There’s something magical about the combination of warm cinnamon rolls and sweet, gooey apples. Therefore, this Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just two simple ingredients, and comes together in less than an hour!
But don’t let the simplicity fool you—this dish is bursting with rich cinnamon flavor and the delightful sweetness of apples. Moreover, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Chef’s Feedback: A Recipe That Brings Back Memories
“The first time I made this recipe was during a family camping trip. We threw it together in a cast-iron Dutch oven, placed it over the fire, and within an hour, we had the most incredible dessert. As a result, the warm, spiced aroma filled the air, and every bite was pure heaven! Since then, it has become a family tradition, especially during the holidays or lazy weekend mornings.”
Now, before we dive into the recipe, let’s explore what makes this dish so special.
Introduction to Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake
What Is Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake?
Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake is a quick and easy baked dish made by combining chopped cinnamon rolls with apple pie filling. As it bakes, the cinnamon rolls puff up, soaking in the apple juices and creating a soft, gooey, caramelized texture. Finally, the dish is topped with a drizzle of sweet icing, making it absolutely irresistible!
“This dish is like a cross between a sticky bun and an apple cobbler—warm, soft, and downright delicious.”
Why You’ll Love This Easy Recipe
This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s also:
✅ Super simple to make – Requires only two main ingredients. Thus, even beginner bakers can make it effortlessly.
✅ Quick to prepare – Takes about 10 minutes of prep time, so you can have a warm treat in no time.
✅ Perfect for any occasion – Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. On the other hand, it also makes a fantastic holiday dish.
✅ A total crowd-pleaser – Kids and adults love it! In addition, it’s a hit at potlucks and family gatherings.
✅ Customizable – You can add nuts, caramel, or even extra spices to suit your taste.
The Best Occasions to Serve It
Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake is so versatile that you can enjoy it in many ways. For instance, you can serve it during:
- Weekend Breakfasts – Serve it alongside eggs and bacon for a full meal.
- Holiday Mornings – A no-fuss dish that makes the house smell amazing! Therefore, it’s perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas brunch.
- Dessert Night – Just add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
- Potlucks & Gatherings – Easy to make for a large group, and most importantly, everyone will love it!
Nutrition Facts & Ingredients
Before we move on to how to make it, here’s a quick nutrition breakdown for one serving:
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 464 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 81g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Sugar | 38g |
| Sodium | 768mg |
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pillsbury Grands! Cinnamon Rolls | 2 tubes (17.5 oz each) |
| Apple Pie Filling | 2 cans (21 oz each) |
| Icing (from cinnamon rolls) | For drizzling |
Now that you know what you need, let’s explore Part 2, where we’ll discuss the best ingredients and substitutes, including homemade apple pie filling and alternative dough options! Stay tuned! 😊
For more comforting breakfast ideas, check out our Baked Egg Casserole with Crackers, another easy dish that’s perfect for busy mornings.
Ingredients & Substitutes
Two Simple Ingredients for the Easiest Recipe
One of the best things about Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake is that it requires only two basic ingredients. Therefore, even beginner bakers can whip up this dish effortlessly.
✅ Cinnamon Rolls: Pre-packaged, refrigerated Pillsbury Grands! Cinnamon Rolls work best because they are soft, buttery, and rise beautifully when baked.
✅ Apple Pie Filling: Canned apple pie filling is the easiest option. However, if you prefer homemade, that’s a great alternative too!
For this recipe, Pillsbury Grands Cinnamon Rolls work best because they are soft, buttery, and rise beautifully. If you’re curious about the different types of cinnamon rolls you can buy, visit Pillsbury’s Cinnamon Rolls Page to see your options.
Homemade vs. Store-Bought Apple Pie Filling
While canned apple pie filling is a time-saver, making your own is a fantastic way to control the flavor and sweetness. In addition, homemade filling allows you to adjust the sugar level based on your preference.
Here’s an easy homemade apple pie filling recipe:
Homemade Apple Pie Filling Recipe
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Apples (peeled & sliced) | 4 medium apples |
| Brown sugar | ½ cup |
| Cinnamon | 1 tsp |
| Nutmeg | ½ tsp |
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp |
| Cornstarch | 1 tbsp |
| Water | ½ cup |
Steps to Make It:
- Heat a pan over medium heat and melt the butter.
- Add apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Stir well.
- Mix cornstarch with water, then pour it into the pan.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes until the apples are soft and the mixture thickens. As a result, the filling becomes rich and flavorful.
