Apple Cinnamon Roll Casserole

One-Pan Wonder: Apple Cinnamon Roll Casserole for Breakfast or Dessert!

There’s something magical about the combination of apples and cinnamon rolls. The soft, gooey texture of the rolls, paired with the sweet-tart flavor of apples, makes for the ultimate comfort dish. And what if I told you that you could make it all in one pan with minimal effort? Enter the Apple Cinnamon Roll Casserole, an indulgent, mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for both breakfast or dessert.

As someone who’s passionate about both food and convenience, this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen. I love the simplicity, the flexibility, and how it’s always a crowd-pleaser, whether I serve it at a brunch with friends or as a dessert after a family dinner. The best part? You can whip it up in less than an hour or let it cook overnight in a crock pot for a no-stress breakfast. Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible treat!

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Why Apple Cinnamon Roll Casserole is a One-Pan Wonder

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. You only need a few ingredients to create a rich, decadent casserole that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Whether you bake it in the oven or opt for the slow-cooker version, the results are always the same: warm, gooey, and bursting with the comforting flavors of apple, cinnamon, and caramel.

I’ve tried countless variations of this recipe over the years—sometimes using fresh apples, other times relying on canned pie filling for an extra quick fix. No matter which version I choose, the dish is always a hit. It's versatile enough to serve as a breakfast casserole, yet indulgent enough for dessert. Plus, since it all comes together in one pan, clean-up is a breeze!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we get into the recipe, let’s talk about the ingredients. You might already have most of these at home, which is another reason why this casserole is such a great go-to dish.

Store-bought or homemade cinnamon rolls: If you’re short on time, store-bought rolls are perfectly fine. I’ve found that Pillsbury works well for that classic cinnamon roll flavor. Of course, if you’re feeling ambitious, homemade cinnamon rolls add an extra touch of love.

Fresh apples or canned pie filling: This depends on your preference and how much time you have. Fresh apples give the casserole a bit more texture and tartness, while canned apple pie filling offers that sweet, ready-to-go shortcut.

Caramel sauce: Drizzle this over the top before serving for that extra layer of sweetness.

Heavy cream: This is key to achieving that rich, creamy texture. It also helps soften the cinnamon rolls as they bake.

Optional add-ins: Nuts, raisins, or even extra cinnamon for a little crunch and flavor.

Two Ways to Make It: Oven vs. Crock Pot (Slow Cooker)

One of the things I love most about this recipe is its flexibility. Depending on your schedule, you can make it in the oven or go the slow-cooker route with a crock pot. Both methods are easy, but they offer slightly different results.

Oven-Baked Apple Cinnamon Roll Casserole

If you’re short on time and need a quick breakfast or dessert, the oven is your best friend. Here’s how I usually make it:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

2. Prepare the cinnamon rolls: If you’re using store-bought rolls, cut each one into quarters. If homemade, you can follow your usual recipe and slice them accordingly.

3. Layer the ingredients: Add the cinnamon roll pieces to the baking dish. Top with diced fresh apples or spoon in your canned pie filling.

4. Drizzle with heavy cream: This is what gives the casserole that soft, creamy texture. Pour about half a cup of heavy cream evenly over the top.

5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the apples are tender.

6. Drizzle with caramel sauce just before serving for that sweet, gooey finish.

Crock Pot Version (Slow Cooker)

This version is perfect if you want a hands-off approach. It’s also great for those cozy weekend mornings when you don’t want to rush, or for preparing it overnight so it’s ready by breakfast time.

1. Grease the crock pot: Make sure to generously butter or spray the inside of your slow cooker so the rolls don’t stick.

2. Layer the ingredients: Similar to the oven method, add the cinnamon roll pieces and your choice of fresh apples or canned pie filling.

3. Add the cream: Pour half a cup of heavy cream over the top.

4. Cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the cinnamon rolls are fully cooked through and the apples are tender.

5. Drizzle with caramel before serving.

Product Recommendation 1: Crock-Pot 6-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker

If you’re in the market for a reliable slow cooker, I highly recommend the Crock-Pot 6-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker.

It’s perfect for making dishes like this Apple Cinnamon Roll Casserole. With its programmable timer and large capacity, it’s ideal for busy mornings or when you’re cooking for a crowd. Plus, it keeps your food warm until you’re ready to serve.

Check it out on Amazon.

Easy Recipe Variations

This recipe is incredibly forgiving, meaning you can tweak it based on what you have in your pantry or your personal preferences. Here are a few of my favorite variations:

Fresh Apples vs. Canned Pie Filling: If you’re using fresh apples, I recommend dicing them small and tossing them with a bit of cinnamon and sugar before adding them to the dish. Canned pie filling is quicker and sweeter, which is great if you’re pressed for time or craving a super sweet casserole.

Add-ins: If you want to take this dish to the next level, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) or raisins. The extra texture adds a delightful crunch and contrast to the soft rolls.

Product Recommendation 2: USA Pan 9x13-Inch Rectangular Baking Pan

For the oven version, a high-quality baking dish is essential. I’ve found the USA Pan 9x13-Inch Rectangular Baking Pan to be a game-changer.

It provides even heat distribution, so your casserole comes out perfectly baked every time. Plus, it’s non-stick and super easy to clean.

Get it on Amazon here.

Serving Ideas for Breakfast and Dessert

The versatility of this casserole means it can shine on your table as both a hearty breakfast or a delicious dessert.

For Breakfast:

Serve it warm with a steaming cup of coffee or tea. The cinnamon and apple flavors pair beautifully with fall mornings, and the richness from the caramel and heavy cream will make you feel like you’re indulging in something special. If you’re hosting brunch, add a side of fresh fruit or scrambled eggs for a balanced meal.

For Dessert:

Dress it up with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream and another drizzle of caramel. This is how I often serve it when I make it for dessert. The cold ice cream melts over the warm cinnamon rolls, creating an irresistible combination of flavors and textures.

Tips for Making the Best Apple Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks that help ensure the casserole turns out perfectly every time:

Don’t overbake: Whether you’re using the oven or crock pot, be careful not to overcook the cinnamon rolls. You want them to be golden on the edges but still soft in the center.

Balance the sweetness: If you’re using canned pie filling, you might want to cut back on the sugar in the recipe, as the filling tends to be quite sweet. Fresh apples give you more control over the sweetness level.

Make it overnight: If you’re using the crock pot method, set it up before bed and cook on low. You’ll wake up to a kitchen filled with the warm, inviting scent of apples and cinnamon.

Book Recommendation: "The Ultimate Slow Cooker Cookbook" by Linda Larsen

If you love using your crock pot as much as I do, I highly recommend "The Ultimate Slow Cooker Cookbook" by Linda Larsen.

It’s packed with delicious, easy-to-follow recipes that cover everything from hearty breakfasts to savory dinners and indulgent desserts. This book has been my go-to for inspiration when I’m looking to create new slow cooker dishes, like the Apple Cinnamon Roll Casserole.

Pick up your copy on Amazon.

Whether you’re looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing breakfast casserole or a warm, comforting dessert, this Apple Cinnamon Roll Casserole is a must-try. With its minimal prep time and simple ingredients, it’s a dish you can whip up in a pinch and enjoy all year round. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the different variations