Description
This Shortcut Apple Pie Cinnamon Roll Bake is a delightful twist on classic cinnamon rolls, combining the warm flavors of apple pie with gooey cinnamon roll dough. With a simple mix of spices, fresh apple chunks, and crunchy pecans baked in a custardy egg mixture, topped with sweet icing, this recipe offers a comforting breakfast or dessert that can be prepared quickly using store-bought cinnamon roll dough.
Ingredients
Cinnamon Roll Bake
- 2 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter
- 2 Eggs
- 1/2 Cup Milk of Choice
- 1 Tablespoon Vanilla Extract
- 2 Tablespoons Flour
- 1 Tablespoon Cinnamon
- 1/2 Teaspoon Nutmeg
- 2 (17.5 Ounce) Packages Cinnamon Roll Dough (Pillsbury’s or Annie’s recommended)
- 1 Large Granny Smith Apple, chopped and cubed into small pieces
- 3/4 Cup Raw Pecans, finely chopped
- Icing Packets (included with cinnamon rolls) for topping
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the cinnamon roll casserole evenly.
- Grease Baking Dish: Generously butter the bottom of an 8×8 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add richness to the base.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg until fully combined. Set aside while preparing the dough.
- Cut Cinnamon Rolls: Unroll the store-bought cinnamon roll dough and cut each roll into 6 even pieces. Place all the cut pieces evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Add Egg Mixture: Pour the egg and spice mixture over the cinnamon roll pieces. Gently stir with a spoon to ensure all pieces are coated without becoming soggy.
- Add Apple and Pecans: Stir in the chopped Granny Smith apple and finely chopped pecans, mixing gently until everything is evenly distributed and coated.
- Bake Cinnamon Roll Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough has puffed up, the center is fully cooked, and the edges turn golden brown.
- Cool and Ice: Remove from oven and let the bake cool for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps to set the custard and cool slightly for easier icing application.
- Slice, Serve, and Enjoy: Drizzle the included icing packets over the top, slice into 12 portions, then serve warm and enjoy this comforting shortcut apple pie cinnamon roll bake.
Notes
- Use Granny Smith apples for a tart contrast that balances the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk with almond or oat milk and use vegan cinnamon roll dough if available.
- Ensure the eggs and milk mixture is well whisked to avoid lumps and to achieve a smooth custardy texture.
- Cool the bake slightly before icing to avoid the icing melting completely, keeping the drizzle intact.
- Chop pecans finely for even distribution that complements the texture without overpowering the bake.
- This dish can be made the night before and baked fresh in the morning for a convenient breakfast treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American