Apple Crisp Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe

The Best Apple Crisp Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe Ever Made

Weekends call for sweet, comforting treats that fill your kitchen with warmth and nostalgia.

This apple crisp cinnamon roll casserole blends two beloved desserts into one decadent masterpiece.

Layers of tender cinnamon rolls mingle with soft, spiced apple slices, creating a symphony of flavors.

Buttery crumbles and sweet caramelized edges promise a delightful twist on classic comfort food.

Each forkful delivers a perfect balance of gooey, crisp, and rich textures that dance across your palate.

Baked to golden perfection, this dessert transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary experience.

Prepare to fall in love with every single, irresistible bite.

Storing Apple Crisp Cinnamon Roll Casserole Overnight

  • Store leftover Apple Crisp Cinnamon Roll Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or lid to prevent moisture loss and maintain freshness.
  • Warm individual portions in the microwave for 30-45 seconds, or reheat the entire casserole in a preheated 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Add a splash of cream or milk to restore moisture if needed.
  • Wrap the cooled casserole securely in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.

FAQs

  • What are the key ingredients that make this Apple Crisp Cinnamon Roll Casserole unique?

The recipe combines traditional apple crisp with store-bought cinnamon rolls, creating a delicious fusion dessert that includes caramel sauce, a custard mixture, and a crumbly topping for extra texture and flavor.

  • Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?

Yes, choose firm baking apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn. These varieties hold their shape well during cooking and provide a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.

  • Is this recipe suitable for someone with limited baking experience?

Absolutely! The recipe uses pre-made cinnamon rolls and simple techniques, making it beginner-friendly. The step-by-step instructions are straightforward and easy to follow.

Apple Crisp Cinnamon Roll Casserole Big Comfort Appeal

Apple Crisp Cinnamon Roll Casserole Big Comfort Appeal
  • Elevate Breakfast Bliss: Transform ordinary morning meals into a decadent experience with this show-stopping apple crisp cinnamon roll casserole that combines classic comfort foods.
  • Impress Without Stress: Minimal cooking skills required, this recipe delivers maximum wow factor with simple steps and readily available ingredients perfect for home cooks of all levels.
  • Create Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Packed with layers of sweet cinnamon, tender apples, and rich caramel, this dish guarantees smiles and second helpings at family gatherings, brunches, or potlucks.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients or adjust spices to match personal preferences, making this recipe adaptable for different tastes and dietary needs while maintaining its delicious core.

Apple Crisp Cinnamon Roll Casserole Pantry Picks

Fruit Base:
  • Apples: Sweet and soft fruits that form the delicious foundation of the casserole.
  • Orange Juice: Adds a bright citrus note to the apple filling.
  • Water: Helps create the perfect consistency for the apple mixture.
Sweeteners and Spices:
  • Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Provide sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
  • Cinnamon, Nutmeg: Warm spices that enhance the apple and cinnamon roll flavors.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a rich, aromatic essence to both the filling and icing.
Binding and Texture Ingredients:
  • Cornstarch: Helps thicken the apple filling and create a perfect sauce.
  • Egg: Binds the custard mixture and adds richness.
  • Heavy Cream: Creates a creamy, luxurious texture in the custard.
  • Flour: Helps to stabilize and thicken the custard mixture.
Pastry Ingredients:
  • Cinnamon Rolls: The star ingredient that gives the casserole its unique character.
  • Cinnamon Roll Icing: Provides a sweet glaze for the final topping.
Topping and Finishing Ingredients:
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps create a golden, crispy top.
  • Powdered Sugar: Used in the enhanced icing for extra sweetness.
  • Half & Half: Helps create a smooth, creamy icing.
  • Caramel Sauce: Provides a decadent drizzle to finish the dish.
Crumble Topping:
  • Crumble Ingredients: Create a crunchy, sweet layer on top of the casserole.

