Easy Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie: A Simple & Delicious Shortcut Dessert

Say goodbye to complicated pie crusts and hello to the ultimate shortcut dessert: Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie! This innovative recipe transforms humble canned cinnamon rolls into a wonderfully flaky crust, making homemade-tasting apple pie incredibly simple and accessible for any baker. Layers of tender, spiced apples nestled within a sweet, cinnamon-infused crust, topped with a luscious glaze, create an absolute delight that’s perfect for any occasion.

This oven-baked recipe is so surprisingly easy to whip up, you’ll hardly believe it. The secret lies in using store-bought cinnamon roll dough, which dramatically cuts down on preparation time without compromising on flavor or texture. It’s a brilliant hack for anyone craving a warm, comforting apple pie without the extensive effort usually involved. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends. We’ve been making this simple apple dessert for years, and it’s always a favorite, especially with the kids!

If you’re a fan of classic apple desserts, you’ll also love our Cinnamon Pie Recipe for another spice-filled treat. For those who prefer a more traditional apple pie with a delicious twist, be sure to try our Salted Caramel Apple Pie Recipe. But for sheer ease and crowd-pleasing appeal, this cinnamon roll version takes the cake… or rather, the pie!

Why You’ll Adore This Easy Apple Pie

There are countless reasons why this cinnamon roll apple pie stands out as a beloved dessert. The combination of sweet, tender apple pie filling infused with aromatic cinnamon, all nestled atop a soft yet sturdy cinnamon roll crust, creates a truly unforgettable experience. The best part? It’s topped with the delightful icing that comes with the cinnamon rolls, bringing all the flavors together in a symphony of sweetness. This dish isn’t just a dessert; it’s a comforting, warm embrace in every bite.

Beyond its incredible taste, its versatility is unmatched. Whether you’re serving it as a decadent dessert after a family meal, a special breakfast treat to kickstart your day, or a crowd-pleasing addition to your brunch spread, it never disappoints. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or simply a cozy night in. The ease of preparation means you can enjoy that “homemade pie” feeling without the typical time commitment, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights and special occasions alike.

Gather Your Ingredients

One of the beauties of this cinnamon roll apple pie recipe is its reliance on readily available ingredients, many of which you might already have in your pantry. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and spiced flavors. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why:

• Canned Cinnamon Rolls: This is the star ingredient that makes this pie incredibly easy. You’ll typically need two cans, each with 8 count rolls. While we love the convenience of store-bought, feel free to use your favorite brand like Pillsbury or even homemade cinnamon rolls if you’re feeling ambitious and have extra time. The included icing is crucial, so set it aside!
• Granny Smith Apples: These tart apples are a classic choice for apple pie for good reason. Their firm texture holds up beautifully during baking, preventing them from becoming mushy. Their natural tartness also provides a wonderful contrast to the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls and glaze. Make sure to peel and cut them into thin, uniform slices for even cooking. If you’re really short on time, you can even use canned apple pie filling as an easy substitute – just adjust the added sugar accordingly.
• Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice is essential. It not only brightens the flavor of the apples but also prevents them from browning, keeping your pie looking fresh and appealing. Freshly squeezed is always best for the brightest flavor.
• Ground Cinnamon: This spice is a must for any apple pie, especially one featuring cinnamon rolls! It infuses the apple filling with warmth and aromatic depth. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your preference for a milder or more intense cinnamon flavor.
• Granulated Sugar: To sweeten the tart Granny Smith apples and balance the overall flavor of the pie. The quantity can be adjusted slightly depending on the sweetness of your apples or if you’re using pre-made filling.
• Salt: A pinch of salt might seem unusual for a dessert, but it’s a flavor enhancer. It helps to bring out the natural sweetness of the apples and the warmth of the cinnamon, making all the flavors pop.
• Cornstarch: This acts as a thickening agent for the apple filling, ensuring your pie isn’t watery. It helps create that perfectly gooey, sliceable consistency everyone loves in an apple pie.

