Spiced Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls

Name: Spiced Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls: A Must-Try Delight!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup spiced apple butter; 1 egg; 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for icing); 1-2 tbsp milk (for icing)

Posted on September 10, 2025

Breakfast

Introduction to Spiced Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls

There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through the house, isn’t there? These Spiced Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls are not just a treat; they’re a warm hug on a plate. Perfect for busy mornings or a cozy weekend brunch, they bring a delightful twist to the classic cinnamon roll. Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy roll filled with the rich flavors of spiced apple butter. It’s a quick solution for a hectic day or a sweet way to impress your loved ones. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Spiced Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls

These Spiced Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls are a game-changer for any busy mom or professional. They’re incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients. Plus, they bake up quickly, filling your home with a warm, inviting scent. The combination of soft dough and spiced apple butter creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Whether for breakfast or dessert, these rolls are sure to bring smiles to your table!

Ingredients for Spiced Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Spiced Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of your rolls, giving them that soft, fluffy texture.
Sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the flavors. You can use white sugar or brown sugar for a richer taste.
Active dry yeast: This little powerhouse helps your dough rise, making it light and airy.

Milk: Warm milk adds moisture and richness to the dough. It’s best to use whole milk for creaminess.
Unsalted butter: Melted butter adds flavor and tenderness. Using unsalted allows you to control the saltiness.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.

Ground cinnamon: This spice is the star of the show, adding warmth and a cozy aroma.
Spiced apple butter: The secret ingredient! It brings a sweet, spiced flavor that pairs perfectly with cinnamon.
Egg: An egg enriches the dough, giving it a lovely texture and helping it rise.

Powdered sugar: For the icing, this sugar dissolves easily, creating a smooth finish.
Milk (for icing): A splash of milk helps achieve the perfect consistency for drizzling over your rolls.

Feel free to get creative! You can add chopped nuts or raisins for extra texture. If you’re looking for a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat flour or a sugar substitute. For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.

How to Make Spiced Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the delightful process of making these Spiced Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of warm, fluffy rolls in no time!

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

Start by combining warm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast in a bowl. The milk should be warm, not hot—think of a cozy bath for the yeast. Let this mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial; it activates the yeast, ensuring your rolls rise beautifully.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

Once your yeast mixture is frothy, it’s time to add the melted butter, egg, salt, and ground cinnamon. Stir everything together until well combined. The melted butter adds richness, while the egg helps bind the ingredients. The cinnamon? Well, that’s the magic that makes these rolls irresistible!

Step 3: Form the Dough

Gradually add the all-purpose flour to your wet mixture. I like to do this in batches, mixing until a dough forms. Once it starts to come together, it’s time to knead! Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This is a great way to relieve stress, too!

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Place your kneaded dough in a greased bowl, turning it to coat all sides. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. This is the perfect time to sip on a cup of coffee and daydream about how delicious your rolls will be!

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread the spiced apple butter evenly over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges. The apple butter is the star here, so don’t be shy—spread it generously!

Step 6: Shape the Rolls

Now, it’s time to roll! Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Once rolled, cut it into 12 equal pieces. I like to use a sharp knife or dental floss for a clean cut. Each piece should be a little treasure filled with that spiced apple goodness!

Step 7: Second Rise

Place the cut rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each one. Cover them again with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes. This second rise is essential for achieving that fluffy texture we all love.

Step 8: Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have risen, pop them in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown. The smell will be heavenly, and you might find it hard to wait for them to cool!

Step 9: Prepare the Icing

While the rolls are baking, mix the powdered sugar with a splash of milk in a small bowl. Adjust the milk until you reach your desired icing consistency. Once the rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle the icing over the top. This final touch makes them even more irresistible!

Tips for Success

Make sure your milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.

Don’t skip the second rise; it’s key for fluffy rolls.
Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the rolls for clean edges.
Experiment with different spices like nutmeg for added flavor.

Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients. A sturdy pot works too!

Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out the dough. A wine bottle can be a fun substitute!
Baking dish: A 9×13 inch dish is perfect. Any oven-safe dish will do.
Sharp knife or dental floss: For cutting the rolls. A pizza cutter can also work wonders!

Variations of Spiced Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls

Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for a delightful crunch.
Raisin Surprise: Toss in some raisins or dried cranberries for a sweet, chewy texture.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative.

Vegan Twist: Use plant-based milk, coconut oil, and a flax egg instead of dairy and eggs.
Spiced Pumpkin Butter: Swap the apple butter for spiced pumpkin butter for a seasonal twist.

Serving Suggestions for Spiced Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls

Pair with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai for a cozy breakfast experience.

Serve alongside fresh fruit, like sliced apples or berries, for a refreshing contrast.
For a special touch, dust with extra powdered sugar before serving.
Consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.

FAQs about Spiced Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then cover it and refrigerate overnight. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.

What can I use instead of spiced apple butter?

If you don’t have spiced apple butter, you can use regular apple butter and add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg for that warm flavor. Alternatively, pumpkin butter works beautifully too!

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also freeze them for up to a month. Just reheat in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!

Can I make these rolls gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it’s a blend that includes xanthan gum for the best texture.

What’s the best way to reheat the rolls?

The best way to reheat these Spiced Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls is in the oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm them for about 10 minutes. This keeps them soft and fluffy!

Final Thoughts

Making these Spiced Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories. The joy of pulling a warm, fluffy roll from the oven, drizzled with sweet icing, is a moment worth savoring. Whether you’re sharing them with family at breakfast or enjoying a quiet afternoon treat, these rolls bring comfort and happiness. They’re a reminder that even on the busiest days, a little sweetness can brighten your world. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and let the delightful aroma fill your home. You won’t regret it!