If you love the nostalgic flavors of cinnamon rolls and the comforting warmth of apple pie, then you are absolutely going to adore this Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Skillet Recipe. It’s a delightful mashup that’s incredibly easy to make, combining soft, gooey cinnamon roll dough with sweet, spiced apple pie filling baked to bubbly perfection in one skillet. This recipe transforms two classic desserts into one show-stopping treat that’s perfect for sharing at brunch, dessert time, or anytime you want a cozy, irresistible sweet bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Skillet Recipe lies in how simple yet thoughtfully selected the ingredients are. Each one plays a key role: the cinnamon rolls create a tender, cinnamon-kissed crust, the apple pie filling brings juicy sweetness and spice, and a touch of cinnamon and nutmeg deepens those fall flavors beautifully.
- 2 tubes refrigerated cinnamon rolls (8 rolls each): These pre-made rolls make the base effortless while offering soft, cinnamon-spiced dough.
- 1 can (21 oz) apple pie filling: The star filling adds juicy chunks of tender apples perfectly sweetened and spiced.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional): A bit of extra cinnamon intensifies the warm flavor without overpowering.
- ½ tsp nutmeg (optional): Adds a subtle earthy spice to round out the apple filling.
- Icing from cinnamon roll package: The finishing glaze that guarantees each bite is decadently sweet and smooth.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This moderate temperature is just right to cook the cinnamon roll crust until it’s golden while letting the apple filling bubble gently without burning.
Step 2: Form the Cinnamon Roll Crust
Grease a 10-inch oven-safe skillet thoroughly to prevent sticking. Take each cinnamon roll and press it flat; this helps to stretch the dough to cover the skillet’s bottom and sides evenly, creating a deliciously thick and flaky crust holding all the filling.
Step 3: Mix and Add the Filling
In a mixing bowl, stir together the apple pie filling with ground cinnamon and nutmeg if you want those extra warming spices. Spoon this luscious mixture evenly over your cinnamon roll crust, spreading it out gently to ensure each bite gets plenty of tender apples.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the skillet in your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the crust turns a mouthwatering golden brown and the apple filling bubbles enticingly around the edges.
Step 5: Drizzle and Serve
Remove the skillet from the oven and immediately drizzle the softened icing from the cinnamon roll package over the warm pie. This adds a sweet, creamy finish that melts perfectly into the crust and filling, making every forkful a delight.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle some chopped toasted pecans on top to add crunch and nutty flavor or a pinch of powdered sugar for a pretty snowy effect. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream creates a luscious contrast to the warm pie.
Side Dishes
This skillet pie is fabulous on its own but pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, like sliced pears or berries, for a refreshing balance. A hot cup of coffee or chai tea complements the sweet and spiced flavors perfectly, making it a cozy morning or evening treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this skillet recipe straight from the pan for a rustic, inviting look that invites everyone to dig in family-style. For a fancier presentation, plate individual servings with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a cinnamon stick garnish, turning your simple skillet dessert into an impressive centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Skillet Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping it chilled helps preserve the textures, and the flavors actually meld and deepen after resting.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the baked skillet pie. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To warm leftovers, place slices on a microwave-safe plate or reheat the whole skillet in a 325°F (160°C) oven until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. This brings back that fresh-baked feel with a soft crust and piping hot filling.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cinnamon roll dough instead of refrigerated tubes?
Absolutely! Homemade dough will add a personal touch and can be customized for flavor and texture, making the skillet even more special.
Is it possible to substitute fresh apples for canned pie filling?
You can, but fresh apples require cooking beforehand with sugar and spices to mimic pie filling consistency and ensure they soften properly during baking.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Swap the canned apple pie filling for a vegan version, make or buy vegan cinnamon rolls, and use a dairy-free icing to keep this dessert plant-based and delicious.
What size skillet should I use for this recipe?
A 10-inch oven-safe skillet is ideal for balancing the crust thickness and filling amount, but you can adjust slightly if needed, keeping baking time in mind.
How can I make the crust crispier?
Try brushing the cinnamon roll dough with melted butter before baking, or bake a few minutes longer, watching closely to avoid burning, for an extra-crispy crust texture.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Skillet Recipe is the perfect marriage of two beloved classics that’s as simple as it is sensational. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a cozy treat at home, the ease and warmth of this dish will win over all the dessert lovers in your life. Grab your skillet, get those cinnamon rolls ready, and enjoy a slice of this sweet, spiced heaven together!
