Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Dessert

When the comfort of warm cinnamon rolls meets the nostalgic flavors of apple pie, you get something truly magical: Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna. This dessert is pure indulgence layered into every forkful. Imagine tender, spiced apples nestled between gooey cinnamon roll dough and topped with a creamy vanilla icing that melts right into the warm layers.

Here’s why you’ll want to make this over and over again:

• Ultimate Comfort Food: Perfectly sweet and spiced, it wraps you up in a blanket of flavor.

• Simple to Make: Uses canned cinnamon rolls for a fuss-free, shortcut-friendly recipe.

• Great for Gatherings: An eye-catching dessert that’s easy to slice and share.

• Smells Like Heaven: Your kitchen will smell like a bakery while it’s baking.

• Perfect for Any Season: A hit during fall, winter holidays, or whenever you need a cozy treat.

Apple-Cinnamon Fusion: The Heart of This Recipe

This isn’t your typical lasagna. Instead of pasta and cheese, we’re layering soft cinnamon roll dough and tender apples. Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this dish sing.

Apples – Sweet, Soft, and Spiced

The apple layer is gently cooked before baking to bring out its natural sweetness and infuse it with cinnamon flavor. A touch of cornstarch thickens the mixture, giving it that signature pie-filling texture.

• Best Apples to Use: Go for a mix of sweet and tart. Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala apples hold their shape beautifully, while Granny Smith adds a tangy balance.

Cinnamon Rolls – The Shortcut That Feels Homemade

Using refrigerated cinnamon rolls not only cuts down prep time but also ensures every bite is fluffy and gooey. Flattening them into layers gives them a pastry-like feel once baked.

• Pro tip: Pressing the rolls together creates a seamless “crust” base and top for the lasagna.

Ingredient Breakdown

For the Apple Filling

• 4 cups diced apples – peeled for smoother texture

• ½ cup granulated sugar – to sweeten and caramelize the fruit

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – thickens the mixture just enough

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – for that warm, signature flavor

For the Layers

• 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls – includes the icing!

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – adds richness and depth

• 1 tablespoon butter – for greasing the baking dish and adding flavor

Optional Add-ins and Swaps

• Chopped walnuts or pecans – add crunch between layers

• Caramel drizzle – for extra decadence on top

• Pumpkin pie spice – to amplify the seasonal flavor

• Cream cheese frosting – as an alternate to vanilla icing

• Dried cranberries – for a tart surprise in the apple filling

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna

1. Preheat and Prep
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking and add a touch of flavor.

2. Cook the Apple Filling
   In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the diced apples, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and cinnamon. Stir continuously for 5–7 minutes until the apples soften and the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

3. Flatten the Cinnamon Rolls
   Open both cans of cinnamon rolls and set the icing packets aside. Gently flatten each roll using your hands or a rolling pin. You’re aiming for about ¼ inch thick.

4. Create the First Layer
   Press half of the flattened cinnamon rolls into the bottom of the greased baking dish to form a crust. Make sure to overlap the edges slightly and press them together to seal.

5. Add the Apple Layer
   Spread half of the apple mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll layer, getting into all the corners for even distribution.

6. Repeat the Layers
   Add another layer of flattened cinnamon rolls on top of the apples. Then finish with the remaining apple mixture, spreading it evenly.

7. Bake Until Golden
   Place in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cinnamon rolls are puffed and golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling.

8. Add the Icing
   Once out of the oven, drizzle the included icing over the warm dessert. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to allow the icing to melt into the layers.

Pro Tips for Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna Success

• Use room temperature cinnamon rolls: They’re easier to flatten and press into the pan.

• Let it cool slightly before cutting: This helps the layers hold together and gives clean slices.

• Serve warm with vanilla ice cream: The contrast of hot and cold makes it even more irresistible.

• Add a dusting of cinnamon sugar on top: It enhances both appearance and flavor.

• Use parchment paper: Lining the pan can help lift the lasagna out in perfect layers.

