Apple Cinnamon Bake is a simple, comforting dish that brings together refrigerated cinnamon rolls and apple pie filling to create a warm breakfast casserole. The added cream cheese frosting elevates this apple-and-cinnamon combination into a memorable centerpiece for brunch, dessert, or a cozy snack.
This Apple Cinnamon Bake is versatile — serve it for breakfast, enjoy it as an afternoon treat, or present it as a casual dessert. It comes together quickly using pantry staples and pre-made ingredients, making it perfect for busy mornings or last-minute company.
Key to Success #1 – Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls
The recipe is intentionally easy: it uses canned cinnamon roll dough and a can of apple pie filling. These two components combine with a few simple ingredients to create a flavorful casserole with minimal prep.
To prepare, open two cans of refrigerated cinnamon rolls and cut each roll into quarters. If you use larger “Grands” style rolls, cut each into about six pieces so the bites are smaller after baking.
Place the cut cinnamon roll pieces into a large bowl and pour the entire can (about 21 ounces) of apple pie filling over them. Stir gently with a spatula so each piece is well coated with apple filling, then spread the mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Key to Success #2 – Cinnamon Sugar to Form a Crust
A simple cinnamon-sugar topping adds texture and a touch of caramelized sweetness. Mix 1/2 cup granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, then sprinkle it evenly over the casserole before baking. As the dish bakes, the cinnamon-sugar forms small pockets of caramelized crunch that contrast nicely with the soft centers of the rolls and tender apples.
Key to Success #3 – Add Tangy Cream Cheese to the Icing
The cream cheese-enhanced icing brings a bright, tangy balance to the sweet casserole. Use the icing packets included with the cinnamon rolls and blend them with 4 ounces (half a standard package) of softened cream cheese. Beat the cream cheese until smooth, then add the two icing packets and 1–2 tablespoons of milk as needed to reach a thick but pourable consistency.
Drizzle the icing over the casserole while it’s still warm so it melts slightly into the nooks and creates a glossy finish and a creamy contrast to the cinnamon-sugar topping.
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Apple Cinnamon Bake
A quick and comforting casserole made with refrigerated cinnamon rolls and apple pie filling, finished with a tangy cream cheese icing.
Servings: 12
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Calories: 140 kcal per serving
Author: Jennifer
Ingredients
- 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls (reserve icing packets)
- 1 can (21 oz) apple pie filling
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Open both cinnamon roll packages and reserve the icing packets. Cut each unbaked roll into quarters (or into about 6 pieces if using larger rolls).
- In a large bowl, combine the cinnamon roll pieces and the apple pie filling, stirring until the dough pieces are well coated. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread to the edges.
- Combine the 1/2 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon in a small bowl or bag, then sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and the apples are bubbly.
- While the casserole bakes (or just before serving), beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the two reserved icing packets and 1–2 tablespoons milk, mixing until the icing is smooth and pourable.
- Drizzle the cream cheese icing over the warm casserole and serve.
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or hand mixer (optional, for smoothing the cream cheese)
- Spatula
Nutrition Facts (approximate)
Per serving: Calories 140; Carbohydrates 21 g; Protein 2 g; Fat 6 g; Saturated Fat 3 g; Cholesterol 10 mg; Sodium 166 mg; Fiber 1 g; Sugar 13 g.
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