Name: Apple Pie Cinnamon Roll Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 3 cups apples, peeled and diced (about 2 medium apples) (Use sweet-tart varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for balance.); 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tsp lemon juice (Keeps apples bright.); 1 tsp cornstarch (For a thicker filling.); 1 pinch salt; 1 can refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing (or 8 large homemade cinnamon roll spirals); 2 tbsp melted butter (Optional, brushed over rolls before baking.); 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1-2 tbsp milk or cream; 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

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Introduction

The idea came from using what I had on hand: refrigerated cinnamon rolls and one crisp apple. After a few tweaks simmering the apples in brown sugar and cinnamon before tucking them between the rolls I had something that made everyone at the table grin. The textures are what I love most: tender rolls, tender-caramelized apples, and a glossy glaze. If you enjoy layered apple desserts, you might also like my take on apple-cinnamon lasagna rolls which inspired some of my layering ideas: https://www.globalrecipe.net/apple-cinnamon-lasagna-rolls/.

What Makes This Recipe Special

There is something so comforting about the smell of cinnamon and warm apples filling the kitchen. I created this Apple Pie Cinnamon Roll Bake on a rainy afternoon when I wanted the nostalgia of apple pie but the simplicity of cinnamon rolls. The result is a cozy, pull-apart bake that tastes like apple pie hugged by soft, gooey cinnamon rolls. It’s a family favorite because it’s quick to assemble, delivers big flavor, and always feels like a special treat.

What You’ll Need

For the Filling

3 cups apples, peeled and diced (about 2 medium apples) – use sweet-tart varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for balance.
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp lemon juice (keeps apples bright)
1 tsp cornstarch (for a thicker filling)
Pinch of salt

For the Rolls

1 (8-count) can refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing (or 8 large homemade cinnamon roll spirals)
2 tbsp melted butter (optional, brushed over rolls before baking)

For the Glaze (optional if your cinnamon rolls come with icing)

1/2 cup powdered sugar
1-2 tbsp milk or cream
1/4 tsp vanilla extract

Notes

Fresh apples give the best texture; frozen can be used but thaw and drain excess liquid.
Gluten-free or dairy-free rolls work as substitutions if needed. For a lighter version, use lower-sugar cinnamon rolls.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preheat and prepare

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or similar ovenproof pan.

Step 2: Cook the apples (about 8-10 minutes)

In a medium skillet, melt 1/4 cup butter over medium heat.
Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine.
Sprinkle in the cornstarch and cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the mixture is syrupy, about 8-10 minutes. The apples should be soft but not completely mushy.

Step 3: Arrange the rolls (2 minutes)

Place four cinnamon rolls in the bottom of the prepared dish, pressing them gently so they nest together.
Spoon half the apple mixture over the rolls, spreading evenly but leaving some spiral texture visible.
Add the remaining four rolls on top and spoon the remaining apples on top of them. If using reserved icing, you can save it to spread on after baking.

Step 4: Optional butter brush and bake (35-40 minutes)

Brush the tops with 2 tbsp melted butter for extra browning if desired.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the apple filling bubbles at the edges. The visual cue is a deep golden top and bubbling filling.

Step 5: Glaze and rest (5-10 minutes)

Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes so the filling sets slightly.
Warm the canned icing or whisk together the powdered sugar glaze (powdered sugar, milk, vanilla) and drizzle over the warm bake. Serve slightly warm.

Step 6: Serve

Use a spatula to scoop generous portions. The inside should be pillowy rolls layered with glossy, spiced apples.

Expert Tips & Ideas

Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to avoid a mushy filling.
For extra texture, stir in 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple mixture before layering.
If using homemade cinnamon rolls, slightly underbake them by 5 minutes if you prefer a softer, gooey center.
To avoid a soggy bottom, drain any excess liquid from the cooked apples before layering, or add an extra 1/2 tsp cornstarch.
Make ahead: assemble in the dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5-10 minutes to baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Freezing: Freeze baked portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat covered at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through.
Dairy-free variation: use plant-based butter and coconut milk in the glaze.

How to Serve

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent dessert.
Pair with hot coffee, chai latte, or lightly steeped black tea for a cozy brunch.
Presentation tip: garnish with a light dusting of cinnamon or a few thin apple slices fanned on top just before serving.
Approximate serving size: makes 6-8 generous servings. Nutritional info will vary by roll brand and serving size.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes. Assemble the bake, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Bake from cold and add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Q: Can I use frozen apples or canned apples? A: Frozen thawed apples can work if drained well. Canned apples tend to be softer and sweeter; adjust sugar and reduce cooking time to avoid mushiness.

Q: Can I use plain sweet rolls or biscuit dough instead of cinnamon rolls? A: Yes, but flavor and texture will change. For cinnamon flavor, brush plain rolls with cinnamon sugar before assembling.

Q: How do I prevent the bake from becoming watery? A: Cook the apples down until the juices thicken and use a bit of cornstarch. Drain excess liquid before layering if needed.

Review

“This was an instant hit. The cinnamon rolls stay soft, the apple filling is perfectly spiced, and the whole thing tastes like a shortcut to homemade apple pie. Perfect for weekend brunch or a cozy night in.”

Conclusion

This Apple Pie Cinnamon Roll Bake is one of those recipes that brings people together simple ingredients, big comfort. If you want a slightly different two-ingredient shortcut idea using apples and cinnamon rolls, check out this related recipe for inspiration: 2 Ingredient Apple Cinnamon Roll Bake – I Wash You Dry (https://iwashyoudry.com/apple-cinnamon-roll-bake/). I hope you try it, share it, and tell me how your version turned out.