Gooey Caramel Apple and Cheddar Cinnamon Rolls

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Looking for a delightful blend of sweet and savory in one irresistible package? Meet these Gooey Caramel Apple and Cheddar Cinnamon Rolls. They meld warm cinnamon spices, gooey caramel, and tangy apples with the subtle creaminess of cheddar cheese. It’s a mouthwatering twist on a classic pastry that’ll leave your taste buds swooning.

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Ingredients

  • 1 (8-ounce) can of refrigerated crescent roll dough (or your favorite yeast dough)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • ¼ cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 cup peeled and diced apples (such as Granny Smith)
  • ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade) + extra for drizzling
  • Pinch of salt
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Instructions

Before you get started, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Unroll the crescent roll dough on a lightly floured surface and pinch any seams together if needed. Brush the melted butter evenly across the dough and sprinkle the brown sugar, cinnamon, and a small pinch of salt on top. Scatter the diced apples and shredded cheddar cheese all over the dough, making sure every bite will have a taste of that sweet-savory mix.

Next, drizzle half of the caramel sauce across your toppings. Starting from the thin end, gently roll the dough into a tight log—just be careful not to squeeze out the filling! Slice the log into about 8 equal rolls, then place them cut-side down in an 8-inch greased round baking dish or cake pan. Pop them in your preheated oven and bake for roughly 18-20 minutes, until they are lightly brown on top and the cheese is bubbling.

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Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool for a moment before drizzling the remaining caramel sauce on top. Serve warm and watch the smiles appear around the table.

These Gooey Caramel Apple and Cheddar Cinnamon Rolls bring together an unexpected combination that works beautifully for brunch, dessert, or a sweet snack. The cheddar creates a slight hint of savory goodness, while the tender apples and caramel keep it wonderfully sweet. Feel free to substitute your preferred cheese or swap out apples for pears if you like to experiment. They’re perfect for anyone who appreciates a creative twist on a tried-and-true classic—balanced in sweet and salty flavor, and easy to adapt for dietary needs by using whole wheats, gluten-free dough, or low-sugar options. Enjoy every last gooey bite!

Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.