As I pulled open the oven door, a wave of cinnamon and spice caught me off guard, instantly transporting me back to family gatherings where dessert was the main attraction. This is precisely the magic of my Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie. By blending the classic appeal of apple pie with a warm, crispy cinnamon roll topping, this delightful treat transforms any ordinary meal into a festive celebration. Not only is this recipe simple to prepare, but it also blends comforting flavors that feel like a warm hug after a long day, making it the perfect crowd-pleaser for friends and family alike. Are you ready to dive into a slice of nostalgia with a twist?
Why is This Dessert So Special?
Comforting Flavors: This pie perfectly combines the warm flavors of traditional apple pie with the irresistible sweetness of cinnamon rolls, making every bite a delightful experience.
Easy Preparation: Using store-bought ingredients, this recipe saves time without sacrificing quality, allowing you to whip up this masterpiece quickly, even on busy days.
Impressive Presentation: The crispy cinnamon topping creates an eye-catching contrast to the luscious apple filling, turning it into the star of any gathering, similar to my Caramel Apple Cheesecake.
Versatile Options: Whether you prefer apples, cherries, or pears, this recipe can easily adapt to your favorite fruits.
Perfect for Sharing: This pie is a fantastic way to impress your guests during holidays or family gatherings, ensuring that everyone leaves with a smile. Don’t forget to serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an extra treat!
Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Ingredients
For the Pie Crust
- Pie Dough – Use either a homemade or store-bought refrigerated crust for ease and convenience.
For the Apple Filling
- Apple Pie Filling – Use 2 cans of store-bought or about 7-8 cups of sliced apples for a sweet, fruity core.
For the Cinnamon Roll Topping
- Unsalted Butter – 4 tablespoons, melted; this adds richness and moisture to your cinnamon roll topping.
- Light-Brown Sugar or Granulated Sugar – ½ cup packed, sweetens the topping beautifully.
- Ground Cinnamon – 2 teaspoons; it infuses the dessert with warm, aromatic flavor, making this Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie truly special.
- Salt – ½ teaspoon; enhances all flavors for a well-rounded taste.
- Egg – 1 whisked egg for an egg wash, creating a lovely golden crust.
- Turbinado Sugar – Optional; 2 tablespoons for sprinkling on top, adds a crunchy texture.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie
Step 1: Prepare Dough
Begin by rolling out your pie dough on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/8-inch thick. Fit the dough into a 9-inch pie plate, carefully pressing it into the corners and trimming any excess. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you work on the toppings; this will ensure that the Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie bakes evenly.
Step 2: Create Topping
In a mixing bowl, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and brush a generous amount onto the cinnamon roll dough. Evenly sprinkle the light-brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt over the buttered dough. Roll the dough tightly from one edge to another, forming a log, then chill it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to firm up.
Step 3: Assemble
Once the topping has chilled and firmed, slice the cinnamon roll log into 1-inch thick rounds. Pour the apple pie filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly. Carefully arrange the cinnamon roll slices on top of the apple filling, covering it like a beautiful patchwork to create the signature look for your Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie.
Step 4: Chill and Finish
Let the assembled pie chill in the refrigerator for another 10 minutes to set the cinnamon rolls. While it chills, whisk together one egg to create an egg wash. Once the pie is firm, gently brush the egg wash over the cinnamon roll topping for a beautiful golden color when baked. Optionally, sprinkle turbinado sugar on top for added texture.
Step 5: Bake
Carefully place the Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie in your preheated oven and bake for 60-80 minutes, or until the crust is deeply golden and the apple filling is bubbling through the cracks. Keep an eye on the pie, covering it with foil if the topping browns too quickly. The aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling that it’s nearly ready to serve!
Step 6: Serve
Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool for about 20 minutes before slicing. This cooling period helps the filling set, ensuring neat slices. Serve the pie warm, and for an extra treat, pair it with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of glaze for that finishing touch. Enjoy your delightful Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie
This Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie is not just a dessert; it’s an invitation to gather around the table and savor moments that matter.
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Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: A classic pairing, the creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream balances the warm spices, making every bite heavenly.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream enhances the pie’s textures and adds a delightful touch of sweetness.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over each slice adds a rich, buttery flavor that complements the apple filling beautifully.
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Coffee: The boldness of a freshly brewed cup of coffee cuts through the richness of the pie, making for a comforting dessert experience.
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Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices in a chai latte echo the cinnamon in the pie, elevating the overall flavor profile for an enchanting pairing.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A side of vibrant, seasonal fruits adds a refreshing and healthy contrast, cleansing the palate between bites of decadent pie.
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Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like brie or creamy goat cheese can create a delightful savory contrast to the sweet, spiced apple filling.
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Nutty Granola: For a crunchy element, serve a small bowl of nutty granola on the side; it adds texture and an unexpected twist of flavor.
Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Variations
Feel free to explore these delicious twists that will make your Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie uniquely yours!
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Fruit Swap: Use pears or cherries instead of apples for a refreshing and fruity alternative. The tender texture of the pears or tartness of the cherries provides a delightful contrast with the cinnamon roll topping.
