Cinnamon Roll Apple Pies

Okay, I have to confess something—I’m a sucker for anything that combines cinnamon rolls and apple pie. It’s like two of the greatest desserts decided to have a love child, and let me tell you, it’s magic. I first stumbled upon the idea for cinnamon roll apple pies one lazy Sunday morning when I was craving something sweet but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The result? A dessert so ridiculously easy and delicious, I almost felt guilty… almost.

These little cinnamon roll apple pies are the answer to every last-minute dessert emergency, potluck panic, or “I just need something cozy” moment. With just a can of refrigerated cinnamon rolls and some apple pie filling, you’re minutes away from warm, gooey, cinnamon-spiced perfection. They’re like mini handheld pies with all the nostalgia of grandma’s apple pie but none of the fuss. Perfect for fall, but honestly, I make them year-round because why should pumpkin spice have all the fun?

Why You’ll Love Cinnamon Roll Apple Pies

Let me count the ways these little guys will steal your heart—and your taste buds:

• Unbelievably easy: We’re talking two main ingredients and barely any cleanup. Even if you’ve never baked before, you can nail these.
• Warm, gooey perfection: That cinnamon-spiced apple filling bubbling against the soft, fluffy roll? It’s like a hug in dessert form.
• Crowd-pleaser magic: Kids, adults, picky eaters—everyone loses their minds over these. Perfect for brunch, dessert, or sneaking straight from the pan.
• Ready in under 30 minutes: From fridge to table faster than takeout. Emergency cravings? Solved.
• Endlessly adaptable: Swap fillings, add nuts, or drizzle with caramel. Make ’em your own!

Seriously, once you try these cinnamon roll apple pies, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Cinnamon Roll Apple Pies

Essential Ingredients

Grab these basics, and you’re halfway there:

• 1 can refrigerated cinnamon rolls (8-count) – The kind with the icing! I usually go for Pillsbury, but any brand works. Just don’t unroll them—yet.
• 1 can apple pie filling (21 oz) – Homemade is great, but let’s be real, the canned stuff is a lifesaver. Chunky or smooth, your call.

Optional Additions

Because why not jazz things up?

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – For an extra kick. Trust me, it makes the apples sing.
• Homemade icing – If you’re feeling fancy, mix ½ cup powdered sugar + 1 tablespoon milk + ½ teaspoon vanilla. But the packet icing works just fine!
• Chopped pecans or walnuts – Sprinkle on top before baking for crunch.
• Caramel drizzle – Because more gooeyness is always the answer.

That’s it! No fancy pantry raids needed. Now let’s turn these into magic.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cinnamon Roll Apple Pies

Preparing the Cinnamon Rolls

First things first—preheat your oven to whatever temperature the cinnamon roll package says (usually around 375°F). Don’t skip this! Cold dough + hot oven = happy pies. Now, pop open that can of cinnamon rolls. You know that satisfying *thwop* sound? Pure joy. Separate the rolls (keep the icing packet for later—don’t lose it!) and lay them out on a clean surface. Here’s the fun part: flatten each one slightly with your fingers or the bottom of a glass. You’re not making tortillas here—just press them out enough to create a little well for the filling. Easy, right?

Filling and Baking

Grab a standard muffin tin and give it a quick spritz of cooking spray. No one likes a stuck pie! Press each flattened cinnamon roll into a muffin cup, gently pushing it up the sides to form a little cup. Now, spoon in that apple pie filling—about a tablespoon per cup, but hey, I won’t judge if you go a little heavy-handed. If you’re using extra cinnamon or nuts, sprinkle them on top now. Slide the tin into the oven and bake according to the cinnamon roll package time (usually 12–15 minutes). Keep an eye on them—they’re done when the edges turn golden brown and your kitchen smells like heaven.

Finishing Touches

Okay, here’s where the magic happens. Pull those beauties out of the oven and let them cool for *just* a minute—long enough so you don’t burn your fingers but short enough that they’re still warm and gooey. Grab that icing packet (or your homemade version) and drizzle it over the top like you’re Jackson Pollock creating a dessert masterpiece. Serve them immediately while they’re still warm, preferably with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over the top. Warning: These disappear fast, so claim yours before anyone else does!

