Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls with Browned Butter Icing Recipe

If you adore warm, comforting breakfasts that feel like a hug in pastry form, you’re going to fall head over heels for these Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls with Browned Butter Icing. This recipe takes the classic cinnamon roll to the next level by infusing each tender, fluffy swirl with sweet-tart apple cider and bits of tender apples, then crowns them with a luscious icing made from rich browned butter and cream cheese. The layers of flavor create an irresistible harmony that’s perfect for cozy mornings or special occasions when you want to impress with a homemade treat that tastes like it’s straight from a bakery.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these unforgettable rolls, you don’t need a pantry full of obscure items. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and that beautiful golden color you see in the final treat.

• ¼ cup warm water: Activates the yeast perfectly to give the dough its soft, airy texture.
• 2 ¼ tsp traditional dry yeast: The magic that makes your dough rise, light, and fluffy.
• ¾ cup warm apple cider (or juice): Adds natural sweetness and a subtle fruity tang to the dough.
• 6 tbsp melted butter: Enriches the dough for tenderness and helps create that golden crust.
• 2 beaten eggs: Provide structure and moisture to balance the dough.
• ⅓ cup sugar (plus a pinch): Sweetens the dough gently and feeds the yeast for better rise.
• 1 tsp cinnamon: Infuses that classic warm-spice flavor throughout the dough.
• ¾ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
• 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra): The base of your dough, giving structure and chew.
• 2 tbsp butter: For cooking the apple filling, adding richness and shine.
• 4 apples (peeled and finely diced): Provide juicy texture and fresh apple flavor inside each roll.
• 2 tbsp apple cider (or juice): Brightens the apple filling with more lovely fruity notes.
• 1 tsp lemon juice: Adds a touch of acidity to balance sweetness and preserve color.
• ⅓ cup packed brown sugar: Deepens the sweetness and creates a sticky, caramel-like filling.
• 1 tbsp cornstarch: Thickens the apple filling to prevent it from getting soggy.
• 1 tsp cinnamon: Gives the filling its signature warm, spicy kick.
• Pinch salt: Balances the sweetness in the filling.
• 8 tbsp (1 stick) softened butter: For the cinnamon filling, making it rich and spreadable.
• 1 cup packed brown sugar: Sweetens the cinnamon filling with molasses depth.
• 1 tbsp cinnamon: The star spice in the cinnamon filling.
• 6 tbsp butter: Used to make the browned butter for the icing, packed with nutty richness.
• 6 oz softened cream cheese: Gives the icing tanginess and creamy texture.
• 2 ½ cups icing sugar: Sweetens and thickens the icing to perfect spreadability.

How to Make Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls with Browned Butter Icing

Step 1: Activate the yeast and prepare the dough

Start by warming your water to about 105°F to 115°F—just warm enough to wake up your yeast without killing it. Mix in a pinch of sugar and yeast, then let it sit for around 5 minutes until foamy and alive. In your mixer bowl, combine the warm apple cider, melted butter, eggs, sugar, and that bubbly yeast mixture. Add in the flour, cinnamon, and salt, then mix using a dough hook on low speed. Keep an eye on the dough’s texture; it should come together into a soft, stretchy ball. If it feels sticky instead, sprinkle in a little flour at a time. Once mixed, knead gently on a floured surface until smooth, then pop it in a greased bowl to rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1 ½ hours until doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the apple filling

While your dough is rising, melt butter in a pan over medium heat and add the finely diced apples, apple cider, and lemon juice. Cook just until the apples start softening, about 3 to 4 minutes. Whisk together brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and salt in a small bowl, then stir this sugar mixture into the apples. Cook gently until the sauce thickens and coats the apples. Set aside to cool completely, so the filling doesn’t turn soggy when layered in your rolls.

Step 3: Prepare the cinnamon filling

In a bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until fully blended into a smooth, spreadable filling that will layer beautifully on your dough and meld with the apple chunks.

