Name: Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Butter Maple Icing Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
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

I have to tell you about my absolute favorite treat that never fails to brighten a chilly morning: Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Butter Maple Icing Recipe. These rolls are soft, fragrant with warm spices, and have this dreamy frosting that’s just… wow. If you’re a fan of classic cinnamon rolls but want to take them up a notch with a fresh apple twist and that rich brown butter maple icing, stay right here. You’re going to want to try this as soon as possible.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bursting with Fresh Apple Flavor: The chopped Honeycrisp apples add a juicy, tart crunch that perfectly balances the sweetness.
Brown Butter Magic: That brown butter in the maple icing brings a nutty depth that’s unlike any ordinary frosting.
Soft, Fluffy Dough: Thanks to a well-hydrated dough and proper proofing, you get melt-in-your-mouth rolls every time.
Perfect for Cozy Mornings: These rolls are a crowd-pleaser, whether it’s a weekend brunch or a holiday breakfast.

A close-up view of six cinnamon rolls arranged closely together on a white marbled surface. Each roll shows a soft golden-yellow dough spiraled with a dark cinnamon and sugar filling, with small pieces of nuts embedded within. A creamy white icing with a smooth texture generously covers the top of each cinnamon roll, slightly dripping down the sides. In the upper background, a few cinnamon sticks lay on the white marbled surface near the top right corner, next to a red ceramic cup partially visible. The warm tones of the rolls contrast nicely with the white icing and the white marbled surface, giving a fresh and inviting look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Butter Maple Icing, apple cinnamon rolls, brown butter maple frosting, apple cinnamon roll recipe, easy cinnamon roll with apple

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Butter Maple Icing Recipe has a purpose, creating a harmonious balance of texture and flavor. Choosing the right apples and using room-temperature butter and cream cheese genuinely makes a difference, so I’ve included tips below to help you shop smart.

Flat lay of golden brown cinnamon sticks, light and dark brown sugar crystals, fresh chopped Honeycrisp apple pieces with red and yellow skin, smooth cubes of salted butter, creamy off-white cream cheese block, a small transparent jar of rich amber maple syrup, and whole fresh eggs, all beautifully arranged on a white marble surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Butter Maple Icing, apple cinnamon rolls, brown butter maple frosting, apple cinnamon roll recipe, easy cinnamon roll with apple

Warm Milk: Helps activate the yeast and ensures a tender dough.
Active Dry Yeast: The essential leavening agent—make sure it’s fresh for the best rise!
Brown Sugar: Used in both dough and filling for deep caramel notes; I prefer light brown for a milder flavor.
Salted Butter: Room temperature butter blends smoothly—plus helps with a rich buttery flavor.
Large Eggs: Add richness and structure to the dough.
All-Purpose Flour: The base of the dough; start with 3 1/2 cups and adjust if needed for that perfect smooth consistency.
Kosher Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
Granulated Sugar: Extra sweetness in the cinnamon filling for that classic roll taste.
Cinnamon: The star spice that pairs perfectly with apple and sugar.
Honeycrisp Apples: Crisp and tart, they hold up beautifully during baking without turning mushy.
Cream Cheese: For an ultra-creamy, tangy icing base—softened is key so it mixes easily.
Maple Syrup: Brings a natural sweetness and complements the brown butter flavor perfectly.
Powdered Sugar: For that smooth, spreadable icing texture.
Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth to the icing.

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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love playing around with this recipe depending on the season or my mood. It’s flexible, so feel free to customize! Making it your own is part of the fun and keeps it exciting.

Use Different Apples: I’ve tried Granny Smith for extra tartness and Fuji for a sweeter bite—both work wonderfully!
Vegan Version: Substitute the butter and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives and use a flax egg instead of regular eggs. I did this once and was amazed by the results.
Nutty Addition: Toss in chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for a delightful crunch that my family adores.
Spice it Up: Mix a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom into the cinnamon sugar for a more complex flavor profile—it’s cozy and delicious.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Butter Maple Icing Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast and Prepare the Dough

Start by warming your milk until it’s comfortably warm but not hot (think bathwater temperature). Mix in the yeast and brown sugar; this little resting period lets the yeast bubble and foam, which is your sign that it’s alive and kicking. It only takes 5 to 10 minutes, and if you don’t see bubbles, it’s best to start over with fresh yeast. Once bubbly, add room-temperature butter, eggs, flour, and salt to your mixer bowl.

I use my stand mixer with a dough hook here—it saves me a lot of kneading time. Mix for about 4 to 5 minutes until the dough looks smooth and pulls away from the sides. If it’s still sticky, sprinkle a bit more flour, but take care not to add too much or your rolls won’t be as soft.

Step 2: First Rise — Let the Dough Double

Cover your dough bowl with plastic wrap and set it in a warm spot at room temperature for about an hour, or until it doubles in size. This step is crucial because it helps develop the dough’s texture and flavor. I’ve learned that rushing this part only leads to dense rolls, and nobody wants that!

Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Apple Filling

While the dough is doing its magic, mix together your brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. This combination is what gives the filling that classic cinnamon roll sweetness and warmth. Butter your baking dish so the rolls won’t stick—and also for a buttery edge once baked.

Step 4: Roll, Spread, and Fill the Dough

After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a 12×18 inch rectangle. Then, spread softened butter evenly over the surface; this will keep the rolls super moist and buttery.

