of the long edges, roll the dough tightly into a log shape. Pinch the seam securely to seal it.

Slice the rolls: Cut the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss for a clean cut. Place the slices in a greased baking dish with the cut sides facing up.

Second rise: Cover the arranged rolls with a towel and allow them to rise again in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, until they puff up.

Preheat oven: While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Bake the rolls: Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown on top.

Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, 2-3 tablespoons of milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until you achieve a smooth glaze. Adjust the milk quantity for your preferred glaze consistency.

Glaze the rolls: Once the rolls are out of the oven, drizzle the prepared glaze generously over the warm rolls, allowing it to soak in slightly.

Serve & enjoy: Let the cinnamon rolls cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy these warm, delicious apple butter cinnamon rolls as a delightful treat!

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Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 3 hours | Servings: 12

- Presentation Tips: For an extra touch, serve the rolls on a decorative plate with a sprinkle of additional cinnamon and a few apple slices for garnish.