Step 1

Combine lukewarm water, 1/4 cup sugar, and yeast in a small bowl; set aside for 5-6 minutes or the mixture begins to bubble and the yeast has begun to activate.In a large bowl whisk the melted butter, egg, warm milk, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and then slowly whisk in 1 cup of flour then another cup. The mixture will begin to thicken, switch from the whisk to a wooden spoon, gradually add the rest of the flour, and continue mixing until the flour is fully combined. Turn the dough onto turn dough to a floured surface and knead for 5 minutes. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with plastic wrap, place in the microwave or oven ( turned off) for 90 minutes. Begin working on apple filling.When the dough has risen, remove the cover and punch it down then remove it from the bowl. Roll out on a floured surface into a 16x24 inch rectangle. Spread the 2 tablespoons of butter at room temperature evenly over the dough keeping 1/2 inch from the edges. Mix the brown sugar with the cinnamon and sprinkle evenly across the butter. Spread the apple mixture over the brown sugar as evenly as you can. Roll into a log, starting from one end to the other, lengthwise, so the log is 24 inches. Cut 2-inch slices, this will give you 12 cinnamon rolls or 3-inch slices for 8 big cinnamon rolls. Line a 9x13 baking pan with parchment paper and place the rolls on the paper about 1 inch apart. Cover with plastic wrap and allow to rise for 1 hour. About 20 minutes before the rolls are done rising heat the oven to 375 degrees. Bake the rolls for 20 minutes or until the edges are golden in color. Allow the rolls to cool for at least 15 minutes then top with cream cheese frosting and serve warm!

Step 2

While the dough is rising begin working on the apple filling. Heat a large skillet to medium/high heat and add 5 tablespoons of butter and stir until melted. Add the apples and sugar and saute until the apples are lightly caramelized. Remove the skillet from heat and set aside until you are ready to use.

Step 3

Mix cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt together with an electric or stand mixer on medium speed until the icing is light and fluffy.