If you’re craving a warm, comforting treat that combines two of the best dessert flavors — cinnamon rolls and apple pie — then you’re in for a real indulgence! These Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Cups are the perfect balance of flaky, cinnamon-spiced dough, sweet apple filling, and just the right amount of caramel drizzle. Whether you’re baking for a cozy weekend at home, a family gathering, or just because you deserve something sweet, these mini pie cups are a showstopper.
You can easily customize the filling with your favorite apples, add a sprinkle of nutmeg for extra warmth, or top them off with a dollop of whipped cream for that perfect finish. So, let’s dive in and create this simple yet indulgent dessert that’ll have everyone coming back for more!
Key Benefits of Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Cups
These Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Cups are not only a delicious treat but also packed with benefits that make them a must-try dessert for any occasion. Here’s why you’ll love them:
Quick and Easy to Make
You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to create a crowd-pleasing dessert. Using store-bought cinnamon roll dough saves you time without sacrificing flavor, making this recipe the perfect solution when you need a last-minute treat.
Versatile and Customizable
Feel free to mix up the apple filling to match your taste. Whether you prefer tart Granny Smith apples or sweet Honeycrisp, these mini pies can easily be tailored to suit any preference. Feel free to enhance the flavor with delightful additions such as a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to bring an extra cozy warmth.
Perfect for All Occasions
Whether it’s a cozy fall gathering, a holiday dessert spread, or a simple afternoon snack, these cinnamon roll apple pie cups are a hit. They’re easy to serve, individual-sized, and ideal for sharing with friends and family. You can even serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel for that extra indulgent touch.
Portable and Mess-Free
Because they’re baked in individual cups, these desserts are easy to eat on the go. No messy cutting or utensils required—simply pick up and savor! This makes them perfect for potlucks, picnics, or any casual get-together.
The Ultimate Comfort Food
The blend of warm cinnamon rolls and sweet apple pie creates an irresistibly comforting experience. These mini pies offer that cozy, homey feel with every bite, making them the ultimate indulgent snack when you’re in the mood for a treat.
So, whether you’re looking for a quick dessert or want to impress guests with a flavorful twist on a classic, these cinnamon roll apple pie cups are sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the ease, versatility, and pure satisfaction that comes with baking this delicious recipe!
Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Cups
Making these Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Cups is a breeze, and the ingredients are simple yet full of flavor! Here’s everything you need to create this sweet and satisfying treat.
For the Apple Pie Filling:
2 medium-sized apples, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp
Granny Smith apples provide a tart bite, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the cinnamon roll, while Honeycrisp apples are sweeter for a more mellow flavor. Choose whichever apple you prefer or have on hand!
1/4 cup brown sugar
Brown sugar brings a rich, caramel-like sweetness that pairs beautifully with the apples, enhancing that classic apple pie flavor.
1 tsp ground cinnamon
Cinnamon is key in creating that warm, cozy, spiced flavor we love in apple pie, and it melds perfectly with the cinnamon roll dough.
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
Nutmeg enhances the flavor with a subtle nutty and fragrant note. It’s optional but highly recommended for an extra layer of warmth.
1 tbsp lemon juice
Lemon juice livens up the apple filling and balances the sweetness, while also slowing down the browning of the apples.
For the Cinnamon Roll Cups:
1 can (8 count) refrigerated cinnamon rolls
This is where the magic happens! Pre-made cinnamon roll dough makes these cups so easy to assemble, giving you that flaky, cinnamon-spiced dough without all the work.
2 tbsp melted butter
Butter helps the dough bake to a beautiful golden-brown color and adds richness to the cinnamon roll cups. A little extra butter never hurts, right?
1 tbsp granulated sugar
A touch of sugar sprinkled on top gives the cups a light, crisp sweetness, adding that perfect finishing touch to the cinnamon rolls.
Optional Toppings:
Caramel sauce
For an indulgent finish, drizzle some caramel sauce over the warm cups. It’s the perfect complement to the cinnamon and apples, making each bite extra delicious.
Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
Enhance these cups with a swirl of whipped cream or a serving of vanilla ice cream to create a luxuriously creamy and decadent treat.
With these simple ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to creating an irresistible treat. And the best part? You can easily swap out ingredients or adjust the sweetness to suit your preferences. Let’s get baking and make these cinnamon roll apple pie cups the star of your next dessert spread!
Instructions for Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Cups
Let’s make these Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Cups come to life! Follow these easy steps, and soon you’ll have a warm, delicious dessert to enjoy. Ready? Let’s get started!
1. Prepare the Apple Filling
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready when the time comes.
Peel and chop your apples into small, bite-sized pieces. A tart apple like Granny Smith works perfectly for a nice balance against the sweetness of the cinnamon roll dough, but feel free to use your favorite variety.
In a bowl, mix the chopped apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and a dash of nutmeg for a hint of spice if desired. Lemon juice will help enhance the flavors and keep the apples fresh. Stir everything together until the apples are evenly coated in the sweet, spiced mixture. Set this aside while we prep the dough.
2. Prepare the Cinnamon Roll Dough
Remove the refrigerated cinnamon rolls from the can and gently separate each one. You’ll want to save the icing for later because we’re not using it just yet.
Grease your muffin tin lightly with butter or non-stick spray. This will ensure your cinnamon roll cups come out easily after baking.
Place one cinnamon roll into each muffin cup, gently pressing the dough into the bottom and up the sides to create a little “bowl.” This is where we’ll tuck the apple filling.
3. Fill the Cinnamon Roll Cups
Spoon the apple mixture generously into each cinnamon roll cup. Fill them up, making sure the apples are well-distributed in the dough. Don’t be shy—these cups will hold the perfect amount of sweet apple goodness!
4. Add a Touch of Sweetness
Drizzle this will give the cinnamon rolls that rich, golden, crispy texture.
Lightly sprinkle granulated sugar on top of each cup for an added touch of sweetness and a slight crunch.
5. Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the muffin tin into your preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the cinnamon roll cups are golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling up. Keep an eye on them in the final minutes—once they’re golden, they’re done!
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Allow the cinnamon roll apple pie cups to cool for a few minutes before removing them from the muffin tin. A spoon or knife will help gently lift them out.
For a more decadent dessert, drizzle caramel sauce over the top or add a generous spoonful of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warm, sweet flavors of the apples combined with the buttery cinnamon roll dough are simply irresistible.
There you have it! These Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Cups are the perfect balance of sweet, spiced, and flaky. Whether for a cozy night in or a special occasion, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy the delicious results!
Pro Tips and Variations for Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Cups
Now that you’ve got the basics down, let’s take these Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Cups to the next level with some pro tips and fun variations. These little tweaks will help you customize the recipe to your taste and make it even more delicious!
Pro Tips for Perfect Cups
Use cold cinnamon rolls – If you want your cinnamon roll dough to hold its shape better and bake more evenly, try chilling the dough in the fridge for a few minutes before placing it in the muffin tin. It helps keep the dough from spreading too much while baking.
Don’t overfill the cups – When spooning in the apple filling, be mindful not to overstuff the cinnamon rolls. You want the apples to bake perfectly inside without spilling over, so just fill them to the top and no higher.
Watch the baking time – Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your cups as they bake. If you see the tops getting too dark before the centers are fully baked, cover the tin loosely with foil and let them finish cooking.
Add a pinch of sea salt – If you’re a fan of sweet and salty combos, sprinkle a little sea salt on top before baking or after they come out of the oven. It really enhances the flavor, especially if you’re using caramel drizzle.
Flavor Variations to Try
Mix in some nuts – If you like a little crunch, chop up some walnuts or pecans and toss them in with the apple mixture. The nuts will add a wonderful texture and earthy flavor that complements the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls and apples.
Try a different pie filling – While apple is a classic, you can experiment with other fruits like pears, peaches, or even a berry blend. Just be sure to select fruit that maintains its texture and shape during baking.
