Heavenly Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling

cinnamon rolls with apple pie filling

Discover the ultimate breakfast pastry that combines the warm, gooey comfort of cinnamon rolls with the classic flavors of apple pie. These homemade cinnamon rolls with apple pie filling are a delectable treat. They turn an ordinary morning into a special culinary experience. Rated an impressive 4.81 out of 5 by 128 passionate bakers, this recipe promises to delight your taste buds and impress your family and friends.

Perfect for weekend brunches or special occasions, these apple cinnamon rolls blend the best of two beloved desserts into one irresistible pastry. With just 55 minutes of total preparation and cooking time, you can create a mouthwatering breakfast that serves up to 10 people.

Key Takeaways

  • Combines classic cinnamon rolls with traditional apple pie flavors
  • Quick and easy preparation (55 minutes total time)
  • Serves 10 people perfectly
  • Highly rated recipe with 4.81/5 stars
  • Versatile breakfast or dessert option
  • Packed with delicious apple and cinnamon flavors
  • Simple enough for home bakers of all skill levels

The Perfect Combination of Cinnamon Rolls and Apple Pie

Fusion desserts have become very popular. Our apple pie cinnamon rolls are the perfect mix of breakfast treats and holiday delights. They blend the warm taste of cinnamon rolls with the classic flavor of apple pie.

History of Combining Classic Desserts

Mixing favorite desserts is a long tradition. Bakers have always tried new ways to combine flavors. Our apple pie cinnamon rolls are inspired by home cooks who loved to remake classic recipes.

  • Traditional desserts transformed into exciting new creations
  • Blending familiar flavors for unexpected delights
  • Celebrating culinary creativity and innovation

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is a hit because it combines the best of two worlds. The soft cinnamon roll dough is the perfect base for a rich apple pie filling. Approximately 7 large apples are diced and seasoned, making the filling both traditional and exciting.

“Comfort food is about creating memories through taste and texture” – Culinary Experts

Popular Serving Occasions

These apple pie cinnamon rolls are great for many occasions. They’re perfect for festive family breakfasts, weekend brunches, or as a special dessert after dinner. They’re sure to wow everyone.

  1. Holiday morning gatherings
  2. Weekend brunch celebrations
  3. Potluck dessert contributions
  4. Special family breakfasts

With just 30 minutes of prep and ingredients like Granny Smith, Pink Lady, or Gala apples, these desserts add excitement to any meal. The recipe makes 12 rolls, ideal for sharing and making memories.

Essential Ingredients for Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Making delicious apple pie cinnamon rolls starts with the right ingredients. This recipe turns simple canned cinnamon rolls into a special dessert. It combines the flavors of apple pie and cinnamon rolls.

The secret to these tasty rolls is in the ingredients. Here’s what you need:

  • 2 (6 ounce) tubes of refrigerated Pillsbury biscuits
  • 1 can of apple pie filling
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup light brown sugar
  • 2½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 4 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 4 teaspoons all-purpose flour

For the glaze, you’ll need:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk

“The magic of this recipe is in transforming simple canned cinnamon rolls into a gourmet dessert that tastes like it came from a bakery!”

When making apple pie filling, cut your apples into small pieces. Pro tip: Use Granny Smith apples for the best taste. This recipe makes about 10 rolls, perfect for small parties or family treats.

For those watching their calories, each roll has about 172 calories. This means you can enjoy them without feeling guilty.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

To make delicious apple pie cinnamon rolls, you need the right baking tools and kitchen essentials. The right tools make baking smooth and fun. Let’s look at the key items for this tasty dessert.