Apple Crisp Cinnamon Roll Casserole Simple Steps Guide

Apple Crisp Cinnamon Roll Casserole Simple Steps Guide

Step 1: Prepare Baking Dish

Grab a 10-inch pie pan or cast iron skillet and generously coat the inside with melted butter.

Preheat your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C), getting ready for a delicious baking adventure.

Step 2: Create Luscious Apple Mixture

In a medium saucepan, combine:
  • Cubed apples
  • Granulated sugar
  • Brown sugar
  • Cinnamon
  • Nutmeg
  • Water
  • Orange juice

Bring this delightful mixture to a bubbling boil, stirring occasionally to blend all the flavors.

Step 3: Soften Apple Goodness

Reduce the heat and let the apples simmer for about 10 minutes.

Keep stirring to ensure they soften slightly while maintaining their beautiful shape.

Step 4: Thicken Apple Magic

In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch with room temperature water until completely smooth.

Pour this into the apple mixture, stirring constantly.

Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the sauce becomes wonderfully thick and glossy.

Step 5: Enhance Apple Filling

Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

Let the mixture cool slightly, then fold in caramel sauce for an extra layer of decadence.

Step 6: Create Cinnamon Sugar Blend

Mix brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl.

Divide this mixture into two separate portions for later use.

Step 7: Prepare Melted Butter

Divide the melted butter into two separate bowls, ready for the next magical steps.

Step 8: Whip Up Custard Mixture

In one bowl, combine:
  • Portion of melted butter
  • Egg
  • Heavy cream
  • Vanilla extract
  • Portion of sugar-cinnamon mixture
  • Flour

Whisk until smooth and well incorporated.

Step 9: Prepare Cinnamon Roll Pieces

Slice each cinnamon roll into 4 equal pieces.

Gently toss these pieces in the custard mixture, ensuring they’re completely coated.

Step 10: Combine Apple and Cinnamon Rolls

Mix the coated cinnamon roll pieces with the apple filling, using about 2/3 of the liquid but all of the apple pieces.

Step 11: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly for a perfect distribution of flavors.

Step 12: Add Flavor Topping

Mix remaining melted butter with the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Pour this evenly over the casserole.

Step 13: Create Crumble Topping

Combine crumble ingredients in a small bowl, mixing until it reaches a delightful crumbly texture.

Sprinkle over the casserole.

Step 14: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and the center sets completely.

Step 15: Prepare Decadent Icing

Whisk together:
  • Cinnamon roll icing
  • Powdered sugar
  • Half & half
  • Vanilla extract

Until smooth and irresistible.

Step 16: Final Touches

Drizzle the icing over the warm casserole, then add an extra splash of caramel sauce.

Pro Tricks For Cinnamon Roll Casserole

  • Select firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor balance in your casserole.
  • Cook apples just until they begin to soften to prevent mushy filling, maintaining a slight bite and structure.
  • Pat cinnamon roll pieces dry before mixing with custard to reduce excess moisture and ensure a crisp texture.
  • Add a pinch of salt to the apple filling to intensify the caramel and sugar notes, creating a more complex taste profile.
  • Use cold butter when making the crumble topping to achieve a more crumbly, crunchy texture that adds delightful contrast.

Cinnamon Roll Casserole Fun Flavor Twists

  • Gluten-Free Version: Replace regular flour with almond or coconut flour, and use gluten-free cinnamon rolls. Ensures those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy this delectable dessert.
  • Vegan Adaptation: Swap eggs with flax eggs, use dairy-free butter, coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and plant-based cinnamon rolls. Creates a compassionate plant-based alternative.
  • Low-Sugar Option: Substitute granulated sugar with monk fruit sweetener, reduce caramel sauce, and use sugar-free cinnamon rolls. Perfect for those monitoring sugar intake.
  • Keto-Friendly Remix: Use low-carb almond flour, sugar substitutes, and keto-friendly cinnamon rolls. Replace apples with lower-carb berries like raspberries or blackberries.