Creative Twists: Fun Variations to Try

This dessert is endlessly adaptable. Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, try switching things up to match your mood, pantry, or occasion.

1. Caramel Apple Lasagna

Add a drizzle of store-bought or homemade caramel sauce between layers and over the top. It intensifies the apple pie vibes and adds gooey richness.

2. Maple Pecan Version

Replace the vanilla extract with pure maple syrup and sprinkle chopped pecans between the layers. The nutty crunch pairs perfectly with soft apples.

3. Cranberry Apple Holiday Style

Add ½ cup of dried cranberries to the apple mixture. It gives a tart pop of flavor and gorgeous holiday color contrast.

4. Pumpkin Spice Edition

Mix ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice into the apple layer and swap one can of cinnamon rolls for pumpkin spice rolls (available seasonally).

5. Cheesecake Layered Lasagna

Spread a thin layer of sweetened cream cheese (mixed with 2 tbsp powdered sugar) between the apple and cinnamon roll layers for a cheesecake-style twist.

How to Serve It: From Brunch to Dessert

Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna isn’t just for dessert—it’s a multitasker that shines on any table.

• Brunch Star: Serve warm slices alongside scrambled eggs and bacon for a sweet-savory balance at a brunch spread.

• Afternoon Pick-Me-Up: Enjoy a slice with coffee or chai for a cozy break.

• Fall Potluck Favorite: Bring it to Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving—it travels well and reheats beautifully.

• Holiday Morning Treat: A festive alternative to coffee cake or cinnamon rolls on Christmas morning.

• Dessert à la Mode: Top with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a bakery-style dessert.

Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips

Storing Leftovers

Cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer slices to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Can You Freeze It?

Yes! Once cooled, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat straight from frozen.

Best Reheating Methods

• Toaster Oven: Crisp up the edges and warm the inside—perfect for texture.

• Microwave: 30–40 seconds per slice works well, but avoid overheating to prevent drying.

• Skillet with Lid: Add a touch of butter and heat covered over low heat for a crisp bottom and gooey center.

More Ways to Enjoy: Pairings & Additions

Looking to elevate this already-decadent dessert? Try one of these simple additions:

• Cinnamon whipped cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream with a dash of cinnamon on top.

• Candied nuts: Sprinkle chopped candied pecans or walnuts for a bit of crunch.

• Espresso drizzle: Mix powdered sugar with a little espresso for a coffee-glazed topping.

• Warm bourbon sauce: A drizzle of warm, buttery bourbon sauce adds adult elegance.

• Apple compote: Serve a scoop of chunky apple compote beside your slice for extra fruitiness.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this with homemade cinnamon roll dough?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite cinnamon roll recipe, use it. Just be sure to roll the dough thin enough for layering and increase the baking time slightly if needed.

Q: What are the best apples for baking?
A mix of sweet and tart apples works best. Try combining Honeycrisp and Granny Smith for flavor and structure.

Q: Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?
Yes! Use gluten-free cinnamon rolls (such as from brands like Annie’s or Immaculate Baking) and ensure your cornstarch and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Q: Can I prep this the night before and bake in the morning?
Yes! Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temperature for 20–30 minutes before baking the next morning.

Q: How do I know it’s done baking?
Look for golden brown tops and bubbling edges. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with no raw dough.

Final Thoughts: Warm, Gooey, and Totally Worth It

Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna is the kind of dessert that feels both nostalgic and new. It has everything: melty icing, spiced apples, soft cinnamon layers, and the cozy magic of homemade comfort. It’s easy enough for weeknights but show-stopping enough for holidays—and the variations are endless.

So next time you’re craving something sweet, skip the usual pie or cobbler and give this layered treat a try. Slice it warm, drizzle it up, and don’t forget to grab a second fork—you’ll definitely be sharing bites.

If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear how you liked it! Leave a comment below, share your twist on it, or tag your creation on social media. Happy baking!