Baking Equipment for Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Essential Baking Tools

For this recipe, some baking pans and tools are a must:

  • 9×13 inch baking dish or casserole dish
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Stand mixer with dough hook attachment
  • Sharp knife for cutting rolls
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Cooling rack

Measuring Tools Required

Getting the measurements right is crucial in baking. Here are the tools you’ll need for perfect results:

Tool Purpose
Measuring cups Dry and liquid ingredient measurements
Measuring spoons Precise spice and small quantity measurements
Digital kitchen scale Accurate weight measurements

Optional but Helpful Equipment

While not necessary, these tools can make baking better:

  • Mesh strainer for separating apple chunks
  • Pastry brush for glazing
  • Instant-read thermometer
  • Parchment paper

Pro tip: Invest in quality baking equipment that will last for multiple baking adventures!

Choosing the right kitchen tools can take your baking from good to amazing. Each tool is important for making perfect apple pie cinnamon rolls.

Choosing the Best Apples for Your Filling

Choosing the right apples can make your cinnamon rolls amazing. Not all apples are the same for baking. Knowing the differences can help you make a dessert that’s both delicious and memorable.

The top choices for baking apples include:

  • Granny Smith: A gold standard for baking apples with its crisp texture and tangy flavor
  • Braeburn: Offers a balanced sweet and tart profile
  • Jonagold: Provides a sweeter taste with buttery undertones
  • Empire: Maintains firm texture when cooked

Experts say mixing apple varieties can make the flavor even better. Granny Smith apples are the top pick for their baking excellence.

“Granny Smith apples are the best choice for baking due to their tartness and firm texture” – Lauren Windham, Baking Expert

When picking apples for your cinnamon roll filling, think about these things:

  1. Texture: Choose firm apples that keep their shape while baking
  2. Flavor balance: Look for apples that are both sweet and tart
  3. Moisture content: Pick apples that don’t release too much liquid
Apple Variety Flavor Profile Baking Performance
Granny Smith Tart, crisp Excellent
Braeburn Sweet-tart, complex Very Good
Jonagold Sweet, buttery Good

Pro tip: Stay away from Red Delicious, McIntosh, Gala, and Fuji for baking. They get mushy and don’t have the right texture for a great apple filling.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Making homemade cinnamon rolls with apple pie filling needs care and love. This guide will show you how to bake and prepare cinnamon rolls step by step.

Preparing the Dough

Begin by getting the right ingredients. You’ll need:

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons instant yeast
  • Warm water
  • Softened butter

Knead the dough for 10-11 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Let it rest and rise in a warm place for the best texture.

Making the Apple Pie Filling

The apple pie filling is the recipe’s heart. You’ll need:

  • 1 2/3 cups diced Gala apples
  • 1/4 cup apple butter
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • Cinnamon
  • Lemon juice

Cook the apples with spices for 12-13 minutes. This makes a rich, jam-like filling. It’s all about getting deep, warm flavors that match the cinnamon rolls.

Assembly Instructions

Roll out the dough into an 18×12 inch rectangle. Mix butter, cinnamon, and sugar, then spread it evenly. Cut the dough into twelve 1 1/2-inch rolls.

Preparation Stage Time Required
Dough Preparation 20 minutes
Apple Filling Cooking 15 minutes
Rolling and Cutting 10 minutes

Pro tip: Mix the apple pie filling with the cinnamon roll pieces gently before baking.

“Baking is love made visible” – Unknown

Baking Tips and Techniques

Baking cinnamon rolls is all about precision and detail. The right tips can make your apple pie cinnamon rolls amazing. Knowing about oven temperature and texture is key for top-notch results.

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) for consistent baking
  • Use a 13×9 inch baking dish to ensure even cooking
  • Bake for 50-55 minutes until rolls are golden and cooked through

“The secret to perfect cinnamon rolls is patience and precise temperature control.” – Pastry Chef Insight

To check if your cinnamon rolls are done, gently pull them apart. They should be fluffy and light, with no raw dough. If they’re not done, bake for 5-10 more minutes.

Baking Tip Technique Detail
Oven Placement Center rack for uniform heat distribution
Cooling Time 15 minutes before glazing
Cinnamon-Sugar Ratio 1/4 cup sugar + 1 tablespoon cinnamon

Pro tip: Cool your cinnamon rolls a bit before glazing. This keeps the glaze from melting and adds a nice texture and taste.

