If you adore the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls and apples, then you are absolutely going to fall in love with this Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna Recipe. It’s a delightful layered dessert that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. Imagine tender, spiced apples nestled between layers of soft cinnamon roll dough, baked to golden perfection and drizzled with sweet icing — pure cozy magic on a plate. This dessert brings together simple pantry staples into a show-stopping treat that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family during chilly evenings or festive gatherings. Trust me, once you try this Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna Recipe, it’ll become a staple in your dessert rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna Recipe, the ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but each one plays a key role in bringing out incredible flavor and texture. The cinnamon rolls provide a soft, sweet base that bakes to a golden crust, while the apples add freshness and a tender bite with just the right amount of spice from cinnamon and nutmeg.
- 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing: These form the tender, fluffy layers and the sweet frosting glaze when warmed up.
- 6 large apples (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced): Use crisp varieties like Granny Smith for a tart balance or a sweeter type depending on your preference.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the apples, helping to create a luscious glaze.
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar: Adds deep, caramel-like notes and moisture to the apple filling.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Essential for that warm spice flavor that complements apples perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds subtle depth and aromatic warmth.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Keeps the apple filling thick and luscious without being runny.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Balances sweetness and brightens the apple flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall richness and aroma.
- 1 tablespoon butter (cut into small pieces): Adds richness and helps create a golden, gooey texture.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional): Adds a lovely crunchy texture and nutty flavor for contrast.
- Non-stick cooking spray: Prevents sticking and ensures easy serving.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Cinnamon Rolls
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly greasing a 9×9-inch baking dish with non-stick spray. Separate each cinnamon roll and gently flatten it into a 3-4 inch round disk using your hands or a rolling pin. This step is key because these flattened discs will form the lasagna layers, transforming the fluffy rolls into a hearty crust and topping.
Step 2: Create the Cinnamon Apple Filling
In a large bowl, toss together your thinly sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Make sure the apples are evenly coated with this spice-sweet mixture. This filling will become the deliciously tender and flavorful heart of your Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna Recipe.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
Start by pressing 6 of the flattened cinnamon rolls into the bottom of your prepared baking dish, forming a solid crust. Spread half of your apple mixture evenly over this base. Dot half the pieces of butter over the apples, and sprinkle with half of the pecans if you’re using them. Next, add another layer of flattened cinnamon rolls and press gently to seal. Repeat with the remaining apples, butter, and pecans. Finish off by topping everything with the final layer of cinnamon rolls. This layering technique is what gives this recipe its signature ‘lasagna’ look and irresistible texture.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake in your preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then uncover and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. This final burst of heat ensures the cinnamon roll layers are perfectly baked and meld beautifully with the spiced apple filling.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touch
Allow the lasagna to cool for at least 15 minutes so it sets nicely and is easier to slice. Meanwhile, warm the icing from the cinnamon roll package slightly so it’s more drizzle-friendly. Drizzle the warm icing generously over the top before serving — this adds the perfect sweet glaze that makes this Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna Recipe absolutely irresistible.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna Recipe even further, consider sprinkling a few extra pecans or chopped walnuts on top right before serving. A light dusting of powdered sugar can add a beautiful finish. For an extra hint of indulgence, drizzle with caramel sauce or a splash of melted butter infused with cinnamon.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a generous dollop of whipped cream to contrast the warm, spiced layers. Alternatively, a cup of rich coffee or hot chai tea complements the cinnamon and apple flavors perfectly for a cozy afternoon treat.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, serve this cinnamon roll apple lasagna in individual ramekins or clear glass dishes so everyone can admire the gorgeous layered effect. Another fun idea is to cut the lasagna into square “lasagna strips” and serve with a side of fresh fruit for brunch or a decadent breakfast surprise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days and tastes fantastic when warmed slightly before eating, allowing the flavors to fully shine.
Freezing
This recipe is freezer-friendly and can be stored for up to one month. After assembling but before baking, wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.
Reheating
Reheat slices in the microwave for about 30 to 45 seconds or place them in a preheated 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Reheating properly ensures the cinnamon roll layers stay soft and the apples remain tender.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cinnamon rolls instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh cinnamon rolls can be used too, just make sure they’re soft and not overly sticky so they layer well. The canned variety just makes this recipe quicker and easier to assemble.
What type of apples work best for this recipe?
Crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold up nicely and offer a good balance of tartness and sweetness. You can also experiment with a mix of apple varieties for a more complex flavor.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! To make it dairy-free, look for non-dairy buttery spreads and check that your cinnamon rolls are made without milk or butter. The rest of the ingredients are naturally dairy-free.
Can I add other fruits besides apples?
Definitely! Pears, peaches, or even berries make delicious additions or substitutions that add unique flavors and textures to the layers.
How sweet is this dessert? Can I reduce the sugar?
This Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna Recipe leans toward a sweeter, dessert-style flavor, but you can reduce the granulated and brown sugar slightly to suit your taste without compromising texture or flavor.
Final Thoughts
I can say with full confidence that the Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings warmth, sweetness, and cozy comfort all in one dish. Its layers of tender apples and cinnamon-spiced dough create a magical combination you will want to make again and again. So do yourself a favor and dive into this easy yet impressive recipe — your family and friends will thank you!
Print
Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna is a decadent and layered fall dessert featuring tender apples spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, sandwiched between layers of buttery cinnamon roll dough. Baked to golden perfection and finished with a drizzle of sweet icing, this easy-to-make recipe combines the warmth of classic apple pie flavors with the delightful texture of cinnamon rolls, making it a perfect treat for cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Cinnamon Roll Base
- 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
- Non-stick cooking spray
Apple Filling
- 6 large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings
- 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Flatten cinnamon rolls: Separate each cinnamon roll from the can and use your hands or a rolling pin to flatten each into a round disk about 3-4 inches in diameter.
- Create the first layer: Arrange 6 flattened cinnamon rolls evenly at the bottom of the prepared baking dish, pressing together gently to form a solid and even crust layer.
- Mix apple filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Toss thoroughly until the apples are fully coated with the mixture.
- Layer apple filling: Spread half of the apple mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll crust. Dot with half of the butter pieces and sprinkle with half of the pecans, if using.
- Add the middle cinnamon roll layer: Place another layer of flattened cinnamon rolls atop the apple filling, gently pressing to seal the edges and form a cohesive layer.
- Repeat layers: Spread the remaining apple mixture over the second cinnamon roll layer, dot with remaining butter, and sprinkle with the remaining pecans.
- Top with final layer: Finish by placing the last layer of flattened cinnamon rolls on top, covering the apple mixture completely.
- Bake the lasagna: Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake in the oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Cool and glaze: Allow the apple lasagna to cool for at least 15 minutes to set. Warm the icing from the cinnamon roll package slightly to make it drizzle-friendly, then drizzle it over the top before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute pears for apples or combine both fruits for a flavorful twist.
- Adding a caramel drizzle on top enhances the richness of the dessert for a more decadent treat.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to make it a cozy and comforting fall dessert.
