Cinnamon Roll Apple “Lasagna” Recipe
Introduction
Imagine the warm, comforting flavors of a gooey cinnamon roll, combined with a sweet, spiced apple pie—layered like a lasagna for the ultimate dessert experience. Welcome to your new obsession: the Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna.
This layered treat is everything you love about cinnamon rolls and apple pie in one bite: soft cinnamon roll dough, sweet and sticky cinnamon-apple filling, creamy frosting layers, and a tender baked structure that slices like a dream. It’s perfect for family gatherings, fall holidays, potlucks, or weekend baking therapy. And yes—this dish is absolutely Google-friendly, loaded with detailed instructions, keyword-rich content, and irresistible visuals for food bloggers or recipe creators alike.
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling:
- 4 cups peeled, diced apples (about 4 medium apples – Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are best)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional for warmth)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
For the Cinnamon Roll Layers:
- 2 cans (8-count each) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
- (Pillsbury Grands work perfectly)
- Nonstick cooking spray or butter for greasing the baking dish
For the Cream Cheese Frosting Layer (Optional but Recommended):
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons milk (adjust for consistency)
Equipment Needed:
- 9×9 or 8×8 inch baking dish
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling
- In a medium saucepan, combine the peeled and diced apples, granulated sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and butter.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, for about 6–8 minutes or until the apples are soft and the mixture thickens into a syrupy glaze.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly while you prepare the rest.
Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Roll Layers
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Open the cinnamon roll tubes and set aside the icing packets for later.
- Flatten each cinnamon roll into a 3–4 inch round using your hands or a rolling pin. They’ll be the “noodles” in your lasagna.
- Lightly grease your baking dish with butter or spray.
Step 3: Assemble the “Lasagna”
- First layer: Place a single layer of flattened cinnamon rolls on the bottom of the dish. Press them together to form a solid base.
- Second layer: Spoon half of the warm apple mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll base.
- Third layer: Place another layer of flattened cinnamon rolls on top of the apple mixture.
- Fourth layer: Add the remaining apple filling.
- Final layer: Top with the last layer of flattened cinnamon rolls.
Tip: You may need to overlap some pieces slightly or cut/shape to fit the dish neatly.
Step 4: Bake the Lasagna
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the rolls are cooked through.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before frosting.
Optional: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the lasagna cools, mix softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a little milk until smooth and spreadable. This adds an extra rich, creamy layer that melts into the cinnamon rolls.
Final Touches
- Drizzle the reserved icing packets (that came with the cinnamon rolls) on top.
- Then spoon or pipe your homemade cream cheese frosting over the entire dish.
- Optional: Add chopped toasted pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra texture and indulgence.
Serving & Storage
- Serve warm for a gooey texture or chilled for a more solid, sliceable lasagna.
- Perfect with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- To reheat: Microwave individual slices for 20–30 seconds.
Tips & Variations
- Add walnuts or pecans between layers for crunch.
- Replace apples with pears or peaches for a seasonal twist.
- Add maple syrup or brown sugar to the apple filling for deeper flavor.
- Try making it with homemade cinnamon roll dough if you’re up for a baking challenge.
Why This Recipe Works (And Ranks)
This recipe is a keyword goldmine for fall desserts, comfort baking, and brunch recipes. Terms like cinnamon roll dessert, apple lasagna, baked apple cinnamon roll, and easy fall dessert are all naturally included. It’s visually impressive, easy to make, and highly shareable—perfect for Pinterest, Instagram Reels, and recipe blogs.
Conclusion
The Cinnamon Roll Apple “Lasagna” is a playful, delicious way to serve a crowd-pleasing dessert that looks as good as it tastes. It combines nostalgia, indulgence, and creativity into one unforgettable dish. Whether you’re baking for a brunch, holiday table, or just for fun, this dessert will win hearts and disappear fast.