Growing up in Chicago, my kitchen was always filled with the comforting aroma of freshly baked goods, thanks to my grandmother Elizabeth. Her apple cake was legendary, and it was a staple at every family gathering. Those sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples nestled in a soft, buttery dough were pure magic. Inspired by her culinary legacy, I’ve put my own twist on her classic by creating these Brioche Cinnamon Rolls With Apples. It’s a delightful fusion of my Polish roots and American comfort food, perfect for cozy mornings with my husband and our two kids, Ella and Peter. Let’s dive into this delicious journey together!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Brioche Cinnamon Rolls With Apples are the epitome of comfort. Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy roll that’s bursting with the warm flavors of cinnamon and sweet apples. They’re perfect for a leisurely weekend breakfast or a special brunch. The brioche dough adds a rich, buttery texture that elevates the classic cinnamon roll to new heights. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make, even for novice bakers. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to start your day or a showstopper for your next family gathering, these cinnamon rolls have you covered.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large apples, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, eggs, and softened butter. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Meanwhile, prepare the apple filling. In a saucepan, combine diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the apples are tender and the mixture is thickened. Let it cool.
- Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the apple filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border.
- Sprinkle chopped walnuts over the filling if using. Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut into 12 equal pieces.
- Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!
What Makes This Recipe Special
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Packed with flavor and nutrition
- Perfect for any occasion
- Customizable to your taste preferences
- Budget-friendly ingredients
Expert Tips for Success
- Ensure your milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
- Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic; this develops the gluten for a perfect texture.
- Don’t rush the rising process; patience is key for fluffy rolls.
- For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk over the warm rolls.
Cooking Tools
When I make these Brioche Cinnamon Rolls With Apples, a few simple tools always make prep faster and cleaner. My go-to tool is the MOSFiATA 8″ Professional Chef’s Knife for chopping apples with precision. For mixing and kneading, I rely on the Silicone Utensils Set – 12 pcs, which are gentle on my bowls and easy to clean. These tools make the whole process a breeze!
Variations and Substitutions
- Swap the apples for pears or peaches for a seasonal twist.
- Use pecans or almonds instead of walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk and butter with plant-based alternatives.
- Add a handful of raisins or cranberries for extra sweetness and texture.
Serving Suggestions
These cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, with a steaming cup of coffee or tea. They also pair beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. For a complete brunch spread, serve them alongside scrambled eggs and crispy bacon.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator. In the morning, let it come to room temperature before proceeding with the recipe.
How do I store leftover cinnamon rolls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to a month and reheat in the oven before serving.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making these Brioche Cinnamon Rolls With Apples as much as I do. They’re a delightful way to bring a touch of warmth and sweetness to any morning. Share them with loved ones and savor the joy of baking from scratch. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little extra love in every roll!
Dynamic Related Recipe Section
I hope you loved making these Brioche Cinnamon Rolls With Apples—they’re like a warm hug on a chilly morning. If you’re in the mood for more cozy delights, check out these recipes: Blueberry Banana Overnight Oats, Classic Polish Pierogi, and Homemade Apple Pie. Join us on our Facebook Page and Facebook Group — and don’t forget to follow on Pinterest for daily inspiration!
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Ingredients
Directions
- In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, eggs, and softened butter. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Meanwhile, prepare the apple filling. In a saucepan, combine diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the apples are tender and the mixture is thickened. Let it cool.
- Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the apple filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border.
- Sprinkle chopped walnuts over the filling if using. Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut into 12 equal pieces.
- Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.