Cozy Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe

Warm apple cinnamon rolls drizzled with vanilla ice cream create a dessert that melts hearts instantly.

Sweet aromas of caramelized fruit and buttery pastry fill your kitchen with comfort.

Soft, pillowy dough wrapped around tender apple chunks promises pure indulgence.

Ribbons of cinnamon swirl through each tender bite, inviting pure satisfaction.

Perfectly balanced between warm and cold, this dessert delivers unexpected delights.

Creamy vanilla ice cream cascading over freshly baked rolls transforms an ordinary moment into something magical.

You’ll want to savor every single delectable spoonful.

Tasty Cinnamon Roll Variations to Try With Ice Cream

• Gluten-Free Apple Cinnamon Rolls: Replace wheat flour with almond or gluten-free flour blend, ensuring the same soft texture while accommodating gluten-sensitive individuals.
• Vegan Apple Delight Rolls: Substitute eggs with flax eggs, use plant-based milk, and swap butter for coconut oil to create a dairy-free and egg-free version of the classic recipe.
• Low-Sugar Apple Spice Rolls: Use sugar alternatives like stevia or monk fruit sweetener, reduce brown sugar in filling, and incorporate whole wheat flour for a healthier breakfast option.
• Nutty Apple Cinnamon Variation: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple filling and sprinkle toasted nuts on top for extra crunch and nutritional boost.

Serving Cinnamon Rolls Topped With Ice Cream Like a Pro

• Cozy Breakfast Companion: Pair these warm apple cinnamon rolls with a steaming mug of coffee or hot chocolate for a delightful morning treat.
• Weekend Brunch Centerpiece: Arrange the rolls on a beautiful wooden board surrounded by fresh apple slices and sprinkle with extra cinnamon for an Instagram-worthy presentation.
• Family Sharing Delight: Cut the rolls into smaller portions so everyone can enjoy a bite-sized version, making it perfect for gatherings and potlucks.
• Dessert Transformation: Drizzle caramel sauce over the vanilla ice cream for an extra layer of indulgence, creating a decadent dessert experience that elevates the classic apple cinnamon roll.

Best Ways to Store Leftover Apple Cinnamon Rolls

• Store leftover rolls in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap to prevent drying out and maintain freshness.
• Carefully place rolls in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. They'll stay delicious for 2-3 months. Wrap each roll separately to prevent freezer burn and maintain texture.
• Warm refrigerated rolls at 300F for 10-15 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent over-browning and keep moisture locked in. This method restores that fresh-baked softness and warmth.
• Reheat individual rolls for 15-20 seconds on medium power. Add a damp paper towel over the roll to prevent dryness and maintain soft texture.

FAQs

• Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and fill the rolls the night before. Cover and refrigerate overnight, then let them rise at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before baking.

• Do I need any special equipment to make these rolls?

No, you just need basic baking tools like a mixing bowl, rolling pin, baking dish, and measuring cups. A stand mixer can help but isn’t necessary.

• How do I know when the dough has risen properly?

The dough should double in size and look puffy. When you gently press it with your finger, the indentation should slowly spring back but not completely disappear.

The Appeal of Apple Cinnamon Rolls With Vanilla Ice Cream

• Craft Sweet Family Memories: These apple cinnamon rolls create perfect bonding moments with loved ones while enjoying a delightful homemade treat together.
• Elevate Comfort Dessert: Transform a classic cinnamon roll into an extraordinary dessert by adding fresh apple chunks and topping with creamy vanilla ice cream for an irresistible combination.
• Master Baking Skills: Learn essential baking techniques like kneading dough, working with yeast, and creating balanced filling while enjoying a delicious result that boosts cooking confidence.
• Seasonal Delight Maker: Celebrate autumn flavors with this recipe that beautifully incorporates warm cinnamon and fresh apples, making it an ideal seasonal comfort food for gatherings and cozy afternoons.

Gather These Ingredients for Apple Cinnamon Rolls & Ice Cream

• Flour: A key ingredient that provides structure and texture to the cinnamon rolls.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning.
• Yeast: Essential for helping the dough rise and creating a light, fluffy texture.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the rolls.
• Ground Cinnamon: Provides a warm, aromatic spice to the dough.

• Milk: Adds moisture and helps activate the yeast.
• Butter: Provides richness and helps create a tender dough.
• Eggs: Contribute to the structure and richness of the rolls.

• Apples, Brown Sugar, Ground Cinnamon: Create a sweet and spicy fruit filling.
• Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and prevents the apples from browning.
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken the apple filling and prevent excess moisture.

• Powdered Sugar, Milk, Vanilla Extract: Combine to make a smooth, sweet glaze for the rolls.

• Vanilla Ice Cream: Provides a cold, creamy contrast to the warm, spiced rolls.