Make it extra spicy – If you love the warmth of fall spices, add a touch of ground ginger or allspice to the apple filling. It gives the cups a deeper, spicier flavor that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon.
Add a streusel topping – For an extra bit of crunch and sweetness, make a simple streusel topping with butter, flour, sugar, and oats. Sprinkle it on top of the apples before baking for a crisp, crumble texture.
Dietary Variations
Gluten-Free – You can easily make these cups gluten-free by using gluten-free cinnamon roll dough and making sure your other ingredients (like the caramel sauce) are gluten-free as well. It’s a simple swap that lets everyone enjoy these treats!
Dairy-Free – Replace the butter with a dairy-free option such as coconut oil or vegan butter. Use a dairy-free ice cream or whipped cream to top it off, and you’ve got a dairy-free version of this indulgent dessert.
Vegan – To make this recipe vegan, simply choose a plant-based cinnamon roll dough and swap the butter for vegan options. For the topping, choose coconut whipped cream or a dairy-free ice cream alternative.
These Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Cups are endlessly customizable, and with these tips and variations, you can make them fit any flavor profile or dietary need. So feel free to get creative and have fun with your baking! Whether you stick to the classic recipe or mix it up with your favorite twist, you’re in for a treat.
Serving Suggestions for Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Cups
These Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Cups are versatile enough to be enjoyed on their own, but with a few simple serving ideas, you can make them even more special. Whether you’re serving them for dessert, breakfast, or a casual get-together, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your treat.
1. Serve Warm with a Drizzle of Caramel
There’s nothing quite like enjoying these cinnamon roll cups while they’re still warm. To take them to the next level, drizzle caramel sauce over the top. The creamy, sweet sauce pairs perfectly with the spiced apple filling, creating a rich and indulgent flavor. You can even sprinkle a little sea salt for a sweet-and-salty twist!
2. Top with Whipped Cream or Ice Cream
For an extra indulgent touch, whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top will add a creamy contrast to the warm, cinnamon-spiced cups. The cool, creamy texture beautifully balances the tender, warm apples and the flaky pastry.
3. Pair with a Hot Beverage
These cups are perfect when paired with your favorite hot drink. Serve them alongside a cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or spiced apple cider. The warmth of the drink will enhance the cinnamon and apple flavors, creating a cozy, comforting experience.
4. Serve as a Brunch or Breakfast Treat
These apple pie cups make a fantastic brunch or breakfast option! Serve them with a side of fresh fruit or a light yogurt parfait for balance. The cinnamon roll dough combined with the apples creates a delicious, almost pastry-like treat that’s perfect for a special morning meal.
5. Create a Dessert Spread
If you’re entertaining, these Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Cups can be a star ingredient on your dessert table. Pair them with other bite-sized desserts like mini cheesecakes, chocolate truffles, or brownie bites. A combination of diverse flavors and textures will make your dessert display visually appealing and utterly tempting.
6. Garnish with Nuts or Fresh Herbs
For a touch of elegance, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top for a bit of crunch. They pair wonderfully with the sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples. Alternatively, top with a sprig of fresh mint to introduce a splash of color and a refreshing touch.
These Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Cups are perfect for so many occasions, and with these simple serving ideas, you can make them even more exciting. Whether you enjoy them as a cozy dessert, a brunch treat, or a centerpiece for a dessert spread, they’re sure to impress. Happy baking and enjoy!
Conclusion
There you have it – your very own Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Cups, perfectly baked and ready to wow your taste buds! This easy yet indulgent dessert combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls and apple pie into a bite-sized treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re baking for a cozy evening at home or preparing a show-stopping dessert for a special occasion, these mini pies are always a hit.
The best part? This recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your personal taste. Want more spice? Add a dash of nutmeg or ginger. Prefer a sweeter finish? A generous drizzle of caramel or vanilla ice cream will make it extra special. Plus, with just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this dessert in no time!
