Let me tell you, some days just call for comfort in dessert form—and nothing delivers quite like Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie. It’s the kind of treat that brings everyone to the kitchen, noses in the air, following that warm cinnamon scent. I’ve always loved baking things that make people smile before they even take a bite, and this recipe does exactly that.
If pie crusts stress you out or you don’t have time to make dough from scratch, you’re going to love this shortcut. We’re bringing together store-bought cinnamon rolls and tender apple filling to create a dessert that’s fun to make and even better to eat.
In this post, I’ll walk you through everything step-by-step—from the simple ingredients you need to the easy layering technique that makes those cinnamon swirls look so pretty. Whether you’re baking for a weekend treat or adding something special to the holiday table, this one’s sure to become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie
Let me tell you, this Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie is one of those bakes that brings the whole house together, whether it’s a lazy Sunday afternoon or a holiday gathering. It’s cozy, sweet, a little nostalgic, and incredibly easy to make. If you’ve ever found yourself standing in the kitchen thinking, “I want something special, but I don’t want to spend all day baking,” this is exactly what you need.
Here’s why this recipe will quickly become one of your go-to favorites:
It’s beginner-friendly but looks impressive.
You’re using refrigerated cinnamon rolls for both the crust and the topping—no fussing with pastry dough, but it still comes out looking like a showstopper.
The flavors feel familiar and comforting.
Warm cinnamon, tender apples, and gooey icing—it’s like a big cozy hug on a plate. You get the best of both worlds in every bite: cinnamon rolls and apple pie.
Perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re baking for a family brunch, a fall get-together, or just a regular Tuesday, this pie fits right in. Want smaller portions? You can easily turn this into cinnamon roll apple pie cups or muffins for individual treats.
It’s a fun one to make with kids.
Little hands love pressing out the dough and layering in the apples. And when it comes time to drizzle that icing? Pure joy.
Totally customizable.
Add nuts, switch up the apples, toss in a few raisins—this recipe plays well with your favorite mix-ins. You can even double the filling and bake it casserole-style for a full apple pie cinnamon roll bake.
Store-bought ingredients, homemade feel.
You’re starting with ready-made cinnamon rolls, but once that apple filling starts bubbling and the rolls turn golden brown, it’ll smell and taste like something you baked from scratch.
There’s just something special about a dessert that makes people stop mid-bite and say, “Wait…what IS this?!” It’s familiar, it’s fun, and it always disappears fast.
Ready to gather your ingredients and get this pie rolling? Let’s head to the next section.
Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Ingredients and Optional Add-Ins
Alright, friend—let’s take a peek at what you’ll need to make this Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie come to life. What’s great about this recipe is how simple it is. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, and a couple of store-bought shortcuts make everything quicker without skimping on flavor. It’s the kind of prep that lets you enjoy baking without feeling rushed.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Basic Ingredients
- 2 tubes refrigerated cinnamon-roll dough (8 rolls each)
These form both your crust and your topping. The included icing is the perfect drizzle for the finishing touch. - 4 cups thin-sliced apples (about 4 medium, peeled)
Go for crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for great flavor and texture. - ½ cup packed brown sugar
This adds deep, caramel-like sweetness to the apple filling. - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Helps coat the apples and gives the filling a rich, buttery flavor. - 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
Boosts that warm, cozy cinnamon roll flavor throughout the pie. - 2 tablespoons cornstarch
Thickens the filling as it bakes, so it stays neat when sliced. - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Adds a soft, bakery-style aroma and enhances all the other flavors. - 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Brightens things up and keeps the apples from browning too fast.
Optional Add-Ins
- ¼ cup chopped pecans – Add these for a little nutty crunch.
- ¼ cup raisins – Toss them in for bursts of extra sweetness.
Pro Tip:
Feeling adventurous? Add a dash of cardamom for a Scandinavian twist or swap in apple pie spice for a more classic American flavor. You can also make this in a baking dish and turn it into an apple pie cinnamon roll casserole—just double the filling and rolls.
That’s everything you need—now let’s get to the fun part: assembling and baking!
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Step by Step
This is where the magic happens (well, not magic… but you get the idea!). Let’s walk through the process step by step, just like we would if we were in the kitchen together. Grab your apron—it’s about to smell really good in here.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1- Preheat and prep your dish
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish with butter or baking spray. Place the cinnamon-roll dough in the fridge for now—cold dough is easier to work with when you flatten it.
