Soft and Gooey Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls
These Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls are a delicious fall twist on a classic breakfast favorite. Soft, fluffy dough is infused with the rich flavor of reduced apple cider and filled with a spiced brown sugar swirl. Finished with a sweet apple cider glaze (or optional cream cheese frosting), they’re the ultimate cozy treat for chilly mornings or festive brunches.This recipe is easy to follow, freezer-friendly, and perfect for make-ahead mornings. Whether you're serving them during the holidays or just craving something warm and indulgent, these rolls are guaranteed to satisfy.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 cups apple cider to reduce to about ¾ cup
- 2¼ teaspoons 1 packet active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3¼ cups all-purpose flour plus extra for dusting
- ¼ cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the Apple Cider Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons reduced apple cider
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: Cream Cheese Frosting
- 4 oz cream cheese and 1 more tablespoon powdered sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider
- In a saucepan, simmer 2 cups of apple cider over medium heat until it reduces to about ¾ cup. This should take 20–25 minutes. Let it cool until just warm.
Step 2: Make the Dough
- In a large bowl, combine ¾ cup of the warm reduced apple cider with the yeast and sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Add the eggs, softened butter, and salt. Stir to combine.
- Gradually mix in the flour until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
- Transfer to a greased bowl, cover with a towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Set aside the softened butter for spreading.
Step 4: Roll, Fill, and Cut
- Once risen, roll the dough out into a 16x12-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
- Spread the butter evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly on top.
- Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log.
- Cut into 12 even rolls using a sharp knife or dental floss.
- Place the rolls into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
Step 5: Bake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls for 22–26 minutes, or until golden brown and set in the center.
Step 6: Make the Glaze
- While the rolls bake, whisk together powdered sugar, reduced cider, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over warm rolls before serving.
Optional (if using cream cheese):
- In a mixing bowl, beat 4 oz softened cream cheese with 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons reduced apple cider, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Spread over warm or slightly cooled cinnamon rolls.