Soft and Gooey Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls
Indulge in these soft and gooey apple cider cinnamon rolls that embody the essence of fall with their warm, comforting flavors and creamy glaze. Perfect for any occasion, they're easy to make and sure to delight friends and family.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2 cups apple cider The star of the recipe, adding a rich depth of flavor.
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast To help the dough rise to fluffy perfection.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar A touch of sweetness to aid the yeast and enhance the flavor.
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour plus extra for dusting The foundation of your dough.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened To enrich the dough, ensuring it’s soft and delectable.
- 2 large eggs Helping bind the dough and give it structure.
- 3/4 teaspoon salt Balancing the sweetness and elevating the overall flavor.
Filling Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Essential for that luscious texture.
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed To provide a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon The core flavor enhancer that makes these rolls irresistible.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg Adding a hint of warmth and depth to the filling.
Glaze Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar For the essential sweet topping.
- 2-3 tablespoons reduced apple cider Intensifying the apple flavor in the glaze.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhancing the overall sweetness with a touch of vanilla.
Optional Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened For a rich, creamy frosting.
- 1 cup powdered sugar To sweeten and complement the cream cheese.
- 2 tablespoons reduced apple cider Infusing more apple flavor into the frosting.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract To add depth and richness to the frosting.
Instructions
Preparing the Dough
- Begin by simmering 2 cups of apple cider in a saucepan over medium heat until it reduces to about 3/4 cup, which should take around 20-25 minutes. Set it aside to cool until just warm.
- In a large bowl, combine 3/4 cup of the warm reduced apple cider with the active dry yeast and sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
- Add the eggs, softened butter, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
- Gradually mix in the flour until a sticky dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Preparing the Filling
- While the dough is rising, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a small bowl. Set the softened butter aside for spreading.
Rolling and Cutting
- After the dough has risen, roll it out into a 16 by 12 inch rectangle on a floured surface.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture all over.
- Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log shape and cut it into 12 even rolls using a sharp knife or dental floss.
- Place the rolls in a greased 9 by 13 inch baking dish, cover, and let them rise again for 30-45 minutes.
Baking
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and bake the rolls for 22-26 minutes until golden brown.
Making the Glaze
- While the rolls are baking, whisk together powdered sugar, reduced cider, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls just before serving.
Optional Cream Cheese Frosting
- For an optional cream cheese frosting, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, reduced apple cider, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread over warm or slightly cooled rolls.
Notes
To ensure your rolls are perfect, avoid overbaking and measure flour carefully to prevent density issues. Optional ingredients like nuts or raisins can be added for extra flavor.