This Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake is the ultimate shortcut dessert (or brunch treat) that’s both comforting and delicious.
Just two ingredients—store-bought cinnamon rolls and canned apple pie filling—are all you need to whip up a cozy, bubbling bake that’s perfect for holidays, lazy weekends, or a last-minute sweet treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Only two main ingredients – couldn’t be easier.
Perfect for beginners – no special skills or equipment needed.
Crowd-pleasing – soft cinnamon rolls and warm spiced apples? Yes please.
Great for brunch or dessert – super versatile and satisfying.
Uses pantry staples – just grab and go with common store items.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Pillsbury Grands! Cinnamon Rolls – soft, buttery dough with classic cinnamon swirls and included icing.
Apple Pie Filling – sweet and tender apples in a warm cinnamon-spiced syrup.
Non-stick Spray – ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Cut rolls into even pieces – for uniform baking.
Use a large bowl to combine without breaking the dough.
Don’t overmix – fold gently so the cinnamon rolls hold their shape.
Check center for doneness – it should be fully cooked, not doughy.
Warm the icing slightly before drizzling for a smoother finish.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F.
Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray and set aside.
Step 2: Slice the Dough
Unwrap both tubes of cinnamon rolls. Set the included icing aside.
Cut each roll into 4 even pieces and place all the dough into a large mixing bowl.
Step 3: Mix with Apples
Add both cans of apple pie filling to the bowl.
Gently fold everything together until the cinnamon rolls are coated in the spiced apple mixture.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the cinnamon-apple mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Spread into an even layer and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the center is puffed and fully cooked through.
Step 5: Add the Icing
Once baked, remove from the oven.
Warm the reserved icing slightly, then drizzle generously over the top of the bake.
Serve warm and enjoy the gooey goodness.
What to Serve It With
A hot cup of coffee or chai latte
Fresh whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
A holiday brunch buffet
Crispy bacon or breakfast sausage
A dusting of powdered sugar for presentation
Variations / Substitutions
Use other pie fillings – try cherry, blueberry, or peach.
Add nuts – sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts before baking.
Add spice – stir in a dash of cinnamon or pumpkin spice to amp up the flavor.
Use cream cheese frosting – instead of the included icing.
Make mini versions – bake in muffin tins for individual portions.
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Microwave individual portions for 30–45 seconds until warm.
Freezer: Not recommended—texture may become soggy upon thawing.
Best fresh: For the ultimate gooey texture and flavor, enjoy the day it’s made.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pie filling?
Absolutely! Just make sure it’s cooled and not too runny before mixing.
What brand of cinnamon rolls works best?
Pillsbury Grands! Cinnamon Rolls work best because they’re thick and sturdy.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble it in the dish and refrigerate overnight.
Bake fresh the next day.
How do I know when it’s done?
The top should be golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean (no raw dough).
What can I drizzle on top if I lose the icing?
You can mix powdered sugar with a splash of milk and vanilla for a quick glaze.
Can I halve the recipe?
Yes! Use one tube of rolls and one can of filling in an 8×8 dish. Bake 35–40 minutes.
Can I add spices?
Yes! A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg goes a long way to enhance flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake is proof that you don’t need a long ingredient list or complex steps to create a dessert (or brunch dish!) that impresses.
It’s cozy, warm, full of cinnamon-apple goodness, and comes together in minutes.
Whether you serve it during the holidays or just because—it’s bound to become a family favorite!