- Remove from heat and let it cool before using.
Alternative Dough Options
If you don’t have cinnamon rolls, here are some other options. On the other hand, each alternative will slightly change the texture:
- Crescent Rolls: These create a flakier texture and work well when rolled with cinnamon sugar.
- Biscuit Dough: Adds a slightly denser, more buttery consistency.
- Puff Pastry: Gives the dish a light, crisp texture. However, this option requires a shorter baking time.
Healthier Swaps for a Lighter Version
For a healthier version, consider these substitutions:
- Use low-sugar apple pie filling or homemade apples with natural sweeteners.
- Swap regular cinnamon rolls for whole wheat or reduced-fat versions. In addition, this will reduce calories and processed ingredients.
- Use Greek yogurt glaze instead of traditional icing to cut sugar.
Now that we have the ingredients ready, let’s move on to the exciting part—making the Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake!
If you’re curious about different types of cinnamon roll dough and how they bake, you might enjoy this helpful guide from Pillsbury.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake
Prepping the Ingredients: Cutting & Mixing
Before you start baking, here’s how to prepare the ingredients:
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13″ baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2️⃣ Cut the Cinnamon Rolls: Open the cinnamon roll package and set aside the icing for later. Cut each roll into four smaller pieces. This step ensures the cinnamon rolls bake evenly.
3️⃣ Mix with Apple Pie Filling: In a large bowl, combine the chopped cinnamon rolls and apple pie filling. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated. Thus, every bite will have a perfect balance of apples and cinnamon.
“The apple filling will soak into the cinnamon rolls, creating a soft, caramelized texture.”
The Best Baking Dish to Use
Using a 9×13″ baking dish allows the rolls to bake evenly without overcrowding. However, if making a smaller batch, an 8×8″ dish works too.
Oven Temperature & Baking Time for the Perfect Texture
✅ Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes until golden brown.
✅ If using a smaller dish, reduce the bake time to 25-30 minutes. Otherwise, the rolls may become overcooked.
“If the center still looks doughy, bake for an extra 5 minutes until fully cooked.”
How to Tell When It’s Done: Avoiding Doughy Centers
To check if it’s ready:
✔ The cinnamon rolls should be golden brown on top.
A toothpick inserted in the middle should come out clean.
✔ The dish should feel firm but soft inside. In other words, it should not be raw or overly dry.
Drizzling the Icing for the Best Gooey Finish
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Then, drizzle the reserved icing over the top for a delicious, gooey finish.
“If you love extra sweetness, try adding a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of powdered sugar!”
Tips & Tricks for the Best Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake Extra Gooey & Caramelized
If you love your Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake to be extra gooey and soft, you’re not alone! In fact, that warm, sticky texture is what makes this dish so irresistible.
First of all, try adding a bit more apple pie filling than the recipe calls for. When you do this, the cinnamon rolls soak up even more of that sweet, spiced apple goodness. However, be careful not to go overboard, or the rolls might turn too mushy.
Next, sprinkle a little brown sugar and melted butter on top before baking. This simple trick helps create a delicious caramel layer that gives every bite even more flavor.
Finally, if you want the inside to stay soft but the top to turn golden, cover the baking dish with foil for the first half of the baking time. Then, uncover it for the rest. That way, everything bakes evenly while the top gets just the right amount of crispiness.
“These small tricks make a big difference when you want the ultimate gooey, caramelized Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake.”
Add-Ins to Boost Flavor
Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake is already tasty, but with a few extra ingredients, you can make it even more exciting.
Here are a few ideas:
✅ Chopped Pecans or Walnuts: These add a crunchy bite that contrasts nicely with the soft cinnamon rolls.
Golden Raisins or Dried Cranberries: These give a little chewy texture, plus they add natural sweetness.
✅ Caramel Drizzle: A little extra caramel on top after baking makes this dish feel like something straight out of a bakery.
In addition, if you’re a fan of warm spices, sprinkle a touch of nutmeg or cloves into the apple pie filling before mixing.
How to Make It in a Slow Cooker
If you want to save oven space (or just want a set-it-and-forget-it option), you can absolutely make Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake in a slow cooker.
Here’s how:
- Grease the slow cooker with butter or non-stick spray.
- Cut the cinnamon rolls and mix them with the apple pie filling.
- Pour everything into the slow cooker and spread it into an even layer.
- Cover and cook on Low for about 2 to 2½ hours until the cinnamon rolls are fully baked.
- Once done, drizzle the icing over the top and serve warm.