Creating the Perfect Sweet Glaze

The final touch to any delicious cinnamon roll is its irresistible cinnamon roll icing. A homemade glaze can make your apple pie cinnamon rolls spectacular. The right glaze adds sweetness and makes your pastry look like it was made by a pro.

Classic Vanilla Glaze Option

For a foolproof homemade glaze, mix simple ingredients with care. Here’s a straightforward recipe:

  • 2 cups sifted powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla essence
  • Water (to adjust consistency)

Whisk these ingredients until smooth. This creates a silky cinnamon roll icing that drizzles perfectly over warm rolls. The goal is to get a consistency that coats well but spreads easily.

Flavor Variations for Your Glaze

Exploring flavor variations can make your homemade glaze stand out. Consider these creative twists:

  1. Cinnamon Kick: Add 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon to your powdered sugar
  2. Nutty Essence: Incorporate a few drops of almond extract
  3. Cream Cheese Twist: Blend in 4 oz softened cream cheese

“The perfect glaze is like a signature – it personalizes your cinnamon rolls and makes them uniquely yours.”

Pro tip: Always drizzle your glaze over warm rolls for the most appetizing presentation and optimal absorption of flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Keeping homemade apple pie cinnamon rolls fresh is key. Use the right food storage methods to enjoy them for days. This way, your pastries stay tasty and fresh.

  • Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness
  • Refrigerate within 2 hours of baking
  • Keep rolls for up to 3 days in the refrigerator

Reheating Techniques

Reheating pastries can be tricky. But, these methods will make them warm and soft again:

  1. Microwave Method:
    • Place individual rolls on a microwave-safe plate
    • Heat for 15-30 seconds
    • Check temperature to avoid overheating
  2. Oven Reheating:
    • Preheat oven to 300°F
    • Cover rolls with aluminum foil
    • Warm for 10-15 minutes

“The secret to perfect leftover cinnamon rolls is gentle reheating that preserves their original texture and flavor.” – Pastry Chef Recommendation

Pro tip: Prepare rolls ahead by assembling and refrigerating overnight. Remove from fridge 30 minutes before baking to warm up.

Storage Method Duration Best Practices
Refrigerator Up to 3 days Airtight container recommended
Room Temperature 6-8 hours Cover loosely with plastic wrap
Freezer Up to 1 month Wrap individually in plastic wrap

Follow these tips for storing and reheating. Your apple pie cinnamon rolls will stay delicious, just like when they were fresh out of the oven.

Variations and Customization Options

Making the perfect apple pie cinnamon rolls is a journey of discovery. You can try different ingredients and changes to make them your own. This lets you turn a classic dessert into something special.

Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls Variations

Seasonal Ingredient Adaptations

Seasonal ingredients can make this recipe fresh and exciting. Here are some ideas for summer:

  • Try using fresh peach or cherry compote instead of apple
  • Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch
  • Use holiday fillings like cranberry or pumpkin

Dietary Restriction Modifications

It’s easy to make this recipe fit different diets without losing flavor. Here are some tips:

  • Use gluten-free flour for those with gluten issues
  • Try a biscuit-style dough instead of traditional
  • Make your own apple filling to control sugar

Pro tip: Try different flours and sweeteners to make rolls for everyone!

Creative Flavor Combinations

For those who love to try new things, here are some ideas:

  1. Caramel macchiato rolls
  2. Peanut butter cinnamon rolls
  3. Eggnog rolls for winter
  4. Carrot cake rolls

“The beauty of baking is in its endless possibilities for creativity!” – Pastry Chef Recommendation

Most cinnamon roll variations can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days. This makes them perfect for any time.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Make your breakfast special with these tasty apple pie cinnamon rolls. They turn a simple morning into a fun food adventure. These rolls are great for making brunch moments that everyone will remember.

