Indulge in the comforting fusion of cinnamon rolls and apple pie with this Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie recipe. The delightful layers of gooey cinnamon rolls paired with sweet, spiced apple pie filling create a dessert that feels both familiar and exciting. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a special occasion, this dessert will bring warmth and joy to any table. Let’s dive into the details and make this delicious treat!
Ingredients Overview
2 cans of original cinnamon rolls (with icing): These will form both the crust and the top layer of our pie. The pre-made rolls make this recipe quick and easy while delivering that irresistible cinnamon flavor.
1 can of apple pie filling: Sweet and spiced, this ready-to-use filling adds the classic taste of apple pie without the hassle of peeling and cooking apples.
Cinnamon sugar: A sprinkle of this enhances the cinnamon flavor and adds a touch of sweetness to balance the tartness of the apples.
Butter: For greasing the pan to ensure our pie doesn’t stick and comes out perfectly intact.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Crust
- Prepare the Crust:
- Take one can of cinnamon rolls and press them into the bottom of the greased baking pan, creating an even layer to form the crust.
Add the Apple Pie Filling
- Add the Apple Pie Filling:
- Spread the apple pie filling evenly over the cinnamon roll crust in the pan.
Sprinkle with Cinnamon Sugar
- Sprinkle with Cinnamon Sugar:
- Sprinkle the apple pie filling with a generous amount of cinnamon sugar to enhance the flavor.
Create the Top Layer
- Create the Top Layer:
- Pull apart the remaining cinnamon rolls and place them on top of the apple pie filling, covering it completely.
Bake
- Bake:
- Bake the cinnamon roll apple pie in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cinnamon rolls are cooked through.
Prepare the Icing
- Prepare the Icing:
- While the pie is baking, prepare the icing that came with the cinnamon rolls according to the package instructions. Usually, this involves mixing the icing with a little water or milk until smooth.
Finish and Serve
- Finish and Serve:
- Once the cinnamon roll apple pie is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Drizzle the prepared icing over the top of the warm pie.
- Allow the pie to cool for a few more minutes to let the icing set.
- Slice and serve the cinnamon roll apple pie while it’s still warm. Enjoy the delightful combination of cinnamon rolls and apple pie in every bite!
Valuable Tips for a Seamless Cooking Experience
Tip 1: Use a non-stick pan: To ensure your cinnamon roll apple pie comes out easily and intact, use a non-stick baking pan and grease it generously with butter.
Tip 2: Customize your filling: Feel free to add some extra spices like nutmeg or cloves to the apple pie filling for a more complex flavor.
Tip 3: Icing options: If you prefer a richer taste, mix the icing with cream cheese instead of water or milk for a tangy twist.
Tip 4: Serve with ice cream: For an extra indulgent treat, serve your warm cinnamon roll apple pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage:
- Room Temperature: Store the cinnamon roll apple pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, cover and refrigerate the pie for up to 5 days.
Reheating:
- Microwave: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.
- Oven: Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of canned?
- Absolutely! Homemade cinnamon rolls can be used for an even more personal touch.
Q2: What if I don’t have a 9×13-inch baking pan?
- You can use a similar-sized pan; just adjust the baking time if necessary.
Q3: Can I add nuts to this recipe?
- Yes, adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the apple pie filling can add a delightful crunch.
Q4: How do I prevent the cinnamon rolls from becoming too soggy?
- Ensure the apple pie filling is not too liquidy and bake until the top is golden brown and firm.
Q5: Can I make this pie ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat before serving.
Q6: Can I use a different pie filling?
- Absolutely, feel free to experiment with different pie fillings like cherry or blueberry.
Q7: How do I store leftovers?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Q8: Can I freeze this pie?
- It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it before baking. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Q9: Is this pie suitable for breakfast?
- Definitely! It’s perfect for a sweet breakfast treat.
Q10: What can I use instead of butter for greasing the pan?
- Non-stick spray or margarine can also be used.
Q11: Can I add extra cinnamon to the recipe?
- Yes, extra cinnamon can enhance the flavor even more.
Q12: How do I make the icing thicker?
- Use less liquid when preparing the icing to keep it thicker.
Q13: Can I use a sugar substitute in the cinnamon sugar?
- Yes, sugar substitutes can be used if you prefer.
Q14: What’s the best way to serve this pie?
- Serve it warm with a drizzle of icing and a scoop of ice cream.
Q15: Can I add raisins to the apple pie filling?
- Absolutely, raisins can add a nice chewy texture.
Q16: How long should I let the pie cool before serving?
- Let it cool for about 10-15 minutes to allow the icing to set.
Q17: Can I use gluten-free cinnamon rolls?
- Yes, gluten-free cinnamon rolls can be used if needed.
Q18: What type of apples are best for making homemade filling?
- Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples are great choices for a homemade filling.
Q19: Can I add caramel to this recipe?
- Drizzling caramel over the top can add an extra layer of sweetness.
Q20: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
- Absolutely, kids will love the sweet and cinnamon-y flavors of this pie.
Secrets for Achieving Culinary Perfection
Secret 1: Use high-quality butter for greasing to add a rich flavor to the crust.
Secret 2: Toast the cinnamon sugar slightly before sprinkling for an enhanced aroma.
Secret 3: Let the cinnamon rolls rise slightly before baking for a fluffier texture.
Secret 4: Add a splash of vanilla extract to the icing for an extra layer of flavor.
Secret 5: Warm the apple pie filling slightly before spreading to make it easier to distribute.
Secret 6: Sprinkle a bit of sea salt on top before baking to balance the sweetness.
Secret 7: Brush the top layer of cinnamon rolls with melted butter before baking for a glossy finish.
Secret 8: Add a hint of lemon juice to the apple pie filling to brighten the flavors.
Secret 9: Use a glass baking dish to monitor the browning of the crust.
Secret 10: Cover the pie with foil halfway through baking if it’s browning too quickly.
Secret 11: Use a pastry brush to apply the icing evenly over the pie.
Secret 12: Add a bit of nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar for a spiced twist.
Secret 13: Chop the apples in the filling finer if you prefer a smoother texture.
Secret 14: Let the pie cool on a wire rack to prevent the bottom from becoming soggy.
Secret 15: Mix a bit of brown sugar with the cinnamon sugar for a deeper flavor.
Secret 16: Serve with whipped cream for an added touch of indulgence.
Secret 17: Pre-bake the bottom layer of cinnamon rolls slightly if you prefer a crispier crust.
Secret 18: Add a pinch of clove to the apple pie filling for a warm, spicy note.
Secret 19: Drizzle honey over the top for a natural sweetness.
Secret 20: Let the pie rest for 15-20 minutes after baking for the best texture.
Enjoy your Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie, and happy baking
