Divine Apple Cinnamon Rolls Brown 2 Ways

Name: Divine Apple Cinnamon Rolls Brown 2 Ways
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup warm milk; 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 4 tablespoons salted butter, at room temperature; 3 large eggs; 3 1/2 – 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon cinnamon; 6 tablespoons salted butter, at room temperature; 2 Honeycrisp apples, chopped; 4 tablespoons salted butter, at room temperature; 6 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature; 1/4 cup maple syrup; 2 – 3 cups powdered sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

by Jannet Lisa

4 de September de 2025

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Apple cinnamon rolls brown butter have become my absolute favorite fall baking project, and I’m so excited to share this brown butter apple cinnamon rolls recipe with you! I remember the first time I tried them; the aroma of cinnamon, apples, and that nutty, caramelized brown butter filled my kitchen, creating an irresistible pull that drew everyone in. These aren’t just any cinnamon rolls; they’re a hug in pastry form. You’ll find these easy apple cinnamon rolls brown butter are surprisingly simple to whip up, even for a weeknight treat. Get ready for a taste of pure autumn bliss. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Brown Butter Apple Cinnamon Rolls

The rich, nutty flavor of brown butter elevates the classic cinnamon roll to pure decadence.
You’ll get that perfect balance of sweet apples and warm cinnamon spice in every bite.
These are surprisingly quick to make, perfect for a weekend brunch or a special dessert.
The aroma alone is worth it – a comforting scent that fills your home with warmth.
They are a fantastic way to use up seasonal apples, making them a budget-friendly treat.
These are incredibly family-friendly; kids and adults alike will adore these sweet swirls.
The optional apple cinnamon rolls with brown sugar frosting adds an extra layer of gooey sweetness that’s simply irresistible.
You can easily adapt the frosting to include an apple cinnamon rolls with brown sugar frosting for a double dose of brown sugar goodness.

Ingredients for Brown Butter Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Gather these goodies for the most delicious homemade rolls:

1 cup warm milk – essential for activating the yeast
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast – make sure it’s fresh for a good rise
1 tablespoon brown sugar – a little sweetener for the yeast mixture
4 tablespoons salted butter, at room temperature – for the dough, softened butter is key
3 large eggs – helps bind the dough and adds richness
3 1/2 – 4 cups all-purpose flour – start with 3 1/2 and add more if needed for a soft dough
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt – balances the sweetness
1/2 cup brown sugar – for the luscious filling
1/4 cup granulated sugar – complements the brown sugar in the filling
1 tablespoon cinnamon – the heart of that classic apple cinnamon swirl
6 tablespoons salted butter, at room temperature – for spreading on the dough before adding the filling
2 Honeycrisp apples, chopped – Honeycrisp offers a lovely crisp texture and sweet-tart flavor
4 tablespoons salted butter, at room temperature – for the brown butter frosting
6 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature – creates a creamy, tangy frosting base
1/4 cup maple syrup – adds a hint of maple goodness to the frosting
2 – 3 cups powdered sugar – for that perfect sweet, thick glaze
2 teaspoons vanilla extract – enhances all the flavors

How to Make Brown Butter Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Ready to create these beauties? It’s easier than you think, and the results are so worth it. Let’s get started on how to make brown butter apple cinnamon rolls!

Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. In the bowl of your stand mixer, combine the 1 cup warm milk, 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast, and 1 tablespoon brown sugar. Let this mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it gets nice and bubbly – that’s how you know your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic!
Step 2: Add the 4 tablespoons softened salted butter, 3 large eggs, 3 1/2 cups of the all-purpose flour, and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt to the yeast mixture. Mix everything together with the dough hook attachment until it forms a smooth, slightly sticky dough. If it’s too sticky, gradually add the remaining 1/2 cup of flour.
Step 3: Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size. This is where the dough gets its lovely, fluffy texture.
Step 4: While the dough is rising, prepare your filling. In a small bowl, mix together the 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1 tablespoon cinnamon. This aromatic blend is what gives our rolls that classic flavor.
Step 5: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches. Spread the 6 tablespoons softened salted butter evenly over the dough, leaving a small border. Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture over the butter, then scatter the 2 chopped Honeycrisp apples on top. Roll the dough up tightly, starting from one of the long sides.
Step 6: Slice the log into 12 equal rolls. I like to use a serrated knife for a clean cut. Place the rolls cut-side up in your prepared baking dish. Cover them again and let them rise for another 20-30 minutes while the oven finishes preheating. This second rise makes them extra soft.

Step 7: Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown and cooked through. The smell filling your kitchen at this point is incredible!
Step 8: While the rolls are baking, whip up the frosting. Melt the 4 tablespoons salted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Watch it carefully and swirl the pan occasionally until the butter turns a light golden brown and smells nutty – this is your brown butter! Remove from heat and whisk in the 6 ounces cream cheese, 1/4 cup maple syrup, 2-3 cups of powdered sugar, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This is a key step in how to make brown butter apple cinnamon rolls truly special.
Step 9: Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for just a few minutes before generously spreading the warm brown butter frosting over the top. The warmth of the rolls will help the frosting melt slightly, creating a wonderfully gooey topping. Enjoying these brown butter apple cinnamon rolls fresh from the oven is pure bliss!

