Go Back

Apple Cinnamon Roll Bake - Cozy, Comforting, and Easy

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cans (12–13 oz each) refrigerated cinnamon rolls, with icing packets reserved
  • 3 medium apples (Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Gala), peeled, cored, and diced
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional but recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
  • 1/3 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
  • Additional icing or caramel sauce for drizzling (optional)

Method
 

  1. Prep the pan and oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
  2. Cut the cinnamon rolls: Open both cans of cinnamon rolls and set the icing packets aside. Cut each roll into quarters and spread the pieces evenly in the prepared dish.
  3. Make the apple mixture: In a bowl, toss the diced apples with the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and salt until the apples are glossy and coated.
  4. Combine in the dish: Scatter the apple mixture over the cinnamon roll pieces. If using nuts, sprinkle them over the top.
  5. Add the cream: Pour the heavy cream evenly over everything. This helps create a rich, custardy texture and keeps the bake moist.
  6. Bake: Place the dish on the middle rack and bake for 30–38 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center looks set. If the top is browning too quickly, tent loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes.
  7. Check doneness: Insert a knife or toothpick in the center. It should come out with moist crumbs but not wet dough. Add a few extra minutes if needed.
  8. Glaze: Let the bake rest for 5–10 minutes. Warm the reserved icing packets briefly and drizzle over the top. Add caramel sauce if you want extra sweetness.
  9. Serve: Spoon into bowls while warm. It’s excellent on its own, or with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.