This Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie is a delightful fusion of two classic desserts. The buttery cinnamon roll crust pairs perfectly with a sweet and spiced apple filling, creating a rich and satisfying treat. Whether you’re making this for a holiday gathering or just to indulge your sweet tooth, follow this detailed step-by-step guide for the perfect pie every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie
For the Cinnamon Roll Crust of Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie
- 1 can (8-count) store-bought cinnamon roll dough (or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for rolling out the dough)
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted (for greasing the pie pan)
For the Apple Pie Filling of Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie
- 4-5 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening the filling)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (prevents browning and enhances flavor)
For the Glaze of Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie (Optional but Recommended)
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Step 1: Preparing the Cinnamon Roll Crust of Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie
1. Flatten the Cinnamon Rolls
If using store-bought cinnamon roll dough:
- Open the can and separate each roll.
- Lightly flour a clean surface and place the rolls down.
- Using a rolling pin, flatten each cinnamon roll into a ¼-inch thick disc.
If using homemade cinnamon roll dough:
- Roll the dough out into a large rectangle about ¼-inch thick.
- Slice it into rounds or strips if you plan to create a lattice topping.
2. Grease the Pie Pan
- Use a pastry brush or paper towel to lightly coat a 9-inch pie dish with melted butter.
3. Arrange the Dough in the Pie Pan
- Start by placing the flattened cinnamon rolls on the bottom of the pie pan, slightly overlapping each one.
- Once the bottom is covered, press the dough firmly to create a seamless crust.
- Use additional flattened rolls to line the sides of the pie dish, pressing them together so there are no gaps.
4. Pre-Bake the Crust of Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie (Optional, but Recommended for Crispier Results)
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the crust in the oven and bake for 5-7 minutes.
- This helps firm up the crust and prevents it from becoming soggy when the apple filling is added.
- Remove the crust from the oven and let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Preparing the Apple Pie Filling of Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie
1. Peel, Core, and Slice the Apples
- Wash the apples thoroughly.
- Use a sharp knife or an apple peeler to remove the skin.
- Cut each apple into thin, even slices to ensure they cook evenly.
2. Coat the Apples in Sugar and Spices
- Place the apple slices in a large mixing bowl.
- Sprinkle granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch over the apples.
- Add the vanilla extract and lemon juice, then toss everything together until the apples are fully coated.
- Let the apples sit for 5-10 minutes to release their natural juices.
3. Cook the Apple Mixture (Optional for Softer Apples)
If you prefer a softer filling, you can cook the apples before assembling the pie:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Pour in the apple mixture and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and let the apples cool slightly before adding them to the pie.
Step 3: Assembling the Pie of Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie
1. Add the Apple Filling to the Crust
- Pour the prepared apple mixture into the pre-baked cinnamon roll crust.
- Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the apples evenly in the pan.
2. Add a Cinnamon Roll Topping (Optional)
For an extra cinnamon roll layer:
- Flatten additional cinnamon rolls and arrange them on top of the apples in a lattice pattern.
- Alternatively, you can place whole cinnamon roll pieces on top for a thicker crust.
Step 4: Baking the Pie
1. Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you have not already.
2. Cover with Foil to Prevent Over-Browning
- Loosely cover the pie with aluminum foil to prevent the cinnamon rolls from getting too dark before the apples are fully cooked.
3. Bake the Pie
- Place the pie on the center rack and bake for 35-40 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and let the top crust develop a golden brown color.
4. Check for Doneness
- The apples should be bubbling and soft, and the cinnamon roll crust should be golden brown and firm to the touch.
Step 5: Making the Sweet Vanilla Glaze
1. Mix the Ingredients
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Adjust the consistency:
- Add more milk if the glaze is too thick.
- Add more powdered sugar if the glaze is too thin.
2. Drizzle Over the Warm Pie
- Allow the pie to cool for 10 minutes before adding the glaze.
- Use a spoon or piping bag to drizzle the glaze evenly over the top.
Step 6: Serving and Storing
How to Serve
- Slice and serve the pie warm for the best texture.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- For extra decadence, drizzle with caramel sauce.
How to Store Leftovers
- Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to two days.
- Refrigerate for up to five days.
How to Reheat
- Microwave individual slices for 15-20 seconds.
- Reheat in the oven at 300°F for 5-10 minutes for a crispier crust.
How to Freeze the Pie
- Wrap the fully baked pie in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to three months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some interesting facts about apple pie?
- Apple pie dates back to the 14th century, with early recipes found in England.
- The saying “As American as apple pie” became popular in the 20th century, although apple pie was not originally American.
- The first American apple pie recipe appeared in 1796 in American Cookery by Amelia Simmons.
- Dutch apple pie, with a crumb topping, is a popular variation.
- The largest apple pie ever made weighed over 37,000 pounds and was baked in 2012 in Ohio.
Why do people like apple pie?
- Apple pie combines sweet and tart flavors, making it a universally loved dessert.
- The warm, spiced aroma of cinnamon and apples creates a comforting and nostalgic feeling.
- It pairs well with ice cream, whipped cream, and caramel, adding to its appeal.
- The flaky crust and gooey filling provide a perfect contrast in texture.
- It is a traditional dessert for holidays and celebrations, making it a staple in many cultures.
How long does apple pie last?
- At room temperature, a freshly baked apple pie lasts up to two days if covered properly.
- In the refrigerator, apple pie stays fresh for 4 to 5 days when stored in an airtight container.
- For long-term storage, apple pie can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
- To reheat apple pie, place it in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual slices for 15-20 seconds.
Is apple pie the most popular pie?
- Apple pie is one of the most popular pies in the United States, especially during holidays like Thanksgiving.
- According to surveys, pumpkin pie and pecan pie are also top contenders, especially in fall and winter.
- In the UK, mince pies and meat pies are more traditional.
- Apple pie remains a classic and widely loved dessert, often ranked among the top favorite pies worldwide.
For more delicious recipes
Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies – Soft, Chewy & Irresistible ! : https://myworldwiderecipe.com/wp-admin/post.php?post=1268&action=edit
Red Velvet Brownies – The Ultimate Fudgy & Creamy Dessert : https://myworldwiderecipe.com/wp-admin/post.php?post=1279&action=edit
Conclusion
This Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie is a delightful twist on two classic desserts. The flaky cinnamon roll crust, warm spiced apple filling, and sweet glaze make it a guaranteed hit.
Try this recipe and let me know how it turns out. Happy baking.