Homemade Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Instructions

1. 1

   In a large bowl, combine 2-1/4 cups flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. In a small saucepan, heat milk, cider, and 1/4 cup butter to 120°-130°F. Add to dry ingredients and beat just until moistened. Add egg and beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft, sticky dough.

2. 2

   Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Cover and let rest for 10 minutes. Roll into a 15x10-inch rectangle. Spread remaining butter over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Combine the apples, brown sugar, walnuts, and cinnamon, then sprinkle over the butter.

3. 3

   Roll up the dough jelly-roll style, starting from the long side. Pinch the seam to seal. Cut into 12 slices and place cut-side down in a greased 13x9-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 325°F.

4. 4

   Bake the cinnamon rolls until golden brown, 30-35 minutes. For the frosting, place the cider and cinnamon stick in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil and cook until reduced to 1/4 cup, about 20 minutes. Discard the cinnamon stick and let the cider cool.

5. 5

   In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until fluffy. Add the confectioners' sugar and the reduced cider, then beat until smooth. Spread the frosting over the warm cinnamon rolls.