Name: Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie: Warm Comfort in Every Slice
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 75 min
Total time: 125 min
Ingredients: 2 crusts Pie Dough (Homemade or store-bought; use one for base and one for topping.); 7-8 cups Peeled and Sliced Apples (Tart varieties like Granny Smith recommended.); 2 tbsp Flour (Thickens filling.); 1/4 cup Sugar (Adjust based on apple sweetness.); 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon (Adds warmth.); Lemon Juice (A splash enhances apple flavor.); 4 tbsp Butter (For rich topping.); 1/2 cup Light-brown Sugar or Granulated Sugar; 2 tsp Ground Cinnamon (For topping flavor.); 1/2 tsp Salt (Balances sweetness.); 1 large Egg (For egg wash.); 2 tbsp Turbinado Sugar (Optional for crunch.)

The aroma wafting through my kitchen had an almost magical quality, a blend of cinnamon and baked apples that instantly transports me to cozy autumn days. If you love the comforting taste of apple pie but are ready for something a little different, my Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie is here to suit your cravings. This delightful dessert fuses the classic warmth of apple pie with a playful, cinnamon roll-inspired topping, giving you a unique texture that’s both crispy and gooey. Plus, it caters to every skill level in the kitchen, as you can choose between homemade or store-bought pie dough. Whether you’re planning a weekend bake or need a show-stopping dessert for special gatherings, this sweet creation is just what you need. Are you ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful twist on a beloved classic?

Why Will You Love This Pie?

Irresistible Flavor Fusion: The blend of warm cinnamon and tart apples creates an unforgettable taste that bridges tradition and creativity.
Effortlessly Simple: Whether you opt for homemade or store-bought dough, preparing this pie is a breeze—perfect for those busy days!
Unique Texture: Enjoy the delightful contrast of a crispy cinnamon roll topping paired with a warm, gooey apple filling that feels like a warm hug.
Total Crowd-Pleaser: This Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie is sure to become the star of your dessert table, impressing friends and family alike!
Versatile Twists: Experiment with different apple varieties or try a berry filling for a fun spin. For those craving simplicity, check out my Ultimate Potato Roll Recipe for an equally delightful dish!

Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Ingredients

For the Dough
• Pie Dough – Use homemade or store-bought; for convenience, two store-bought doughs can work perfectly, one for the base and one for the topping.

For the Apple Filling
• Peeled and Sliced Apples (7–8 cups) – Use tart varieties like Granny Smith for a classic flavor; a mix of sweet and tart apples enhances complexity.
• Flour (2 tbsp) – Thickens the filling and prevents it from being too runny.
• Sugar (¼ cup) – Sweetens the filling; adjust to taste based on the sweetness of your apples.
• Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp) – Adds warmth to the filling.
• Lemon Juice – A splash enhances the apple flavor and balances sweetness.

For the Cinnamon Roll Topping
• Butter (4 tbsp) – This richness is essential for achieving a golden, flaky topping.
• Light-brown Sugar or Granulated Sugar (½ cup) – Adds a sweet element to the topping.
• Ground Cinnamon (2 tsp) – Introduces that beloved cinnamon flavor to the topping.
• Salt (½ tsp) – Balances the sweetness and enhances all flavors.
• Egg (1) – Works as an egg wash for a beautiful golden finish.
• Turbinado Sugar (2 tbsp) – Optional, sprinkle on top for a delightful crunch.

This Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie is a fusion of flavors and textures, perfect for your next gathering or cozy evening at home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Begin by rolling out your dough on a lightly floured surface. If using store-bought, follow the package instructions. Fit the rolled-out dough into a 9-inch pie dish, crimping the edges to create a pleasing finish. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the filling, allowing the aroma of freshly made crust to fill your kitchen.

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling
In a large bowl, combine 7–8 cups of peeled and sliced apples with 2 tablespoons of flour, ¼ cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a splash of lemon juice. Toss until the apples are evenly coated. Pour this delightful mixture into the prepared pie crust, ensuring an even layer to guarantee perfect flavor in every slice of your Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie.

Step 3: Create the Cinnamon Roll Topping
Roll out your second portion of dough into a 12-inch rectangle. Brush it with 4 tablespoons of melted butter, then sprinkle with ½ cup of light-brown sugar and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Carefully roll the dough tightly into a log and refrigerate for 15 minutes to firm it up. This step is essential for perfect slicing and achieving those beautiful cinnamon roll spirals on top.

Step 4: Slice the Topping
Once chilled, remove the dough log from the refrigerator and slice it into 1-inch rounds. Carefully arrange these cinnamon roll slices on top of the apple filling, creating an overlapping pattern for an inviting presentation. This unique topping will be the star of your Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie, adding both visual and taste appeal.

Step 5: Chill and Apply Egg Wash
Place the assembled pie into the refrigerator for 20 minutes to help set the topping before baking. Meanwhile, whisk together 1 egg to create an egg wash. Remove the pie from the fridge, brush the egg wash generously over the cinnamon rolls, and sprinkle with turbinado sugar if desired. This step will give your pie a golden, deliciously crunchy finish.

Step 6: Bake the Pie
Carefully place your pie in the preheated oven and bake for 60 to 80 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling. Keep an eye on it during the last 15 minutes; if the top gets too dark, cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Your kitchen will be filled with enticing scents while the Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie bakes.

Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes. This cooling time helps the filling set and enhances the flavor. Slice the pie and serve it warm, optionally topped with a drizzle of glaze or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an unforgettable dessert experience that your loved ones will cherish.

