Cinnamon Roll Apple Crisp

Cinnamon Roll Apple Crisp is a warm, cozy dessert that combines two comfort food classics—gooey cinnamon rolls and sweet, spiced apple crisp. This irresistible dish features tender baked apples topped with pieces of cinnamon roll dough and a buttery oat streusel, then finished with a drizzle of icing. It’s everything you love about fall desserts in one easy, crowd-pleasing recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the perfect fusion of gooey cinnamon rolls and classic apple crisp. The cinnamon rolls bake into the top layer for a rich, soft topping, while the apples become perfectly tender and flavorful. It’s simple to make using store-bought cinnamon rolls and basic pantry ingredients, but the result tastes bakery-fresh. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and watch it disappear.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Canned cinnamon rolls (with icing included)
• Apples (peeled, cored, and sliced)
• Brown sugar
• Granulated sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• All-purpose flour
• Old-fashioned oats
• Unsalted butter (melted)
• Lemon juice
• Salt

directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, toss sliced apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Pour into the prepared baking dish.
3. In a separate bowl, mix flour, oats, and melted butter until crumbly. Set aside.
4. Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters and scatter them evenly over the apples.
5. Sprinkle the oat crumble mixture over the top.
6. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the cinnamon rolls are golden and the apples are tender.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Drizzle the included icing over the top before serving.
8. Serve warm, optionally with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 8 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Use different fruit: Pears or a mix of apples and berries work beautifully.
• Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts add crunch and extra flavor.
• Homemade cinnamon rolls: If you have more time, use homemade cinnamon roll dough instead of canned.
• Maple twist: Replace some of the sugar with maple syrup for a deeper flavor.
• Mini versions: Bake in individual ramekins for a cute, single-serve presentation.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, microwave individual servings for 30–45 seconds or warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10–15 minutes. Add a scoop of ice cream or another drizzle of icing before serving if desired.

This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen (without icing) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as above.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cinnamon rolls instead of canned?

Yes, just cut them into small pieces and ensure they’re partially baked before adding to the top to prevent sogginess.

What kind of apples are best?

Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix of tart and sweet apples work best for a good balance of flavor and texture.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish (without baking) and refrigerate up to 1 day ahead. Bake fresh before serving.

Do I need to peel the apples?

Peeling is recommended for the best texture, but you can leave the skin on if you prefer.

Can I make it without oats?

Yes, substitute oats with extra flour and a handful of chopped nuts for a different kind of crumble topping.

What can I use instead of canned cinnamon rolls?

Use homemade cinnamon roll dough or crescent roll dough brushed with cinnamon sugar as a substitute.

Can I use apple pie filling?

Yes, but it will be much sweeter. Adjust the added sugar in the recipe to avoid an overly sweet dish.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The cinnamon rolls should be golden brown, and the apple filling should be bubbling around the edges.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, but it’s best to freeze before baking and without icing. Bake from frozen or thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Can I add caramel?

Absolutely. Drizzle caramel sauce over the top before serving for an extra indulgent touch.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Roll Apple Crisp is a cozy, crave-worthy dessert that’s as easy as it is delicious. With the comforting warmth of cinnamon, tender apples, and gooey cinnamon rolls all in one bite, it’s perfect for fall dinners, holiday gatherings, or anytime you want a sweet treat. Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream and enjoy every rich, spiced spoonful.

Print