If you’re craving a dessert that’s irresistibly cozy and incredibly simple, the Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake (3 ingredients) Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine tender cinnamon rolls mingling with sweet, luscious apple pie filling, all baked into a bubbly, golden treat that practically melts in your mouth. This recipe captures the essence of a comforting apple dessert while keeping things effortless—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests who need something sweet and satisfying in a snap.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These three main ingredients are all you need to create a magical dessert. Each one plays a vital role: the cinnamon rolls give you that soft, doughy texture and cinnamon-sugar goodness, the apple pie filling brings juicy sweetness and a bit of tartness, and the optional ground cinnamon adds a warm, aromatic boost to tie everything together.
- 1 can Pillsbury cinnamon rolls: Soft, ready-to-bake rolls packed with cinnamon flavor to create the perfect doughy base.
- 21 ounce apple pie filling: Sweet and slightly tart, this filling offers juicy apple chunks that complement the cinnamon rolls beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional): A sprinkle of extra cinnamon adds depth and enhances the overall warmth of the dish.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake (3 ingredients) Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F. While it warms up, grease a 2-quart baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to ensure your bake comes out perfectly without sticking—clean-up will be a breeze!
Step 2: Combine Your Ingredients
Take each cinnamon roll and cut it into 4 bite-sized pieces; this helps them bake evenly and makes serving easier. In a mixing bowl, gently stir the cinnamon roll pieces together with the apple pie filling and optional ground cinnamon until everything is nicely coated. This is where the magic happens, as the sweet apples begin to soak into the fluffy dough.
Step 3: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Pop it in the oven and bake at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dough is cooked through. Once baked, remove it from the oven and slather the cinnamon rolls’ included frosting over the top. Serve this warm for the ultimate cozy experience.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake (3 ingredients) Recipe
Garnishes
Serve your Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor contrast. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream turns this simple dish into a showstopper dessert.
Side Dishes
This bake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a cozy chai latte, making it a lovely breakfast treat or afternoon snack. If serving as dessert, fresh seasonal fruit or a simple green salad can balance the sweetness and round out your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins or jars, topped with a cinnamon stick for stirring. You can also drizzle caramel sauce over the top for extra indulgence, or mix in some raisins or dried cranberries with the apple filling before baking to add a unique texture and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from the Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days and taste just as delicious when reheated.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover portions by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months, making it easy to enjoy a quick treat later on.
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds or warm a larger piece in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Adding a little extra frosting or a drizzle of honey after reheating keeps it moist and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of canned?
Absolutely! Homemade cinnamon rolls will add a personal touch and fresh flavor, but keep in mind that baking times may vary slightly depending on dough thickness.
What can I substitute for the apple pie filling?
If you can’t find apple pie filling, you can use fresh sliced apples tossed with sugar and cinnamon, though the texture and juiciness will be a bit different. Another option is canned pears or peaches for a different fruity twist.
Is the ground cinnamon necessary?
The ground cinnamon is optional but highly recommended. It enhances the cinnamon flavor already in the rolls and deepens the warmth of the apple filling, making the bake even more comforting.
Can I double the recipe for a bigger crowd?
Definitely! Just use a larger baking dish and extend the baking time as needed. Keep an eye on the top to avoid over-browning, and consider covering with foil if it browns too quickly.
Is this dessert gluten-free?
Since Pillsbury cinnamon rolls contain gluten, this recipe is not gluten-free as written. However, you could experiment with gluten-free cinnamon rolls and a gluten-free pie filling to create a similar treat.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s quick, comforting, and hugs you with every bite, the Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake (3 ingredients) Recipe is here to impress. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can whip up a warm, sweet treat that feels homemade and special. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your go-to dessert whenever you want something simple yet utterly delicious.
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Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake (3 ingredients) Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A simple and delicious Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake made with just three ingredients. This easy-to-make dessert combines soft cinnamon rolls with sweet apple pie filling, baked to golden perfection and topped with creamy cinnamon roll frosting for a warm, comforting treat.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 can Pillsbury cinnamon rolls (typically 8 rolls)
- 21 ounces apple pie filling
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 2-quart baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix Ingredients: Cut each cinnamon roll into 4 bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the cut cinnamon roll pieces with the apple pie filling and ground cinnamon if using. Stir gently until the ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cinnamon rolls are fully cooked through.
- Frost and Serve: Remove the baking dish from the oven and immediately spread the cinnamon roll package frosting over the warm bake. Serve the dessert warm for the best taste experience.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts before baking.
- Use a glass or ceramic baking dish for even heat distribution.
- This dessert is best served warm, but leftovers can be reheated in the microwave.
- If you prefer a less sweet option, reduce the amount of apple pie filling or omit the frosting.