2- Mix the apple filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Gently toss until every apple slice is nicely coated and glossy. Set aside while you prep the crust.
3- Shape the bottom crust
Open one tube of cinnamon-roll dough and set aside the icing packet. Flatten 8 rolls into 3-inch circles using your fingertips or the bottom of a glass. Press them across the bottom and slightly up the sides of your pie dish, overlapping the edges so there are no gaps. Pinch seams together to create a smooth base.
4- Add the apple filling
Spoon the apple filling into the crust and gently spread it into an even layer from edge to edge. Try to keep the slices in a nice, even layer so everything bakes consistently.
5- Top with cinnamon-roll spirals
Take the second tube of cinnamon rolls and flatten 6 or 7 of them just a little. Place them on top of the apple filling in a circle, leaving small gaps between each roll so steam can escape. You might have one or two leftover rolls—no shame in baking them on the side!
6- Bake to golden, bubbly goodness
Cover the pie loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 20–25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the apples are bubbling slightly at the edges. The rolls should be fully baked and a little firm to the touch. If the top browns too fast, loosely cover with foil again and let it finish baking.
7- Cool and glazed
Let the pie rest for about 15 minutes so the filling can settle. Warm the icing packet in your hands or a bowl of warm water, then snip the corner and drizzle it generously over the top rolls.
There you have it—a gooey, golden Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie that tastes just as good as it looks. Whether it’s your first time baking or you’re just looking for a recipe that makes people smile, this one never disappoints.
Next up, let’s explore a few chef tips and fun ways to put your own spin on this cozy dessert.
Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Tips and Easy Variations
Let’s be honest—recipes are like cozy sweaters. The basic one is always good, but sometimes a little extra flair makes it feel just right for you. Whether you want to avoid common hiccups or give your Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie a fun twist, these tips and variations are here to help.
Helpful Tips to Bake It Just Right
- Chill the dough before working with it
It’s much easier to press and shape the rolls when they’re chilled—soft dough tends to get sticky and tricky to handle. If they feel too warm, a quick 10-minute rest in the fridge does the trick. - Use even apple slices
Try to slice your apples about ¼ inch thick so they cook at the same rate. Thinner ones may turn too soft, and thicker ones might not bake through. - Tent with foil to prevent over-browning
If the tops of the rolls are getting too dark but the filling isn’t quite done, a loose foil cover helps protect them while everything finishes baking.
Easy and Fun Variations
- Mini Pie Cups – Press flattened rolls into a muffin tin to make cinnamon roll apple pie cups. Great for brunch trays or little hands!
- Muffin Version – Dice the apples smaller, and spoon the filling into paper-lined muffin tins with a spiral on top. Now you’ve got apple pie cinnamon roll muffins!
- Make a Bigger Bake – Hosting a crowd? Use a 9×13 pan, double the ingredients, and turn this into a shareable apple pie cinnamon roll casserole.
- Extra Crunch – Toss in chopped pecans for texture or a sprinkle of coarse sugar on top before baking for a golden, bakery-style finish.
- Flavor Twist – Add a pinch of nutmeg or apple pie spice to the filling if you want a little seasonal boost.
Little tweaks like these make the recipe feel more your own—don’t be afraid to play around in the kitchen.
Next up, let’s talk about the best ways to serve this cozy pie and make it the star of your table.
Serving Ideas for Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie
This pie isn’t just dessert—it’s the kind of sweet that makes people pause mid-bite and go, “Wow, what is this?” Whether you’re baking it for a special event or just to make an ordinary day feel a little cozier, it serves beautifully in all kinds of settings.
Ways to Serve It Up with Style
- Classic A-La-Mode – A warm slice topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce is hard to beat.
- Brunch Centerpiece – Slice and serve it next to eggs, fruit, and coffee. It brings together the cozy charm of a cinnamon roll and the classic comfort of apple pie—perfect for a laid-back brunch table.
- Holiday Treat Table – This pie shines next to seasonal favorites like cranberry bars or apple cider donuts. Add a dusting of powdered sugar just before serving for that festive flair.
- Late-Night Sweet Tooth – Heat a slice in the microwave for 20 seconds and enjoy it with a warm mug of tea or milk.
- Make-Ahead Party Dessert – Bake it earlier in the day, then reheat slightly and glaze just before serving so it feels fresh-from-the-oven.
