The Ultimate Apple Pie Cinnamon Roll Bake
Imagine combining two of the most beloved desserts in American cuisine: the warm, gooey sweetness of cinnamon rolls and the spiced, fruity goodness of apple pie. That’s exactly what this Apple Pie Cinnamon Roll Bake delivers—a dish that’s as perfect for a holiday breakfast as it is for a comforting dessert.
This recipe takes the simplicity of store-bought cinnamon rolls and elevates them with fresh apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. In less than an hour, you’ll have a warm, indulgent bake that fills your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of fall. Whether served with coffee for brunch or topped with ice cream for dessert, this dish is bound to be a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Using store-bought cinnamon rolls saves time without compromising on flavor.
- Family-Friendly: Perfect for kids and adults alike, this dish combines nostalgic flavors with an exciting twist.
- Customizable: Add nuts, raisins, or a drizzle of caramel for extra flair.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a decadent breakfast, a sweet snack, or a show-stopping dessert.
The Secret to Perfect Apple Pie Cinnamon Roll Bake
The secret to making this dish shine is choosing the right apples and combining them with simple but flavorful ingredients. Granny Smith apples provide a tart contrast to the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls, while Honeycrisp apples bring a naturally sweet and crisp texture. Tossed with brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon, the apples create a luscious filling that perfectly complements the gooey rolls.
Ingredients for Apple Pie Cinnamon Roll Bake
For the Bake
- 2 cans store-bought cinnamon rolls: Include the icing packets for the final drizzle.
- 4 medium apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal for their balance of tartness and sweetness.
- ½ cup brown sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: The spice that ties the whole dish together.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: For richness and moisture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the warm, sweet flavors.
Optional Add-Ins
- ½ cup chopped nuts: Pecans or walnuts add a delightful crunch.
- Raisins or dried cranberries: For a fruity twist.
- Caramel sauce: Drizzle over the top for extra indulgence.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls
Open the cans of cinnamon rolls and set aside the icing packets for later. Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters and scatter them evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Apple Mixture
Peel and core the apples, then chop them into small, bite-sized pieces. In a large mixing bowl, combine the apples with the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Toss until the apples are fully coated.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Spoon the apple mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces, ensuring every bite gets a mix of both. If you’re using optional add-ins like nuts or raisins, sprinkle them over the top at this stage.
Step 5: Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes. To ensure the rolls cook evenly, cover the dish with foil for the first 20 minutes, then remove the foil to allow the top to brown.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touch
Remove the bake from the oven and let it cool for 5–10 minutes. Drizzle the reserved icing over the warm rolls, allowing it to melt slightly into the dish.
Serving Suggestions
- Breakfast or Brunch: Serve with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a comforting start to your day.
- Dessert: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent treat.
- Snack: Enjoy a warm slice on its own for an indulgent midday pick-me-up.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage: Cover the dish with plastic wrap or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 30 seconds, or reheat the entire dish in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10–15 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish the night before, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh the next morning.
2. Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade cinnamon roll recipe, feel free to use it. Just ensure they’re partially baked before assembling the dish.
3. What other fruits can I use?
Pears or peaches make great alternatives to apples, offering a slightly different flavor profile.
4. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free butter and icing alternatives. Many store-bought cinnamon rolls have dairy-free options.
5. How do I prevent the cinnamon rolls from drying out?
Cover the dish with foil during the first part of baking to trap steam and keep the rolls soft and moist.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
Apple Pie Cinnamon Roll Bake Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cans cinnamon rolls
- 4 medium apples chopped
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Cut cinnamon rolls into quarters and spread in dish.
- Toss apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, butter, and vanilla.
- Spoon apple mixture over cinnamon rolls.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes. Drizzle icing over the top and serve warm.