If you love warm, sweet desserts, you have to try my Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie! This treat combines soft cinnamon rolls and sweet apple filling. It is an easy recipe, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, I’ll guide you step-by-step. Get ready to impress your friends and make their taste buds dance with joy! Let’s dive into this dessert delight!
Ingredients
Cinnamon Roll Crust Ingredients
– 2 cans (8 oz each) of refrigerated cinnamon roll dough
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Apple Filling Ingredients
– 4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Topping Ingredients
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons milk
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
To make this dessert, you need specific ingredients. The cinnamon roll crust gives the pie its unique twist. For the apple filling, choose apples that are crisp and tart. I like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold up well and add great flavor. The topping adds a sweet glaze that brings it all together. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of flavors.
For the full recipe, follow the details I provided above. This dessert is simple to prepare and sure to impress everyone at your table.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pie Dish
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, take a 9-inch pie dish and grease it lightly. This helps the pie come out easily after baking.
Create the Cinnamon Roll Crust
Open the two cans of cinnamon roll dough. Take each roll and separate them. Use your hands or a rolling pin to flatten them to about 1/4 inch thick. In a bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Dip each flattened roll into this mix. Layer them in the pie dish, overlapping them to cover the bottom and sides. Make sure there are no gaps. This crust is the perfect base for your pie.
Make and Assemble the Apple Filling
Now, grab four medium apples. Peel, core, and slice them thinly. Place them in a large bowl. Add the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, lemon juice, and flour. Toss the apples well so they are all coated. Pour this apple filling over the cinnamon roll crust. Spread it evenly so every bite has that tasty apple flavor.
Bake the Pie and Prepare the Topping
Put the pie in the oven. Bake for about 30-35 minutes. You want the apples to be tender and the crust to turn golden brown. While the pie bakes, prepare the topping. In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth. Once the pie is done baking, let it cool for 10-15 minutes. Then, drizzle the glaze over the top. Your cinnamon roll apple pie is now ready to enjoy!
For the complete recipe, check the full recipe above.
Tips & Tricks
Best Apples for Pie
The type of apple you choose makes a big difference. I love using Granny Smith apples. They are tart and hold their shape well. Honeycrisp apples are another great choice. They are sweet, crisp, and add a nice flavor. Mix different types for more depth. Aim for a balance of sweet and tart apples.
How to Prevent a Soggy Bottom
A soggy bottom can ruin your pie. To keep it crispy, always pre-bake your crust. This step helps set the base before adding the filling. You can also sprinkle some flour or breadcrumbs on the crust. This creates a barrier against moisture. Another tip is to drain excess liquid from the apple filling. Less liquid means a firmer bottom.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your cinnamon roll apple pie warm. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top is a perfect match. The cold ice cream contrasts with the warm pie. You can also add a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor. For a fun twist, drizzle caramel sauce over the top. Serve it with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
Variations
Adding Nuts or Raisins
You can add nuts or raisins to the filling for extra flavor. Chopped walnuts or pecans give a nice crunch. They also add a rich taste that pairs well with apples. If you prefer sweetness, add raisins for a chewy bite. Mix in about 1/2 cup of either option to the apple filling. This small change can make your pie even more delicious.
Alternate Glazes and Toppings
The glaze can be swapped for different flavors. Try a caramel sauce for a rich, sweet finish. You can also use cream cheese frosting for a tangy twist. Just whip cream cheese with butter, powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla. For a fruity touch, top with fresh berries or sliced bananas. Each option adds a unique flair to your cinnamon roll apple pie.
Gluten-Free and Vegan Options
To make a gluten-free pie, use gluten-free cinnamon roll dough. There are many brands available that taste great. For a vegan version, look for plant-based dough and substitute butter with coconut oil. You can also replace milk in the glaze with almond or soy milk. These simple swaps allow everyone to enjoy this tasty treat. You can find the full recipe in the complete guide above.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie
To keep your leftover cinnamon roll apple pie fresh, let it cool first. Then, cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps keep the crust soft and the filling tasty.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to enjoy the pie again, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place a slice of pie on a baking sheet. Cover it with foil to prevent burning. Heat it in the oven for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps the crust crisp and warms the filling. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Heat each slice for 30 seconds, checking until it’s warm.
Freezing the Pie
If you want to save some pie for later, freezing is easy. First, let the pie cool completely. Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you are ready to eat it, thaw the pie in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in the oven as mentioned above. For the best taste, enjoy it fresh! For the full recipe, check the earlier sections.
FAQs
Can I make the cinnamon roll crust ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cinnamon roll crust in advance. Just keep it in the fridge. This helps save time when you want to bake the pie. When you’re ready to bake, take it out and let it warm up a bit. This makes it easier to work with.
What are the best types of apples for this recipe?
I recommend using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples. These apples hold their shape well and have the right balance of sweet and tart. You can also mix different apples for more flavor. Try using Fuji or Gala apples for a sweeter taste.
How can I make the pie more or less sweet?
To adjust the sweetness, simply change the sugar amount in the apple filling. If you want a sweeter pie, add more granulated sugar. For less sweetness, cut back on the sugar. You can also use a sweetener like honey or maple syrup for a different flavor.
Can this recipe be doubled for a bigger pie?
Yes, you can double the recipe. Just use a larger pie dish and increase the baking time. Make sure to check the apples for tenderness. Doubling the recipe means more deliciousness for everyone! Enjoy sharing this treat with friends and family. For the complete instructions, see the Full Recipe.
This blog post covered how to create a delicious cinnamon roll apple pie. We explored key ingredients, including the crust, filling, and toppings. I provided step-by-step instructions for baking, along with tips to avoid a soggy bottom. You can even try fun variations or store leftovers easily.
Remember, the best pies come from experimenting and enjoying the process. Feel free to personalize this recipe. Make it your own and delight in the tasty results!