For the entire list of ingredients with precise measurements, make sure to scroll down to the printable recipe card at the bottom of the page. It’s designed to give you all the details you need for a perfect bake every time!

Step-by-Step: How to Make Apple Pie With Cinnamon Rolls

Creating this delicious cinnamon roll apple pie is a straightforward process, thanks to clever shortcuts. Follow these simple steps to bring this delightful dessert to life in your kitchen:

• Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan. Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). Then, lightly spray a standard 9-inch pie pan with a non-stick cooking spray. This ensures your beautiful pie won’t stick and makes for easy serving.

Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Roll Crust. Carefully open the cans of cinnamon rolls, ensuring you set aside the small containers of icing – you’ll need them later for drizzling! Next, place each cinnamon roll on a clean, floured cutting board or work surface. Cut each roll in half horizontally, effectively making two thinner cinnamon roll discs from each original roll. This helps create a more even and spreadable crust. Using a rolling pin, gently roll out each cinnamon roll half until it’s thin and flat. Aim for a thickness similar to a traditional pie crust.

Step 3: Form and Pre-bake the Bottom Crust. Arrange the flattened cinnamon roll pieces in the bottom of your prepared pie plate, overlapping them slightly and pressing them together firmly to form a continuous, sealed crust. Make sure there are no gaps. Once your crust is formed, bake it in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes. This short pre-bake helps set the crust and prevents it from becoming soggy once the apple filling is added, creating a perfect foundation for your pie.

Step 4: Prepare the Apple Filling. While the crust is pre-baking, prepare your apple filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the peeled and thinly sliced Granny Smith apples with the lemon juice. Toss them gently to ensure all apple slices are coated – this prevents browning and adds a zesty freshness. Then, add the sugar, salt, ground cinnamon, and cornstarch to the bowl. Toss again until the apples are evenly coated with the spice and sugar mixture. The cornstarch is key here, helping to thicken the juices as the pie bakes, creating that perfect consistency.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie. Once your bottom crust has had its initial bake, carefully pour the apple mixture over it, spreading it evenly across the pan. Next, use the remaining flattened cinnamon roll pieces to create the top crust. You can lay them flat, create a simple lattice pattern, or even use cookie cutters to make decorative shapes. Once the top layer is in place, gently pinch together any holes or seams in the crust, and press the edges of the top crust onto the bottom layer of cinnamon roll crust to seal them securely. This helps to keep all that delicious apple filling inside.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection. Cover the entire pie loosely with aluminum foil. This prevents the cinnamon roll crust from browning too quickly while the apples have a chance to soften and cook through. Bake for 35 minutes with the foil on. After 35 minutes, carefully remove the foil and return the pie to the oven for an additional 10 minutes. This final uncovered baking time allows the top crust to become beautifully golden brown and crisp. Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. This is crucial for the filling to set properly. Once cooled, drizzle generously with the reserved cinnamon roll icing.

Step 7: Slice, Serve, and Enjoy! Once the pie has cooled sufficiently and the icing has set a bit, it’s ready to be sliced and served. For the ultimate comforting experience, serve it warm. Pair it with your favorite toppings for an extra special treat. Get ready to enjoy the easiest and most delicious apple pie you’ve ever made!

Elevate Your Pie: Delicious Toppings

While this Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie is absolutely delicious on its own, adding a topping or two can elevate it to an even more decadent level. Here are some of our favorite ways to enhance your pie experience:

