Irresistibly Cozy Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls : A Dreamy Fall Breakfast Sweet

There’s nothing quite like the smell of warm cinnamon rolls baking in the oven — except maybe when they’re filled with luscious, spiced apple butter. These Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls are the definition of comfort: soft, fluffy, buttery, and swirled with sweet autumn flavor.

Perfect for brunch recipes, cozy weekend breakfasts, or elegant boulangerie-style mornings, this recipe combines the best of both worlds — classic cinnamon rolls and the rich taste of homemade apple butter. It’s a match made in pastry heaven that will make your kitchen smell like a bakery.

If you adore cozy baked goods, you’ll also love our Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls or tender Pumpkin Zucchini Bread — both perfect companions for your next petit déjeuner spread.

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What Are Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls?

Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls are a luxurious twist on the classic breakfast roll. Instead of the traditional cinnamon-sugar filling, these feature a silky layer of apple butter — an intensely flavored spread made from slow-cooked apples, sugar, and warm spices.

The result is a roll that’s tender, deeply aromatic, and slightly caramelized, with ribbons of apple filling that taste like a crisp autumn morning.

These rolls are versatile too — serve them warm with coffee for brunch, or make a batch to share as just desserts after a cozy dinner.

For more creative apple recipes, check out our Apple Fritter Donuts or Apple Crisp with Oatmeal.

Why This Recipe Works

There’s a reason this recipe feels straight out of a Parisian boulangerie — it’s soft, flavorful, and perfectly balanced.

Here’s why it works so beautifully:

• Rich Dough: The buttery, tender base creates a soft texture that stays moist.
• Apple Butter Swirl: Adds sweetness, spice, and that unmistakable fall aroma.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the night before for easy morning baking.
• Beautiful Presentation: Golden spirals that look bakery-perfect every time.

Love baking? Don’t miss our Cheddar Bay Biscuits or Cottage Cheese Flatbread — two more homemade favorites you’ll want on repeat.

Ingredients for Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls

For the Dough

• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Filling

• ¾ cup apple butter (store-bought or homemade)
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon melted butter

For the Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk or cream
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of cinnamon (optional)

If you’re making homemade apple butter, try adding flavors inspired by our Pumpkin Twists — they’re rich with cozy spices that would complement this recipe perfectly.

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Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make these breakfast sweets at home, you’ll need:

• Large mixing bowl
• Stand mixer with dough hook (optional but helpful)
• Rolling pin
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small saucepan
• Pastry brush

If you love baking tools and cozy morning recipes, you’ll also enjoy our Mini Pancake Cereal — another irresistible petit déjeuner idea!

How to Make Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls

Follow these simple steps for tender, bakery-quality rolls.

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes, until frothy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

Add melted butter, egg, and salt. Gradually mix in flour until a soft dough forms. Knead for 6–8 minutes (by hand or mixer) until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

Combine apple butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a bowl. Set aside.

Step 5: Roll It Out

Punch down the dough and roll it into a large rectangle (about 14×18 inches). Brush with melted butter, then spread the apple butter mixture evenly across the surface.

Step 6: Roll and Slice

Roll tightly from the long side and cut into 12 even pieces. Arrange them in a greased baking dish.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover and let the rolls rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy.

Step 8: Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown and fragrant.

Step 9: Glaze

Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Drizzle over warm rolls and serve immediately.

If you’re craving something extra indulgent, try pairing these with our Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies — pure fall bliss!

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The Secret Apple Butter Filling

The star of this recipe is the apple butter filling. It adds a velvety texture and incredible depth of flavor.

Homemade apple butter is easy to make — just simmer peeled apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a dash of vanilla until thick. You can find the full method in our Apple Crisp Recipe for inspiration.

Pro tip: Spread a thin layer of softened butter under the apple butter for an extra-luxurious texture.

Baking Tips for Success

• Use room-temperature ingredients for even mixing.
• Don’t over-flour the dough — it should feel soft, not sticky.
• Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free space for the best texture.
• Brush baked rolls with melted butter before glazing for shine.
• For bakery-style flavor, sprinkle coarse sugar on top before baking.

For another fluffy baked treat, try our Pumpkin Bread with Chocolate Chips — soft, rich, and full of fall flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overbaking: Rolls dry out quickly if left in the oven too long.
• Skipping the second rise: This step ensures a light, fluffy texture.
• Using cold milk: Warm milk activates the yeast properly.
• Adding too much flour: Makes the rolls dense instead of airy.

Glaze and Topping Ideas

These baking sweets taste heavenly as-is, but you can elevate them even more with:

• Cream cheese glaze
• Maple brown butter icing
• Chopped toasted pecans
• Caramel drizzle
• Spiced apple slices on top

You can even turn them into dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream — just like our Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts!

Serving Ideas

These rolls are perfect for any brunch or petit déjeuner occasion:

• Serve warm with a cup of coffee or Lavender Lemonade.
• Pair with a savory side like our Loaded Breakfast Hash.
• Include them in a breakfast spread with Croissant Breakfast Boats.
• Dress them up for dessert with caramel sauce and a dusting of powdered sugar.

Variations You Can Try

• Maple Apple Butter Rolls: Add maple syrup to the glaze for extra sweetness.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans in the filling.
• Apple Pie Rolls: Add diced apples to the filling for more texture.
• Mini Rolls: Perfect for brunch buffets or kids’ snacks.

If you love cozy variations, you’ll adore our Cream Cheese Pumpkin Bread.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Make Ahead: Prepare and refrigerate unbaked rolls overnight. Bake in the morning after letting them rise for 30 minutes.
• Store: Keep leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5.
• Freeze: Freeze baked rolls (without glaze) for up to 2 months. Warm before serving.

Pairing Suggestions

These Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls go beautifully with:

• Hot coffee or spiced chai
• Fresh fruit salad
• Pumpkin Spice Cold Brew for fall flavor perfection

If you’re creating a full brunch spread, include our Mini Pumpkin Bread with Cinnamon Swirl or Pancake Tacos for variety.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these rolls without apple butter?
Yes — substitute with applesauce and increase sugar slightly.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Warm in the oven at 325°F for 8–10 minutes or microwave for 20 seconds.

Can I use store-bought apple butter?
Absolutely! Choose one without too much added sugar for balanced flavor.

Can I make these vegan?
Yes, use non-dairy milk, vegan butter, and an egg substitute.

Can I use a bread machine for the dough?
Yes — use the dough cycle, then proceed with shaping and baking.

Bake These Cozy Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls and Share the Joy!

Warm, soft, and swirled with rich apple butter, these Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls are the kind of treat that makes breakfast feel magical. Perfect for weekends, holidays, or anytime you need a little comfort, they bring bakery-level indulgence right to your home kitchen.

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it and subscribe for more delicious apple recipes and baking sweets like our Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies or Cream Cheese Pumpkin Bread.

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