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Vegan Option: Replace butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based milk for the egg wash. This will create a buttery flavor and keep your dessert vegan-friendly while maintaining that luscious topping.
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Spiced Up: Add nutmeg or allspice to the apple filling for a warm, aromatic flavor boost that marries beautifully with the cinnamon. Just a pinch will elevate the entire pie and make it even more comforting.
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Extra Crunch: Toss in chopped pecans or walnuts into the apple filling for added texture. This nutty crunch pairs wonderfully with the soft apples, creating an exciting bite in every slice.
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Cheesecake Layer: Spread a layer of cream cheese or ricotta between the apple filling and cinnamon roll topping for a creamy contrast. This decadent addition will take your pie over the top!
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Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top before serving for a sticky sweetness that enhances the cinnamon flavor. A perfect complement to the already divine textures and flavors of the pie!
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Flavored Sugar: Use vanilla or maple sugar instead of regular sugar in the topping for a subtle flavor twist that deepens the sweetness and complexity of the cinnamon roll crust.
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Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular pie dough with a gluten-free pie crust to accommodate dietary preferences. This allows everyone to enjoy the indulgent flavors while respecting their diet.
Feel inspired? Your next creation could be serving this comforting treat alongside my Homemade Cinnamon Rolls or a classic Apple Cinnamon Cobbler.
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie
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Chill Dough: Ensure your pie dough and cinnamon roll topping are chilled before baking. This helps maintain their shape and texture during baking, leading to a beautiful result.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: If opting for homemade apple filling, choose ripe apples for the best flavor. Granny Smith or Honeycrisp varieties work beautifully in this cinnamon roll apple pie.
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Watch the Bake Time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your pie while it bakes. If the topping browns too quickly, cover it with foil for the remaining baking time to prevent burning.
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Allow Cooling: Let your pie cool for at least 20 minutes after baking. This step is crucial for preserving the shape when slicing, making your presentation as impressive as the taste.
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Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to get creative with the garnish! A drizzle of caramel sauce or a simple powdered sugar glaze can elevate your cinnamon roll apple pie to new heights.
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie
Room Temperature: Enjoy your baked Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie at room temperature for up to 3 days; cover it with foil or a cake dome to keep it fresh.
Fridge: For longer storage, keep the pie in the fridge wrapped tightly in foil for an additional 2 days. This helps maintain its delicious flavors while keeping it moist.
Freezer: Unbaked pie can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and frozen for up to 3 months. Just bake it straight from the freezer when you’re ready to enjoy!
Reheating: To reheat, warm individual slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring the crispy topping stays delightful.
Make Ahead Options
This Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie is a fantastic choice for those who love to meal prep! You can prepare the pie crust and fill it with the apple pie filling up to 24 hours in advance, simply covering it with plastic wrap and refrigerating to maintain freshness. The cinnamon roll topping can also be prepped and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; just slice and chill it tightly wrapped in wax paper or plastic wrap to keep it from drying out. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the pie with the chilled topping, brush with the egg wash, and bake until golden brown and bubbling. This way, you’ll have an impressive dessert ready with minimal last-minute effort!
Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Recipe FAQs
What kind of apples should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie, I recommend using ripe, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold up well during baking and provide a perfect contrast to the sweetness of the cinnamon roll topping.
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How should I store leftovers?
Very! To keep your baked Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie fresh, store it at room temperature covered with foil or a cake dome for up to 3 days. If you plan to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in foil and refrigerate for an additional 2 days. This method helps the pie maintain its moistness and flavor.
Can I freeze the Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie?
Definitely! You can freeze an unbaked Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring no air gets in, and storing it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake it straight from the freezer, increasing the baking time by about 10-15 minutes.
What should I do if my topping burns too quickly?
If you see the topping browning too rapidly, don’t worry! Simply cover the pie loosely with aluminum foil to protect it until the filling bubbles and the crust is golden brown. This way, you can prevent burning while still achieving that beautiful finish.
Can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?
Absolutely! To create a vegan version of your Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie, substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based alternative and replace the egg wash with a non-dairy milk wash. It will still taste fantastic and will be delicious for everyone to enjoy!
How long does it take for the pie to cool before serving?
It’s best to let your pie cool for about 20 minutes after baking. This cooling period allows the filling to set, ensuring that your slices hold their shape when served. Trust me, this step will keep your presentation as beautiful as each delicious bite!
Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie: A Cozy Twist on a Classic Dessert
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Roll out your pie dough on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/8-inch thick. Fit the dough into a 9-inch pie plate and preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, melt the unsalted butter and brush it onto the cinnamon roll dough. Sprinkle the light-brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt over it, then roll tightly to form a log.
- Slice the cinnamon roll log into 1-inch thick rounds. Pour the apple pie filling into the prepared crust and arrange the cinnamon roll slices on top.
- Chill the pie in the refrigerator for 10 minutes, then brush the egg wash over the topping and optionally sprinkle turbinado sugar on top.
- Bake the pie for 60-80 minutes, or until the crust is golden and filling is bubbling. Cover with foil if browning too quickly.
- After baking, cool for 20 minutes before slicing and serve warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.
