Pin This Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie transforms two beloved classics into one irresistible dessert. The sweet, spiced apple filling nestles perfectly within a buttery cinnamon roll crust, creating a delightful twist that will have everyone asking for seconds.
I first created this pie for our neighborhood holiday potluck, and it disappeared faster than any other dessert. Now my daughter insists we make it for every special occasion, claiming it combines her two favorite treats into the ultimate comfort food.
Ingredients
- Refrigerated cinnamon roll dough: transforms into a uniquely flavored pie crust while saving significant prep time
- Granny Smith apples: provide the perfect tartness to balance the sweet cinnamon flavors and hold their shape during baking
- Brown sugar: adds caramel notes that enhance the apple filling
- Ground cinnamon and nutmeg: create that classic warm apple pie flavor profile that pairs perfectly with the crust
- Lemon juice: prevents apple browning and adds brightness to cut through the richness
- Vanilla extract: rounds out the flavor profile with subtle depth
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease your pie dish. Unroll each cinnamon roll and flatten to about ¼ inch thickness with a rolling pin. The dough might be a bit sticky, so use a light dusting of flour if needed. Press the flattened rolls into your pie dish, making sure to pinch the seams together well. Work the dough up the sides evenly, creating a uniform crust that will hold your filling.
- Create the Apple Filling:
- Peel, core, and slice your apples thinly, about ⅛ inch thick for the best texture. In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with both sugars, flour, spices, salt, lemon juice, and vanilla. Make sure every slice is well coated. The mixture should look glossy and smell fragrant. Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and juices to begin releasing.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Transfer your spiced apple mixture into the cinnamon roll crust, arranging the slices so they fit snugly. Pour any remaining juices from the bowl over the apples. Brush the melted butter across the top of the apples to add richness and help them brown beautifully. Bake for 45–50 minutes, watching carefully after 35 minutes. The perfect pie will have golden brown crust edges and bubbling filling.
- Final Touches:
- Allow the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before drizzling with the reserved cinnamon roll icing. This cooling period is crucial as it allows the filling to set properly. For the most attractive finish, warm the icing packet slightly by placing it in warm water for 1 minute before drizzling over the pie in a zigzag pattern.
Pin The cinnamon roll dough is truly the magic ingredient in this recipe. I discovered this technique by accident when I ran out of pie crust during holiday baking. My grandmother always said necessity breeds invention, and this happy accident became our new tradition. The way the cinnamon swirls create beautiful patterns in the crust makes this pie as gorgeous as it is delicious.
Make Ahead Tips
This pie can be fully assembled and refrigerated unbaked for up to 24 hours. Simply cover with plastic wrap and bake when ready, adding about 5 extra minutes to the baking time. The convenience of preparing this dessert in advance makes it perfect for busy holiday gatherings or when entertaining guests.
Smart Substitutions
If Granny Smith apples are unavailable, Honeycrisp or Pink Lady varieties work wonderfully as alternatives. For those avoiding refined sugar, coconut sugar can replace both white and brown sugars with minimal flavor difference. Dairy free cinnamon rolls can be used for those with lactose sensitivities, though the texture may vary slightly.
Serving Suggestions
While this pie is delicious on its own, elevating it with accompaniments creates an unforgettable dessert experience. Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream that slowly melts into the filling. For brunch presentations, add a dollop of lightly sweetened mascarpone cheese and a drizzle of maple syrup. During fall gatherings, offer a side of salted caramel sauce for guests to pour over their portions.
Apple Selection Guide
The apple variety you choose significantly impacts your pie results. Granny Smith provides classic tartness and firm texture, while Honeycrisp offers sweetness with excellent structure. For a more complex flavor profile, try using a combination of apple varieties. Whatever type you select, ensure they feel firm and heavy for their size, indicating freshness and high juice content.
Pin This pie truly is a showstopper. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use homemade cinnamon roll dough?
Yes, homemade dough works well and can enhance the flavor and texture of the crust.
- → Which apples are best for this dessert?
Tart varieties like Granny Smith provide a balanced sweetness and hold their shape during baking.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. Warm slices before serving for best taste.
- → Can I add nuts for texture?
Chopped pecans or walnuts can be sprinkled over the apples before baking for extra crunch.
- → What can I serve alongside this dessert?
It pairs perfectly with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to complement its warm flavors.
- → Is it possible to substitute pears for apples?
Absolutely—pears offer a delicious twist and work well with the same spices and crust.