Apple Cinnamon Roll Bake is a warm, comforting dessert that combines the soft, gooey texture of cinnamon rolls with the sweet, caramelized flavor of baked apples. This dish is layered with tender pastry swirls, juicy apple chunks, and a drizzle of creamy glaze that ties everything together. It’s the kind of recipe that fills your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and sugar, making it perfect for cozy evenings, family gatherings, or holiday celebrations. The apples add a refreshing twist to the classic cinnamon roll, balancing the richness of the glaze with a natural sweetness and slight tartness. This recipe is indulgent yet approachable, offering a homemade treat that feels both nostalgic and special.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing packets included)
- 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for crunch)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Apples:
- Peel and dice the apples into small chunks. In a bowl, toss them with melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract until evenly coated.
- Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls:
- Open the cans of cinnamon rolls and cut each roll into quarters. This makes them easier to layer and ensures they bake evenly with the apples.
- Assemble the Bake:
- Grease a glass baking dish. Spread half of the cinnamon roll pieces across the bottom. Add half of the apple mixture on top. Repeat with the remaining cinnamon rolls and apples, creating layers. Sprinkle nuts over the top if using.
- Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the cinnamon rolls are golden brown and the apples are tender.
- Add the Glaze:
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Drizzle the included icing packets over the warm bake, allowing it to melt into the rolls and apples.
- Serve:
- Slice into squares or scoop portions directly from the dish. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Servings:
Serves 6–8 people.
Note:
Apple Cinnamon Roll Bake is a versatile dessert that can double as a breakfast treat or a sweet snack. The combination of cinnamon rolls and apples creates a dish that is both indulgent and balanced. The apples soften during baking, releasing their juices into the rolls, while the cinnamon glaze adds a creamy sweetness that ties everything together.
This recipe is highly adaptable. You can use tart apples like Granny Smith for a sharper flavor or sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp for a more mellow taste. Adding nuts provides a pleasant crunch, while a sprinkle of extra cinnamon before baking intensifies the spice. For a richer version, drizzle caramel sauce over the top along with the icing.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. It requires minimal preparation, yet the result looks and tastes like something much more elaborate. It’s perfect for busy mornings when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen, or for evenings when you crave a warm, homemade dessert.