Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the warmth of apple pie with the fluffy goodness of cinnamon rolls, you’ve come to the right place! These Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls are a family favorite in my home. They fill the kitchen with an irresistible aroma that has everyone asking for seconds. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend brunch, these rolls are perfect for any occasion.

What makes this recipe extra special is how easy it is to whip up. You can enjoy them fresh out of the oven, and they’re even great for sharing at gatherings. Trust me; once you try these, you’ll keep coming back for more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have these delicious rolls ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves warm cinnamon rolls, especially when they’re filled with sweet apple goodness.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast or dessert, these rolls fit seamlessly into any meal.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare them ahead of time and bake them fresh when you’re ready to enjoy.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The mix of cinnamon, apples, and sweet icing creates a flavor explosion in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make these Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls. You might already have most of them in your pantry!

For the Rolls and Filling

• 2 packs Pillsbury Grands cinnamon rolls (5 count)
• Butter for greasing muffin tin
• 4 large apples (2 Honeycrisp and 2 Granny Smith)
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 2 tbsp cornstarch (dissolved in 3 tbsp water)

For the Streusel Topping

• 5 tbsp butter (partially melted)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Icing

• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp milk
• 1/2 tsp vanilla
• 1/2-1 tsp cinnamon (based on your preference)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients or toppings.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
• Change the Apples: Experiment with different varieties of apples to find your perfect flavor combination.
• Try Different Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of warmth.
• Top with Cream Cheese Frosting: Swap out the icing for cream cheese frosting if you want something richer.

How to Make Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Muffin Tin

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Grease each muffin cup with softened butter to prevent sticking. This step is crucial because it ensures that your rolls come out perfectly shaped and golden.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

Peel, slice thinly, and dice your apples into small pieces. In a medium bowl, combine the apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, melted butter, and cornstarch mixture. Heating this mixture in the microwave for about 2 minutes helps soften the apples while thickening the syrup—this is where all that delicious flavor comes together!

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

Using a slotted spoon, scoop out some apple filling while straining excess syrup before placing it into each cinnamon roll cavity. Fill each muffin cup generously; this is where all that yummy apple goodness will shine through!

Step 4: Make Your Streusel Topping

In another bowl, mix together the streusel topping ingredients until crumbly. This adds a beautiful texture on top of your rolls. Pile generous amounts over each filled roll—it’s okay if it looks a bit messy; that’s part of its charm!

Step 5: Bake and Drizzle Icing

Bake for about 15 minutes while loosely covering them with foil during the first five minutes to prevent over-browning. Halfway through baking, give them a little rotation for even cooking. Whisk together your icing ingredients until smooth while they bake. Once cooled slightly, drizzle this heavenly icing over your warm Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls—enjoy every sticky-sweet bite!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Creating the perfect Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls is easier than you think! Here are some tips to ensure your rolls turn out delicious every time.

• Choose the right apples: Using a combination of Honeycrisp and Granny Smith apples gives the filling a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, enhancing the overall flavor of your rolls.
• Don’t overfill: While it’s tempting to pack in as much apple filling as possible, overfilling can lead to messy rolls. Aim for a generous amount that allows the cinnamon roll to rise without spilling over.
• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring your ingredients like butter and milk are at room temperature helps them combine more easily, resulting in a smoother icing and better texture in your rolls.
• Let them cool slightly before icing: Drizzling icing on piping hot rolls can cause it to melt away. Allowing your rolls to cool for 5-10 minutes ensures that the icing stays put and creates a beautiful finish.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of cinnamon or even add nutmeg or allspice for an extra layer of flavor that complements the apple filling beautifully.

How to Serve Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Presenting your Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls beautifully can elevate any meal or gathering. Here are some delightful ways to serve them!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top of your icing for added crunch and flavor.
• Caramel drizzle: A light drizzle of caramel sauce adds an indulgent touch that pairs perfectly with the apple pie filling.
• Fresh whipped cream: A dollop of non-dairy whipped cream can make these rolls feel extra special and creamy.

Side Dishes

• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette balances the sweetness of your rolls.
• Yogurt parfait: A layered yogurt parfait with granola and fresh fruit offers a refreshing contrast, making for a delightful brunch option.
• Fruit platter: Pairing these rolls with a colorful fruit platter adds variety and freshness to your meal, inviting everyone to enjoy seasonal fruits alongside their sweet treat.
• Coffee or tea: While not a food dish, serving these rolls with a hot cup of coffee or herbal tea enhances the cozy experience and makes for an ideal afternoon snack.

Enjoying these Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls is not just about eating; it’s about creating warm memories around the table!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, store them, or even freeze them for a delightful treat anytime. Here’s how to keep these delicious rolls fresh and ready for enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds before serving.

Freezing

• Allow the rolls to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen rolls, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Warm in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or until heated through.
• For a crispy top, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

If you have questions about making these delightful rolls, we’ve got you covered!

Can I use different types of apples for Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls?

Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Granny Smith apples work beautifully together, feel free to experiment with your favorite apple varieties. Just aim for a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor balance.

How long do Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls last?

When stored properly in the fridge, Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls can last up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them longer, consider freezing them!

Can I make Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare your rolls ahead of time by assembling them and storing them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This makes them a convenient option for breakfast or brunch gatherings.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these cozy Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls as much as I do! They blend the comforting flavors of apple pie with soft, gooey cinnamon rolls, creating a truly special treat. Whether it’s a weekend breakfast or a dessert for a gathering, these rolls are sure to impress. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your delicious results!