Apple Morning Buns

Apple Morning Buns are the perfect way to start your day with a sweet and satisfying treat. These buttery, flaky pastries are filled with a cinnamon-spiced apple filling and baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of coffee or as a weekend brunch delight, these buns will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously flaky – The dough is rich and buttery, creating a perfectly crisp and tender texture.
• Warm, spiced apple filling – The combination of cinnamon, sugar, and apples adds a cozy, comforting flavor.
• Great for make-ahead – You can prepare them the night before and bake them fresh in the morning.
• Perfect for any occasion – Whether it’s a holiday brunch or a weekday treat, these buns fit the bill.
• Homemade goodness – No preservatives, just fresh ingredients and a homemade touch.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• Active dry yeast
• Whole milk
• Eggs
• Salt
• Vanilla extract

Directions

1. Prepare the dough: Warm the milk and dissolve the yeast. Add flour, sugar, eggs, and butter, kneading until smooth. Let it rise until doubled in size.
2. Make the filling: Peel, core, and dice the apples. Cook them in a pan with butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until soft. Let cool.
3. Roll out the dough: On a floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle.
4. Add the filling: Spread the apple mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border.
5. Roll and cut: Roll the dough into a log and slice into buns.
6. Second rise: Place the buns in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise again until puffy.
7. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
8. Glaze (optional): Drizzle with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 12 buns
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Rise Time: 1.5-2 hours
• Bake Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 3 hours

Variations

• Nutty twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the apple filling for a crunchy texture.
• Caramel apple flavor: Drizzle caramel sauce over the baked buns for extra indulgence.
• Raisin addition: Mix raisins into the apple filling for added sweetness.
• Spiced variation: Enhance the filling with nutmeg or allspice for a deeper warm-spiced flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes or microwave for 20-30 seconds.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked buns on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

FAQs

How do I prevent my dough from being too sticky?

Ensure you’re using the right flour-to-liquid ratio and knead until the dough is smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour gradually.

Can I make these buns the night before?

Yes! Prepare them up to the second rise, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature before baking.

What are the best apples to use?

Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples work best because they hold their shape and have a nice balance of tart and sweet flavors.

Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, you can use pre-made puff pastry or refrigerated dough to save time.

Do I need to peel the apples?

Peeling is recommended for a smoother filling, but you can leave the skins on for extra fiber and texture.

How can I make these buns healthier?

Use whole wheat flour, reduce the sugar, and opt for coconut oil instead of butter.

Can I add a cream cheese frosting?

Absolutely! Mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract for a tangy-sweet topping.

Why didn’t my buns rise properly?

Your yeast might be expired, or the dough might have been in a drafty or cold environment. Ensure the milk is warm (not too hot) to activate the yeast properly.

Can I use a different spice blend?

Yes, try pumpkin spice, cardamom, or even a touch of ginger for a unique flavor.

What should I serve these buns with?

They pair perfectly with coffee, tea, or a cold glass of milk!

Conclusion

Apple Morning Buns are a delightful way to bring warmth and sweetness to your breakfast or brunch table. With their soft, flaky texture and cinnamon-spiced apple filling, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you make them fresh or prep them the night before, these homemade buns are worth every bite. Try them today and enjoy a homemade treat that feels like a bakery specialty!

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