If you love the cozy flavors of cinnamon rolls and the sweet, spiced comfort of apple pie, then I have a treat for you: the Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna Recipe. This delightful layered dessert brings together soft, gooey cinnamon rolls, a luscious cream cheese layer, and warm, cinnamon-kissed apple pie filling that bakes into a slice of pure happiness. It’s the kind of dessert that instantly feels like a hug from the inside, perfect for sharing with family and friends on a chilly afternoon or whenever you crave a little indulgence with familiar fall flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple but essential ingredients is the first step to creating this mouthwatering dessert. Each one plays a special role, from the soft texture of the cinnamon rolls to the creamy richness of the cream cheese, and the warmly spiced apple pie filling that ties everything together with a burst of color and flavor.
- 2 cans (8-count each) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing: The easy-to-use base and top layers that bring irresistible cinnamon flavor and soft texture.
- 2 cans (21 oz each) apple pie filling: Sweet, tender apples spiced perfectly to provide that classic apple pie warmth.
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened): Adds a smooth, tangy layer that balances the sweetness beautifully.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese layer just right without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings depth and warmth to the cream cheese mixture.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses the apple filling with cozy spice notes.
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds an earthy, nutty spice that complements the cinnamon.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the cream cheese layer for perfect spreading.
- 1 tablespoon butter (melted): Delivers richness and a silky texture to the cream cheese mixture.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Ensures easy removal and prevents sticking in your baking dish.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and give your 9×13-inch baking dish a quick spritz with nonstick cooking spray to save yourself cleanup hassle later. Open those cinnamon rolls and set aside the icing packet for a perfect finishing drizzle. Flatten each cinnamon roll slightly so they fit together nicely, then press half of them into the bottom of your dish, pinching edges to seal a delicious crust layer.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer
In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, flour, and melted butter until smooth and creamy. This luscious mixture is going to add a velvety softness that contrasts so well with the layers around it. Gently spread this cream cheese layer over your cinnamon roll base, making sure to cover every bite-worthy spot.
Step 3: Add the Spiced Apple Filling
In a separate bowl, combine the apple pie filling with the cinnamon and nutmeg, stirring until the spices are evenly distributed. Spoon this fragrant apple mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer. The apples bring that classic fall flavor and juicy texture that makes this dessert stand out as more than just a cinnamon roll bake.
Step 4: Top with Remaining Cinnamon Rolls
Flatten the remaining cinnamon rolls just like before, and arrange them gently on top of the apple filling. Try to cover as much of the apple layer as you can — it’s going to bake into a golden, inviting top crust that’s truly irresistible.
Step 5: Bake and Finish
Bake your cinnamon roll masterpiece for 35 to 40 minutes until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling gently. Patience here means a perfectly cooked center. When it’s out of the oven, let it cool for at least 15 minutes, then drizzle the reserved icing all over the top. Slice into warm, gooey squares and get ready for compliments!
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
For extra charm and texture, sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top right after drizzling the icing. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a snowy finish that looks stunning and adds just a touch of sweetness. If you’re feeling extra fancy, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream turns this into a decadent treat.
Side Dishes
The Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna Recipe is rich and filling on its own, but pairing it with a fresh fruit salad or cup of hot apple cider can perfectly balance the richness and accentuate the apple flavors. A simple green salad lightly dressed with lemon vinaigrette also brightens the meal if you’re serving it after a savory dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dessert right in the baking dish family-style for a cozy, rustic vibe. For special occasions, try layering individual portions in parfait glasses with whipped cream and extra apple filling on top—that’s guaranteed to wow your guests visually and taste-wise. It also makes for a fun way to indulge without overcommitting to a large slice.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it tightly sealed to preserve the moist texture of the cinnamon rolls and prevent the cream cheese layer from drying out.
Freezing
If you want to make this ahead of time, freeze the unbaked lasagna in an airtight container. When you’re ready, bake it straight from frozen, just adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. Frozen, baked cinnamon roll apple lasagna will keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly baked warmth, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 30 seconds. For the whole pan, cover loosely with foil and reheat in a 325°F oven until warmed through, around 15 to 20 minutes. A quick drizzle of fresh icing after reheating always lifts the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of refrigerated ones?
Absolutely! Homemade cinnamon rolls will add a personal touch and even more flavor. Just make sure they are pre-cooked or par-baked according to your recipe before layering, so they bake evenly in this dessert.
Is there a way to make this dessert dairy-free?
Yes, swap the cream cheese for a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use plant-based butter or margarine. Check that your cinnamon rolls and apple pie filling are also dairy-free to keep the dish consistent.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans can be mixed into the apple pie filling for extra texture and crunch. You can also sprinkle some on top for garnish, adding both flavor and visual appeal.
What’s the best way to serve leftovers?
Leftovers taste amazing warmed up with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. This dessert reheats beautifully and still feels indulgent the next day.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Of course! Just use a larger baking dish or prepare two 9×13-inch pans. Keep an eye on the baking time, as larger portions may take a bit longer to cook through completely.
Final Thoughts
The Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna Recipe is truly a comfort food game-changer, combining beloved flavors into one dreamy dessert that’s both simple and spectacular. I encourage you to give it a try—whether for a family gathering, holiday treat, or just because you deserve something delicious. It’s the kind of dish that turns an ordinary day into something memorable and sweet.
Print
Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna is a deliciously warm and layered dessert featuring gooey cinnamon rolls, spiced apple pie filling, and a smooth, sweet cream cheese layer. This crowd-pleasing dessert perfectly combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls and apple pie, making it an indulgent treat that’s simple to prepare using refrigerated dough.
Ingredients
Cinnamon Roll Base
- 2 cans (8-count each) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
- Nonstick cooking spray
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Apple Filling
- 2 cans (21 oz each) apple pie filling
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Form Cinnamon Roll Base: Open the cinnamon rolls and set the icing aside for later. Flatten each cinnamon roll slightly using your hands or a rolling pin. Press half of the flattened rolls into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, pinching the edges together to create an even crust layer.
- Make Cream Cheese Layer: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, all-purpose flour, and melted butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Layer Cream Cheese: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll crust in the baking dish, creating a smooth layer.
- Prepare Apple Filling: In a separate bowl, combine the apple pie filling with ground cinnamon and ground nutmeg. Mix well to evenly incorporate the spices.
- Add Apple Layer: Spoon the spiced apple filling evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Top with Remaining Cinnamon Rolls: Flatten the remaining cinnamon rolls and arrange them over the apple filling, covering as much of the surface as possible.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is cooked through.
- Cool and Add Icing: Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it cool for at least 15 minutes. Drizzle the reserved cinnamon roll icing over the top before slicing.
- Serve: Slice into squares and serve warm for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For added texture, you can stir in chopped walnuts or pecans into the apple pie filling before layering.
- Homemade apple pie filling can be substituted for canned filling if preferred.
- This dessert is delicious when served warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
