Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, let me introduce you to my absolute favorite: Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie. This delightful treat takes the best of both worlds—sweet, gooey apple filling and soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls—and combines them into one irresistible dish. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting but easy to make, or for family gatherings where everyone will be asking for seconds.

What makes this Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie truly special is how simple it is to whip up. You can have it in the oven in no time, filling your home with the sweetest aroma that beckons everyone to the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your dessert rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time, making it ideal for last-minute cravings.
• Family-Friendly: The combination of cinnamon rolls and apples is a hit with both kids and adults, ensuring happy faces all around!
• Comforting Flavor: With warm apples and cozy spices, every bite transports you to a place of comfort and nostalgia.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble right before baking for an effortless dessert option.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making your Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Let’s gather what we 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 Cinnamon Roll Base

• 1 package cinnamon rolls with frosting (refrigerated)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add Some Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Incorporate Other Fruits: Mix in some berries or pears along with your apples for a fruity twist.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or allspice to create your signature flavor.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cinnamon rolls if you want a gluten-free version of this delicious dessert.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by peeling, coring, and chopping your apples into bite-sized pieces. This step is crucial because it ensures that every mouthful is filled with tender fruit. In a large pot, combine the chopped apples with sugar, 3 tablespoons of water, butter, cinnamon, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat until the apples soften slightly—this will enhance their natural sweetness and create a luscious filling.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

While your apple mixture simmers away on the stove, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Getting your oven nice and hot ensures that your Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie bakes evenly and becomes wonderfully golden brown.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

Now comes the fun part! Open your package of refrigerated cinnamon rolls and unroll each roll into a long strip. You can use these strips to line a pie dish or individual ramekins. Press them firmly against each other so there are no gaps. Pour your warm apple filling into the center of your cinnamon roll crust. This combination will bake beautifully together!

Step 4: Bake

Place your assembled pie into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 20 minutes or until the cinnamon roll dough is golden brown on top. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be absolutely amazing!

Step 5: Frost and Serve

Once out of the oven, drizzle the included frosting from the cinnamon roll package over the top while it’s still warm. This final touch adds sweetness that complements the spiced apple filling perfectly. Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream if desired.

Enjoy each bite of this delightful Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie! It’s sure to be loved by everyone who tries it!

Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

Making your very own Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie is a fun and rewarding experience! Here are some tips to help you achieve pie perfection.

• Use fresh apples: Freshly chopped apples provide a delightful texture and flavor that canned options can’t match. Mixing different apple varieties can also enhance the taste, offering a balance of sweet and tart.

• Adjust the sweetness: If your apple pie filling is already sweet, consider reducing the added sugar. This will help balance out the overall sweetness of the dish, allowing the cinnamon roll dough to shine through.

• Don’t skip the cornstarch: Adding cornstarch helps thicken the filling, preventing it from being too runny. This step ensures that every bite of your pie holds together beautifully.

• Experiment with spices: Besides cinnamon, feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for extra warmth and depth in flavor. These spices complement the apples wonderfully and elevate your dessert experience.

• Serve warm: Enjoying this dish while it’s still warm enhances its gooey consistency and comforting aroma. A warm slice topped with your favorite garnish can make all the difference!

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

Presentation is key when serving your Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie, making it even more inviting for friends and family. Here are some ideas to make your dish look as good as it tastes.

Garnishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a rich contrast to the warm pie, creating a delightful mix of temperatures.
• Caramel drizzle: A light drizzle of caramel sauce over the top adds an indulgent touch and enhances the flavors of both the apples and cinnamon.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkling some toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts offers a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the soft filling.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla yogurt: A bowl of creamy vanilla yogurt can serve as a refreshing complement to the rich flavors of the pie, providing a nice balance.
• Mixed greens salad: A light salad with vinaigrette dressing offers a crisp contrast to the sweet pie. The acidity from the dressing cuts through the richness perfectly.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts provide a savory side that balances out the sweetness of dessert.
• Herbal tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or peppermint, can be soothing after indulging in this decadent treat and adds a cozy touch to your meal.

Enjoy crafting this delightful treat and sharing it with loved ones—it’s sure to be a hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store leftovers, or even freeze it for a future treat.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pie to cool completely before storing.
• Place any leftover pie in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the pie is completely cooled.
• Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Label with the date for easy reference.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat individual slices in a microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, depending on your microwave’s power.
• Alternatively, place the whole pie (thawed) in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful dessert.

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

Yes! You can definitely use fresh apples. Just peel, core, and slice them before tossing with sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch.

How do I make Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free cinnamon rolls and ensure that your apple filling and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I add nuts to my Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would add a lovely crunch and flavor to your pie. Just sprinkle them over the apple filling before adding the cinnamon roll dough.

What is the best way to serve Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie?

This pie is delicious served warm with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream or drizzled with frosting from the cinnamon rolls!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delicious Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie as much as I do! It’s such a delightful treat that brings warmth and comfort, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Don’t hesitate to get creative with this recipe—add your favorite spices or mix-ins! Happy baking!