Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls with Browned Butter Icing Recipe

If you crave the perfect cozy treat that feels like autumn wrapped in dough, then these Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls with Browned Butter Icing are going to be your new obsession. Imagine soft, pillowy rolls infused with warm cinnamon and studded with tender apple bits simmered in apple cider, all crowned with a rich, nutty browned butter cream cheese icing. This recipe isn’t just cinnamon rolls; it’s an experience that fills your kitchen with the scent of fall and delivers bliss in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is a crucial first step and thankfully, this recipe keeps it delightfully simple. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to add depth and heartiness—from the warm apple cider that lends a subtle fruity sweetness to the browned butter that brings a toasty richness to the icing.

• Warm water (¼ cup): Activates the yeast perfectly ensuring a fluffy dough.
• Dry yeast (2 ¼ tsp): The magic behind soft, risen rolls.
• Warm apple cider (¾ cup): Adds sweet acidity and moistness to the dough.
• Melted butter (6 tbsp): Keeps the dough tender and flavorful.
• Beaten eggs (2): Enrich the dough for a soft and slightly dense texture.
• Sugar (⅓ cup plus a pinch): Sweetens the dough just right and helps activate yeast.
• Cinnamon (1 tsp): Warms the dough with that signature spicy note.
• Salt (¾ tsp): Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
• All-purpose flour (4 ½ cups plus extra): The base that gives structure to the dough.
• Butter (2 tbsp) for filling: Melts into the apples creating luscious pockets of flavor.
• Apples, peeled and finely diced (4): Bring juicy texture and sweet-tart bursts.
• Apple cider (2 tbsp) and lemon juice (1 tsp): Brighten the apple filling with fresh acidity.
• Brown sugar (⅓ cup packed): Sweetens the apple filling with molasses undertones.
• Cornstarch (1 tbsp): Thickens the apple filling to a perfect consistency.
• Cinnamon (1 tsp) and a pinch of salt: Season the apple filling with warmth and balance.
• Butter (8 tbsp softened) for icing: Forms the buttery base of the browned butter icing.
• Brown sugar (1 cup packed) and cinnamon (1 tbsp): Sweeten and spice the icing beautifully.
• Butter (6 tbsp) for icing: To be browned for a nutty, caramel flavor boost.
• Cream cheese (6 oz softened): Adds a creamy tang to the icing.
• Icing sugar (2 ½ cups): For a perfectly sweet, smooth finish on the icing.

How to Make Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls with Browned Butter Icing

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by warming water to between 105°F and 115°F, just right to wake the yeast without killing it. Add a pinch of sugar and stir in the yeast, then let it sit for 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s foamy—that frothy bloom is the promise of fluffy rolls!

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Combine the warm apple cider, melted butter, beaten eggs, sugar, and yeast mixture in your stand mixer bowl. Add in the flour, cinnamon, and salt, then mix with the dough hook until everything starts coming together. Be patient here; the dough will become soft and stretchy after about 5 minutes. If it’s too sticky, add flour one tablespoon at a time to reach the right consistency.

Step 3: First Rise

Lightly knead the dough on a floured surface to form a smooth ball, then place it in a greased bowl. Coat the top with a bit of oil, cover tightly, and set it in a warm spot to double in size, which usually takes about 1 to 1 ½ hours. This slow rise enhances flavor and develops that sought-after airy texture.

Step 4: Make the Apple Filling

While the dough rises, melt butter in a saucepan and add diced apples with apple cider and lemon juice. Cook just until the apples soften but remain slightly firm. Stir together brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and salt until smooth, then add this to the pan. Cook until thickened, then let the filling cool completely—this cool down prevents the dough from getting soggy later.

Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling

Mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until creamy and well blended. This luscious mixture brings that classic cinnamon roll flavor to every bite.

Step 6: Assemble the Rolls

After your dough has doubled, punch it down gently and roll it out on a floured surface into an 18” by 10” rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly, then gently dot and spread the apple filling over the top. Roll it tightly starting from the long edge, and slice into 12 even pieces. Place the rolls into a greased 9” by 13” pan, cover, and let rise again for about 30 minutes until they grow fluffy once more.

Step 7: Make the Browned Butter Icing

Melt butter over medium heat in a small saucepan and let it brown by gently simmering until it foams and the milk solids settle and turn golden brown, swirling the pan to encourage even browning. Remove from heat and cool until it reaches softened butter consistency. Beat the browned butter with cream cheese until creamy, then add in icing sugar and beat until smooth and luscious.

Step 8: Bake and Ice

Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the risen rolls for 25 to 35 minutes until they’re golden and cooked through. Let the pan cool for a few minutes, then lavish the rolls with your browned butter icing, letting it soften and spread deliciously over the warm rolls. Now you’re ready to indulge!

How to Serve Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls with Browned Butter Icing

Garnishes

To elevate your Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls with Browned Butter Icing, try sprinkling a few toasted pecans or walnuts over the top for added crunch. A light dusting of cinnamon sugar or a drizzle of pure maple syrup can bring a beautiful finish that adds an extra layer of sweetness and warmth.

Side Dishes

These rolls pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea to balance the sweetness. For a brunch spread, serve them alongside fresh fruit like orange slices or a tangy citrus salad to brighten the table and cleanse the palate between bites.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls with Browned Butter Icing stacked on a rustic wooden board for a cozy, farmhouse feel. Alternatively, present each roll in small ramekins, creating individual cozy portions that make sharing even more special. Wrapping a roll in parchment paper with a ribbon also makes for an adorable gift idea!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These cinnamon rolls keep beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, keeping them soft and moist. If you want to store them longer, refrigerate for up to 5 days but allow them to come to room temperature or warm slightly before serving.

Freezing

Freeze unbaked rolls after shaping by wrapping the whole pan tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight, let rise, then bake as usual. You can also freeze fully baked and iced rolls in an airtight container for up to a month—just thaw and warm before enjoying.

Reheating

Reheat leftover rolls in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or in a 300°F oven wrapped loosely in foil for 10 minutes. For the best texture, warm gently and add a fresh swipe of browned butter icing if desired.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of apple cider in the dough?

While regular milk will give you a tender dough, apple cider adds a unique sweetness and subtle tang that is signature to these rolls. If you want that authentic Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls with Browned Butter Icing flavor, try to use apple cider or apple juice.

What type of apples work best for the filling?

Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji are perfect because they soften without turning mushy, keeping a pleasant texture inside the rolls.

Why does the brown butter icing need to be softened before mixing?

Allowing the browned butter to cool to a softened butter consistency helps it blend smoothly with the cream cheese and icing sugar, creating a luscious, creamy texture instead of a greasy or curdled icing.

Can I make these cinnamon rolls vegan?

This recipe relies on butter, eggs, and cream cheese for flavor and texture. For a vegan version, you’d need to substitute these with plant-based alternatives and ensure the yeast proofing remains effective—though the flavor will differ from the traditional Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls with Browned Butter Icing.

How do you know when the rolls are baked perfectly?

The cinnamon rolls should be golden brown on top and cooked through in the middle. A gentle press with your finger will cause a slight spring back. Internal temperature should be around 190°F if you want to be precise.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to fill your home with comforting aromas and treat yourself to a moment of pure joy, these Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls with Browned Butter Icing are a must-try. With their tender dough, luscious apple filling, and unforgettable rich icing, they’re perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring on a cozy morning. Go ahead, make a batch—you deserve every warm, gooey bite.

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