Indulge in a sweet, warm breakfast treat with these Salted Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls. They're a delightful twist on classic cinnamon rolls, filled with tangy Granny Smith apples and topped with a luscious salted caramel sauce. It's a perfect blend of sweet, salty, and tart flavors that will make your mornings extra special.
You might need to take a trip to the supermarket for a few special items for this recipe. Granny Smith apples are a key ingredient, chosen for their tart flavor which contrasts beautifully with the sweet caramel. You'll also need heavy cream for the sauce, and flaky sea salt to give that wonderful salty kick against the caramel.
Salted Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients
Homemade cinnamon roll dough: The base of the recipe, this creates a soft and tender roll. You can make it yourself or purchase pre-made dough.
Granny Smith apples: These apples are tart and firm, perfect for baking and providing a tart contrast to the sweet sauce.
Lemon juice: Adds brightness and helps to prevent the apples from browning.
Sugar: Used to create the caramel sauce.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness to the caramel sauce.
Heavy cream: Used to give the caramel sauce a creamy, smooth texture.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors in the sauce.
Flaky sea salt: It provides the 'salted' element in salted caramel, giving a wonderful contrast to the sweetness.
One reader, Kenn Hildebrand says:
These salted caramel apple cinnamon rolls are a game-changer! The combination of sweet apples, gooey caramel, and warm cinnamon is simply divine. The recipe is easy to follow, and the end result is a mouthwatering treat that everyone will love. Perfect for a cozy weekend brunch or a special dessert. Highly recommend!
Techniques Required for Making Salted Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls
How to prepare the cinnamon roll dough and filling: Follow the recipe instructions to prepare the dough and filling for the cinnamon rolls. This may involve mixing the ingredients, kneading the dough, and spreading the filling over the rolled-out dough.
How to microwave the apples: Place the apples and lemon juice in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 20-second increments until the apples are softened and limp. This will help to soften the apples before adding them to the cinnamon rolls.
How to roll the dough into a large rectangle: After preparing the dough, roll it out into a large rectangle that is approximately ½-inch thick. Use a bench scraper to straighten the corners and ensure they are sharp and even.
How to arrange the apple slices on the dough: Once the filling is spread over the dough, arrange the softened apple slices on top, leaving about ¼ inch between each slice. Try to keep the slices in straight rows, with the tips touching or slightly overlapping.
How to cut the rolled dough into even pieces: After rolling the dough into a log, pinch the seam closed and trim off any uneven ends. Use unflavored dental floss or a sharp knife to cut the log into even pieces, each about 1½ inches thick.
How to make the salted caramel sauce: In a small saucepan, cook the sugar over medium heat until it turns amber brown. Then, add the butter and stir until incorporated. Slowly drizzle in the cream and whisk to combine. Boil for 1 minute, then remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla and flaky salt. Let the sauce cool and thicken slightly before using.
How to pour the salted caramel sauce over the cinnamon rolls: Once the cinnamon rolls are baked, pour the prepared salted caramel sauce over them before serving.
How To Make Salted Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls
This cinnamon rolls recipe is a heartwarming dessert that pairs well with your favorite cup of coffee. This is flavored with sweet caramel and apples.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1Homemade Cinnamon Roll dough
- 2granny smith apples,sliced into ¼-inch wedges
- 1tbsplemon juice
- 1cupsugar
- 6tbspunsalted butter,room temperature, and a bit for greasing
- ½cupheavy cream,room temperature
- 1tspvanilla extract
- ¼tspflaky sea salt
Instructions
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Prepare the cinnamon roll dough and filling according to the recipe instructions.
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Add the apples and lemon juice to a medium microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 20-second increments, until the apples are softened and limp.
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
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Roll the dough into a large rectangle about ½-inch thick. Straighten the corners with a bench scraper to make sure they are sharp and even.
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Spread the filling evenly over the dough, then arrange the apple slices on top, leaving about ¼ inch between each slice. Try to keep your slices in straight rows, it’s okay if the tips of the apple slices touch or overlap.
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Starting from a short end, roll the dough into a log and pinch the seam closed. Place the log seam-side down and trim off the uneven ends. Using unflavored dental floss or a sharp knife, cut the log into even pieces, each about 1½ inches thick.
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Place the rolls in the prepared baking dish, cover with a kitchen towel, and set in a warm place for 35 to 45 minutes, until expanded in volume by about 50%. If not baking immediately, skip this step, cover with plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
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Bake the cinnamon rolls for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool for at least 10 minutes.
