Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie is just what you need. It’s the perfect blend of gooey apple filling and soft, fluffy cinnamon roll dough, making it an absolute favorite in my kitchen. Whenever I bake this delightful treat, the aroma wafts through my home, inviting everyone to gather around and enjoy a slice (or two!).

This recipe is fantastic for busy weeknights when you want something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s also great for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Trust me; once you try this Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie, it’ll quickly become your go-to dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: This recipe comes together in just about 35 minutes—perfect for those last-minute dessert cravings!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves cinnamon rolls and apples! This dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep the filling ahead of time, making it easy to whip up this delicious dessert whenever you need it.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet apples paired with cinnamon roll dough create an irresistible flavor that’s hard to beat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need much for this recipe—just simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry! Let’s gather everything we need to create this comforting dessert.

For the Filling

• 1 21oz can apple pie filling
• 4 medium apples (peeled, cored, and chopped or sliced)
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 3 tablespoons water
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (plus 1 teaspoon)
• 2 tablespoons water

For the Dough

• 1 package cinnamon rolls with frosting (refrigerated)

Variations

One of the best things about this Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie is how flexible it is! You can easily change things up based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Some Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Try Different Fruits: Substitute pears or peaches for a twist on classic flavors.
• Make It Caramel-Apple Style: Drizzle caramel sauce over the apple mixture before adding the dough for added sweetness.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger along with the cinnamon for a spiced version!

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by combining your apple pie filling with the fresh apples in a large bowl. Adding fresh apples gives a wonderful texture and flavor to your pie. Sprinkle in the sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch; mix well until everything is coated. The cornstarch will help thicken the filling as it bakes, ensuring each bite is perfectly satisfying.

Step 2: Cook the Apples

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and add your apple mixture along with three tablespoons of water. Stir occasionally until the apples soften slightly—about 5 minutes. This step enhances their natural sweetness and creates that warm, comforting flavor we all love.

Step 3: Assemble Your Pie

While your apple filling cools slightly, preheat your oven according to the cinnamon rolls package instructions. Open the package of cinnamon rolls and unroll each one into a flat strip. Take about half of them to line a baking dish or pie pan evenly along the bottom and sides.

Step 4: Fill and Top

Pour your warm apple filling into the prepared crust made from cinnamon rolls. Then take the remaining strips of dough and weave them over the top like a lattice. This not only looks beautiful but also allows those lovely apple flavors to peek through!

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Pop your pie into the oven and bake according to the cinnamon roll package instructions—usually around 20 minutes—until golden brown. Keep an eye on it; if it browns too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.

Step 6: Frost and Serve

Once baked, remove from oven and drizzle with frosting from your cinnamon roll package while it’s still warm. This adds an extra layer of sweetness that complements the apples perfectly! Let it cool slightly before slicing, then enjoy every gooey bite of this delightful Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie!

Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

Making a delicious Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie is all about the little details that can elevate your dessert from good to unforgettable. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your pie turns out perfectly!

• Choose the right apples: Opt for a mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, for a balanced flavor profile that enhances the overall taste of your pie.
• Soften the cinnamon roll dough: Allow the cinnamon rolls to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before using them. This makes them easier to stretch and mold around your apple filling, resulting in a more uniform pie.
• Don’t overfill: While it might be tempting to pack in as much apple filling as possible, overfilling can cause the pie to burst during baking. Aim for a generous but manageable amount of filling for best results.
• Use cornstarch wisely: Mixing cornstarch with water before adding it to your apple mixture helps prevent lumps and ensures that your filling thickens nicely while baking.
• Let it cool before serving: Allowing your Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie to cool for at least 10-15 minutes after baking will help set the filling and make it easier to slice without making a mess.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

Serving your Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie should be as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas on how you can present this scrumptious dessert to impress family and friends.

Garnishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on top adds a luxurious touch and beautifully contrasts with the warm pie.
• Whipped topping: Light and fluffy whipped topping drizzled over each slice creates an inviting presentation while enhancing the flavors.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon on top not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also boosts that comforting cinnamon flavor we all love.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers a nice contrast to the warm pie and adds brightness to your dessert table.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea complements the sweetness of the pie while providing a cozy atmosphere perfect for dessert time.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each slice adds an extra layer of indulgence that pairs beautifully with the apples and cinnamon.
• Nutty granola: A side of crunchy nutty granola provides texture contrast, making each bite even more enjoyable while enhancing the overall flavor experience.

Now you’re ready to create this delightful Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie! Enjoy every moment of baking and sharing this charming dessert with loved ones. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it in various ways, ensuring you have a delicious dessert ready whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pie to cool completely before storing.
• Place it in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze the pie, ensure it’s cooled down first.
• Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the pie on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil to prevent over-browning.
• Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also warm individual slices in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful dessert!

Can I use fresh apples instead of canned filling for Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie?

Absolutely! Using fresh apples gives a wonderful texture and flavor. Just be sure to sauté them with sugar, cinnamon, and water until they’re tender before adding them to your cinnamon roll crust.

How do I make my Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie even sweeter?

If you’re looking for extra sweetness, you can add a bit more sugar to the apple filling or drizzle additional frosting over the top after baking. A sprinkle of caramel sauce would also enhance its sweetness beautifully!

What should I serve with Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie?

This dessert pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. A scoop on top will create a delicious contrast with the warm apple filling.

Can I make Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie gluten-free?

Yes! Look for gluten-free cinnamon rolls at your local grocery store, and ensure your apple filling is made from gluten-free ingredients.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie brings warmth and joy into your kitchen! It’s such a special treat that combines two beloved desserts into one comforting dish. I encourage you to give it a try, savor each delicious bite, and share it with family or friends. Happy baking!