Salted Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Instructions

• Prepare the cinnamon roll dough and filling according to the recipe instructions.
• Add the apples and lemon juice to a medium microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 20-second increments, until the apples are softened and limp.
• Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9 x 13-inch (22x33 cm) baking dish with butter.
• Roll the dough into a large rectangle about ½-inch (1.24 cm) thick. Straighten the corners with a bench scraper to make sure they are sharp and even.
• Spread the filling evenly over the dough, then arrange the apple slices on top, leaving about ¼ inch (6 mm) between each slice. Try to keep your slices in straight rows, it's okay if the tips of the apple slices touch or overlap.
• Starting from a short end, roll the dough into a log and pinch the seam closed. Place the log seam-side down and trim off the uneven ends. Using unflavored dental floss or a sharp knife, cut the log into even pieces, each about 1½ inches (3 ½ cm) thick. Place the rolls in the prepared baking dish, cover with a kitchen towel, and set in a warm place for 35–45 minutes, until expanded in volume by about 50%. If not baking immediately, skip this step, cover with plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Bake the cinnamon rolls for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool for at least 10 minutes.
• While the cinnamon rolls bake, make the salted caramel sauce: Add the sugar to a small saucepan and cook over medium heat, swirling the pan occasionally but not stirring, until it starts to turn amber brown, 5–6 minutes.
• Add the butter and stir in until incorporated, 1-2 minutes..
• Slowly drizzle in the cream and whisk to combine. Boil for 1 minute, then remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla and flaky salt. Let cool and thicken slightly before using.
• Pour the salted caramel sauce over the cinnamon rolls, then serve.
• Enjoy!