If you’re searching for a dessert that combines the warm, cozy spices of fall with that irresistible cinnamon roll sweetness, look no further than this Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Skillet Recipe. It’s a truly delightful mashup where tender cinnamon roll dough creates the perfect crust for tart and spiced apple pie filling. Imagine biting into soft, gooey cinnamon rolls wrapped around luscious apple pie, all baked to golden-brown perfection in a skillet. This dish is comfort food at its finest, perfect for family gatherings, casual dinners, or any time you want a sweet treat that feels both familiar and exciting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a few simple ingredients is all you need to bring this Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Skillet Recipe to life. Each element plays a special role—from the cinnamon rolls that offer a soft, doughy foundation, to the apple pie filling that bursts with cinnamon-spiced flavor. It’s a minimal ingredient list, but every piece is essential for that perfect balance of taste and texture.
- 2 tubes refrigerated cinnamon rolls (8 rolls each): These form the buttery, cinnamon-spiced crust that makes this skillet pie so unique and comforting.
- 1 can (21 oz) apple pie filling: The star of the filling, packed with tender, juicy apples and just the right amount of sweetness.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional): Adds a warm, aromatic spice that enhances the apple filling beautifully if you want a little extra depth.
- ½ tsp nutmeg (optional): A subtle hint of nutmeg complements the cinnamon and brings out cozy fall flavors.
- Icing from cinnamon roll package: The final touch of creamy sweetness drizzled over the warm pie, creating irresistible gooey pockets of flavor.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven to 350°F
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect heat for baking a golden crust with bubbling filling. Preheating is key to getting everything cooked evenly and just right.
Step 2: Prepare the Skillet and Press the Cinnamon Rolls
Grease a 10-inch oven-safe skillet generously to prevent sticking and help the crust develop a lovely, crisp edge. Next, unroll the cinnamon rolls and press each one flat before lining them in the skillet. Cover the bottom and sides neatly to create a deliciously soft and sweet crust that will hold the apple pie filling perfectly.
Step 3: Mix the Apple Pie Filling with Spices
In a medium bowl, combine your apple pie filling with the optional cinnamon and nutmeg. Mixing the spices in at this stage enhances the flavor so every bite tastes just like fall in a skillet.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Pour the spiced apple mixture evenly into the skillet on top of the cinnamon roll crust. Place in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the crust turns beautifully golden and the filling bubbles invitingly.
Step 5: Drizzle with Icing and Serve Warm
Once out of the oven, immediately drizzle the cinnamon roll icing over the warm pie for that irresistible sticky sweetness. Serve straight from the skillet for a rustic, mouthwatering presentation everyone will love.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Skillet Recipe by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream right on top. A sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or a dash of powdered sugar adds extra texture and visual appeal. These small touches make every bite even more indulgent and fun.
Side Dishes
This skillet pie pairs amazingly well with a hot cup of coffee, spiced chai, or even a glass of cold milk to balance the rich sweetness. If you want a lighter side, fresh fruit or a simple green salad with a tart vinaigrette create a refreshing contrast to the dessert’s decadence.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, serve individual portions right from mini skillets or ramekins. You can also add drizzles of caramel or honey over the top before serving to amp up the flavors. Wrapping the skillet in a cozy napkin before bringing it to the table adds a warm, inviting touch that makes the experience even more special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (and don’t we all wish we did), simply cover the skillet tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the pie to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, maintaining the flavors beautifully while keeping the filling moist and crust soft.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of the Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Skillet Recipe for up to 2 months. Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and foil, then place them in a freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy this cozy dessert anytime you crave it without starting over.
Reheating
To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through. Microwaving works for a quicker option but may soften the crust slightly. For the freshest taste, a quick oven reheat is always best.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cinnamon roll dough instead of refrigerated rolls?
Absolutely! Using homemade cinnamon roll dough works wonderfully, just make sure to roll and press the dough thin enough to line your skillet evenly. It’s a great way to add a personal touch to this recipe.
What type of apples work best in this recipe?
Since this recipe uses canned apple pie filling, the apples are already prepared, but if you choose to use fresh apples, tart varieties like Granny Smith hold up best, offering a nice balance of tartness and sweetness.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
Yes, with a few substitutions! Look for dairy-free cinnamon rolls or make a vegan dough, and use a fruit pie filling without added butter. You can also substitute icing with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and plant-based milk.
How spicy should I make the filling?
The cinnamon and nutmeg are optional but highly recommended for that warm, classic apple pie flavor. Adjust the amounts to your preference, or omit them for a milder, sweeter filling.
Can I bake this in a baking dish instead of a skillet?
Definitely! An oven-safe baking dish of similar size works just as well. The main difference is the rustic look and even heating that a cast iron skillet provides, but the taste will be just as amazing.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you simply must try this Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Skillet Recipe. It’s straightforward, utterly delicious, and perfect for any day you want to treat yourself or impress friends with minimal effort. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked. Happy baking!
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Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A deliciously comforting Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Skillet combines the warm flavors of cinnamon rolls and spiced apple pie filling in an easy one-pan dessert perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 tubes refrigerated cinnamon rolls (8 rolls each)
Filling
- 1 can (21 oz) apple pie filling
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- ½ tsp nutmeg (optional)
Topping
- Icing from cinnamon roll package
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking the skillet pie.
- Prepare Skillet Crust: Grease a 10-inch oven-safe skillet thoroughly. Press each cinnamon roll flat and arrange them in the skillet, covering both the bottom and sides completely to form a crust.
- Mix Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the apple pie filling with the ground cinnamon and nutmeg if using. Mix gently to evenly distribute the spices.
- Assemble and Bake: Spoon the apple filling evenly over the cinnamon roll crust in the skillet. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the crust turns golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Add Icing and Serve: Once baked, drizzle the provided cinnamon roll icing over the warm pie. Serve directly from the skillet for a cozy presentation.
Notes
- Use an oven-safe skillet like cast iron to ensure even baking and easy serving.
- Pressing the cinnamon rolls flat helps them form a more uniform crust and bake evenly.
- Optional spices enhance the apple pie filling but can be omitted if preferred.
- Serve warm for the best flavor and texture experience.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated.
