Apple Pie Rolls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love the classic combination of cinnamon rolls and apple pie, then this recipe is for you. These Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls bring together the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon, apples, and a touch of nutmeg. They are a delightful twist on your traditional cinnamon rolls, offering a unique take that’s perfect for the fall season. Whether you’re looking for a dessert or a special breakfast treat, this recipe is quick, easy, and incredibly delicious. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served for holidays like Thanksgiving, brunch gatherings, or even just as a cozy weekend indulgence.

Ingredients

• 2 (6 ounce) cans refrigerated Pillsbury biscuits (5 count biscuit tube)

• 2 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon (divided use)

• 3 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced small

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• ¼ cup packed light brown sugar

• 4 teaspoons fresh lemon juice

• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 4 teaspoons all-purpose flour

For the glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2 Tablespoons milk

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and spray a 12-cup muffin pan with nonstick baking spray (preferably one with flour in it).

2. Remove the biscuits from their packaging and place them on a parchment-lined surface or another nonstick surface. Roll them out to a 3-inch diameter.

3. Sprinkle 1 1/2 teaspoons of cinnamon over the biscuits on both sides. (This is for all the biscuits—feel free to add more if you like.)

4. Place the cinnamon-coated biscuit rounds in the prepared muffin pan, pressing the bottom and sides of the dough to fit the pan.

5. Bake in the oven for 6-8 minutes, until golden brown and the base of the dough is cooked.

6. Working quickly and while the dough is still soft, use the bottom of a shot glass to shape the dough, creating a cup shape. Set aside.

7. In a large skillet, combine the diced Granny Smith apples, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugars dissolve.

8. Add the remaining 1 teaspoon cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt, and stir to combine.

9. Sprinkle in the flour and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the mixture begins to thicken.

10. Spoon the apple mixture evenly among the 10 muffin cups, filling them generously.

11. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk to make the glaze. Spoon the glaze over the cinnamon rolls.

12. Serve while still warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10

• Prep Time: 22 minutes

• Cook Time: 8 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Apple Pie Filling: If you’re in a hurry, you can substitute fresh apples with apple pie filling. This saves time and adds an extra layer of sweetness.

• Different Apples: While Granny Smith apples are great for their tartness, feel free to experiment with other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter flavor.

• Cinnamon Roll Dough: If you prefer to make your cinnamon rolls from scratch, use your favorite homemade cinnamon roll dough instead of store-bought biscuits.

• Nuts: Add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts to the apple filling for a crunchy texture.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free biscuit dough and flour to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep any leftover Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.

• Reheating: To reheat, simply warm in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of apples besides Granny Smith?

Yes, you can use any variety of apples, but Granny Smiths are recommended for their tartness, which balances out the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls.

2. Can I make these Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the apple filling and dough separately and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble and bake them.

3. Can I freeze Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked rolls. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

4. Can I use apple pie filling instead of fresh apples?

Yes, you can substitute apple pie filling for the fresh apples in this recipe. It saves time and still tastes delicious!

5. How do I make the glaze thicker?

If you want a thicker glaze, simply add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

6. Can I add nuts to the filling?

Yes, you can add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the apple mixture for extra flavor and crunch.

7. Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?

To make it healthier, consider using whole wheat biscuits, a sugar substitute, and low-fat milk for the glaze.

8. Can I make these rolls without a muffin pan?

Yes, you can place the shaped dough directly on a baking sheet. Just make sure the dough stays in a round shape and doesn’t spread too much.

9. How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

The rolls should be golden brown on top, and when you press gently on them, they should feel firm rather than soft or doughy.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake in two muffin pans or one larger pan, adjusting the cooking time if needed.

Conclusion

Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect fall treat, bringing together the beloved flavors of apple pie and cinnamon rolls in one delicious bite. Whether you’re making them for breakfast, dessert, or a holiday brunch, these mini rolls are sure to become a family favorite. Quick, easy, and full of flavor, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves warm, comforting treats.

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