If you're looking for a dessert that combines the coziness of warm spices with the irresistible aroma of fresh dough, these cinnamon apple rolls are just the thing. Perfect for a weekend treat or a special occasion, these fried rolls are a delightful blend of fluffy dough, tender apples, and a hint of cinnamon sugar.
Let’s begin with the dough. In a mixing bowl, combine 500 grams of flour, 220 ml of lukewarm milk, 80 grams of sugar, 60 grams of softened butter, 30 grams of fresh yeast, 1 egg, and the zest of one lemon. Mix everything together to form a smooth, elastic dough. If you're kneading by hand, it might take about 8-10 minutes. Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let the dough rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size—this usually takes about an hour.
Once the dough has risen, give it a quick knead to release the air and let it rest again until it rises a second time. The double rise ensures that your rolls will be soft and airy.
Now it’s time to prepare the filling. Peel 3 to 4 apples and chop them into small cubes. Toss the apples with a tablespoon of sugar and a teaspoon of cinnamon, mixing well to coat them evenly. Set the mixture aside while you roll out the dough.
Roll the dough out into a rectangle, as shown in the photos if you're following along visually. Brush the surface of the dough with a beaten egg to create a sticky base for the filling. Spread the cinnamon-coated apples evenly across the dough, leaving a small border—about 2 centimeters—on one side. This border helps seal the roll later.
Starting from the apple-covered edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into even rounds, about 2-3 centimeters thick. Place the rolls on a floured tray, cover them, and let them rise for another 30 minutes. This final rise is crucial for achieving the perfect texture when frying.
To fry, heat a generous amount of oil in a deep pan or pot over medium heat. You'll know the oil is ready when a wooden spoon handle dipped into it produces small bubbles. Carefully place a few rolls into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them on each side for about 2-3 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Remove the rolls from the oil and drain them on paper towels.
While still warm, toss the fried rolls in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for a final layer of sweetness and spice. The sugar coating adds a lovely crunch, complementing the soft and fragrant interior.
Serve these rolls warm and watch them disappear! They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them an ideal treat for any time of day.
