Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the best of both worlds, let me introduce you to my favorite treat: Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie. This delightful concoction brings together the warm, gooey goodness of apple filling and the soft, pillowy texture of cinnamon roll dough. It’s a recipe that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day and is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or just a sweet treat to brighten up a busy weeknight.

What makes this Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie so special is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up something that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up those extra apples sitting in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in about 35 minutes! Perfect for those nights when you want something sweet but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love this dessert. The combination of cinnamon rolls and apple pie is simply irresistible!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the filling ahead of time or even bake these pies in advance. They keep well and still taste amazing!
• Deliciously Comforting: The aroma of cinnamon and baked apples fills your home, creating an inviting atmosphere that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A great dessert starts with simple, wholesome ingredients, and this Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie is no exception! Here’s what you’ll need:

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to mix things up:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.
• Mix Up the Apples: Use different varieties of apples for unique flavors—Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness!
• Change the Spices: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or allspice alongside cinnamon for added warmth.
• Make it Caramel: Drizzle some caramel sauce over the top before serving for an extra touch of decadence.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by peeling, coring, and chopping your apples. This step is crucial as it ensures every bite has that delicious apple flavor. Combine them in a pot with sugar, water, butter, cinnamon, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat until everything is bubbly and thickened—this creates that irresistible apple filling!

Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls

While your apple mixture is cooking, preheat your oven according to the cinnamon roll package instructions. Open up the package of refrigerated cinnamon rolls—it’s time to bring out that soft dough! Set aside the frosting for later; we’ll use it as a delicious topping.

Step 3: Assemble Your Pies

Take your baking dish and roll out each cinnamon roll into flat disks. Layer them on the bottom to create a lovely crust. Spoon generous amounts of your warm apple filling onto the dough. Then take more rolled-out cinnamon pieces to create a top crust if desired—don’t worry about perfection; rustic looks are what we’re going for!

Step 4: Bake It Up

Place your assembled Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie in the oven and bake according to package instructions until golden brown on top. The aroma will fill your home with warmth!

Step 5: Frost & Serve

Once baked, drizzle the reserved frosting over your pies while they are still warm. Serve immediately or let them cool slightly—either way, they’re going to be divine!

Enjoy this comforting dessert with friends and family; I promise it will become one of your go-to recipes too!

Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

Creating the perfect Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie is all about the little details, so here are some tips to ensure your dessert turns out wonderfully!

• Choose the right apples: Opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This combination adds depth to the flavor and balances the sweetness of the pie filling.
• Don’t skip the cornstarch: Adding cornstarch helps thicken the apple filling while it bakes, preventing it from becoming too watery. This ensures you get that delightful gooey texture without a soggy crust.
• Adjust sweetness to taste: Depending on your preference and the tartness of your apples, you can modify the amount of sugar in your filling. Taste as you go for a perfectly balanced flavor.
• Let it cool before serving: Allowing your pie to cool slightly after baking lets the filling set up a bit more. This will make slicing easier and keeps your pie from falling apart when served.
• Use store-bought dough wisely: If using refrigerated cinnamon rolls, make sure they’re at room temperature before you start working with them. This makes them easier to stretch and shape around your filling.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

Serving Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie is just as enjoyable as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you’ll take this dessert to the next level.

Garnishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creamy richness that complements the warm apple pie beautifully.
• Whipped topping: A dollop of whipped topping on each slice brings a light, airy element that contrasts with the dense cinnamon roll base.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the apples.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla yogurt: A side of vanilla yogurt offers a tangy contrast that balances out the sweetness of the pie, making every bite even more delightful.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad can lighten up your meal and provide a burst of freshness next to the rich pie.
• Coffee or tea: Serving your pie alongside a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea enhances its comforting flavors and creates a cozy atmosphere.
• Cheese platter: A small cheese platter with mild cheeses can provide a savory contrast to the sweet pie, adding complexity to your dessert experience.

Enjoy every delicious bite of this Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie—it’s not just a treat; it’s an experience meant to be shared!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie is not only delicious but also an excellent option for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, ensuring you have a sweet treat ready for any occasion. Here are some tips for storing and enjoying your delicious creation later.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• If you prefer to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap individual slices or the entire pie in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave each slice for 30-45 seconds until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delightful dessert.

Can I use fresh apples instead of canned apple pie filling in my Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie?

Yes! Fresh apples work beautifully in this recipe. Just peel, core, and chop them, then combine with sugar, cinnamon, and a bit of water before layering them with the cinnamon rolls.

How do I make my Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie even more delicious?

You can enhance your Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie by adding nuts like walnuts or pecans, or incorporating spices such as nutmeg for an extra flavor kick. Drizzling extra frosting over the top before serving adds a delightful touch!

Can I prepare the Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pie ahead of time and store it as described above. This makes it perfect for gatherings or busy weeknights when you want something sweet without a lot of fuss.

What is a good way to serve my Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie?

Serve warm with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream or whipped topping on the side. A sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce can elevate its deliciousness even further!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie as much as I do! The comforting flavors of cinnamon and apples create such a cozy dessert that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different toppings and adjustments to make it your own. Happy baking, and may your kitchen fill with warmth and sweetness!