Cinnamon roll apple pie is your shortcut to a gooey, sweet, and cinnamon-spiced dessert all in one. By simply combining pillowy cinnamon rolls with a luscious apple filling, you’ll have a bakery-quality treat ready to impress in no time. It’s surprisingly easy—perfect for both busy weeknights and special celebrations!
Ever find yourself craving the ultimate dessert fusion that feels both comforting and exciting? Dry crusts, bland fillings, or complicated steps can make apple pie feel out of reach, and cinnamon rolls might seem time-consuming to perfect. But here’s the sweet solution: this cinnamon roll apple pie recipe brings those two classic treats together in a way that’s simple, delicious, and foolproof.
In this article, you’ll learn how to flatten ready-made cinnamon roll dough, create a mouthwatering filling, and finish it all off with tips on storing, reheating, and garnishing—without the stress. Let’s get you baking the ultimate dessert mash-up!
Why You’ll Love Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie
If you’ve ever wondered why people can’t stop talking about apple pie cinnamon rolls or cinnamon roll apple pie cups, get ready for a treat. This recipe merges everything you love about classic cinnamon rolls and homemade apple pie into one unforgettable dessert. Here’s why it might become your new go-to sweet indulgence:
- Easy, Yet Impressive: Flattening your favorite store-bought dough, like pillsbury cinnamon rolls with apple pie filling, cuts down prep time. Anyone—from novices to seasoned home bakers—can tackle this.
- Rich, Comforting Flavor: The warm spice of cinnamon rolls and sweet tang of apple pie join forces, creating a melt-in-your-mouth center and a slightly crisp top layer.
- No-Fail Approach: Traditional pie crust can be temperamental. Using cinnamon roll dough eliminates guesswork—no risk of soggy bottoms here!
- Perfect for All Occasions: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a holiday gathering, cinnamon rolls and apple pie filling come together in a dessert that feels both fun and festive.
- Endless Variations: Love an extra-sugary topping? Craving a hint of caramel? There are countless ways to personalize this sweet treat, and we’ll talk about them soon.
Ready to get started? Great! Let’s stroll into the next section, where we’ll cover the simple yet flavorful ingredients you’ll need to whip up this cinnamon roll apple pie.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie
The heart of this dessert lies in blending basic essentials into a winning combination. Below, you’ll find the core items you need to build this sweet masterpiece. Feel free to adjust and get creative—cinnamon roll with apple pie filling is wonderfully adaptable!
- Cinnamon Roll Dough (Store-Bought or Homemade)
- Typically, 1 can (around 12–13 ounces) of pillsbury cinnamon rolls with apple pie filling works perfectly. Each roll contains the comforting cinnamon flavor that doubles as a crust.
- Apple Pie Filling
- 1 (20-ounce) can, or about 2 cups homemade. The thick, sweet sauce ensures a decadent, fruit-packed interior.
- Brown Sugar (¼ Cup)
- Adds a deeper caramel note. You can reduce or increase to taste.
- Unsalted Butter (2 Tablespoons, Melted)
- Helps achieve a luscious texture and a golden-brown finish on top.
- All-Purpose Flour (1 Tablespoon, Optional)
- Helps thicken the filling if it’s too runny.
- Heavy Cream (¼ Cup)
- While not mandatory, cinnamon rolls with apple pie filling and heavy cream produce a richer, silkier consistency.
- Optional Flavors
- A drop of vanilla extract, a dash of nutmeg, or a sprinkling of chopped pecans for extra crunch.
Pro Tip: For a festive twist, try adding a pinch of cardamom or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Different fruit fillings—like peaches or pears—can also be swapped in for the apples!
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s roll right into the step-by-step instructions on how to make the best cinnamon roll apple pie.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie
This recipe’s charm is in its simplicity and straightforward assembly. Don’t worry if you’re new to baking—these steps are designed to guide you through making a foolproof dessert. Let’s begin!
- Preheat Your Oven
- Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). According to the USDA, baking pies and pastries at 350°F helps ensure thorough cooking and a safe final product.
- Prepare the Pie Dish
- Lightly grease a 9-inch pie plate with cooking spray or a little melted butter. This prevents sticking and allows easy slicing later.
- Create the Cinnamon Roll Crust
- Pop open your can of dough (or use homemade if you prefer).
- Flatten each cinnamon roll into a thin disc, about ¼ inch thick.
- Gently press these discs into the pie plate, overlapping slightly to form the bottom crust. Pinch the seams together so there are no gaps.
