This Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna is a cozy, oven-baked dessert that layers soft cinnamon rolls with warm spiced apples and a creamy topping. It tastes like a cross between apple pie and a cinnamon roll casserole, making it perfect for gatherings, weekend treats, or holiday mornings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It combines familiar flavors in a fun, layered way that feels special without being complicated. The apples become tender and caramelized, the cinnamon rolls stay soft and fluffy, and the creamy layer ties everything together. It’s comforting, sweet, and easy enough for both beginner and experienced home bakers.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Cinnamon Roll Layer
2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls (8 rolls per can), icing reserved
Apple Layer
4 cups peeled, diced apples
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/4 cup water
Creamy Layer
225 g cream cheese, softened
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup heavy cream
Topping
Reserved cinnamon roll icing
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Directions
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a 23 x 33 cm baking dish.
In a saucepan over medium heat, add the diced apples, lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cornstarch, and water. Stir well and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, until the apples begin to soften and the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.
Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters. Spread half of the cinnamon roll pieces evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Spoon half of the apple mixture over the cinnamon rolls, spreading it evenly.
In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Slowly add the heavy cream and beat until creamy and slightly fluffy.
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the apple layer.
Add the remaining cinnamon roll pieces on top, followed by the remaining apple mixture.
Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, until the cinnamon rolls are fully cooked and the top is lightly golden.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 10 minutes. Drizzle the reserved icing over the top and sprinkle lightly with ground cinnamon before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 8 to 10 portions
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 45 to 50 minutes
Total time: about 1 hour 10 minutes
Variations
You can add chopped walnuts or pecans between the layers for extra texture. For a richer apple flavor, use a mix of sweet and tart apples. If you prefer a lighter dessert, reduce the cream cheese layer by half and add extra apples instead.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or heat the entire dish in a low oven until warmed through. This dessert is best enjoyed warm.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cinnamon roll dough instead of canned?
Yes, as long as the dough is slightly pre-baked or designed for baking in casseroles.
What type of apples work best?
Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji hold their shape well and balance the sweetness.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it a few hours in advance and bake it just before serving.
Is this recipe very sweet?
It is sweet but balanced by the apples and cream cheese. You can reduce the sugar slightly if preferred.
Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna?
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the cream cheese and apples may change.
Do I have to use cream cheese?
The cream cheese adds richness, but you can replace it with thick whipped cream for a lighter layer.
Can I add extra cinnamon?
Yes, adjust the cinnamon to taste if you enjoy a stronger spice flavor.
How do I know when it’s fully baked?
The cinnamon rolls should be puffed and cooked through, with no raw dough in the center.
Can I serve this cold?
It can be eaten cold, but it tastes best warm.
Is this suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely, it’s a crowd-pleasing dessert that works well for holidays and family gatherings.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna is a comforting, layered dessert that brings together soft cinnamon rolls, spiced apples, and creamy sweetness in every bite. Simple to prepare and full of warm flavors, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a favorite whenever you want something cozy and memorable.
This Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna is a warm, layered dessert combining soft cinnamon rolls, spiced apples, and a creamy filling, perfect for cozy mornings or holiday gatherings.
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a 23 x 33 cm baking dish.
In a saucepan, combine diced apples, lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until apples are slightly softened and the mixture thickens. Set aside.
Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters. Spread half of the pieces on the bottom of the baking dish.
Spoon half of the apple mixture evenly over the cinnamon rolls.
In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add heavy cream and beat until fluffy.
Spread the cream cheese mixture over the apple layer.
Top with remaining cinnamon roll pieces and the rest of the apple mixture.
Cover loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake another 15–20 minutes until rolls are fully cooked and top is golden.
Cool for 10 minutes, drizzle with reserved icing, and sprinkle with cinnamon before serving.
Notes
Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for deeper flavor.
Add chopped nuts for crunch between layers.
Let the dessert cool slightly for cleaner slices.
Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven.
