Description
A cozy little twist where warm apple pie meets gooey cinnamon rolls—all in a handheld treat! Perfect for fall gatherings, Sunday brunch, or just when you need something sweet and comforting.
Ingredients:
1 can refrigerated cinnamon roll dough (8 rolls)
2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin. (
5 minutes)
Flatten each cinnamon roll gently with your hands or a rolling pin. Press into muffin cups to form little crusts. (
5 minutes)
In a bowl, mix apples, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, melted butter, and vanilla until coated. (
5 minutes)
Spoon the apple mixture evenly into each cinnamon roll cup. (
3 minutes)
Bake for 18–22 minutes, until golden and bubbling. (
20 minutes)
Let cool slightly before removing from the pan. Dust with powdered sugar if desired. (
5 minutes)
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 310 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
Tips:
Use Granny Smith apples for a tart balance to the sweet rolls.
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.
#ApplePieTwist #CinnamonRollMagic #FallDesserts #EasyBaking
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Apple Pie Cinnamon Roll Cups every time. First, ensure your muffin tin is thoroughly greased to prevent sticking. After flattening each cinnamon roll, press them firmly into the bottom and up the sides of each muffin cup, creating a uniform crust. For the filling, cook the apple mixture in a small saucepan over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until the apples just begin to soften. This step prevents a soggy bottom and concentrates the flavors. Let the filling cool slightly before spooning it into the dough cups. Bake on the middle oven rack, checking at the 18-minute mark for perfect golden-brown edges.
Serving Suggestions
These handheld treats are incredibly versatile. For a decadent dessert, serve them warm with a generous scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a brunch presentation, drizzle the included cinnamon roll icing over the top instead of powdered sugar. Pair with a hot coffee bar or spiced apple cider. They also make excellent packed treats for picnics or school lunches when cooled completely.
How-to Summary
Create crusts from flattened cinnamon roll dough in a greased muffin tin. Fill with a spiced, buttery apple mixture. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18-22 minutes until golden. Cool briefly, then dust with powdered sugar or add icing before serving warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade cinnamon roll dough?
Absolutely. Use your favorite homemade dough recipe. Roll it out and cut into eight equal pieces before flattening into rounds for the muffin cups.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store cooled cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4. Reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 8-10 minutes or in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, for overnight prep. Assemble the cups with the raw apple filling in the muffin tin, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Bake directly from the fridge, adding 2-3 extra minutes to the baking time.
What other fruit can I use?
Pears, peaches, or a berry mix (like blueberries and raspberries) work wonderfully. Adjust sugar slightly based on the fruit’s natural sweetness.
My cups are soggy. What happened?
Sogginess is usually from overly juicy apples. Using firmer apples like Granny Smith and the pre-cooking step outlined in the guide helps release excess moisture before baking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfilling the Cups: This causes the filling to bubble over and stick, making removal difficult. Fill each cup only 3/4 full.
- Not Greasing the Pan Enough: Use non-stick spray or butter generously on every surface of the muffin cup to ensure clean removal.
- Using the Cinnamon Roll Icing Too Early: If using the provided packet, wait until the cups are fully cooled to drizzle, or it will melt and disappear.
- Skipping the Lemon Juice: The acid prevents the apples from browning and adds a necessary bright note to balance the sweetness.
Conclusion
These Apple Pie Cinnamon Roll Cups are the ultimate fusion of two beloved classics, delivering maximum comfort with minimal effort. They encapsulate the essence of fall in a perfectly portable, shareable format. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, this recipe guarantees a deliciously warm and satisfying result. Remember the key tips: pre-cook your filling slightly, avoid overfilling, and always serve warm. Happy baking!