Description

Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Icing are a warm and cozy treat featuring tender, fluffy dough filled with fresh, sweet-tart apples and comforting cinnamon. Topped with a luscious maple icing made with plant-based butter and a natural gelling agent, these rolls deliver a perfect blend of gooey filling and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, they bring joy and a comforting aroma to any table.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup plant-based butter, softened
1 cup milk alternative, lukewarm (e.g., almond or oat milk, natural)
1/2 teaspoon salt

Filling Ingredients

3 medium fresh apples, peeled and finely chopped
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons plant-based butter, softened (for spreading)
Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Optional: 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg or cardamom
Optional: 1/4 cup dried cranberries
Optional: 1/2 cup smoked turkey slices, chopped

Maple Icing Ingredients

1/4 cup maple syrup (natural)
1/4 cup plant-based butter, softened
1 teaspoon natural gelling agent

Instructions

Prepare the Dough: Warm the milk alternative until lukewarm, then combine it with active dry yeast and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. In a large bowl, mix flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and plant-based butter. Knead the dough until soft and elastic, about 8-10 minutes. Cover and let it rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
Make the Filling: While the dough rises, peel and finely chop the apples. Toss them with cinnamon, sugar, and lemon juice to keep the apples fresh and flavorful. Add any optional ingredients such as nuts, spices, dried cranberries, or smoked turkey slices if desired.
Roll Out and Fill: After the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle approximately 16×12 inches. Spread softened plant-based butter evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the apple cinnamon filling evenly across the surface.
Form Rolls: Carefully roll the dough tightly from one long edge into a log. Slice into 12 equal rolls and place them in a greased baking pan, spaced slightly apart.
Second Rise and Bake: Cover the rolls with a clean towel and let them rise again for about 30 minutes until puffy. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Prepare the Maple Icing: While the rolls bake, whisk together maple syrup (natural), plant-based butter, and natural gelling agent until smooth and creamy.
Ice and Serve: Allow the rolls to cool slightly after baking. Drizzle the warm maple icing generously over each roll, allowing it to melt into crevices. Serve warm with optional garnishes like cinnamon powder or thin apple slices.

Notes

Use crisp, slightly tart apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best flavor and texture.
Allow both dough rises to complete fully to develop fluffiness and depth of flavor.
Spread filling evenly across dough to avoid dry spots or overly sweet areas.
Use room temperature ingredients for smoother dough mixing and better rise.
Drizzle maple icing while rolls are warm for a luxurious melted finish.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.
Freeze individual rolls wrapped tightly for up to three months.
Reheat rolls gently in a low oven or microwave to soften icing and warm dough.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 roll
Calories: 280
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: apple cinnamon rolls, maple icing, plant-based cinnamon rolls, breakfast rolls, vegan cinnamon rolls, sweet rolls, apple dessert