Name: Apple Currant Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup whole milk; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet); 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, diced and softened; 2 large eggs; 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt; 3 3/4 to 4 cups unbleached, all purpose flour; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 cup golden brown sugar, packed; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; Pinch of ground clove (about 1/8 teaspoon); 2 cups apples, diced (a mix of Granny Smith and Honey Crisp apples); 1/2 cup currants; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 8 ounces cream cheese; 3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla paste or vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe

If you adore the warmth of cinnamon rolls but are craving a fresh and fruity twist, these Apple Currant Cinnamon Rolls are an absolute must-try. Imagine soft, pillowy dough layered with a luscious cinnamon-spiced glaze, studded with tart currants and crisp apple pieces that add just the right balance of sweetness and tang. This recipe transforms a beloved classic into a vibrant, cozy treat perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any time you need a little homemade comfort. Let me share all the wonderful details for crafting these delightful Apple Currant Cinnamon Rolls that will have your kitchen smelling like heaven.

Apple Currant Cinnamon Rolls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays its part in creating the perfect harmony of softness, spice, and fruitiness. From the creamy richness of butter to the zing of fresh apples and the burst of dried currants, each element contributes to the irresistible magic of Apple Currant Cinnamon Rolls.

Whole milk, 1 cup: Warmed gently to activate the yeast and provide moisture for tender dough.
Granulated sugar, 1/3 cup: Adds just enough sweetness to feed the yeast and enrich the dough.
Active dry yeast, 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet): The essential leavening agent that creates fluffy rolls.
Unsalted butter, 6 tablespoons diced and softened: Brings richness and tenderness to the dough.
Large eggs, 2: Help bind the dough and contribute to its soft texture.
Coarse salt, 1/2 teaspoon: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor depth.
Unbleached all-purpose flour, 3 3/4 to 4 cups: The base that gives structure while keeping the rolls light.
Unsalted butter, 6 tablespoons melted: For the flavorful cinnamon glaze that melts into every bite.
Golden brown sugar, 1/2 cup packed: Deep, molasses undertones add warmth to the filling glaze.
Ground cinnamon, 1 tablespoon: The classic spice that makes these rolls unforgettable.
Ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon: Adds subtle earthiness to the spice mix.
Ground clove, pinch (about 1/8 teaspoon): Just a hint to add complexity to the flavor.
Apples, 2 cups diced: Crisp and tart varieties like Granny Smith and Honey Crisp provide contrast in texture and bright flavor.
Currants, 1/2 cup: These small dried fruits burst with a tart sweetness that complements the apples.
Unsalted butter, 1/2 cup softened: The base of the luscious cream cheese frosting.
Cream cheese, 8 ounces: Adds tangy creaminess for the perfect frosting balance.
Heavy whipping cream, 3 tablespoons: Lightens the frosting for a silky finish.
Powdered sugar, 2 cups: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for spreading.
Vanilla paste or extract, 1 teaspoon: Brings floral sweetness to brighten the frosting.

How to Make Apple Currant Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Activate the yeast and prepare your dough

Start by gently warming the milk to just over 100°F—perfect for waking up the yeast without killing it. Sprinkle your yeast and a touch of sugar over the milk and wait patiently; this little wait is where the bubbling magic begins. Once the yeast foams and smells delightfully yeasty, it signals a healthy start for your dough, ensuring those rolls will be wonderfully fluffy.

Step 2: Combine ingredients and knead the dough

With your stand mixer ready and fitted with the dough hook, you’ll add the softened butter, salt, the remaining sugar, and eggs, mixing just enough to bring everything together. Slowly introduce flour to form a soft but workable dough. Kneading at medium speed for about five minutes builds the gluten structure, giving your rolls their signature light and airy texture.

Step 3: First rise for doubling in size

Shape your dough into a ball and cover it to rest. Find a cozy, warm spot and let the dough double, which usually takes about an hour. This patience pays off—the fermentation process not only increases volume but also develops flavor, making each bite packed with that rich, homemade taste you love.

Step 4: Prepare the cinnamon glaze

Near the end of your dough’s rise, mix melted butter with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of clove. This glaze will coat the rolls in a shimmering layer of sticky spice warmth that perfectly balances the fresh fruit topping.

Step 5: Roll, fill, and slice

Once doubled, give your dough a gentle punch to release trapped air before rolling it into a large rectangle. Spread the cinnamon glaze evenly, then sprinkle diced apples and currants generously. Rolling it up tightly ensures even distribution of those delicious add-ins, and cutting into twelve equal pieces creates perfectly sized rolls for sharing or savoring alone.

Step 6: Second rise and baking

Place your rolls snugly in a greased pan and cover them once again to rise for 30 minutes—this final puff before baking sets the texture. Pop them into a 350°F oven for about 30 to 35 minutes until golden brown and irresistibly inviting. Your kitchen will smell fantastic at this point!

