How do I stop apples from browning?

Drizzle the cut apples with a bit of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar and toss gently. The acid prevents oxidation and keeps them looking fresh. This works for up to 8 hours, making meal prep a breeze.

Can I make these recipes ahead of time?

Absolutely! Many of these recipes are actually better when made ahead. Baked oatmeal, muffins, and coffee cakes can be prepared the night before. Just store covered and reheat gently in the morning.

What are the best spices to pair with apples?

Cinnamon is the classic, but don't stop there. Try cardamom for something exotic, nutmeg for warmth, or ginger for a little zing. Vanilla extract also enhances the natural sweetness of apples beautifully.

How do you properly store leftover apple dishes?

Baked apple breakfasts can be stored in the fridge for 3 to 4 days if kept in sealed containers. Many can also be frozen for up to 3 months – just thaw overnight and reheat gently.

15+ Best Apple Breakfast Recipes | Quick & Healthy Ideas

Description

Soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls swirled with tender spiced apples and topped with a rich cream cheese icing. A cozy fall-inspired treat perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough:

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
1 cup warm milk
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp salt

For the Apple Filling:

2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
½ cup brown sugar, packed
2 tsp ground cinnamon
2 tbsp unsalted butter
½ tsp nutmeg (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Icing:

4 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1–2 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough:
- In a bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk with 1 tbsp sugar. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Add flour, remaining sugar, egg, butter, and salt. Mix and knead until smooth (about 8 minutes).
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled (about 1 hour).
Make the Apple Filling:
- In a skillet, melt butter and cook apples for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.
- Stir in brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook until apples are tender. Cool slightly.
Assemble Rolls:
- Roll dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle. Spread apple filling evenly over dough.
- Roll up tightly from the long side and slice into 12 rolls.
- Arrange in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise 30–40 minutes.
Bake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake rolls for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.

Make the Icing:
- Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add milk for desired consistency.
- Spread icing over warm rolls.

Notes

Best served warm.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat before serving.

For extra flavor, add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 roll
Calories: 320 kcal
Sugar: 18 g
Sodium: 230 mg
Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 48 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 6 g
Cholesterol: 40 mg

Keywords: apple cinnamon rolls, cream cheese icing, fall baking, holiday brunch, homemade cinnamon rolls