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Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls – Gooey, Sweet & Cozy

If you love the warm flavors of apple pie and the gooey sweetness of cinnamon rolls, this recipe brings them together in the most irresistible way. These Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls are made with soft Pillsbury cinnamon rolls stuffed and topped with buttery caramelized apples, cinnamon sugar, and a creamy vanilla glaze. They’re perfect for brunch, holidays, or anytime you want a dessert (or breakfast treat!) that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to make.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 10 portions
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

🍏 Fruits & Vegetables:
  • 4 large apples peeled, cored, and diced
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
🌿 Spices & Seasonings:
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup brown sugar
  • 1½ tsp cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon for glaze
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
🥯 Breads & Pastries:
  • 2 packs 5-count each Pillsbury Grands cinnamon rolls
🧈 Dairy Products:
  • 1 stick butter divided use
  • 13/16 cup butter softened, for crumble topping — about ¾ cup plus 1 tbsp
  • 2 tbsp milk
🍬 Sugars & Sweeteners:
  • 1 cup powdered sugar

✨ Kitchen Essentials You’ll Love

Quick picks I trust for better results, faster prep, and easier cleanup.

  • 🍳

    Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet

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  • ⚡

    Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Electric

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  • 🔥

    CHEFMAN Digital Air Fryer XL 10L

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Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Medium saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Mixing bowls
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step 1 – Make the Apple Filling
  1. In a saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
  2. Add diced apples, lemon juice, brown sugar, 1½ tsp cinnamon, and cornstarch.
  3. Cook 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples soften and sauce thickens.
  4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 2 – Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  3. Separate cinnamon rolls and cut each into quarters.
Step 3 – Assemble
  1. Spread half the apple filling on the bottom of the baking dish.
  2. Arrange cinnamon roll pieces on top.
  3. Add remaining apple mixture evenly over rolls.
Step 4 – Make the Crumble Topping
  1. In a bowl, mix flour, 13/16 cup softened butter, and ½ cup brown sugar until crumbly.
  2. Sprinkle crumble mixture over apples and rolls.
Step 5 – Bake
  1. Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, until golden brown and bubbly.
Step 6 – Make the Glaze
  1. In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar, 2 tbsp milk, vanilla, and ½ tsp ground cinnamon until smooth.
Step 7 – Serve
  1. Drizzle glaze over warm apple pie cinnamon rolls.
  2. Serve fresh from the oven and enjoy!

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze baked rolls (without glaze) up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 325°F or microwave for 20–30 seconds.
🥄 Variations
Caramel Drizzle: Top with caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumble topping.
Cheesecake Glaze: Mix cream cheese with powdered sugar and milk for a richer glaze.
Berry Twist: Add blueberries or raspberries to the apple filling.
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use another type of apple?
Yes, Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work great.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Peeling gives a softer texture, but you can leave skins on for more fiber.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the night before and bake in the morning.
What if I can’t find Pillsbury cinnamon rolls?
Use any canned cinnamon rolls, or make homemade dough.
How do I keep the bottom from getting soggy?
Let the filling thicken well before layering.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, use half the brown sugar in the filling.
What’s the best pan to use?
A glass or ceramic baking dish for even baking.
Can I add more spice?
Yes, nutmeg or allspice would work beautifully.
Do these reheat well?
Yes, a quick microwave warm-up brings them back to gooey goodness.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but bake in two pans for best results.
🏁 Conclusion
These Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect mix of two beloved desserts, combining gooey cinnamon swirls with warm spiced apples. Whether you serve them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, they’re guaranteed to impress.