Pro Tips for the Best Brown Butter Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Want to elevate your baking game? These tips will ensure your brown butter apple cinnamon rolls are absolutely perfect every time.

Don’t skip the second rise! Letting the cut rolls rest makes them wonderfully airy and soft.
When making the brown butter, keep a close eye on it. It can go from perfectly nutty to burnt very quickly. For more on the science of browning butter, check out this guide to browning butter.
Chopping your apples finely ensures they distribute evenly throughout the rolls, giving you that delicious apple flavor in every bite.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the apple filling.

What’s the secret to perfect brown butter apple cinnamon rolls?

The key is the brown butter, of course! Learning why use brown butter in cinnamon rolls is crucial – it adds a deep, nutty, caramelized flavor that plain butter just can’t match. Plus, don’t overmix the dough; a gentle hand creates a tender crumb. If you’re looking for other baking secrets, you might find our focaccia bread secrets helpful.

Can I make brown butter apple cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it do its first rise overnight in the refrigerator. Then, roll, fill, slice, and place in the baking dish. Cover and refrigerate for the second rise for up to 12 hours before baking as directed. This is a great way to save time, similar to how you might prepare churro saltine toffee ahead of a party.

How do I avoid common mistakes with brown butter apple cinnamon rolls?

Avoid the temptation to add too much flour when rolling; a slightly sticky dough yields softer rolls. Also, be patient with the rising stages – proper proofing is essential for texture. Lastly, watch your brown butter closely to prevent burning! For more baking tips, consider our guide on classic vanilla ice cream.

Best Ways to Serve Brown Butter Apple Cinnamon Rolls

These warm, gooey rolls are a treat on their own, but serving them with a few complementary items can make them even more special. For a truly decadent experience, drizzle them with an apple cinnamon rolls with caramel glaze. The sweet, sticky caramel pairs beautifully with the spiced apples and nutty brown butter. You could also serve them alongside a simple cup of coffee or a warm mug of apple cider. For a more substantial brunch, they make a fantastic sweet counterpoint to savory dishes like scrambled eggs or crispy bacon. If you enjoy apple flavors, you might also like these apple cider donut cake.

Nutrition Facts for Brown Butter Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect in each delicious serving of these brown butter apple cinnamon rolls:

Calories: 350
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 16g
Sodium: 220mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your brown sugar apple cinnamon roll recipe.

How to Store and Reheat Brown Butter Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Once your delicious brown butter apple cinnamon rolls have cooled slightly, you’ll want to store them properly to keep them fresh. If you plan to enjoy them within 3-4 days, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, and to preserve the moistness of this brown sugar apple cinnamon roll recipe, the freezer is your best friend. Wrap each cooled roll tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

To reheat, you have a few great options. For a quick warm-up, microwave a single roll for 15-20 seconds until heated through. If you want that freshly baked texture, wrap the frozen rolls in foil and bake in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This method really helps revive the soft dough and the gooey frosting. For more make-ahead ideas, check out these nutter butter bars.

Frequently Asked Questions About Brown Butter Apple Cinnamon Rolls

What are brown butter apple cinnamon rolls?

These are a decadent twist on classic cinnamon rolls, featuring a rich brown butter flavor infused into both the dough and the frosting. They’re loaded with sweet chopped apples and warm cinnamon, offering a comforting, nutty, and spiced treat that’s perfect for autumn or any time you crave something special.

Can I use other types of apples?

Absolutely! While Honeycrisp apples are fantastic for their crisp texture and sweet-tart flavor, you can use other firm baking apples like Fuji, Gala, or Braeburn. Just ensure they are chopped into small, uniform pieces so they bake evenly within the rolls.

How do I get the perfect brown butter flavor?

The key to perfect brown butter is to melt the butter in a light-colored saucepan over medium heat, swirling it occasionally. Watch as the milk solids toast and turn a nutty brown. Once it smells fragrant and has a golden-brown hue, remove it from the heat immediately to prevent burning. This nutty depth is what makes these brown butter apple cinnamon rolls so unique.

Can I make these vegan or gluten-free?

Adapting these brown butter apple cinnamon rolls for vegan or gluten-free diets is possible, but will require substitutions. For vegan, you’d swap dairy butter for plant-based butter, milk for almond or oat milk, and eggs for a flax egg or commercial egg replacer. For gluten-free, use a quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum. You might also be interested in our apple zucchini bread recipe for a different kind of baked good.

Variations of Brown Butter Apple Cinnamon Rolls You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic brown butter apple cinnamon rolls, why not experiment with some delightful variations? These twists can cater to different tastes and dietary needs, ensuring there’s a perfect version for everyone.

Apple Pecan Cinnamon Rolls: For an added crunch and nutty depth, incorporate chopped pecans into your apple filling. The combination of sweet apples, warm cinnamon, and toasted pecans with that signature brown butter is simply divine.
Salted Caramel Swirl: Drizzle a homemade or store-bought salted caramel sauce over the rolls before baking, or swirl it into the brown butter frosting. This adds a salty-sweet dimension that complements the apples beautifully.
Gluten-Free Version: Easily adapt these rolls by using a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum. You might need to adjust the liquid slightly, so aim for a soft, slightly sticky dough.
No-Bake Option: While baking yields the best texture, you could potentially create a “crumble bar” version by sautéing the apples with cinnamon and brown sugar, then layering them with a brown butter crumble topping and baking until golden.

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