- Add the Apple Filling
- Stir the canned apple pie filling with ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional) and the brown sugar.
- If the filling looks too liquid, mix in the flour to thicken. Spread the mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll base.
- Top It Off
- If any cinnamon rolls remain, flatten them out and layer them on top, or slice them into strips to make a decorative lattice.
- Brush the melted butter across the top crust to help it crisp.
- Add Heavy Cream (Optional Step)
- Drizzle ¼ cup heavy cream over the top if you’re aiming for that extra level of cinnamon rolls with apple pie filling and heavy cream decadence.
- Bake to Perfection
- Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any potential drips.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cinnamon roll dough is golden brown. Keep an eye on it; if it starts browning too quickly, tent with foil.
- Cool and Serve
- Let the pie rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing, allowing the filling to set.
With the baking complete, it’s time to add your personal flair in the next section—stay tuned for extra chef tips and fun variations to elevate your cinnamon roll apple pie!
Chef Tips and Variations for Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie
Even with an easy dessert like this, there are always ways to amp up flavor or switch things around to suit your cravings. Here are some expert pointers to keep your cinnamon roll apple pie fresh, exciting, and perfectly tailored to you.
- Brush with Cinnamon-Sugar:
Sprinkle extra brown sugar or cinnamon on top before baking for a crunchy, sweet finish. - Apple Pie Spice Mix:
If you love a stronger spice flavor, add a custom blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice to the filling. This approach is how many bakers create the classic apple pie cinnamon rolls effect. - Try Different Roll Brands:
Experiment with pillsbury cinnamon rolls and apple pie filling or other brands. Each can yield a slightly different taste or texture, so find your favorite. - Add a Cream Cheese Frosting Drizzle:
Most canned cinnamon rolls include a small icing packet. Warm it up and drizzle it over the baked pie for a tangy-sweet bonus. - Go Nuts with Nuts:
Walnuts or pecans bring a crunchy texture that pairs perfectly with the softness of the filling. - Turn Them into Mini Pies:
For a portion-controlled treat or party dessert, press flattened dough circles into muffin tins and fill with apples. Voilá—cinnamon roll apple pie cups are born!
Curious about plating and what goes best with this dessert? Keep reading; the next section will give you all sorts of serving ideas, from ice cream to coffee pairings.
Serving Suggestions for Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie
Now that your pie is beautifully baked, let’s talk about how to present and enjoy it. The delightfully gooey layer of apples and cinnamon-infused dough practically begs for some finishing touches. Here are a few ways to celebrate your freshly made cinnamon roll apple pie:
- Classic a la Mode:
Top each warm slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cool creaminess offsets the sweet filling, making every bite heavenly. - Whipped Cream Swirl:
A spoonful of freshly made whipped cream brings a delicate and fluffy touch. You could even flavor it with a hint of maple syrup or extra cinnamon. - Coffee or Tea Pairing:
Enhance the cozy vibes by serving a hot cup of coffee or a spiced tea alongside your pie. The aromatic notes blend perfectly with cinnamon rolls and apple pie filling. - Caramel Drizzle:
Drizzle on some caramel sauce for an indulgent finishing touch—especially if you love the sweet-and-salty interplay of caramel and apples. - Fresh Fruit Garnish:
If you like balancing sweet richness with something bright, add a few fresh apple slices or a scattering of berries on the plate.
Whether you serve it warm from the oven or let it cool for a sturdier slice, this dessert is guaranteed to wow your guests. Up next, let’s talk about how to store and reheat any leftover slices, so you can enjoy them throughout the week.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers of Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie
Even the best desserts sometimes aren’t finished in one sitting—especially if you made a large batch or small cinnamon roll apple pie cups. Don’t let those leftovers go to waste! Follow these steps to keep your pie tasting freshly baked:
- Cool Completely
- Always allow the pie to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents excess condensation that could make the dough soggy.
- Refrigerate or Freeze
- According to USDA guidelines, fruit-based pies can be refrigerated for up to 3 days in an airtight container. If you’d like to keep slices longer, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Quick Reheat in the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Pop the slices on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil, and heat for 10–15 minutes. This method preserves the crispness of the cinnamon roll dough.
- Microwave for Faster Results
- Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 15-second intervals until warmed through. The crust won’t be as crisp, but it’s a time-saver if you’re in a hurry.
With these tips, you can extend the life of your pillsbury cinnamon rolls and apple pie filling masterpiece and enjoy it in multiple sittings. Ready for a snapshot of the most important things to remember? Let’s move on to the key takeaways!