Serving Cinnamon Roll Casserole Warm And Cozy

  • Sweet Breakfast Companion: Pair this decadent casserole with crispy bacon strips or breakfast sausage links for a balanced morning meal.
  • Dessert Transformation: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an indulgent after-dinner treat that melts perfectly over the hot casserole.
  • Brunch Centerpiece: Present alongside fresh fruit salad or mixed berry compote to add a light, refreshing contrast to the rich, warm cinnamon roll casserole.
  • Beverage Pairing: Complement the sweet dish with hot coffee, chai latte, or spiced apple cider to enhance the warm cinnamon and apple flavors.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Apple Crisp Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe

Apple Crisp Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 15 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Comforting apple crisp cinnamon roll casserole brings classic American dessert flavors together in one irresistible dish. Sweet cinnamon swirls and tender caramelized apples create a mouthwatering experience you’ll crave with every delightful bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 can Grand cinnamon rolls with icing
  • 2 large Honeycrisp apples, cut into 1-inch cubes

Filling and Base Ingredients:

  • 4 tablespoons (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) heavy cream
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (50 grams) brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/3 cup (80 milliliters) water
  • 1 tablespoon fresh squeezed orange juice
  • 2 tablespoons room temperature water
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping and Icing Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon old-fashioned oats
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons half & half
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Store-bought caramel sauce

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 10-inch pie pan or cast iron skillet with melted butter.
  2. Combine cubed apples, sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, water, and orange juice in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally.
  3. Reduce heat and simmer apples for 10 minutes, until they begin to soften but maintain their shape.
  4. Dissolve cornstarch in water, then add to the apple mixture. Stir constantly and cook for 3-4 minutes until juices thicken.
  5. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let cool slightly. Mix in caramel sauce.
  6. Create a sugar-cinnamon mixture by combining brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl.
  7. Whisk together one portion of melted butter, egg, heavy cream, vanilla extract, sugar-cinnamon mixture, and flour to create a custard base.
  8. Slice each cinnamon roll into four pieces and gently coat in the custard mixture.
  9. Fold cinnamon roll pieces into the apple filling, using 2/3 of the liquid but all apple pieces.
  10. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.
  11. Drizzle remaining melted butter and cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top.
  12. Prepare crumble by mixing crumble ingredients until they form a crumbly texture. Sprinkle over the casserole.
  13. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and set in the center.
  14. Create an enhanced icing by whisking cinnamon roll icing with powdered sugar, half & half, and vanilla extract.
  15. Once slightly cooled, drizzle icing over the casserole and add an extra caramel sauce topping.
  16. Serve warm and enjoy the decadent dessert.

Notes

  • Choose ripe, firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and balanced sweetness in the filling.
  • Allow the apple mixture to cool slightly before combining with cinnamon rolls to prevent soggy texture and maintain roll integrity.
  • For gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with almond or gluten-free flour blend and use certified gluten-free cinnamon rolls.
  • Reduce sugar content by using sugar-free caramel sauce and replacing some granulated sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener for a lower-calorie alternative.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Dessert, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 340
  • Sugar: 24 g
  • Sodium: 250 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 47 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 50 mg
Lena Martinez

Lena Martinez

Contributing Writer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Southwestern and Latin American cuisines, Vegetarian and plant-based recipe development, Culinary education and community outreach ​

Education

Santa Fe Community College, Santa Fe, NM
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Emphasized Southwestern cuisine and sustainable cooking practices


Lena grew up surrounded by the colors, spices, and traditions of the Southwest – flavors that sparked her love for bold, honest cooking. After earning her Culinary Arts certificate at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to teach home cooks how to create flavorful, plant-powered meals without the fuss.
Her recipes are packed with vibrant ingredients, simple steps, and the kind of heart that turns a regular meal into something you’ll want to share. Outside the kitchen, Lena spends her time wandering farmers’ markets, trading family recipes, and helping young chefs find their voice through food.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star