Easy Apple Pie Rolls: How To Make These Baked Treats

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Fall brings a bounty of rich flavors, and apples are one of the season’s shining stars. Whether you’re headed to the orchard or picking up fresh apples from the store, baking with apples feels like a celebration of the cooler weather. Today, we’re transforming that classic apple pie flavor into a fun, easy-to-make Apple Pie Rolls recipe. These rolls combine the apple goodness of a traditional pie with the portability and convenience of rolls—perfect for a family treat, an autumn dessert, or even breakfast.

Why Use Granny Smith Apples?

For baking, Granny Smith apples are ideal because they’re firm, tart, and hold their shape well. Their tartness balances the sweetness of the brown sugar and spices, which enhances the overall apple dessert experience. If you prefer a slightly sweeter apple, try mixing in Pink Lady or Honeycrisp apples for an added layer of flavor.

Tips for Melting Butter

Melting butter evenly is crucial for adding richness to your apple filling. The easiest way to melt butter is over medium heat in a large pan or medium saucepan. Stir occasionally to prevent burning, or for a slightly nutty flavor, allow the butter to brown lightly. Using melted butter in this recipe gives the rolls that soft, rich texture we all crave.

Ingredients for Apple Pie Rolls

• 1 box of vanilla cake mix
• 6 tsp instant yeast
• 5.5 cups flour
• 2 ½ cups warm water
• ½ cup of apple pie filling
• 1 Granny Smith apple, diced (or mix with Pink Lady for added sweetness)
• 1 tbsp butter, melted
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• ½ cup oats
• ½ cup flour
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Icing (Optional):

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tbsp milk
• Caramel syrup or cream cheese icing for drizzling

Instructions for this Easy Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

• Bloom the yeast in the warm water mixed with a little bit of vanilla extract. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
• In a large bowl, mix the dry ingredients: cake mix, flour, and the yeast mixture. Knead the dough for about 2 minutes, then cover it with plastic wrap and let it rest in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1 hour.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

• While the dough rises, in a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the Granny Smith apple, brown sugar, lemon juice, and apple pie filling. Mix in the oats and a tablespoon of corn starch to thicken the mixture slightly. Allow it to cook for about 5-6 minutes until the apples are soft and the filling is gooey. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.

Step 3: Assemble the Apple Rolls

• Once your dough has risen, roll it out on a clean work surface into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Use a rolling pin to ensure even thickness.
• Spread the apple mixture evenly over the dough.
• Roll the dough up lengthwise, like apple pie cinnamon rolls, and cut into 2-inch segments.
• Arrange the rolls in a single layer on a greased baking pan or baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake the Apple Pie Rolls

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the apple pie rolls in the oven and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches

• While the rolls bake, mix the powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl to make a simple icing.
• Once the rolls are out of the oven, drizzle them with the icing or, for extra indulgence, use caramel syrup or a cream cheese icing.

For an added crunch, sprinkle cinnamon sugar or drizzle with delicious caramel sauce.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about fall baking, and these Apple Pie Rolls capture that magic in every bite. The tartness of Granny Smith apples combined with the sweetness of the apple pie filling creates a comforting treat that’s perfect for a cozy afternoon at home or a dessert to impress guests. These delectable pie rolls can be enjoyed warm from the oven or stored in an airtight container to savor later.

If you want to try a twist on this recipe, serve the rolls with a scoop of ice cream on top for an extra decadent dessert. Whether you’re enjoying them with family or experimenting with new recipes, these Apple Pie Rolls are a must-have for fall.

FAQ Section

Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?
Yes! While Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness, you can mix them with sweeter apples like Honeycrisp or Pink Lady for a more balanced flavor.

What’s the best way to store Apple Pie Rolls?
Store the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the fridge for up to five days. You can also freeze them in a freezer bag for longer storage.

Can I use pre-made apple pie filling?
Absolutely! Using canned apple pie filling can save time, but adding fresh apples like Granny Smith will elevate the flavor and texture.

What’s the best topping for these rolls?
Drizzle them with caramel syrup for a rich finish or use a classic cream cheese icing for a tangy contrast. You can also sprinkle them with cinnamon sugar for added sweetness.