Delicious Apple Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe

Looking for a show-stopping breakfast that’s as easy as it is delicious? Look no further than the Apple Crisp Cinnamon Roll Casserole. This recipe is a game-changer, combining the convenience of store-bought cinnamon rolls with a homemade apple filling that will have your guests coming back for seconds. Trust me, once you try this casserole, it will become a staple for all your special occasions.

I discovered this Apple Crisp Cinnamon Roll Casserole last fall, and it quickly became a family favorite. The sweet aroma of cinnamon and apples baking together is enough to get everyone out of bed and gathered around the breakfast table. The best part? It’s a cinch to make, so you can enjoy a stress-free morning while still serving up a dish that looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Whether it’s a holiday morning or just a lazy weekend, this casserole is sure to impress even the pickiest of eaters.

Quick Benefits

• Impressive and delicious breakfast or brunch option that tastes like a lot of effort went into it, but is actually simple to make
• Adored by both picky eaters and food enthusiasts, making it a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings or special occasions
• Versatile recipe that can be easily customized with different fruits, nuts, or alcoholic additions for unique flavors and variations
• Can be served for breakfast, brunch, or even as a dessert, showcasing its flexibility and suitability for various occasions and preferences

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Apple Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe Recipe

• Easy and Convenient: Combines store-bought cinnamon rolls with a homemade apple filling for a delicious breakfast or dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Impressive Yet Manageable: Perfect for holiday mornings or brunch gatherings when you want something special that tastes like you put in a lot of effort.
• Family Favorite: Loved by both kids and adults, with rave reviews from picky eaters and breakfast enthusiasts alike.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable by using different fruits like pears or adding nuts and dried cranberries for extra texture and flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Can be served as a standalone breakfast or dessert, paired with bacon or sausage for balance, or with eggs and fruit salad for a complete meal.
• Creative Flavors: Experiment with additions like bourbon, orange zest, or nuts for a unique twist that elevates the dish for special occasions.
• Memorable and Special: Provides a magical combination of soft cinnamon rolls, spiced apples, and custardy texture that leaves a lasting impression on everyone who tries it.

Ingredients for Delicious Apple Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe

Cinnamon Roll Casserole Base

• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ½ cup heavy cream
• Store-bought caramel sauce (like Smuckers)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (divided use)
• 1 can Grand cinnamon rolls with icing

Apple Filling

• ⅓ cup water
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2½ teaspoons cornstarch (set aside)
• ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 large Honeycrisp apples, cut into 1-inch cubes
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons room temperature water (set aside)
• 1 tablespoon fresh squeezed orange juice
• ⅛ teaspoon vanilla extract

Crumble Topping

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1½ tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon old-fashioned oats

Enhanced Icing

• 2 tablespoons half & half
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• Icing from cinnamon roll can
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Delicious Apple Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Baking Dish

Use melted butter to grease a 10-inch pie pan or cast iron skillet. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Make Apple Filling

Combine cubed apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, water, and orange juice in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Cook Apples

Once boiling, reduce heat slightly and cook for about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally and continue cooking for another 5 minutes, or until apples are slightly softened but still firm.

Step 4: Thicken Apple Filling

In a small bowl, dissolve cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of room temperature water. Add to apple filling, stir constantly, and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Finish Apple Filling

Take the apple filling off the heat, mix in ⅛ teaspoon of vanilla extract, and transfer to a heat-safe bowl to cool. Stir in ½ cup of caramel sauce.

Step 6: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

Combine brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Mix well and divide mixture into two bowls.

Step 7: Prepare Butter

Separate the melted butter from the casserole base ingredients into two bowls.

Step 8: Make Custard Mixture

Combine melted butter, egg, heavy cream, vanilla extract, sugar-cinnamon mixture, and flour in a bowl. Whisk until smooth.

Step 9: Prepare Cinnamon Rolls

Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters and add them to the custard mixture, gently tossing to coat evenly.

Step 10: Combine with Apple Filling

Combine the coated cinnamon roll pieces with the apple filling in a bowl, using 2/3 of the liquid and all of the apple pieces. Gently mix.

Step 11: Assemble Casserole

Transfer the cinnamon roll and apple mixture into the baking dish, ensuring an even layer.