Baking Apple Cinnamon Rolls With a Chilly Twist

Step 1: Whisk Dry Ingredients

Create a delightful base by mixing flour, sugar, yeast, salt, and ground cinnamon in a large mixing bowl.

Blend these ingredients thoroughly to ensure a perfect foundation for your rolls.

Step 2: Combine Wet Components

In a separate bowl, gently mix warmed milk, melted butter, and eggs.

Whisk these ingredients until they’re smoothly integrated and create a silky liquid mixture.

Step 3: Merge Flour and Liquid

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring consistently.

Gradually incorporate additional flour until a soft, pillowy dough emerges.

The texture should feel smooth and pliable.

Step 4: Knead With Love

Transfer the dough onto a flour-dusted surface.

Knead the dough with your hands for 5-7 minutes, working it until it becomes elastic and develops a silky smooth consistency.

Step 5: Allow Dough to Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rest in a warm location.

Allow the dough to double in size, which typically takes about an hour.

Step 6: Craft Apple Filling

• Diced apples
• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Lemon juice
• Cornstarch

Stir these ingredients until they form a cohesive, fragrant mixture.

Step 7: Spread and Roll Dough

Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down.

Roll it into a rectangular shape about 1/4 inch thick.

Evenly distribute the apple filling across the entire surface.

Step 8: Create Cinnamon Roll Log

Starting from the longest edge, tightly roll the dough into a beautiful log.

Pinch the seam to ensure it stays sealed during baking.

Step 9: Slice into Perfect Portions

Carefully cut the log into 12 equal sections.

Arrange these rolls in a greased baking dish, ensuring they have enough space to expand.

Step 10: Final Rising Period

Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for 30-45 minutes.

They should become wonderfully puffy and soft.

Step 11: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat the oven to 350F.

Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes until they transform into a gorgeous golden brown color.

Step 12: Prepare Creamy Icing

Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl.

Mix until the icing reaches a smooth, drizzling consistency.

Step 13: Serve and Enjoy

Generously drizzle the icing over warm rolls.

Crown each roll with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.

Tips for Melting Ice Cream Over Warm Cinnamon Rolls

• Drain excess liquid from diced apples before adding to filling to ensure crisp texture and prevent watery rolls.
• Place dough in a warm, draft-free area like inside an unheated oven with the light on for consistent, even rising.
• Roll dough tightly and evenly when making the log to achieve beautiful, uniform cinnamon roll spirals.
• Tent rolls with aluminum foil halfway through baking if they're browning too quickly to prevent burning.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the apple filling for a more complex, aromatic taste profile.

Apple Cinnamon Rolls Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 34 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Warm, gooey Apple Cinnamon Rolls topped with creamy vanilla ice cream offer a delightful dance of flavors. Comfort meets indulgence in this irresistible dessert you’ll savor with pure culinary bliss.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients for Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup milk (warmed)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Filling Ingredients:

• 2 cups apples (peeled and diced, Granny Smith or preferred variety)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Topping and Finishing Ingredients:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Vanilla ice cream (for serving)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. In a spacious mixing vessel, amalgamate flour, sugar, yeast, salt, and ground cinnamon, creating a harmonious dry foundation.
2. Gently warm milk and butter, then incorporate eggs into the liquid mixture, ensuring smooth integration.
3. Gradually merge wet and dry ingredients, folding consistently until a supple dough emerges, adjusting flour proportions as needed.
4. Transfer dough onto a lightly dusted work surface, kneading methodically for 6-8 minutes until achieving a silky, elastic consistency.
5. Nestle dough into a greased container, drape with a soft cloth, and allow rising in a draft-free environment for approximately 60 minutes until volume doubles.
6. Craft apple filling by combining diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch, creating a fragrant and cohesive mixture.
7. Deflate risen dough and roll into a thin rectangular canvas, extending to roughly 1/4 inch thickness.
8. Distribute apple filling evenly across dough surface, then tightly roll from the lengthwise edge, ensuring a secure, compact cylinder.
9. Slice the log into 12 uniform segments, arranging them strategically within a prepared 9×13-inch baking vessel.
10. Shield rolls with a lightweight cloth, permitting a secondary rise lasting 35-40 minutes until they appear plump and pillowy.
11. Heat oven to 350F, positioning rack in central position. Bake rolls for 25-30 minutes until achieving a rich, golden-brown complexion.
12. Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract into a smooth, glossy icing with a consistent, drizzle-friendly texture.
13. Lavish warm rolls with icing and crown each serving with a generous scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream.

Notes

• Choose firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor balance in the filling.
• Ensure milk is warm but not hot when mixing with yeast to prevent killing the active cultures and blocking proper dough rising.
• Use room temperature eggs and butter for smoother dough integration and more consistent texture.
• Replace regular flour with a cup-for-cup gluten-free blend and add xanthan gum for better structure.

• Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 266 kcal
• Sugar: 17 g
• Sodium: 110 mg
• Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 43 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 42 mg