Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe·Leave a Review

Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie is a delightful fusion of sweet, warm cinnamon rolls and rich apple pie filling. It is a treat that features a buttery, syrupy cake with chunks of tender apples, topped with a hint of pecan crunch. This wonderful dessert captures the comforting flavors of traditional apple pie while offering the fun twist of cinnamon rolls, making each slice a mouthwatering combination of soft and crunchy textures. You can enjoy it for breakfast, dessert, or any time in between!

The first time I made this recipe, I was hosting a brunch for friends and needed something impressive yet simple. When I pulled it out of the oven, the delightful aroma filled my kitchen and drew everyone closer, each eager to get a taste. It quickly became a favorite, proving that you can enjoy an amazing dessert without hours in the kitchen. So, don’t wait any longer! Dive into this delicious adventure of making Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: This dessert comes together in about 45 minutes, perfect for a last-minute treat.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of gooey cinnamon rolls and sweet apple pie filling creates a comforting flavor explosion.
Eye-Catching Appeal: It’s gorgeous to serve, with a golden-brown crust and vibrant apple filling that will impress anyone at the table.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even a snack, it’s versatile enough for any occasion.
Diet-Friendly Options: Swap apple filling with other fruits to put your twist on the recipe!

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 (12.4 oz) roll Pillsbury cinnamon rolls: These are the star of the recipe, providing both flavor and texture in the base.
1 egg white, whipped: This helps bind the cinnamon rolls together and adds a beautiful golden glaze.
1 (21 oz) can apple pie filling: Sweet and spiced, it contributes a rich flavor and is easy to use.
2 tbsp sugar: A touch of sweetness enhances the cinnamon flavor.
1/2 tsp cinnamon: Essential for that warm, cozy taste associated with both apple pie and cinnamon rolls.
6 tbsp butter, softened: Adds richness and helps create a crumbly topping.
3/4 cup flour: This is part of the crumble topping, creating a delightful texture contrast with the filling.
3/4 cup brown sugar: For a deep, caramel-like sweetness in the crumble.
1 tsp cinnamon: More of this fragrant spice guarantees flavor throughout the dish.
3/4 cup pecans, chopped: Adds a nutty crunch that complements the soft filling.
Vanilla ice cream, optional: A scoop of ice cream on top makes it extra indulgent.
Ghirardelli caramel sauce, optional: Drizzling caramel adds an extra layer of flavor and sweetness.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Grab a 10-inch pan and spray it with non-stick spray to ensure easy removal later.
Prepare the base: Take your 1 (12.4 oz) roll of Pillsbury cinnamon rolls and flatten 8 of them out in the prepared pan, covering the bottom evenly.
Brush with egg: Gently brush the flattened cinnamon rolls with 1 whipped egg white for that lovely glaze.
Sprinkle the sweetness: In a small bowl, mix together 2 tbsp sugar and 1/2 tsp cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cinnamon rolls to add that extra warmth and sweetness.
Blind bake: Pop the pan in the oven for about 10 minutes, until the rolls start to set but are not fully cooked.
Add the filling: Once the cinnamon rolls have baked for 10 minutes, remove the pan from the oven and spread the 1 (21 oz) can of apple pie filling evenly over the top.
Make the crumble: In a separate bowl, combine the softened 6 tbsp butter, 3/4 cup flour, 3/4 cup brown sugar, and 1 tsp cinnamon using the back of a fork. Mix until crumbly, which gives a delicious topping.
Top the pie: Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the apple pie filling, followed by 3/4 cup chopped pecans for that delightful crunch.
Final bake: Place it back in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
Optional toppings: When finished baking, you can top it with the icing that comes with the cinnamon rolls or serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream drizzled with Ghirardelli caramel sauce.

Storing & Reheating

To store your leftover Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie, let it cool completely at room temperature, then cover and keep it for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place it in the refrigerator in an airtight container, where it will stay fresh for about a week. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then cover with aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat slices in the oven at 350 degrees for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Note that freezing might alter the texture slightly, but a warm oven and scoop of ice cream can make it just as enjoyable!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

When flattening the cinnamon rolls, take your time to ensure they cover the bottom evenly for the best texture.
Ensure your butter is softened, not melted, for the crumble to create that delightful crunchy topping.
You can easily swap the apple pie filling for other fruits, like cherry or peach, to give this pie a seasonal twist.
For a nuttier flavor, toast the pecans lightly before adding them for extra depth of flavor.
If you’re planning to serve this dessert later, you can prepare everything until the final bake, cover it, and pop it in the oven just before serving for a fresh taste.

Savoring Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie means enjoying every bite of its gooey filling and crunchy topping. The flavors are warm and inviting, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Don’t hesitate to customize with your favorite toppings or fruit combinations! Enjoy the aroma as it fills your kitchen and brings loved ones together.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make this Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything up to the baking stage and store it in the refrigerator for a day. Just ensure to cover it tightly. When you’re ready to serve, preheat your oven, and pop it in for a quick bake to warm through and set the toppings.

What can I use instead of pecans?

If you don’t have pecans on hand or prefer not to use nuts, you can easily replace them with walnuts or even omit them for a nut-free version. The crumble will still be delicious without the crunch.

Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls?

Sure thing! If you have a family recipe for homemade cinnamon rolls, that would be beautiful in this dish. Just ensure they’re the same size as the store-bought option for the best fit in the pan.

How should I serve the pie?

Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie is fantastic served warm, either plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also drizzle it with caramel sauce, chocolate sauce, or even a dollop of whipped cream to add an extra special touch. Enjoy!