More Delicious Desserts to Try
If you loved this Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie, here are some other irresistible desserts you might enjoy:
- Peach Pie with Canned Peaches – A classic peach pie made effortlessly with canned peaches for a juicy, golden treat.
- Jacques Torres Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe – Master the famous New York-style chocolate chip cookies that are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside.
- Pineapple Bread Recipe – Sweet, tropical, and perfect for breakfast or dessert.
- Crookie Recipe – A genius hybrid between croissants and cookies, combining flaky pastry with rich chocolate chips.
- Libby’s Pumpkin Roll Recipe – A spiced pumpkin cake rolled with luscious cream cheese filling—perfect for fall!
- Pistachio Muffin Recipe – Soft, nutty, and bakery-style muffins that are a must-try for pistachio lovers.
Try one of these next and satisfy your sweet tooth!
Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie
Equipment
- 9-inch pie dish
- Rolling pin (optional, for flattening dough)
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 can of cinnamon roll dough about 12–13 ounces
- 1 20-ounce can apple pie filling (or about 2 cups homemade)
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour if needed for thickening
- ¼ cup heavy cream optional
Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, extra cinnamon or nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Grease a 9-inch pie dish lightly.
- Flatten each cinnamon roll to about ¼ inch and press into the dish to form a crust.
- Mix apple pie filling with brown sugar (and flour if the filling is runny). Spread evenly.
- Place remaining flattened rolls on top or create a lattice pattern.
- Brush melted butter over the top crust.
- Optional: Drizzle ¼ cup heavy cream over everything.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until dough is golden and filling is bubbly.
- Cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Be mindful of the cinnamon roll dough ingredients if you have dietary concerns. Some pre-made doughs may contain dairy or other allergens.Key Takeaways
Here are the main highlights to keep in mind as you bake your cinnamon roll apple pie:
- Combination of Comfort Classics: You get the best of both worlds by layering apple pie filling inside cinnamon roll dough.
- Quick and Customizable: There’s no fancy technique needed, and you can add creative toppings like caramel or extra nuts.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: From weeknight treats to holiday tables, this dessert’s delightful presentation and taste fit anywhere.
- Storage Made Simple: Seal leftovers tightly and reheat in the oven or microwave—no fuss required.
- Flexible Ingredients: Whether you use pillsbury cinnamon rolls with apple pie filling or homemade dough, the result is always delicious.
Next, let’s clear up a few common questions people often have before baking this dessert.
FAQs
Can I Use Fresh Apples Instead of Canned Filling?
Absolutely! Peel and slice about three to four apples, then cook them briefly with sugar and a little cornstarch until tender. It’s an easy way to create a homemade filling that tastes fantastic in this cinnamon roll apple pie.
Do I Need to Blind-Bake the Cinnamon Roll Crust?
In most cases, no. The bottom layer of cinnamon roll dough bakes thoroughly in about 25–30 minutes at 350°F. Keep an eye on it; if your crust tends to be soggy, you can partially bake the dough for 5–8 minutes before adding the filling.
Can I Use Other Fruit Fillings Like Peach or Cherry?
Yes! Cinnamon rolls with apple pie filling are classic, but cherry or peach fillings pair just as well with the sweet, spiced dough. Adjust sugar levels to your taste if the fruit is extra tart.
Are There Any Dairy-Free Alternatives?
You can use dairy-free butter and skip the heavy cream. If the cinnamon rolls come with an icing packet containing dairy, consider a simple powdered sugar glaze mixed with water or a dairy-free milk alternative.
What If I Prefer Less Sweetness?
Decrease the brown sugar or consider using unsweetened applesauce in place of some of the filling. Adding a squeeze of lemon juice can help balance out the sweetness too.
Is This Recipe Suitable for Vegans?
That depends on your cinnamon roll dough brand. Some brands, including certain pillsbury cinnamon rolls with apple pie filling, may contain dairy or egg. Always check the label or use a confirmed vegan-friendly dough.
Ready to give it a whirl? Let’s wrap up with a heartfelt conclusion and an at-a-glance recipe recap to help you put it all together.
Conclusion
There’s something magical about weaving the warmth of cinnamon rolls into the comforting nostalgia of apple pie. Every bite of cinnamon roll apple pie promises layers of soft, sweet dough and juicy fruit that’s downright irresistible. We hope you’ll feel inspired to make this treat your own—add a twist, share it with loved ones, and create memories around a dessert that combines two beloved classics. Enjoy every delicious moment, and feel free to share your baking triumphs with friends, family, or on social media to spread the sweetness!