Perfectly fluffy dough wrapping up the crisp tart apples and warm butter, sugar and cinnamon sauce make these apple pecan sweet rolls the perfect treat to celebrate the fall season.
Combine water and yeast in a large bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes to proof.
In a small pot over medium low heat combine butter and milk until butter is melted. Remove from heat and let cool to 110-115°F.
Add cooled milk-butter mixture, egg, salt and sugar to yeast mixture. With a wooden spoon or dough whisk, slowly mix in flour, 1 cup at a time.
Turn dough out on a well-floured surface. Knead the dough until a smooth ball forms.
Place dough in a warm area covered with a clean tea towel for one hour or until dough has doubled in size.
Prepare filling: In a sauté pan, add apples and 1 tablespoon of butter. Sauté until apples are tender, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool. In a small bowl, combine cinnamon and sugar.
Once dough has risen, roll out on a well-floured surface to about 12x24-inches.
Spread remaining softened butter on dough, sprinkle on cinnamon-sugar mixture and evenly spread out the cooled apples and pecans.
Starting with the short end, roll dough tightly. Pinch seam to seal. Cut into 1 inch rolls.
Place on a well-greased baking pan. Cover; let rise for 30 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Bake rolls for 25-35 minutes, until rolls are golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack.
Make the icing: mix together powder sugar, cinnamon and milk and pinch of salt in a small bowl.