• Whipped Cream: A generous dollop of fluffy homemade whipped cream (or even store-bought for convenience) adds a light, airy contrast to the rich pie. The coolness of the cream against the warm pie is a delightful sensation.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: For the ultimate comfort food experience, serve your warm slice of pie à la mode with a scoop of creamy Vanilla Ice Cream. The melting ice cream mingling with the sweet apples and cinnamon roll crust creates a truly luxurious dessert.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzle a rich caramel sauce over your slice for an extra layer of sweetness and a buttery, indulgent flavor. This pairs exceptionally well with apples and cinnamon.
• Powdered Sugar: For a simple yet elegant touch, a light dusting of powdered sugar adds a delicate sweetness and a beautiful presentation.
• Fried Apples: For an abundance of apple flavor and a different texture, top your cinnamon roll apple pie with a spoonful of Deep Fried Apples. This intensifies the apple experience.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: Instead of, or in addition to, the provided cinnamon roll icing, a rich Homemade Cream Cheese Frosting offers a tangy and creamy alternative that complements the apple and cinnamon flavors beautifully.
• Chopped Nuts: A sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts can add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, providing another layer of texture to each bite.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making and storing this delightful Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie:

Expert Tips for the Perfect Pie

To ensure your Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie turns out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind:

• Cinnamon Rolls: For this recipe, store-bought canned cinnamon rolls are your best friend. We personally used the original Pillsbury brand, and it yielded fantastic results. However, don’t hesitate to use your preferred store brand or any other variety you enjoy. Just make sure to get the standard 8-count size for proper crust coverage. If you can find “Grands!” cinnamon rolls, you might need fewer rolls or adjust the rolling thickness, but standard ones are generally ideal.
• Apples: While you can experiment with a combination of apple varieties, we highly recommend Granny Smith apples. Their tartness and firm texture make them ideal for baking, as they hold their shape without becoming mushy. The tartness also provides a crucial balance to the inherent sweetness of the cinnamon rolls and icing. Honeycrisp apples are another excellent choice, offering a crisp texture and sweet-tart flavor. For a more complex pie, you can even mix Granny Smith with a sweeter apple like Fuji or Gala.
• Allow to Cool: This step is often overlooked but it’s critically important! After baking, always allow the pie to cool down completely on a wire rack before you drizzle on the icing. Cooling allows the apple filling to set properly, ensuring clean, beautiful slices. If you cut into it too soon, the filling will be runny. The cooling also prevents the icing from melting off entirely, allowing it to set nicely on top.
• Prevent a Soggy Bottom: The initial pre-bake of the bottom cinnamon roll crust (Step 3) is key to preventing a soggy pie bottom. Also, ensuring your apple filling isn’t excessively watery by using cornstarch (Step 4) helps absorb excess moisture during baking.
• Uniform Apple Slices: Cut your apple slices as uniformly as possible. This ensures that all the apples cook evenly, resulting in a consistent texture throughout your pie. Too thick, and they might be crunchy; too thin, and they might disappear!
• Don’t Overbake: While you want the crust to be golden brown, keep an eye on it, especially during the uncovered baking period. Cinnamon roll dough can brown quickly. If it looks like it’s getting too dark, you can loosely tent it with foil again.

Storage and Freezing

Proper storage ensures you can enjoy your delicious Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie for days to come:

• How to Store in the Refrigerator: Once cooled, cover any leftover pie tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. To reheat, you can warm individual slices in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, or for a crisper crust, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
• How to Freeze: Yes, you can absolutely freeze cinnamon roll apple pie! For best results, freeze the pie *before* adding the icing. Wrap the cooled, baked pie tightly in several layers of plastic wrap, then an additional layer of aluminum foil. You can freeze the whole pie or individual slices. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the pie overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the oven (covered with foil initially, then uncovered to crisp the crust) until warmed through. Drizzle with fresh icing after reheating. For more detailed tips on freezing, check out our guide on Can you freeze apple pie.

More Irresistible Apple Desserts

If you love the comforting flavors of apple and cinnamon, be sure to explore these other fantastic apple dessert recipes:

• Apple Pie Bites Recipe
• Apple Pie Cookies
• Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe
• Apple Crostata Recipe

We truly hope you give this deliciously easy cinnamon roll apple pie recipe a try. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that combines the best of two beloved desserts into one unforgettable treat. Please come back and leave a star rating and comment to let us know how much you loved it! Your feedback helps other home bakers discover and enjoy this wonderful recipe.