Step 4: Assemble the rolls

Once the dough has risen and doubled in size, give it a gentle punch down to release the air. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle about 18 by 10 inches. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, then spoon the apple filling atop it and distribute gently. Roll up the dough starting from the long side to create a tight log. Slice into 12 even pieces and place them in a greased 9×13-inch pan. Cover and let these rolls rise again for about 30 minutes until puffy and almost doubled.

Step 5: Prepare the browned butter icing

To elevate this dish even more, melt butter over medium heat in a small pan, swirling occasionally. Watch closely as it foams, turns clear, then the milk solids cast a golden brown—this nutty aroma is pure magic. Remove from heat as soon as it reaches a rich golden color and cool it to a softened butter consistency. Beat the browned butter together with softened cream cheese until creamy, then gradually add icing sugar, mixing until fluffy and spreadable.

Step 6: Bake and ice

Heat your oven to 350°F and bake the cinnamon rolls for about 25 to 35 minutes until they turn just lightly golden and feel springy to the touch. Let them rest a few minutes after baking, then drizzle or drop the decadent browned butter icing over the warm rolls. The icing will gently melt in, resulting in an irresistible sticky glaze that’s the perfect finishing touch for these Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls with Browned Butter Icing.

How to Serve Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls with Browned Butter Icing

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts over the icing adds a delightful crunch and nutty contrast. For an extra pop of color and zing, lightly dust with a pinch of extra cinnamon or finely grated lemon zest to brighten up the cozy flavors.

Side Dishes

Pair these rolls with a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee or chai tea to complement the warm spice notes beautifully. For a brunch spread, add fresh fruit like sliced pears or berries, and creamy yogurt to balance the indulgence with something light and refreshing.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these rolls right out of the pan for a rustic, comforting vibe or transfer them to a pretty platter with some of the icing drizzled artistically. For parties, arrange the rolls in individual cupcake liners to portion neatly and make grabbing them effortless. You can even sprinkle some edible gold dust on top for a festive touch!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls with Browned Butter Icing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days without losing their soft texture. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration is better to prevent spoilage, though it may firm up the icing slightly.

Freezing

These rolls freeze beautifully either before baking or after they have cooled completely. Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze up to 3 months. To enjoy later, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently before icing or serving.

Reheating

Warm leftovers in a microwave for about 20 seconds or place in a preheated oven at 300°F for 10 minutes to bring that fresh-baked softness right back. If you like, add a little extra drizzle of browned butter icing after warming for a quick pick-me-up.

FAQs

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

Yes, you can substitute regular milk or even water, but the apple cider adds a subtle fruity sweetness that enhances the overall flavor, making it more special and unique.

Do I have to peel the apples for the filling?

Peeling the apples helps create a smoother filling and avoids any tough or chewy skin in your rolls, but if you prefer more texture and fiber, you can leave the skins on after washing them well.

Why is the browned butter icing better than regular icing?

Browned butter brings a nutty, caramel-like depth that regular butter alone doesn’t have. Combined with cream cheese, it makes the icing richer and more flavorful, perfectly complementing the sweet and spiced rolls.

Can I make these cinnamon rolls dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use dairy-free butter substitutes and a vegan cream cheese to make the dough and icing dairy-free without sacrificing the rich taste and texture.

How long does it take for the dough to rise?

Typically, the dough takes about 1 to 1 ½ hours to double in size at room temperature. If your kitchen is cooler, it might take a bit longer, so be patient for the best airy texture.

Final Thoughts

When you bite into these Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls with Browned Butter Icing, you’re not just tasting a recipe—you’re experiencing layers of love, warmth, and autumnal joy all rolled into one. Whether it’s a chilly weekend morning or a festive brunch with friends, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites to bake and share. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll find yourself dreaming about the next batch. So go ahead, treat yourself and those you love to this unforgettable, buttery, spiced delight.

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