Go Back

The BEST Homemade Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls (Step-by-Step)

These Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls combine the cozy warmth of cinnamon with the sweet-tart perfection of caramel apples for the ultimate fall comfort food. Featuring soft, pillowy dough, spiced apple filling, and a rich caramel glaze, this bakery-quality recipe brings the flavor and aroma of autumn right to your kitchen.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12 rolls
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 385
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dough:
  • 1 cup warm milk 110°F/43°C
  • 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter melted
  • 2 large eggs
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
For the Apple Cinnamon Filling:
  • ¾ cup unsalted butter softened
  • ¾ cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 2 large Granny Smith apples peeled and finely chopped
For the Caramel Glaze:
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method
 

  1. Activate Yeast: Combine warm milk and yeast in a bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Make Dough: Add sugar, melted butter, and eggs to yeast mixture. Gradually mix in flour and salt until a soft dough forms.
  3. Knead: Knead on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Let rise for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
  4. Prepare Filling: Mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir in chopped apples.
  5. Roll & Fill: Roll dough into an 18x12-inch rectangle. Spread filling evenly over dough.
  6. Shape Rolls: Roll tightly from the long side and cut into 12 equal rolls using a sharp knife or dental floss.
  7. Second Rise: Arrange rolls in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise 30 minutes.
  8. Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown.
  9. Make Caramel Glaze: In a saucepan, melt butter and brown sugar. Stir until smooth, then add heavy cream and vanilla. Pour over warm rolls.

Notes

Serve warm for the ultimate fall experience. These rolls can be prepped ahead and refrigerated overnight for easy morning baking. Try pairing with spiced chai or coffee for a cozy breakfast or dessert.