Step 7: Make the cream cheese frosting and serve

While the rolls bake, whip together butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and heavy cream to create a smooth, dreamy frosting. Spread it over the rolls when they’re still warm so it can melt into every crevice, adding that luscious finishing touch to your Apple Currant Cinnamon Rolls.

How to Serve Apple Currant Cinnamon Rolls

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top for crunch and an extra layer of nuttiness. A dusting of powdered sugar makes them look as pretty as they taste. A light drizzle of caramel sauce over the frosting can take these rolls to a whole new level of indulgence.

Side Dishes

Apple Currant Cinnamon Rolls pair wonderfully with a simple cup of freshly brewed coffee or a spiced chai latte. For brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit salad or a savory cheese platter to balance the sweetness with some savory notes on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your rolls warm in a rustic wooden board for a cozy, inviting look, or place individual rolls in pretty ramekins for an elegant touch. For parties, create a cinnamon roll bar with various toppings and spreads so guests can customize their own Apple Currant Cinnamon Rolls experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any uneaten rolls tightly wrapped or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them fresh and soft, so you can enjoy a quick snack or breakfast without losing that perfect chew.

Freezing

To keep your Apple Currant Cinnamon Rolls fresh for longer, freeze them in an airtight container or wrapped individually. They freeze beautifully for up to three months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm leftover rolls in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes or microwave for 20-30 seconds until soft and cozy. If you want, add a little extra frosting or butter before serving to bring back that just-baked magic.

FAQs

Can I use other dried fruits instead of currants?

Absolutely! Dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped dried apricots make delicious alternatives, each adding their unique flavor and texture while maintaining that wonderful fruity contrast.

Do I need a stand mixer to make these rolls?

While a stand mixer makes kneading easier and less hands-on, you can definitely mix and knead by hand. It just takes a bit more elbow grease and patience, but the results are just as rewarding.

Can I make these rolls vegan?

You can substitute dairy milk with plant-based milk, use vegan butter or coconut oil, and replace eggs with flax or chia egg substitutes. The cream cheese frosting can be made with vegan cream cheese and coconut cream for a similar creamy finish.

How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

Your dough is ready when it roughly doubles in size and looks puffy. A simple poke test can help: gently press your finger into the dough; if the indentation slowly springs back, it’s perfect for shaping and baking.

Can I prepare these rolls the night before?

Yes! You can prepare the rolls, cover them tightly, and refrigerate overnight after shaping. The cold slow rise will develop flavor and save time in the morning. Just let them come to room temperature and finish proving before baking.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about pulling warm Apple Currant Cinnamon Rolls fresh from the oven and sharing them with loved ones. This recipe brings together sweet cinnamon, tart fruit, and creamy frosting in a way that feels like a warm hug. I can’t wait for you to try making Apple Currant Cinnamon Rolls at home—they’re sure to become a treasured favorite in your recipe collection!

Apple Currant Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 10 reviews

Author: Ethan
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Apple Currant Cinnamon Rolls are a perfect blend of sweet and tart flavors with a rich cinnamon-spiced filling and a creamy cream cheese frosting. Soft, fluffy, and bursting with fruit, they make an irresistible breakfast or brunch treat that’s sure to delight everyone at the table.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough: Warm the milk to 105°F-110°F using a microwave or double boiler. Pour the milk into a stand mixer bowl and sprinkle yeast on top with a couple teaspoons of sugar, stirring gently. Let it activate in a warm area for 10-15 minutes until foamy and fragrant.
Mix Ingredients: Attach the dough hook and add the remaining sugar, salt, and softened diced butter. Mix on low speed until just combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing slowly to combine.
Add Flour & Knead: Gradually add 3 3/4 cups of flour and mix on medium speed until a soft dough forms. Add extra flour if dough is too sticky, up to 4 cups total. Knead on medium speed for 5 minutes until elastic and smooth.
First Rise: Shape dough into a ball and place it in a bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or a towel and let it rise in a warm spot or bread proofer until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
Prepare Filling Glaze: Near the end of rising, preheat oven to 350°F. Mix melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove together until smooth and keep warm.
Shape Rolls: Punch down dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a 12×18 inch rectangle. Spread filling glaze evenly, then sprinkle diced apples and currants over it.
Roll and Cut: Roll dough tightly into a log, pinch seam to seal. Trim about an inch off each tapered end. Slice log into 12 equal pieces for the rolls. Place rolls in a greased 9×13 baking dish and cover to rise again for 30 minutes.
Bake: Bake rolls in preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until golden brown on top.
Make Frosting: While rolls bake, beat softened butter and cream cheese until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then vanilla and heavy cream; whip until smooth.
Frost and Serve: Cool rolls for 5 minutes after baking, then spread frosting while still warm. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

If the dough is too sticky, add flour a tablespoon at a time to avoid dryness.
Letting the yeast fully activate ensures a good rise and soft texture.
Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for optimal flavor balance.
Currants add a lovely tartness but can be substituted with raisins if unavailable.
For a dairy-free option, substitute milk and butter with plant-based alternatives and use vegan cream cheese.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American