So, next time you’re in the mood for something warm, sweet, and totally comforting, you know exactly where to turn. Your Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Cups will become a go-to favorite, bringing smiles to faces every time they’re served.
Happy baking, and don’t forget to share this treat with the people who matter most!
Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Cups for the Ultimate Indulgence
Ingredients
For the Apple Pie Filling:
- 2 medium-sized apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp
- Granny Smith apples provide a tart bite perfectly balancing the sweetness of the cinnamon roll, while Honeycrisp apples are sweeter for a more mellow flavor. Choose whichever apple you prefer or have on hand!
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- Brown sugar brings a rich caramel-like sweetness that pairs beautifully with the apples, enhancing that classic apple pie flavor.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- Cinnamon is key in creating that warm cozy, spiced flavor we love in apple pie, and it melds perfectly with the cinnamon roll dough.
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg optional
- Nutmeg enhances the flavor with a subtle nutty and fragrant note. It’s optional but highly recommended for an extra layer of warmth.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Lemon juice livens up the apple filling and balances the sweetness while also slowing down the browning of the apples.
For the Cinnamon Roll Cups:
- 1 can 8 count refrigerated cinnamon rolls
- This is where the magic happens! Pre-made cinnamon roll dough makes these cups so easy to assemble giving you that flaky, cinnamon-spiced dough without all the work.
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- Butter helps the dough bake to a beautiful golden-brown color and adds richness to the cinnamon roll cups. A little extra butter never hurts right?
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- A touch of sugar sprinkled on top gives the cups a light crisp sweetness, adding that perfect finishing touch to the cinnamon rolls.
Optional Toppings:
- Caramel sauce
- For an indulgent finish drizzle some caramel sauce over the warm cups. It’s the perfect complement to the cinnamon and apples, making each bite extra delicious.
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
- Enhance these cups with a swirl of whipped cream or a serving of vanilla ice cream to create a luxuriously creamy and decadent treat.
Instructions
Prepare the Apple Filling
- First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready when the time comes.
- Peel and chop your apples into small, bite-sized pieces. A tart apple like Granny Smith works perfectly for a nice balance against the sweetness of the cinnamon roll dough, but feel free to use your favorite variety.
- In a bowl, mix the chopped apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and a dash of nutmeg for a hint of spice if desired. Lemon juice will help enhance the flavors and keep the apples fresh. Stir everything together until the apples are evenly coated in the sweet, spiced mixture. Set this aside while we prep the dough.
Prepare the Cinnamon Roll Dough
- Remove the refrigerated cinnamon rolls from the can and gently separate each one. You’ll want to save the icing for later because we’re not using it just yet.
- Grease your muffin tin lightly with butter or non-stick spray. This will ensure your cinnamon roll cups come out easily after baking.
- Place one cinnamon roll into each muffin cup, gently pressing the dough into the bottom and up the sides to create a little “bowl.” This is where we’ll tuck the apple filling.
Fill the Cinnamon Roll Cups
- Spoon the apple mixture generously into each cinnamon roll cup. Fill them up, making sure the apples are well-distributed in the dough. Don’t be shy—these cups will hold the perfect amount of sweet apple goodness!
Add a Touch of Sweetness
- Drizzle this will give the cinnamon rolls that rich, golden, crispy texture.
- Lightly sprinkle granulated sugar on top of each cup for an added touch of sweetness and a slight crunch.
Bake to Golden Perfection
- Place the muffin tin into your preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the cinnamon roll cups are golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling up. Keep an eye on them in the final minutes—once they’re golden, they’re done!
Serve and Enjoy!
- Allow the cinnamon roll apple pie cups to cool for a few minutes before removing them from the muffin tin. A spoon or knife will help gently lift them out.
- For a more decadent dessert, drizzle caramel sauce over the top or add a generous spoonful of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warm, sweet flavors of the apples combined with the buttery cinnamon roll dough are simply irresistible.
Notes
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 290
-
Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
-
Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 21g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 220mg
- Potassium: 100mg
- Iron: 1.5mg