Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Bake – Warm, Gooey, and Irresistible
Ingredients and What They Do
- 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls (8-count each) – These form the soft, doughy base of the bake, adding cinnamon flavor and structure. Save the included icing for garnish!
- 2 cups apple pie filling (chopped) – Classic apple pie filling provides a fruity, spiced center. Dicing the apples smaller ensures even distribution and quicker baking.
- ½ Tbsp. fresh lemon juice – Balances the sweetness and enhances the apple flavor with a touch of tartness.
- 5 Tbsp. butter (melted) – Adds richness and helps achieve that golden, sticky bottom layer.
- ⅓ cup brown sugar – Caramelizes during baking, giving the dish a deep, molasses-like sweetness and beautiful color.
- 2 tsp. ground cinnamon – Intensifies the warm spice notes already present in the cinnamon rolls.
- 1 cup chopped pecans – Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty depth to balance the soft textures.
- Icing (from cinnamon rolls) – Drizzled after baking for extra sweetness and visual appeal.
- Maple syrup (optional) – A drizzle enhances richness and gives a fall-inspired twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even baking once assembled.
- Prepare your dish: Lightly butter or grease a 3-quart casserole dish and set it aside.
- Cut the cinnamon rolls: Open both cans and set aside the icing. Cut each roll into four bite-sized pieces and scatter them evenly into the casserole dish.
- Add the apples: Chop the apple pie filling into small chunks and mix with the lemon juice. Spoon this mixture over the cinnamon roll pieces, spreading evenly.
- Drizzle with melted butter: Pour the melted butter over the entire mixture to ensure moist, gooey results.
- Make the cinnamon sugar blend: In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle generously over the top of the buttered rolls and apples.
- Top with pecans: Scatter chopped pecans across the surface for added crunch and flavor.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes or until the rolls are cooked through and the top is golden brown.
- Garnish: Let cool slightly before drizzling with the reserved icing. Add a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.
Why This Recipe is Loved
- Fast and easy prep using refrigerated dough and canned filling—ideal for busy mornings or last-minute desserts.
- Incredible flavor fusion—gooey cinnamon rolls meet sweet spiced apples and buttery brown sugar for a next-level comfort dish.
- Kid and adult approved—perfect for potlucks, brunches, holidays, or cozy weekends at home.
- Customizable—Swap in walnuts, raisins, or even a splash of bourbon for a boozy grown-up version.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Dice the apple filling finely to help it meld with the dough and avoid soggy spots.
- Use parchment paper for easy cleanup and lifting if you prefer to slice and serve clean squares.
- Let it cool for 10–15 minutes before drizzling the icing to avoid it melting into the topping layer.
- Double the recipe in a larger pan for holiday crowds or special events.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for dessert.
- Pair with coffee or chai for a cozy breakfast or brunch treat.
- Top with a dusting of powdered sugar for a bakery-style finish.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a dish that’s warm, sweet, easy to make, and incredibly satisfying, this Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Bake is your go-to recipe. It combines the comfort of cinnamon rolls, the classic taste of apple pie, and the ease of a casserole-style bake. Whether you’re entertaining or just indulging at home, this dessert is guaranteed to wow. Don’t lose this recipe—bookmark it, share it, and make it again and again!