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Apple Pie Cinnamon Roll Bake

A cozy, pull-apart bake that combines the comforting flavors of apple pie and cinnamon rolls for a delightful dessert.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Brunch, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Apple 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.
  • 1 pinch salt
For the Cinnamon Rolls
  • 1 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)
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1-2 tbsp milk or cream
  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9-inch baking dish or similar ovenproof pan.
Cook the Apples
  1. In a medium skillet, melt 1/4 cup butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine.
  3. Sprinkle in the cornstarch and cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the mixture is syrupy, about 8-10 minutes.
Assemble the Bake
  1. Place four cinnamon rolls in the bottom of the prepared dish, pressing them gently so they nest together.
  2. Spoon half the apple mixture over the rolls, spreading evenly but leaving some spiral texture visible.
  3. Add the remaining four rolls on top and spoon the remaining apples on top of them.
Bake
  1. Brush the tops with 2 tbsp melted butter for extra browning if desired.
  2. 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.
Glaze and Serve
  1. Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes so the filling sets slightly.
  2. Warm the canned icing or whisk together the powdered sugar glaze and drizzle over the warm bake.
  3. Serve slightly warm using a spatula to scoop generous portions.

Notes

Fresh apples give the best texture; frozen can be used but thaw and drain excess liquid. You can make it dairy-free by using plant-based butter and coconut milk in the glaze. It can also be assembled and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.