As you can see, the slow cooker method makes this dish even easier. Plus, your house will smell amazing while it cooks!
“The slow cooker version is great for busy mornings, especially when you want a warm treat ready without much work!”
Making a Smaller Batch for Fewer Servings
If you’re only cooking for a small group (or just yourself), you can cut the recipe in half with no trouble at all.
- Use 1 tube of cinnamon rolls instead of 2.
- Use 1 can of apple pie filling instead of 2.
- Bake in an 8×8-inch dish instead of a large 9×13 pan.
That way, you still get all the flavor without having leftovers for days—unless that’s exactly what you want!
Serving Suggestions
Best Ways to Enjoy Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake
One of the best things about Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake is that it works for both breakfast and dessert.
For Breakfast: Serve it warm, straight from the oven, alongside some scrambled eggs and crispy bacon. In addition, a glass of milk or a cup of coffee pairs perfectly with the sweet, cinnamon flavors.
For Dessert: Want to turn it into a fancy dessert? Simply add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Then, drizzle on some warm caramel sauce or even whipped cream.
Overall, whether you serve it first thing in the morning or as a sweet treat after dinner, Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake always hits the spot.
What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake
If you want to make Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake part of a full meal, here are a few tasty ideas for sides:
✅ Scrambled Eggs or Omelets: The savory eggs balance out the sweet bake.
✅ Crispy Bacon or Sausage: A little saltiness makes the cinnamon and apples taste even better.
Fresh Fruit: A bowl of berries, apple slices, or orange wedges adds a fresh, juicy contrast.
✅ Yogurt Parfaits: A little vanilla yogurt with granola and fruit works great alongside the bake.
For dessert time, you could also serve:
✅ Vanilla Ice Cream (because warm and cold together is magic!)
Whipped Cream with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top
✅ Hot Caramel Sauce for extra sweetness
Pairing It with Drinks: Coffee, Tea, or Cocoa
A delicious dish like Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake deserves a perfect drink to go with it.
☕ Coffee: A strong cup of coffee (hot or iced) helps balance out the sweetness.
🍵 Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai blend beautifully with the cinnamon apple flavors.
🍫 Hot Chocolate: If you’re serving this as dessert, a cup of creamy cocoa makes the perfect pairing.
“No matter when or how you serve it, this bake is sure to become a family favorite.”
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
How to Store Leftover Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake
After you’ve enjoyed your Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake, you might find yourself with a few leftovers. Therefore, it’s important to store them correctly to keep the bake fresh.
First of all, let the bake cool down to room temperature. Then, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Alternatively, you can transfer individual pieces to an airtight container. This way, the cinnamon rolls stay soft and moist instead of drying out.
You can store Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, for the best taste and texture, it’s ideal to enjoy it within the first two days.
Reheating for That Freshly Baked Taste
When you’re ready to eat your leftover Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake, you can easily warm it up.
✅ For single servings, microwave a piece for 15 to 30 seconds. This method makes the rolls soft again, and the apples get warm and gooey.
✅ For larger portions, cover the baking dish with foil and place it in a 300°F oven for about 10-15 minutes.
“Reheating brings back that fresh-from-the-oven taste everyone loves.”
If you want to make it even better, you can drizzle on extra icing or caramel after reheating. As a result, you’ll get a treat that’s just as tasty as when it was freshly baked.
Can You Freeze Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake?
Yes! If you want to save some for later, freezing Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake works well. However, it’s important to wrap it tightly to protect against freezer burn.
✅ Cut the bake into squares and wrap each square in plastic wrap.
Place the wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container.
✅ Freeze for up to 2 months.
To reheat from frozen, thaw the bake overnight in the fridge. Then, warm it up using the microwave or oven. That way, you get that warm, gooey goodness all over again.
Make-Ahead Tips for Busy Mornings
If your mornings are always rushed, making Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake ahead of time is a lifesaver.
✅ Simply assemble the dish the night before, then cover it and place it in the fridge.
In the morning, take the dish out while the oven preheats.
✅ Bake as directed — however, if the dish is still cold, you may need to add about 5 extra minutes.
By preparing ahead, you’ll have a homemade breakfast ready with almost no work in the morning. As a result, you can enjoy a warm treat without the usual morning chaos.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Why Is My Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake Doughy?
One of the most common problems people face when making Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake is a doughy center. If your bake feels undercooked, several things could be the cause.
❌ First, the oven might not have been fully preheated. Always give your oven enough time to heat properly before you start baking.