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While the cinnamon rolls bake, make the salted caramel sauce: Add the sugar to a small saucepan and cook over medium heat, swirling the pan occasionally but not stirring, until it starts to turn amber brown, 5 to 6 minutes.
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Add the butter and stir in until incorporated, 1 to 2 minutes.
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Slowly drizzle in the cream and whisk to combine. Boil for 1 minute, then remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla and flaky salt. Let cool and thicken slightly before using.
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Pour the salted caramel sauce over the cinnamon rolls, then serve.
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Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 2428.76kcal
- Fat: 121.15g
- Saturated Fat: 73.13g
- Trans Fat: 2.79g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 32.48g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.40g
- Carbohydrates: 318.91g
- Fiber: 6.20g
- Sugar: 205.78g
- Protein: 23.28g
- Cholesterol: 346.21mg
- Sodium: 1515.40mg
- Calcium: 279.05mg
- Potassium: 386.43mg
- Iron: 6.87mg
- Vitamin A: 1071.86µg
- Vitamin C: 6.62mg
Technique Tip for Perfect Salted Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls
When making the salted caramel sauce, it's crucial to avoid stirring the sugar as it melts. This prevents the formation of sugar crystals, which can make your caramel grainy. Instead, gently swirl the pan to ensure even heating. Also, remember to add the cream slowly to the hot sugar mixture. It will bubble up violently, so be careful not to burn yourself. Lastly, always use a pan that's larger than you think you'll need when making caramel. This gives the sugar plenty of room to expand as it melts and prevents boil-overs.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Cinnamon Rolls
Prepare the dough: Use store-bought cinnamon roll dough to save time on preparation.
Pre-cut apples: Consider using pre-sliced apples to save time on slicing and softening them.
Make caramel sauce in advance: Prepare the salted caramel sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for quick use.
Use a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly mix the dough and filling ingredients for efficiency.
Bake in advance: Bake the cinnamon rolls ahead of time and reheat them before serving to save time on the day of serving.
Streamline assembly: Streamline the assembly process by preparing the filling and dough simultaneously.
Substitute Ingredients For Salted Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
sugar - Substitute with brown sugar: Brown sugar adds a deeper, caramel-like flavor to the recipe, enhancing the richness of the caramel sauce.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a subtle tropical flavor and works well in caramel-based recipes.
Presenting Salted Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls
Elevate the plating: When presenting the salted caramel apple cinnamon rolls, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use a clean, white plate to allow the colors of the cinnamon rolls and caramel sauce to stand out. Arrange the rolls in a deliberate and artistic manner, ensuring they are evenly spaced and the caramel sauce is drizzled gracefully over the top.
Incorporate garnishes: Enhance the visual appeal of the dish by incorporating edible garnishes such as thinly sliced apple crisps or delicate caramel shards. These elements not only add texture but also elevate the overall presentation, showcasing attention to detail and creativity.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to create a sense of balance and sophistication. Allow the cinnamon rolls to be the focal point while using the surrounding space to enhance the overall aesthetic appeal. This approach can elevate the perception of the dish and highlight the craftsmanship involved.
Consider the plating geometry: Pay attention to the geometry of the plating. Arrange the cinnamon rolls in a circular or linear pattern to create a visually striking presentation. The use of geometric shapes can add a modern and artistic touch to the dish, capturing the attention of the culinary professionals with its precision and thoughtfulness.
Highlight the caramel drizzle: Showcase the artistry of the salted caramel drizzle by using a delicate hand to create elegant swirls or intricate patterns on the plate. The caramel should be visually captivating, drawing the eye and adding a touch of sophistication to the overall presentation.
Emphasize the golden-brown color: Highlight the golden-brown hue of the cinnamon rolls by ensuring they are baked to perfection. The color contrast against the white plate can create a visually stunning effect, emphasizing the craftsmanship and attention to detail in the preparation of the dish.
Incorporate a touch of edible gold leaf: For an extra touch of luxury and refinement, consider delicately placing a few edible gold leaf accents on the plate. The subtle shimmer and opulence of the gold leaf can elevate the presentation, adding a touch of extravagance to the overall visual appeal.
Essential Tools for Making Cinnamon Rolls
- Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for various tasks such as chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients.
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients and mixing the dough for the cinnamon rolls.
- Microwave-safe bowl: This type of bowl is designed to withstand the heat of a microwave and is suitable for heating or cooking ingredients in the microwave.
- 9x13-inch baking dish: A baking dish of this size is ideal for baking the cinnamon rolls, providing enough space for them to expand and cook evenly.
