Description
Ingredients:
– 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls
– 2 cups apple pie filling
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup maple syrup (optional)
– Icing packets from the cinnamon rolls
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters and spread evenly in the baking dish.
4. Spoon apple pie filling evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces.
5. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and maple syrup until well combined.
6. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the cinnamon rolls and apples.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is set and golden on top.
8. Remove from the oven and drizzle the icing from the cinnamon roll packets over the warm casserole.
9. Let cool slightly before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 390 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Tips:
Use fresh or homemade apple pie filling for a more natural flavor.
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect cinnamon roll apple casserole every time.
- Prep the Base: After preheating your oven and greasing the dish, cut each cinnamon roll into quarters. Arrange them in a single, even layer in the dish. This ensures every bite has the right texture.
- Add the Apples: Spoon the apple pie filling evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces. For best distribution, use a fork to gently spread the apples and syrup into the gaps between the rolls.
- Create the Custard: In your mixing bowl, thoroughly whisk the eggs first until uniform. Then, add the heavy cream, cinnamon, vanilla, and optional maple syrup. Whisk vigorously for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is completely smooth and slightly frothy.
- Bake to Perfection: Slowly pour the custard mixture over the entire dish, aiming to cover all pieces. Bake on the center rack. The casserole is done when the center is set (no liquid jiggle) and the top is a deep, golden brown.
- Final Touch: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking. This allows the custard to finish setting. Then, drizzle the provided icing over the top in a zigzag pattern for maximum coverage.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is incredibly versatile. For a decadent dessert, serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. As a special breakfast or brunch centerpiece, pair it with crispy bacon or savory breakfast sausages to balance the sweetness. A drizzle of extra maple syrup or a sprinkle of toasted pecans adds wonderful texture and flavor.
How-to Summary
Cut cinnamon rolls into a greased baking dish. Top with apple pie filling. Whisk together eggs, cream, cinnamon, vanilla, and optional syrup, then pour over the top. Bake at 350°F for 35-40 minutes until set and golden. Drizzle with icing after a brief cool-down.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the dish completely (through step 6) the night before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. In the morning, let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before baking as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Can I use fresh apples instead of pie filling? Absolutely. Thinly slice 3-4 medium apples (like Granny Smith) and toss them with 1/4 cup sugar, 1 tsp cinnamon, and 1 tbsp flour before using in place of the canned filling.
My casserole is still wet in the middle. What happened? This usually means it needs more baking time. Oven temperatures vary. Cover the dish with foil to prevent over-browning and continue baking in 5-minute increments until the center is set.
Can I freeze leftovers? It’s possible, but the texture of the custard may change slightly upon reheating. Freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
What can I substitute for heavy cream? For a slightly lighter version, half-and-half or whole milk can be used, though the custard will be less rich. Avoid skim or non-dairy milks, as they may not set properly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Greasing the Dish: This leads to difficult serving and stuck-on pieces. Always grease your baking dish thoroughly.
- Uneven Custard Pour: Pouring the egg mixture in one spot creates soggy and dry areas. Pour slowly and evenly over the entire surface.
- Overbaking: Baking too long dries out the custard. Remove the casserole as soon as the center is set and a knife inserted comes out clean.
- Adding Icing Immediately: Drizzling icing straight from the oven causes it to melt and disappear. Let the dish cool for 5-10 minutes first so the icing sets beautifully on top.
Conclusion
This Cinnamon Roll Apple Casserole is the ultimate easy-to-make treat that bridges breakfast and dessert. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common mistakes, you’ll achieve a perfectly set, gooey, and flavorful dish every time. Whether you’re serving a crowd for brunch or craving a cozy dessert, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite. Don’t forget to experiment with the serving suggestions to make it your own!