Description

This Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Casserole combines refrigerated cinnamon rolls with fresh Granny Smith and Pink Lady apples cooked in a warm caramel cinnamon sauce, baked until golden and topped with pecans and icing. Perfect for a delightful breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this easy 30-minute recipe delivers a comforting blend of soft cinnamon rolls and tender, caramelized apples in a shareable baked dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Apples and Sauce

2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced
1 Pink Lady apple, peeled and diced
2 Tablespoons unsalted butter
1/8 cup light brown sugar, packed
1/8 cup maple syrup (or light corn syrup)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup heavy cream, room temperature

Main Dish

2 (12.4 ounce) cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls, cut into fourths (save icing for topping)
1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F and spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Cook Apples: In a skillet over medium heat, combine the diced Granny Smith and Pink Lady apples with unsalted butter. Stir continuously for about 4 minutes until the apples soften and develop a light golden brown color.
Add Sweeteners and Spices: Stir in the packed light brown sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Mix well to coat the apples evenly with the sweet, spiced mixture.
Incorporate Cream: Pour the room temperature heavy cream into the skillet and stir until the mixture is warmed through and the apples become fork tender and fully coated in the luscious caramel sauce. Remove the skillet from heat.
Prepare Casserole Base: Place the cut cinnamon rolls evenly in the sprayed casserole dish, making sure the pieces are spread out but close enough to bake as a cohesive casserole. Set aside the cinnamon rolls’ icing for later use.
Add Apple Mixture: Spoon the cooked apple and caramel mixture evenly over the cinnamon rolls in the casserole dish.
Bake Initial Stage: Bake the casserole uncovered on the middle oven rack for 10 minutes to allow the apples to meld with the rolls.
Add Pecans: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle chopped pecans evenly on top if using.
Finish Baking: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5-8 minutes until the cinnamon rolls are completely cooked through and golden brown. If the tops darken too quickly but the rolls remain undercooked inside, cover loosely with aluminum foil until done.
Serve: Take the casserole out of the oven and drizzle the reserved cinnamon roll icing over the top. Serve warm and enjoy this rich, comforting breakfast or dessert treat!

Notes

You can substitute maple syrup with light corn syrup if preferred.
Chopped pecans are optional but add a nice crunch and complement the flavors well.
Watch the baking closely to prevent over-browning; cover with foil if needed.
This casserole can be prepared in advance, but bake right before serving for best texture.
Use fresh room temperature heavy cream for smooth sauce consistency.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Category: Breakfast Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Caramel apple cinnamon roll casserole, breakfast casserole, cinnamon rolls, apple cinnamon recipe, brunch casserole, easy breakfast bake