Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna – Warm, Gooey, and Irresistibly Cozy

Introduction

Cinnamon roll apple lasagna is the kind of dessert that instantly feels comforting, indulgent, and perfect for sharing. It layers soft cinnamon rolls with tender, cinnamon-spiced apples and a rich, creamy filling, creating a dessert that sits somewhere between a baked breakfast treat and a decadent after-dinner sweet. I first made this recipe on a cool weekend morning when I wanted something special but easy, and it quickly became a household favorite. The combination of warm apples and gooey cinnamon rolls is hard to resist, especially when everything bakes together into soft, scoopable layers. This dessert is ideal for holidays, brunch gatherings, or anytime you want a show-stopping dish with minimal effort. It looks impressive, smells incredible, and tastes even better straight from the oven.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is simple to assemble and uses convenient ingredients. It delivers bold cinnamon flavor, soft textures, and comforting sweetness in every bite. It can be served warm or chilled and works well as both a dessert and a brunch dish. Best of all, it feeds a crowd with very little hands-on time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Refrigerated cinnamon rolls
Cinnamon rolls form the base and layers of the lasagna, providing soft texture and built-in cinnamon flavor.

Apples
Apples add natural sweetness and gentle tartness, balancing the richness of the cinnamon rolls and cream layers.

Brown sugar
Brown sugar enhances the apple layer with deep, caramel-like sweetness.

Ground cinnamon
Cinnamon intensifies the warm spice profile and ties all the layers together.

Butter
Butter helps soften the apples and adds richness to the filling.

Cream cheese
Cream cheese creates a smooth, slightly tangy layer that balances the sweetness of the dish.

Granulated sugar
Granulated sugar sweetens the cream cheese layer without overpowering it.

Vanilla extract
Vanilla adds warmth and depth to the creamy layer.

Heavy cream
Heavy cream loosens the cream cheese mixture and contributes to a silky texture.

Icing from cinnamon rolls
The icing finishes the dish with extra sweetness and a glossy topping.

Directions

Begin by preheating the oven and greasing a baking dish. Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin pieces. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook until the apples soften and release their juices, then set aside to cool slightly.

Cut the cinnamon rolls into quarters. Arrange half of them evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread half of the cooked apple mixture over the cinnamon rolls.

In a bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream, mixing until creamy and spreadable. Spread half of this mixture over the apple layer.

Repeat the layers with remaining cinnamon rolls, apples, and cream cheese mixture. Bake until the cinnamon rolls are fully cooked and the layers are bubbling. Drizzle the icing over the top while warm before serving.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 8 to 10 people. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, baking time is 35 to 40 minutes, and resting time is 10 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven until heated through.

Variations and Customizations

For extra texture, add chopped pecans or walnuts to the apple layer. Pears can be used in place of apples for a softer, sweeter variation. A drizzle of caramel sauce over the top adds an extra indulgent touch. I have also tried adding a pinch of nutmeg to the apples, which deepened the warm spice flavor without overpowering the dish.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

Cinnamon roll apple lasagna is a rich dessert made with dairy, sugar, and fruit. Apples provide fiber, while dairy contributes calcium. This is an indulgent dish best enjoyed in moderate portions, especially when served as a dessert or special brunch treat.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Slice Apples Thin
Thin slices cook evenly and blend seamlessly into the layers.

Soften Cream Cheese Fully
Room-temperature cream cheese ensures a smooth filling.

Let It Rest
Allowing the dish to rest helps the layers set for cleaner servings.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it in advance and bake when ready to serve.

What apples work best?

Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples hold their shape well.

Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls?

Yes, homemade rolls work perfectly.

Is this a dessert or breakfast dish?

It works well as either.

Can I freeze cinnamon roll apple lasagna?

Freezing is not recommended due to the cream cheese layer.

Can I add raisins?

Yes, add them to the apple mixture if desired.

Why is my center undercooked?

The rolls may need additional baking time depending on thickness.

Can I reduce the sweetness?

Use less icing or reduce the sugar in the cream layer.

Should I cover it while baking?

Cover loosely if the top browns too quickly.

What pairs well with this dish?

Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream complements it beautifully.

Conclusion

Cinnamon roll apple lasagna is a warm, comforting dessert that combines familiar flavors into a unique and crowd-pleasing dish. With its soft layers, spiced apples, and creamy filling, it is perfect for gatherings, holidays, or whenever you want a cozy, memorable treat that feels homemade and indulgent.

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