You will love these Cinnamon Rolls and Apple Pie Filling because they bake into a warm, gooey dish that smells like a cozy fall morning. This easy breakfast comes together fast with simple ingredients, and it always feels special. I make it when I want something sweet without spending all morning in the kitchen.

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Why Youโll Love These Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling
These Cinnamon Rolls and Apple Pie Filling taste warm, sweet, and extra comforting. The soft rolls soak up the spiced apple sauce, and the apple chunks add a tender bite that feels like homemade pie. You also get a fun pull apart texture that makes every serving feel inviting.
Because this recipe starts with canned cinnamon rolls, you save time and still enjoy a fresh baked treat. The short prep makes busy mornings easier, especially when you want something sweet that still feels doable.
You can also serve it as a holiday brunch dish since the cinnamon aroma fills the room right away. Every bite feels rich, but the steps stay simple. This is the kind of recipe you turn to when you want low effort and high comfort.
Ingredients Youโll Need For Cinnamon Rolls and Apple Pie Filling
You only need a few quick pantry items to make these Cinnamon Rolls and Apple Pie Filling. The canned cinnamon rolls give you a soft base that rises nicely in the oven. The apple pie filling brings a mix of sweetness and fruit that keeps the dish moist.
Brown sugar melts into the apple sauce and adds a deeper flavor that works well with the cinnamon. The melted butter helps the edges crisp slightly while the center stays tender.
Because these ingredients are easy to find, you can make this dish whenever a craving hits. You can also change brands or flavors without changing the method. Everything mixes together quickly so you can get the baking dish into the oven right away.
Substitutions and Ingredient Swaps
You can swap almost everything in this recipe and still keep the same warm flavor. Maple sugar works well when you want a lighter sweetness, and granulated sugar also blends smoothly. If you need a different kind of cinnamon roll, any canned brand will mix in nicely.
If you prefer a less sweet filling, choose unsweetened apple pie filling or chop fresh apples and mix them with a little sugar and spice. You can also try apple pie spice instead of cinnamon to get a deeper fall flavor.
Butter adds richness, but you can leave it out if you want a lighter option. The rolls will still brown in the oven. You can also add dairy free icing or use a flavored icing for a fun twist. These swaps help you customize the dish without extra steps.
Variations and Add-Ins
You can blend in chopped pecans or walnuts when you want extra crunch. They taste great with the soft cinnamon rolls and warm apple sauce. Raisins add a chewy bite that fits the pie flavor perfectly.
You can also add dried cranberries for a bright pop, or sprinkle chocolate chips across the top for a dessert style version. Cream cheese icing creates a rich finish right after baking, and caramel sauce drizzled on top gives the whole dish a gooey look.
Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream turns this into an easy dessert after dinner. If you want a seasonal twist, sprinkle the top with pumpkin spice. Every small change brings a new version of the same comforting dish.
Step By Step: How To Make Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling
Prep Your Baking Dish and Ingredients
Turn your oven to 350ยฐF and grease a 9ร13 inch pan. This helps the rolls bake evenly and keeps the edges from sticking. Strain the apple pie filling through a mesh strainer, and keep the apple sauce in a bowl while placing the apple chunks in another.
You can cut the apple pieces into smaller cubes if needed. Next open the cinnamon rolls and set the icing packets aside so you can use them after cooling. Cut each roll into four or six small pieces so they bake quickly and absorb the apple flavor.
This prep helps everything blend smoothly in the next step, and it keeps the rolls from clumping together.

Mix the Cinnamon Roll Pieces and Apple Filling
Place the cinnamon roll chunks in a large bowl. Add the apple pie sauce, brown sugar, and cinnamon or apple pie spice. Mix gently so you coat the dough without tearing it.
The mixture should look glossy and thick. The sauce helps the rolls bake into a soft, sticky center, while the sugar creates a light caramel flavor. You can taste a small bit of the mixture to see if you want more spice before baking.
This step moves fast, and it sets up the warm flavor that makes this dish so comforting.

Assemble, Bake, and Add the Topping
Spread the coated cinnamon roll mixture into your greased pan. Spread it out so it bakes evenly. Place the apple chunks on top and press them lightly into the dough. This keeps them from burning on the surface.
Drizzle melted butter around the edges to help the sides brown. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. Check the center to make sure it turns fluffy. If it still looks doughy, bake a bit longer.
Let the dish cool for 15 minutes so the texture sets. Then drizzle the icing across the top. The heat melts the icing slightly and creates a creamy finish that pairs well with the warm apples.