❌ Second, the cinnamon rolls might have been too crowded. When the pieces are packed too tightly, the middle can’t bake evenly.
❌ Finally, the bake may have been taken out too early. Even if the top looks done, the center might need a few extra minutes.
To fix this, simply tent the dish with foil (to avoid over-browning the top) and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes. This step helps the center cook through while keeping the top perfect.
How to Keep It from Getting Too Dry
On the other hand, some people worry about their Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake turning out too dry. Fortunately, this is easy to prevent.
✅ Make sure you add enough apple pie filling — in fact, it’s the filling that keeps everything soft and moist as it bakes.
✅ Don’t overbake! As soon as the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean, the bake is ready.
✅ If you plan to reheat leftovers, cover the dish with foil to lock in moisture. That way, the cinnamon rolls won’t dry out when you warm them up.
“The perfect Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake should be soft inside with a golden, slightly crisp top.”
The Right Way to Mix Without Breaking the Dough
When mixing the cinnamon roll pieces with the apple pie filling, be gentle. If you stir too roughly, the rolls can break into tiny bits, which changes the texture.
✅ Use a large spoon and stir slowly to coat everything evenly.
✅ In addition, if the rolls are a bit sticky after cutting, dust your hands with flour to make mixing easier.
By mixing gently, you’ll keep those beautiful swirls of cinnamon in each piece — and that’s what makes Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake so fun to eat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Fresh Apples Instead of Canned Apple Pie Filling?
Yes, you definitely can! However, if you choose to use fresh apples, you’ll need to prepare them a bit differently. First of all, peel and slice about 4 medium apples. Then, toss them with sugar, cinnamon, and a splash of lemon juice. However, keep in mind that fresh apples may not be as soft and sweet as canned filling. Therefore, you might want to cook them briefly in a pan before mixing them with the cinnamon rolls.
“Using fresh apples can give your Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake a more homemade flavor, but canned filling is quicker and easier.”
What’s the Best Way to Make Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake Without an Oven?
If you don’t have an oven, you can still enjoy this recipe. In fact, there are several creative ways to bake it using other appliances.
- In a slow cooker: Prepare the bake exactly as you normally would. Then, cook it on Low for 2-2.5 hours.
- In an air fryer: Use a smaller baking dish that fits inside your air fryer basket. Set the air fryer to 325°F and cook for about 20-25 minutes. Be sure to check halfway through.
- Over a campfire: If you’re camping, place the bake in a Dutch oven and cook it over hot coals for about 30-40 minutes. Rotate the pot a few times to cook it evenly.
Therefore, whether you’re at home or outdoors, Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake can still be on the menu!
How Do I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
If you follow a gluten-free diet, you can still enjoy this tasty bake. Simply replace the regular cinnamon rolls with gluten-free refrigerated dough. In addition, check the label on your apple pie filling to make sure it’s gluten-free. Some brands, especially store brands, may add thickeners that contain gluten.
By making these small swaps, you can still bake a comforting and safe version of Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake.
Can I Prepare Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake the Night Before?
Absolutely! In fact, this is one of the reasons this recipe is so popular for holidays and busy mornings. To prepare ahead, just assemble everything in your baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight.
Then, the next morning, preheat your oven and bake it as usual. Since the dish will be cold, you may need to add 5 extra minutes to the baking time.
“Prepping the night before means you get a fresh, warm breakfast with no morning mess!”
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
Why Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake Will Become a Family Favorite
If you’re searching for a recipe that’s simple yet delicious, Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake checks all the boxes. With just two main ingredients, it’s nearly impossible to mess up. At the same time, the flavor feels like something you’d find at a bakery.
In addition, this bake works for both breakfast and dessert. Whether you’re hosting brunch, making a quick family breakfast, or needing a last-minute dessert, this dish fits perfectly. Plus, you can add extras like nuts, raisins, or caramel to make it your own.
Therefore, once you try this recipe, it’s almost guaranteed to become a regular in your kitchen.
Try It & Share Your Experience
Now that you know how easy and fun it is to make Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake, why not try it this weekend? Once you taste it, you’ll understand why so many families keep this recipe in their favorites folder.
If you love experimenting, you could even swap the apples for other fruits like peaches or berries. No matter how you customize it, the gooey cinnamon goodness will always shine through.
“Sometimes the easiest recipes are the ones we love the most, and Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake proves that!”
For more easy and delicious recipes, be sure to check out other breakfast and dessert ideas online!