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When it comes to comforting desserts or breakfast treats, few things can compete with the warmth and delight of caramel apple cinnamon rolls. This indulgent recipe combines the rich sweetness of caramel, the warm spice of cinnamon, and the tart crunch of apples, all nestled within soft, fluffy rolls. It's a dish that embodies the essence of fall while being a delightful option for any gathering, holiday celebration, or cozy weekend brunch.

Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Dive into the delightful world of baking with this caramel apple cinnamon rolls recipe! Perfect for chilly fall mornings or any gathering, these soft, fluffy rolls are filled with tart apples, warm cinnamon, and drizzled with homemade caramel sauce. Learn step-by-step how to make the dough, choose the best apples, and create a luscious caramel that enhances the flavors of this indulgent treat. Celebrate the essence of comfort food and treat your loved ones to a special dessert that will warm their hearts and entice their taste buds!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup warm milk (110°F)

2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 tsp salt

2 large eggs

3 to 4 cups all-purpose flour

For the Filling:

1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

2 tsp ground cinnamon

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

2 cups apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work great)

1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For the Caramel Sauce:

1/2 cup granulated sugar

2 tbsp unsalted butter

1/4 cup heavy cream

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

Instructions
 

Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

    Mix Wet Ingredients: In the same bowl, whisk in granulated sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, salt, and eggs until well combined.

      Add Flour: Gradually add 3 cups of flour to the mixture, stirring until a dough begins to form. If the dough is too sticky, add additional flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it pulls away from the sides of the bowl.

        Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

          First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

            Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon for the filling. Set aside.

              Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle, about 16x12 inches. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture, followed by the diced apples and chopped nuts.

                Form the Rolls: Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.

                  Second Rise: Cover the rolls again and let them rise for another 30-40 minutes until puffy.

                    Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

                      Bake: Bake the cinnamon rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

                        Make the Caramel Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the sugar over medium heat until it becomes a light amber color. Add butter and stir until melted and combined. Carefully add the cream, stirring continuously until smooth. Remove from heat, add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.

                          Glaze the Rolls: Drizzle the warm caramel sauce over the hot cinnamon rolls while they're still in the baking dish.

                            Serve: Let the rolls cool for a few minutes, then enjoy warm with extra caramel sauce on the side!

                              Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours | Servings: 12