Step 12: Add Topping

Combine the leftover melted butter with the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture, then pour it evenly over the casserole.

Step 13: Make Crumble

Combine crumble ingredients in a small bowl and mix until crumbly. Sprinkle over the casserole.

Step 14: Bake

Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center of the casserole is firm.

Step 15: Prepare Icing

Allow the casserole to cool a bit, then prepare the upgraded icing by mixing together the cinnamon roll icing, powdered sugar, half & half, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 16: Finish and Serve

Pour icing over warm casserole, drizzle with more caramel sauce, and serve warm.

Storage Tips

To store the finished Apple Crisp Cinnamon Roll Casserole, first, allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature. Cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it airtight. You can also transfer individual portions to airtight containers for easier storage in the refrigerator. The casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions for a quick warm-up or reheat the entire dish in the oven at a low temperature to prevent the cinnamon rolls from drying out.

If you have made a larger batch and wish to store the casserole for a longer period, you can freeze it. Wrap the cooled casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container suitable for freezing. The Apple Crisp Cinnamon Roll Casserole can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat in the oven until warmed through. Adding a drizzle of fresh caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream can refresh the flavors before serving, making it a delightful treat for any time of day.

Ingredient Substitutions

For ingredient substitutions in this Apple Crisp Cinnamon Roll Casserole, you can swap the Honeycrisp apples with another variety like Granny Smith or Fuji apples based on personal preference or availability. These varieties will provide a different flavor profile to the dish while maintaining the delicious apple taste. Additionally, you can experiment with using pears instead of apples for a unique twist on the recipe. Pears offer a slightly different texture and flavor that pairs well with cinnamon and caramel, adding a delightful nuance to the casserole.

To cater to dietary preferences or ingredient availability, you can replace the half & half in the icing with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or almond milk. This substitution will make the icing suitable for lactose-intolerant or vegan individuals while still providing a creamy and delicious topping for the casserole. You can also use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour in the recipe to make it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. By making these simple ingredient swaps, you can customize the Apple Crisp Cinnamon Roll Casserole to suit various dietary needs or preferences without compromising on flavor or texture.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try drizzling some warm caramel sauce over the apple crisp cinnamon roll casserole just before serving. The gooey sweetness of the caramel will add an extra layer of decadence to this already indulgent dish, making it even more irresistible. It’s the perfect finishing touch that will take your breakfast or brunch to the next level!

Another fun idea is to sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the casserole before baking. The nuts will toast up in the oven, adding a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to each bite. This simple addition not only enhances the overall taste but also provides a lovely contrast to the soft cinnamon rolls and tender apples. Plus, it adds a beautiful presentation that will impress your guests and elevate the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.

FAQs for Delicious Apple Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe

Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of apple for this recipe. Pears can also be a great alternative for a different flavor profile that pairs nicely with cinnamon and caramel.

Can I make any parts of this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the apple filling ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to assemble the casserole. You can also mix the dry ingredients for the topping in advance and store them in an airtight container until needed.

Can I make this recipe without the caramel sauce?

While the caramel sauce adds a delicious flavor to the casserole, you can certainly make it without using caramel sauce. The apple filling and cinnamon rolls will still create a tasty dish without the caramel drizzle.

How should I store any leftovers of this apple crisp cinnamon roll casserole?

Any leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, you can warm individual portions in the microwave for a quick breakfast treat.

Conclusion

Apple Crisp Cinnamon Roll Casserole truly is a game-changer when it comes to breakfast or brunch. Its simplicity, combined with the incredible flavors and textures it delivers, makes it a winner for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting guests, celebrating a special day, or simply treating your family to something delicious, this casserole is sure to impress and delight.

Don’t hesitate to make this Apple Crisp Cinnamon Roll Casserole your own by adding personal touches or variations to suit your taste. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability and the joy it brings to those who taste it. Get creative with the ingredients, play around with different flavors, and make it a signature dish that your loved ones will crave time and time again.

So go ahead, whip up a batch of this Apple Crisp Cinnamon Roll Casserole, and watch as it becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen. The smiles and satisfaction it brings will make every effort worthwhile, and you may just find yourself looking for reasons to make it again and again. Enjoy the process, savor every bite, and revel in the joy of sharing such a delightful dish with those you cherish.