Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes | Serves: 8-10
Fall has arrived, and there’s nothing quite like the heavenly combination of warm cinnamon rolls and tender spiced apples coming together in one incredible dessert. This cinnamon roll apple lasagna transforms your favorite breakfast pastry into a show-stopping layered dessert that will have your family asking for seconds (and the recipe!).
What Makes This Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna Special?
This innovative dessert combines the comforting flavors of classic apple pie with the indulgent sweetness of cinnamon rolls, creating a cinnamon roll apple lasagna that’s perfect for any fall gathering. The layers of flaky cinnamon roll dough, spiced apple filling, and rich caramel sauce create a symphony of flavors that will transport you straight to dessert heaven.
Unlike traditional apple desserts, this cinnamon roll apple lasagna offers the perfect balance of textures – soft, pillowy cinnamon roll layers alternate with tender, caramelized apples, all topped with a luscious glaze that brings everything together beautifully.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna
Creating the perfect cinnamon roll apple lasagna starts with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that restaurant-quality taste we’re all craving.
For the Cinnamon Roll Layers:
- 2 tubes (17.5 oz each) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing – Choose high-quality rolls for the best texture and flavor
- All-purpose flour for dusting – Essential for rolling out the dough without sticking
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 large Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced – These tart apples hold their shape beautifully and provide the perfect contrast to the sweet cinnamon rolls
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar – Balances the tartness of the apples
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch – Creates the perfect thick, glossy texture
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – The warm spice that defines this dessert
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg – Adds depth and complexity to the apple filling
- 1/8 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the other flavors
For Assembly:
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce – Use high-quality store-bought or homemade for the best results
- Reserved icing from cinnamon roll packages – This creates the perfect finishing touch
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna Success
Preparation Phase
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F and generously spraying an 8x8x2-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. This ensures your cinnamon roll apple lasagna releases easily after baking.
Creating the Apple Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced apples with sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss everything together until the apples are evenly coated with the spice mixture. The cornstarch will help create that perfect, glossy consistency that makes this cinnamon roll apple lasagna so irresistible.
Preparing the Cinnamon Roll Layers
Remove the cinnamon rolls from their packaging and set the icing aside for later use. Using a sharp knife, slice each cinnamon roll into 1/4-inch thick rounds. On a floured surface, gently roll each piece until it’s thin and pliable. Don’t worry about perfect shapes – the rustic look adds to the charm of this homestyle dessert.ù
Assembly Process
Now comes the exciting part – creating those beautiful layers that make this cinnamon roll apple lasagna so special:
First Layer: Press half of the flattened cinnamon roll pieces into the bottom of your prepared baking dish, overlapping slightly to create a solid foundation.
Second Layer: Spread half of the prepared apple mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll base, then drizzle with 2-3 tablespoons of caramel sauce.
Third Layer: Add another layer of flattened cinnamon rolls, covering the apple mixture completely.
Fourth Layer: Top with the remaining apple mixture and another drizzle of caramel sauce.
Final Layer: Finish with the remaining cinnamon roll pieces, creating a beautiful top crust.
Baking to Perfection
Cover your assembled cinnamon roll apple lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling with caramelized goodness.
The Final Touch
Allow the lasagna to cool for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time is crucial – it allows the layers to set properly and prevents the filling from being too runny. Drizzle the reserved icing over the top just before serving for that perfect finishing touch.
Pro Tips for the Best Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna
Choose the Right Apples: Granny Smith apples are ideal because they maintain their shape and provide a nice tart contrast to the sweet cinnamon rolls. Avoid overly soft apple varieties that might turn mushy.
Don’t Skip the Cornstarch: This ingredient is essential for achieving the perfect consistency in your apple filling. It prevents the cinnamon roll apple lasagna from becoming too watery.
Roll Thin but Don’t Overwork: When flattening the cinnamon roll pieces, work quickly and gently. Overworking the dough can make it tough.
Let It Rest: The cooling period isn’t just a suggestion – it’s essential for the best texture and easier slicing.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
This cinnamon roll apple lasagna is delicious on its own, but here are some ways to make it even more special:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
- Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream
- Drizzle with additional caramel sauce
- Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover cinnamon roll apple lasagna covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 30-60 seconds.
Perfect Pairings from Our Recipe Collection
Looking to create the perfect fall feast? This cinnamon roll apple lasagna pairs beautifully with other seasonal favorites. Consider serving it alongside some of our most popular recipes:
Start your meal with something from our fresh vibrant salads collection – a crisp autumn salad with cranberries and pecans would complement this sweet dessert perfectly.
For the main course, explore our hearty main dishes that capture the essence of fall comfort food. A warm, savory entrée provides the perfect contrast to our sweet cinnamon roll apple lasagna.
Don’t forget about perfect sides that can round out your meal. Consider roasted vegetables or a warm grain salad that won’t compete with the richness of this dessert.
If you’re hosting a larger gathering, our tasty snacks section offers excellent appetizer options that will keep your guests satisfied while this amazing dessert bakes to perfection.
For those who love starting their day with something special, this cinnamon roll apple lasagna also makes an incredible addition to your breakfast favorites rotation – it’s perfect for holiday mornings or special weekend treats.
Why This Recipe Works Every Time
The beauty of this cinnamon roll apple lasagna lies in its simplicity and reliability. By using quality refrigerated cinnamon rolls as the base, you’re guaranteed consistent results every time. The layered approach ensures every bite contains the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
The combination of tart apples, warm spices, and sweet cinnamon rolls creates a dessert that’s both familiar and surprising. It’s comfort food at its finest – the kind of recipe that becomes a family tradition and gets passed down through generations.
Conclusion
This cinnamon roll apple lasagna represents everything we love about fall baking – it’s warm, comforting, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, attending a potluck, or simply wanting to treat your family to something special, this recipe delivers every single time.
The layered presentation makes it perfect for special occasions, while the simple ingredients and straightforward method mean you can tackle it any day of the week. Once you try this cinnamon roll apple lasagna, it’s guaranteed to become a regular in your dessert rotation.
So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to create something truly magical. Your kitchen will smell like a bakery, and your family will think you’re a dessert genius – and honestly, after making this incredible cinnamon roll apple lasagna, you just might be!