Next, sprinkle the chopped Honeycrisp apples evenly over the butter, followed by your cinnamon sugar mixture. When your dough is covered, carefully roll it up from the long edge closest to you, keeping it tight but gentle so the apples don’t squish out. Pinch the seam closed once you get to the end.

Grab a sharp knife and slice the log into 12-15 even rolls. Place these snugly into your greased pan, cover with plastic wrap again, and let them rise for another 20 to 30 minutes.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden Brown

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes, or until they turn a gorgeous golden brown on top and smell incredible. Your kitchen will fill up with the most comforting aroma—you might just want to sneak one out while they’re still warm!

Step 6: Brown Butter Maple Icing Finish

Here’s where this recipe really shines. Melt your butter over medium heat, swirling the pan occasionally until the butter turns golden and smells nutty—this only takes a couple of minutes. Be careful not to burn it! Once browned, remove from heat.

In a bowl, whisk the cream cheese until smooth. Add the maple syrup, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and the warm brown butter (don’t add the browned bits, just the butter itself). Whisk until silky and spreadable. I like to slather this over warm rolls so it melts ever so slightly into every crevice—a taste experience you’ll crave.

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Pro Tips for Making Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Butter Maple Icing Recipe

Warm Ingredients Matter: Using room-temperature butter, eggs, and cream cheese makes mixing easier and improves texture dramatically.
Don’t Skip the Second Rise: Allowing the rolls to rise again before baking ensures they’re fluffy and light, not dense.
Watch Your Butter Color: Brown butter can go from perfect to burnt quickly—keep a close eye and remove it as soon as it smells toasted.
Slice with a Sharp Knife: Use a serrated knife or dental floss for smooth, even rolls that don’t squish out the filling.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Butter Maple Icing Recipe

A single cinnamon roll is placed at the center of a white plate on a wooden surface. The cinnamon roll is light golden brown with visible swirls of cinnamon and a thick, creamy beige icing covering the top and slightly dripping down the sides. Around the cinnamon roll, there is a light brown sauce with small pieces of apple-like chunks scattered on the plate. To the left, a portion of the cinnamon roll is torn off, showing its soft, fluffy, and yellowish interior texture. In the background, three pieces of torn pastry or dough stand upright, slightly out of focus. The background is dark, creating a strong contrast with the plate and the cinnamon roll. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Butter Maple Icing, apple cinnamon rolls, brown butter maple frosting, apple cinnamon roll recipe, easy cinnamon roll with apple

Garnishes

I often garnish these rolls with a few thin apple slices dusted with cinnamon or a light sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans to add that extra texture and drama. The toasted nuts bring a nice crunch, but even just a little powdered sugar dusting looks beautiful and festive.

Side Dishes

Pair your apple cinnamon rolls with a warm latte or a cup of chai tea for a cozy brunch. I also like serving fresh fruit or a simple yogurt parfait to balance out the sweetness and sheen some lightness on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve arranged these rolls on a large wooden board with little bowls of extra maple syrup and chopped nuts for guests to customize their own servings. Wrapping individual rolls in parchment and tying with twine also makes for a darling gift or party favor idea.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These rolls keep well covered in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. I like to refrigerate them if I plan to keep them longer; just bring them back to room temperature or warm slightly before serving for that fresh-baked feel.

Freezing

If you want to prep in advance, freeze the rolls after shaping and before the second rise by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. When you’re ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge, then let rise and bake as usual. I’ve found this method really saves time on busy mornings.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the rolls in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes, or microwave briefly while covered with a damp paper towel to keep them soft. Reapply a little bit of the extra icing if you have it—warm rolls with fresh icing are absolute heaven!

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?

Absolutely! While Honeycrisp apples are ideal for their perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, you can substitute Granny Smith for a tangier flavor or Fuji for more sweetness. Just choose a variety that holds up well to baking so the texture stays nice and not mushy.
How do I know if my yeast is still good?

When you mix warm milk, yeast, and sugar, the mixture should bubble and foam within 5 to 10 minutes. If it doesn’t, your yeast might be expired or the milk too hot or cold, which can kill the yeast. Always ensure your yeast is fresh for successful baking.
Can I make the rolls without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can mix and knead the dough by hand, though it will require more time and effort—around 8-10 minutes of kneading to get the dough smooth and elastic. Just be patient and don’t add too much extra flour in the process to keep the rolls soft.
Is there a dairy-free option for the icing?

You can substitute the butter and cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives like vegan butter and vegan cream cheese. Maple syrup and powdered sugar stay the same. This adaptation works well and still yields a creamy, delicious icing.
How do I get soft, fluffy rolls every time?

Don’t rush the rising times, use the proper flour measurement, and make sure your dough isn’t too dry or too wet. Also, don’t skip the second rise after shaping. These steps are key to tender, light rolls.

Final Thoughts

I’ve made a lot of cinnamon rolls in my life, but this Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Butter Maple Icing Recipe has a special place in my heart and breakfast rotation. There’s something so comforting about the gooey cinnamon, fresh apple bites, and that luscious brown butter maple icing that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, these rolls will make your kitchen smell like fall and your spirits soar. Give them a try — trust me, you’ll be making them again and again.