- Bench scraper: A bench scraper is a handy tool for straightening the edges of the dough and ensuring even corners when rolling out the cinnamon roll dough.
- Small saucepan: A small saucepan is used for making the salted caramel sauce, allowing for even heating and easy stirring of the ingredients.
- Whisk: A whisk is essential for combining and emulsifying the ingredients when making the salted caramel sauce.
- Sharp knife: A sharp knife is necessary for cutting the rolled dough into individual cinnamon rolls before baking.
- Kitchen towel: A kitchen towel is used to cover the cinnamon rolls while they rise, creating a warm and draft-free environment for proofing the dough.
- Plastic wrap: Plastic wrap is used for covering the cinnamon rolls if they are not baked immediately, helping to protect them from freezer burn if freezing for later use.
Storing and Freezing Salted Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls
Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for salted caramel apple cinnamon rolls:
- Let the cinnamon rolls cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent them from getting soggy or sticky.
- To store, place the rolls in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They will keep at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the cinnamon rolls. Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- To reheat frozen rolls, let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour, then warm them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes, until heated through.
- The salted caramel sauce can be stored separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before using.
- For best results, add the salted caramel sauce to the cinnamon rolls just before serving. This will keep the rolls from getting too soggy and will allow you to enjoy the full flavor and texture of the caramel.
How To Reheat Leftover Cinnamon Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cinnamon rolls on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil. This will help to prevent them from drying out or burning while they reheat. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through.
If you prefer a softer, gooey texture, you can also reheat the cinnamon rolls in the microwave. Place one or two rolls on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high for 15-20 seconds. Check to see if they are warm enough, and if not, continue to heat them in 10-second intervals until they reach your desired temperature.
For a crispy exterior and a soft, warm interior, you can use a combination of the oven and microwave methods. First, place the cinnamon rolls in the microwave and heat them for 10-15 seconds to warm them up. Then, transfer them to a baking sheet and place them under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, or until the tops are lightly browned and crispy.
If you want to reheat a larger batch of cinnamon rolls, you can use a slow cooker. Place the rolls in the slow cooker and cover them with a lid. Set the slow cooker to low and let the rolls warm up for 30-45 minutes, or until they are heated through.
For a quick and easy reheating method, you can also use a toaster oven. Place one or two cinnamon rolls on the toaster oven tray and heat them at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until they are warmed through and lightly crispy on the outside.
Random Fact About Salted Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls
Cinnamon rolls are believed to have originated in Sweden, and they are traditionally enjoyed on October 4th, known as Cinnamon Roll Day.
Is Making Cinnamon Rolls at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this salted caramel apple cinnamon rolls recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of ingredients. Apples and cinnamon are generally affordable, while heavy cream and unsalted butter can be pricier. The homemade aspect may save money compared to store-bought options. Considering the yield and satisfaction, this recipe rates a solid 8/10. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it a reasonable treat for special occasions or weekend indulgences.
Are Salted Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls Healthy or Unhealthy?
This salted caramel apple cinnamon rolls recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients - refined flour, sugar, butter, and heavy cream - are all high in calories, saturated fat, and simple carbohydrates. The addition of apples does provide some dietary fiber and nutrients, but the overall nutritional value is overshadowed by the less healthy components.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Substitute a portion of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or oat flour to increase fiber content
- Reduce the amount of sugar in the filling and caramel sauce, or use a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey
- Replace some of the butter with unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas to lower the saturated fat content
- Opt for a lower-fat milk or cream alternative, such as almond milk or light coconut milk, in the caramel sauce
- Incorporate more fruits, like diced apples or raisins, into the filling to boost the nutritional value
- Serve the cinnamon rolls with a side of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added protein and healthy fats
Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Cinnamon Roll Recipe
The combination of sweet and tart flavors in this salted caramel apple cinnamon rolls recipe creates a delightful and indulgent treat. The use of fresh apples and homemade cinnamon roll dough adds a comforting and authentic touch. The addition of the salted caramel sauce elevates the overall flavor profile, providing a perfect balance of sweetness and a hint of saltiness. This recipe is sure to impress and is perfect for a cozy brunch or a special dessert.
Enhance Your Salted Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Salted Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delightful culinary experience, as it combines the warmth of homemade cinnamon roll dough with the tartness of granny smith apples and the zing of lemon juice. The decadent salted caramel sauce adds a luscious touch, while the use of unsalted butter and heavy cream ensures rich and creamy flavors. The addition of vanilla extract and flaky sea salt elevates the overall taste. Trust in the expertise behind this recipe for a truly indulgent treat.
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