What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

The delightful aroma of warm spices and sweet apples fills the air, inviting you to create a comforting and satisfying meal.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A creamy scoop perfectly complements the warm, gooey filling, adding a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it offers a milky sweetness that balances the bold flavors of the pie. Drizzle a little caramel sauce over the top for an extra indulgent touch!
Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: These sugary bites echo the pie’s flavors, making for a whimsical dessert spread that your guests will love.
Coffee: A warm cup enhances the pie’s warm spices while adding a rich depth that perfectly balances the sweetness.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling this over slices of pie creates a luscious finish, enhancing the dessert’s sweetness and adding a buttery touch.
Pecans or Walnuts: Toasted nuts provide a crunchy counterpoint and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the apple filling.
Spiced Apple Cider: This warm beverage mirrors the flavors of your pie, creating a cozy experience that warms the soul on chilly evenings.
Cheddar Cheese: For an adventurous twist, serve thin slices of sharp cheddar alongside; the savory cheese contrasts beautifully with the sweet pie, reminiscent of classic American pairings.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Capturing the essence of fall, this drink adds warmth and seasonal cheer, making it a perfect match for your cinnamon roll creation.

Make Ahead Options

These Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can make the pie dough up to 3 days in advance; just wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Additionally, prepare the apple pie filling up to 24 hours ahead—simply combine the sliced apples, sugar, and spices, then store in an airtight container in the fridge to preserve freshness. When you’re ready to bake, assemble the pie by following the usual steps, chilling it for 20 minutes before applying the egg wash and baking. This way, your Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie will be just as delicious, saving you precious time without sacrificing flavor!

How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

Room Temperature: Store the baked Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie at room temperature for up to 3 days, tightly wrapped to maintain freshness.

Fridge: If you have leftovers, wrap the pie in plastic wrap and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days for optimal taste retention.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze an unbaked pie tightly wrapped in plastic and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.

Reheating: To revive leftovers, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, ensuring a crispy topping and gooey filling!

Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Variations

Feel free to mix it up and make this delightful pie your own with these tasty twists and substitutions!

Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free butter substitute in the topping for a vegan-friendly option that still tastes delicious.
Add a creamy coconut whip on top for that extra indulgence, ensuring everyone can enjoy this treat!
Gluten-Free: Swap regular pie dough with gluten-free pastry for a cake-like texture in your Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie.
This makes it accessible for your gluten-sensitive friends, while still delivering that all-important flavor!
Flavor Burst: Experiment with flavored extracts like vanilla or almond instead of cinnamon for a unique twist.
The possibilities are endless, and the smell in your kitchen will surely tantalize your taste buds!
Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts into the apple filling for added crunch.
These add a lovely texture contrast and a delightful nutty richness that complements the apple and cinnamon perfectly.
Fruity Surprise: Replace apples with other fruits like pears or mixed berries for a refreshing alternative.
The burst of berries will create a summery feel, making it suitable for any season.
Zesty Kick: Add a teaspoon of ginger or nutmeg to the filling for a warm, spicy accent.
These spices bring extra warmth and complexity, perfect for cozy family gatherings.
Cinnamon Swirl Chunkiness: Prepare a traditional cinnamon roll filling and place it in between layers of apple filling for a special treat.
It adds a delightful surprise in every slice, enhancing both flavor and texture!

For ideas on appetizers that pair beautifully with this pie, check out my Crisp Cabbage Apple Salad or some warm Apple Oatmeal Cookies for a deliciously cohesive menu!

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

Dough Variety: Choose between homemade or refrigerated options to suit your schedule. Store-bought can save time while still delivering great flavor.
Apple Selection: Mixing apple varieties adds depth. Combine tart and sweet apples for a more complex filling, ensuring balanced flavor throughout.
Chill Before Baking: Don’t skip chilling the assembled pie before baking. This helps solidify the cinnamon roll topping and prevents it from becoming too melty in the oven.
Golden Finish: For a perfect golden crust, brush the cinnamon rolls with egg wash before baking. This step adds beautiful color and shine to your Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie.
Test for Doneness: Look for bubbling filling and a golden-brown topping. If the pie colors too quickly, shield it with foil to prevent burning while it finishes baking.

Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Recipe FAQs

What type of apples should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using a mix of tart and sweet apples, like Granny Smith and Honey Crisp. Granny Smith adds a tangy bite, while Honey Crisp contributes sweetness. This combination creates a balanced and complex filling that will make your Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie truly unforgettable.

How should I store my Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie?
Store your baked Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie at room temperature for up to 3 days; just keep it tightly wrapped to maintain freshness. If you prefer to chill it, wrap it well in plastic and refrigerate for up to 2 days for optimal flavor retention.

Can I freeze the pie before baking?
Yes, you can! Wrap your unbaked Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before preheating your oven.

What should I do if my topping gets too dark while baking?
If you notice your topping getting too dark, don’t worry! Simply cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking. This will help prevent burning while allowing the filling to cook through, leaving you with a beautifully finished Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie.

Is it okay to make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pie a day in advance. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover and store at room temperature. To serve, reheat individual slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for that fresh-baked taste everyone loves.

Can I use store-bought dough for this recipe?
Very much so! Using store-bought pie dough is a great time saver and retains wonderful flavor. You can utilize one package for the bottom crust and another for the cinnamon roll topping—making it a stress-free and delicious approach to preparing your Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie!