Name: Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 (8-ounce) cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls; 2 cups peeled and sliced apples (about 2 medium apples, Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended); 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional); 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup milk; 1/2 cup caramel sauce

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Introduction

Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna is a delightful dessert that layers the warm, sweet flavors of cinnamon rolls with fresh spiced apples. This easy-to-make treat offers a cozy blend of soft dough, juicy fruit, and a creamy drizzle, perfect for sharing with family and friends.

The image shows a stack of three golden-brown waffles with a generous filling of light caramel-colored cooked apple slices layered between each waffle. The top waffle is drizzled with white icing glaze, which slightly drips down the sides of the stack. The texture of the waffles is crisp with visible grid patterns, while the apple filling looks soft and juicy. The stack sits on a white plate placed on a white marbled textured surface. Nearby, there are two sticks of cinnamon and green apples in the blurred background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 (8-ounce) cans of refrigerated cinnamon rolls
2 cups peeled and sliced apples (about 2 medium apples)
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup milk
1/2 cup caramel sauce (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, mix the sliced apples with brown sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and chopped pecans if using. Stir well to combine.
Step 3: Open the cans of cinnamon rolls and separate each one. Roll out each cinnamon roll into a flat circle. Spoon a generous amount of the apple mixture onto the center of each circle, then fold the edges over to form a filled pocket. Repeat this with all cinnamon rolls.
Step 4: Arrange the filled cinnamon rolls close together in the prepared baking dish, leaving a little space so they can rise evenly.
Step 5: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and creamy. Drizzle this mixture evenly over the arranged cinnamon rolls.
Step 6: Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cinnamon rolls are golden brown and cooked through. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
Step 7: Remove from oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes. If desired, drizzle caramel sauce over the top before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

Use tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet varieties like Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture.
Grease the baking dish well to make removing the cinnamon rolls easier after baking.
Let the cream cheese soften to room temperature before mixing for a smoother drizzle.
Try adding a pinch of cloves, cardamom, or allspice to the apple filling for extra warmth and depth.
Substitute pears or mixed berries for apples to create a different fruit variation.
Use gluten-free cinnamon rolls for a gluten-free version or plant-based cream cheese and milk for a vegan alternative.
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce for an indulgent touch.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds to enjoy the dessert warm and fresh. Avoid freezing to maintain the best texture.

How to Serve

The image shows a stack of four waffle layers with golden-brown color and a crisp texture. Between each waffle layer, there are chunky, soft apple pieces with a light caramel color, making the inside look juicy and sweet. On top of the stack, white creamy icing is drizzled, slowly dripping down the sides of the waffles and apples, adding a glossy texture. The stack is placed on a white plate, with two cinnamon sticks lying to the side, and in the background, a few green apples sit slightly out of focus. The whole setting rests on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and assemble the dish a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. Before baking, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed.

What type of apples work best for this recipe?

Tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet ones like Honeycrisp work best because they hold their shape during baking and balance the cinnamon roll’s sweetness.

Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of refrigerated ones?

Absolutely! Just ensure the dough is rolled out thin enough to fold over the apple filling, creating neat pockets.

Is it possible to make this dessert gluten-free?

Yes, by using gluten-free cinnamon rolls available at many grocery stores, you can easily adapt this dessert for a gluten-free diet.

How should I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers covered in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Warm slices in the microwave before serving for the best taste and texture.