These rolls are amazing with different toppings. Here are some tasty ideas:

  • Fresh Fruit Pairings
    • Mixed berry compote
    • Sliced fresh oranges
    • Pineapple chunks
  • Beverage Companions
    • Hot apple cider
    • Chai latte
    • Pumpkin spice coffee
    • Fresh orange juice

For a full breakfast, try these sides:

  1. Greek yogurt with honey and granola
  2. Herb scrambled eggs
  3. Mixed green salad
  4. Light frittata

“The perfect meal is about balance – sweet meets savory, creating a symphony of flavors!”

Pairing Category Recommended Options
Sweet Toppings Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream
Savory Sides Crispy bacon, scrambled eggs
Drink Pairings Coffee, tea, mimosas

Storage tip: Keep these rolls in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for 2-3 months. Reheat them gently to keep them soft and warm.

Conclusion

This easy breakfast recipe makes mornings special. It has over 3,457 recipe shares and 2,493 Facebook interactions. It combines cinnamon rolls and apple pie filling for a comforting treat.

Looking for a weekend treat or a family favorite? This recipe is simple and delicious. Each serving has 434 calories, offering a tasty indulgence without guilt. The mix of cinnamon, apple filling, and icing is a culinary delight.

Anyone can make this recipe, no matter their skill level. It’s quick to prepare and uses easy ingredients. Enjoy a gourmet breakfast without spending hours cooking. These rolls are perfect for weekend brunches or holiday meals.

This recipe shows that great dishes come from unexpected mixes. Impress your loved ones with this irresistible breakfast treat.

FAQ

Can I use fresh apples instead of canned apple pie filling?

Absolutely! Use Granny Smith, Golden Delicious, Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Gala apples. Dice them into ¼-inch pieces. Cook with sugar, lemon juice, and spices in a skillet until softened. Then, add to the cinnamon rolls.

How long can I store these apple pie cinnamon rolls?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 15-30 seconds. Or, warm larger portions in a 300°F oven covered with foil for 10-15 minutes.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes! Assemble the dish ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This is perfect for meal prep or hosting brunches.

What brand of cinnamon rolls works best for this recipe?

Pillsbury Grands! Cinnamon Rolls are recommended. Two 17.5 oz tubes fit perfectly in a 9×13 inch baking dish.

Are there any gluten-free options for this recipe?

Yes, use gluten-free cinnamon roll dough for those with gluten sensitivities. Alternatively, try using biscuit dough for a less sweet version.

What are some alternative fruit fillings I can use?

For seasonal variations, try peach or cherry filling in summer. Add a holiday twist with cranberries or pumpkin pie filling. Get creative with different fruit combinations!

How do I know when the cinnamon rolls are fully baked?

Check the center at around 40 minutes. Scoop out a small portion. If it’s fluffy and not doughy, it’s done. If still raw, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.

What are the best ways to serve these cinnamon rolls?

Serve warm for breakfast or brunch with fresh fruit, yogurt, or alongside eggs and bacon. For dessert, pair with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. They’re also delicious with coffee, tea, or hot apple cider.

Can I add nuts to this recipe?

Definitely! Chopped walnuts or pecans add extra crunch and flavor. Sprinkle them over the filling or mix into the apple pie mixture before baking.

What type of glaze works best with these cinnamon rolls?

A classic glaze made from powdered sugar and milk works great. Add vanilla extract for extra flavor, or a ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon for more spice. The icing packets that come with the cinnamon rolls are also convenient.

If you think restaurant food is good, wait until you master the magic of homemade cooking. That’s where real flavor lives, and trust me, your kitchen is the real Michelin star winner.

~ Gordon Ramsay

Tags :
Apple pie filling, Baking with apples, Cinnamon roll recipe, Fall desserts, Homemade cinnamon rolls, Sweet apple recipes
Share This :

Leave a Comment

fifteen − eight =