Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups Granny Smith apples, peeled and finely diced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (for spreading)
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the warm milk and one tablespoon of the granulated sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This ensures your yeast is alive and ready to make the dough rise. - Step 2: Mix the Dough
Add the remaining granulated sugar, melted butter, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, using a dough hook or a sturdy spoon. Mix until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add an extra tablespoon of flour at a time until it pulls away from the sides of the bowl. - Step 3: Knead and First Rise
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. - Step 4: Prepare the Apple Filling
While the dough rises, place the diced apples in a small saucepan with a tablespoon of butter and a tablespoon of brown sugar. Sauté over medium heat for about 5 minutes until the apples are slightly softened but still hold their shape. Remove from heat and let them cool completely. - Step 5: Roll and Fill the Dough
Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle (about 12×18 inches). Spread the 4 tablespoons of softened butter evenly over the dough. In a small bowl, mix the remaining brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Sprinkle this mixture over the butter, then top with the cooled sautéed apples. - Step 6: Shape the Rolls
Starting from the long edge, roll the dough up tightly into a log. Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to cut the log into 12 even rolls. Place the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Cover and let them rise for another 30 to 45 minutes until they look puffy. - Step 7: Bake the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are a beautiful golden brown on top. Avoid overbaking so they stay soft and tender. - Step 8: Glaze and Serve
While the rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth. Once the rolls come out of the oven, let them cool for about 5 to 10 minutes, then drizzle the glaze generously over the warm rolls. Serve immediately while warm.
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (plus rising time)
- Diet: Vegetarian