Expert Tips for Perfect Texture and Flavor
Always strain your apple pie filling because too much liquid can make the rolls soggy. You also get a stronger apple flavor when you separate the sauce and chunks. Cut each roll into smaller pieces so every bite has a mix of cinnamon, sugar, and apple.
You should check the center before pulling the dish out of the oven because the middle cooks slower than the edges. If the top browns too quickly, you can place a sheet of foil over the dish and continue baking.
Try mixing the sauce gently so the rolls keep their shape. This gives you a fluffy center instead of a compressed texture. You can also add extra spice if you want a stronger fall flavor. Each small step helps you get a richer and more balanced dish.
Make Ahead, Storage, and Reheating Instructions
You can assemble this dish the night before and refrigerate it unbaked. This helps the flavors blend overnight and makes busy mornings easier. Cover the dish tightly and bake the next day. You may need a few extra minutes since the dough starts cold.
Store leftovers in the fridge for two or three days. Cooling keeps the texture soft and prevents the rolls from drying out.
To reheat, place the dish in a 350ยฐF oven until warm. You can also microwave single servings for a quick fix. Add a small scoop of extra icing or a drizzle of caramel before serving to refresh the flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Breakfast or Dessert
Serve these Cinnamon Rolls and Apple Pie Filling warm for the best texture. The apples soften even more, and the cinnamon aroma fills the room. You can top each serving with whipped cream when you want a light dessert.
Ice cream turns this dish into a sweet treat after dinner. You can also add chopped nuts or drizzle caramel sauce for richer flavor. For breakfast, serve with fresh fruit or a cup of hot coffee. Every option matches the warm, cozy flavor of the dish.

FAQs About Cinnamon Rolls and Apple Pie Filling
How do you make a delicious apple pie filling?
You can cook chopped apples with sugar, cinnamon, and a little lemon juice until the fruit softens but still holds its shape. Stir in a small amount of cornstarch to thicken the sauce so it wraps around the apples perfectly.
Are cinnamon rolls considered breakfast or dessert?
You can enjoy cinnamon rolls at breakfast because they pair well with coffee and taste warm and comforting. They also work as dessert since the sweet dough and icing taste amazing with ice cream or whipped cream.
How much cinnamon should you add to apple pie filling?
You can start with one to two teaspoons of cinnamon for gentle warmth. Adjust the amount to your taste or try apple pie spice for a deeper flavor. Adding the spice early helps it blend smoothly into the filling.
What is the most common mistake people make when preparing apple pie?
The biggest mistake is using too much liquid, which makes the filling watery. You can avoid this by thickening the sauce and choosing firm apples that hold their shape during baking.
Other Recipes You May Enjoy
- Brioche French toast casserole for cozy weekend mornings
- Blueberry coffee cake with a buttery crumble topping
- Air fryer egg and cheese toast quick breakfast fix
- Instant Pot steel cut oats for a hearty breakfast
- Baked cream cheese French toast casserole
- Sweet potato breakfast hash with a seasonal twist
Conclusion
These Cinnamon Rolls and Apple Pie Filling taste warm, sweet, and wonderfully soft. You can prepare them quickly, and they always feel comforting. The simple steps and short ingredient list make this recipe one you can repeat often.
If you want more ideas or visual inspiration, you can also browse them on Pinterest at Pinterest. This cozy dish will become a new favorite at breakfast or dessert time.

Cinnamon Rolls and Apple Pie Filling
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mesh strainer
- Two bowls
- Knife
- Large spoon
Ingredients
- 2 cans canned cinnamon rolls (17.5 oz each)
- 1 can apple pie filling (21 oz)
- ยผ cup light brown sugar
- 1-2 teaspoons ground cinnamon or apple pie spice
- ยผ cup melted butter
- 1 icing packets from cinnamon roll cans
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350ยฐF and grease a 9ร13 inch baking dish with 1 tablespoon of melted butter.
- Strain the apple pie filling. Place the sauce in one bowl and the apple chunks in another. Cut any large apple pieces smaller.
- Open the cinnamon rolls and set icing aside. Cut each roll into 4 to 6 small pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine the cinnamon roll pieces, apple sauce, brown sugar, and cinnamon or spice. Mix gently until coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the baking dish. Spread evenly. Scatter apple chunks on top and press lightly into the dough. Drizzle remaining butter around the edges.
- Bake 45 to 50 minutes, or until the center is fully cooked and fluffy. Let cool for 15 minutes.
- Drizzle with the reserved icing and serve warm.