No matter when you serve it, this Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie always brings smiles to the table. Let’s make sure those leftovers are just as lovely.
How to Store and Warm Up Your Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have a few slices left (it does happen!), don’t worry—this pie stores well and tastes just as good the next day. Here’s how to keep that cinnamon-swirled goodness at its best.
How to Store
- In the fridge – Let the pie cool completely, then cover the dish tightly with foil or transfer slices to an airtight container. Store for up to 4 days.
- In the freezer – Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How to Reheat
- Oven method (best for texture) – Preheat the oven to 325°F. Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for 10–12 minutes.
- Microwave method (quick and easy) – Place a slice on a plate and cover it loosely. Microwave for about 20–30 seconds. If the icing has soaked in, feel free to warm a little extra from the packet or drizzle your own glaze on top.
There you go—leftovers handled, no fuss, no flavor lost.
More Delicious Desserts to Try
If you loved this Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie, here are a few more cozy, crowd-pleasing recipes you might enjoy baking next:
- Peach Pie with Canned Peaches – A simple and comforting fruit pie that’s perfect any time of year.
- 3 Ingredient Pie Crust – A go-to crust recipe that’s easy to make and pairs with sweet or savory fillings.
- Strawberry Puree Recipe – A quick fruit topping that’s lovely over pie slices, pancakes, or yogurt.
Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie
Equipment
- 9-inch pie dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Foil (for tenting during baking)
- Oven
Ingredients
- 2 tubes refrigerated cinnamon-roll dough 8 rolls each
- 4 cups apples peeled and thinly sliced
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter melted
- 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Optional Add-Ins:
- ¼ cup chopped pecans
- ¼ cup raisins
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9-inch pie dish.
- In a bowl, toss apple slices with sugar, butter, cinnamon, cornstarch, vanilla, and lemon juice.
- Flatten 8 cinnamon rolls and press them into the bottom and sides of the dish to form a crust.
- Spoon the apple mixture into the crust evenly.
- Flatten remaining rolls slightly and place them on top of the filling.
- Tent with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Cool for 15 minutes, then drizzle icing over the top before serving.
Notes
Contains gluten and dairy. For best texture, use firm apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith.Key Takeaways
- Uses refrigerated cinnamon rolls for a quick crust and topping
- Filled with cozy, cinnamon-spiced apple slices
- Easy to customize into cups, muffins, or casseroles
- Great for holidays, brunches, or everyday treats
- Beginner-friendly and fun to make with kids
- Tastes just as good the next day—easy to store and reheat
Ready to bring it all together? Let’s finish up with a full recipe recap you can reference anytime.
Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie FAQs: Your Top Questions Answered
Can I use canned cinnamon roll apple pie filling instead of fresh apples?
Yes, you sure can! Two 21-ounce cans of cinnamon roll apple pie filling will take the place of the apples, sugar, butter, and cornstarch. Just scoop out a bit of the excess syrup so your pie doesn’t overflow in the oven.
Which apples are best for Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie?
Firm and slightly tart apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Braeburn are perfect. They hold their shape while baking and pair beautifully with the cinnamon-roll crust.
My rolls started to brown too fast—what should I do?
Ovens vary a lot. If you see the tops turning golden too early, loosely cover the pie with foil and keep baking until the apple filling is soft and bubbly.
Can I turn this into an apple pie cinnamon roll casserole?
Absolutely! Press half the rolls into the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish, pour the filling over, and top with the rest of the rolls. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until everything is golden and bubbling.
What’s the best way to keep the crust crisp after storing?
Reheat individual slices in the oven at 325°F for 10–12 minutes. This brings back that lovely light crunch on the bottom. The microwave works too, but the oven keeps things from getting soft.
Is this Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie good for beginners?
Yes! If you can open a dough tube, flatten a roll, and slice an apple, you’ve got all the skills you need. It’s a great recipe to build confidence—and have a little fun while you’re at it.
Now that you’ve got all the answers, let’s bring everything together in one quick and handy recipe recap.
Conclusion
And just like that, you’ve got yourself a dessert that feels like a warm hug from the oven. This Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie is one of those recipes that brings people to the table, forks in hand, smiles ready. It’s simple, comforting, and just a little special—like something you’d share on a cozy weekend or for a sweet surprise after dinner.
If you gave this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out in your kitchen! Leave a quick review below—your thoughts mean so much and help others find their new favorite dessert, too.
