Apple Cinnamon Rolls

1. Stage

Make the dough: Heat the milk in the microwave just until warm to the touch (about 110°F), about 30 seconds. Add the milk, sugar, and yeast to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook. Let the mixture sit until the yeast becomes foamy, about 5 minutes.  Add the egg and egg yolk and mix until combined. Add the flour and salt and continue to mix on medium speed until the ingredients come together into a ball of dough. Mix in the butter 2 tablespoons at a time, waiting until each addition is incorporated before adding more.  Once all of the butter is incorporated, knead the dough on medium speed for 8 minutes. The dough should have a smooth, shiny surface.

2. Stage

Let the dough rise: Transfer the ball of dough to a greased bowl and cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm place until it has doubled in size, 1 to 2 hours.

3. Stage

Roll out the dough and add the filling: On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a 9x14 inch rectangle. Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together in a small bowl.  Use a pastry brush to spread the softened butter evenly over the rectangle of dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.  Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture on top. Top with the chopped apples.

4. Stage

Form the cinnamon rolls and let rise: Tightly roll up the dough, starting at the shorter 9-inch side. Using a sharp knife or a piece of unflavored dental floss, cut the log of dough into nine 1-inch pieces. Transfer the cinnamon rolls to a greased 9x9 baking dish so the cut side is facing up. Cover with plastic wrap or a dish towel. Put it in a warm place and let the dough rise again until they look pillowy and are touching one another in the dish, 30 minutes to an hour.

5. Stage

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Once the dough has been rising for 20 minutes, preheat the oven.

6. Stage

Bake: Bake the cinnamon rolls until they are golden brown, about 25 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center roll should come out clean.

7. Stage

Make the frosting: Make the frosting while the cinnamon rolls are baking. Using a hand mixer with beater attachments, beat the cream cheese and butter together on medium speed until well-mixed and creamy. Add the maple syrup and vanilla and mix until incorporated.  Add the sugar 1/4 cup at a time, beating after each addition, until all of the sugar is incorporated.

8. Stage

Top with frosting: Let the cinnamon rolls cool for 10 minutes, then spread the frosting on top and serve warm. Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Love the recipe? Leave us stars below!