Variations for Cinnamon Roll Apple Pies

Fruit Substitutions

Look, I love apple pie filling as much as the next person, but sometimes you gotta mix it up! Swap it out for cherry pie filling and you’ve got yourself a mini cherry pie situation that’s downright irresistible. Or go for peach pie filling—those juicy peaches pair *amazingly* with cinnamon. Feeling adventurous? Try blueberry or even pumpkin pie filling in the fall (just thin it with a splash of milk first). The best part? No one will ever guess how easy it was.

Spice It Up

If you’re like me and believe there’s no such thing as too much spice, here’s your playground. Toss a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom into the apple filling for extra warmth. Or, if you’re feeling bold, a tiny dash of cayenne pepper (yes, really!) adds a sneaky kick that’s *so* good. For a cozy twist, stir a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice into the icing before drizzling. And if you’re a caramel fanatic—hi, me too—swap the icing for a generous drizzle of warm salted caramel sauce. Basically, these little pies are your canvas—go wild!

Serving and Storage Tips for Cinnamon Roll Apple Pies

Serving Suggestions

Listen, these cinnamon roll apple pies are glorious all on their own, but let’s be real—everything’s better with ice cream. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over the top, or go wild with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. They’re perfect for brunch alongside coffee, or as a dessert after dinner (though let’s be honest, I’ve eaten them for breakfast more than I’d like to admit). Want to impress guests? Arrange them on a pretty platter with extra drizzles of icing and caramel. Instant crowd applause!

Storage Instructions

If—*somehow*—you have leftovers, let them cool completely, then tuck them into an airtight container at room temp for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back that just-baked warmth. They won’t be quite as crisp as fresh-out-of-the-oven, but they’ll still taste amazing. Pro tip: If you want to prep ahead, assemble the pies (without baking) and keep them covered in the fridge overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time the next day. Easy peasy!

Helpful Notes for Perfect Cinnamon Roll Apple Pies

Oven Adjustments

Okay, let’s talk ovens—because they’re all a little *extra* in their own way. If yours runs hot or cold (don’t worry, we’ve all got that friend), keep an eye on your cinnamon roll apple pies around the 10-minute mark. They’re done when the edges are golden and the filling is bubbly—if they’re browning too fast, just tent them with foil. No drama! And if your oven is a bit sluggish, no sweat—just give them a few extra minutes. Trust your nose more than the timer here; when it smells like a cinnamon-sugar dream, they’re ready.

Nutritional Insight

Now, let’s be real—these aren’t exactly health food, but *life needs joy*, and that’s what these pies are. Each one clocks in around 210 calories, with that perfect balance of gooey, cinnamon-y happiness. If you’re feeling fancy (or slightly guilty), pair them with a scoop of Greek yogurt instead of ice cream—it’s a *little* better, and honestly? Still delicious. But hey, some days call for full indulgence, and that’s 100% okay. Just savor every bite—no regrets!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Roll Apple Pies

Can I Use Homemade Dough?

Absolutely! If you've got a favorite homemade cinnamon roll dough, go for it—just roll it out and cut into circles to fit your muffin tin. But here’s my lazy-girl secret: the refrigerated stuff works *so* well and saves a ton of time. If you’re short on patience (or energy), stick with the canned rolls—no shame in that game!

How Do I Prevent Sogginess?

If your pies get a little soft, try this: after pressing the dough into the muffin tin, bake it empty for 3-4 minutes before adding the filling. This gives the dough a head start to crisp up. Also, don’t overfill with apple goop—stick to about a tablespoon per cup. And always let them cool for at least 5 minutes before diving in (if you can resist!).

Can I Freeze These?

Yes! Let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat straight from frozen at 350°F for 10-12 minutes. The icing? Add that fresh after reheating—trust me, it’s worth the wait.

Final Thoughts on Cinnamon Roll Apple Pies

Look, if there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s that these cinnamon roll apple pies are pure happiness in a muffin tin. They’re easy, they’re delicious, and they make any day feel a little sweeter. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, these little pies are always the right answer. Now go make some magic—you deserve it!

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