Start by slicing the Gala apples into thin pieces and steaming them in apple cider for 8–10 minutes.

While the apples are cooling, grease a muffin pan with unsalted butter and coat the bottom with granulated sugar.

Roll out your cheater’s croissant dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle measuring approximately 10x24 inches and brush with melted butter.

Scatter the cooled apple slices over the dough, roll it into a cylinder, and slice into 12 equal pieces.

Cover the muffin pan and let the buns rise in a warm area until they double in size, about 2 to 2.5 hours.

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the buns for about 15 minutes, then press down gently and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes.

Allow the buns to cool slightly, then roll each in granulated sugar before transferring to a wire rack.