Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna Recipe

The History

The Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna is a delightful fusion of two beloved American classics—cinnamon rolls and apple desserts—reimagined into a layered, no-bake treat that has gained popularity in recent years. While traditional cinnamon rolls have roots tracing back to Swedish “kanelbullar,” and apple-based desserts like apple pie are staples of American culinary tradition since the 18th century, this innovative dessert emerged from modern home bakers experimenting with creative twists on comfort food.

Combining the warm, spiced flavors of cinnamon and baked apples with the creamy texture of cheesecake-like layers and the soft chew of pre-made cinnamon rolls, this dessert became a viral sensation on social media platforms like Pinterest, TikTok, and Facebook recipe groups around the late 2010s. It quickly earned a place at potlucks, church gatherings, holiday tables, and family dinners due to its ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing taste. Unlike traditional lasagna made with pasta and savory fillings, this sweet version uses layers of ingredients stacked like a cake or trifle, hence the playful name “lasagna” to denote its layered nature.

Ingredients Breakdown

To create the perfect Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna, you’ll need a harmonious blend of sweet, creamy, and spiced components. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering the rich flavor and satisfying texture this dessert is known for:

Canned cinnamon rolls: These provide the base layer and signature soft, doughy texture infused with cinnamon and sugar. Brands like Pillsbury offer convenient roll-and-bake options that can be baked separately or used as-is depending on the variation.
Apples: Firm, slightly tart apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal because they hold their shape when cooked and balance the sweetness of other ingredients.
Lemon juice: Prevents apples from browning and adds a bright note that cuts through the richness.
Brown sugar: Adds deep molasses notes and enhances the caramelized flavor profile, especially when combined with cinnamon.
Cinnamon: The star spice, it ties together the apples and cinnamon rolls, creating warmth and complexity.
Butter: Used to sauté the apples, butter brings richness and helps develop the sauce’s silky consistency.
Cream cheese: Forms the foundation of the middle layer, offering tanginess and creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the sweet apple layer.
Heavy cream or whipped topping: Lightens the cream cheese mixture and gives the dessert an airy, cloud-like texture.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream layer without adding graininess, dissolving smoothly into the mixture.
Vanilla extract: Enhances overall flavor with a warm, floral sweetness.
Nuts (optional): Chopped pecans or walnuts add crunch and a nutty depth, complementing the spices and fruit.
Caramel sauce (optional): Drizzled between layers or on top for extra indulgence.
Whipped cream: For garnish, adding visual appeal and a cool contrast.

This combination results in a dessert that’s both comforting and luxurious—a true celebration of fall-inspired flavors any time of year.

Step-by-Step Recipe

Prepare the Cinnamon Roll Base: Preheat your oven according to the package instructions (usually 350°F / 175°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls as directed, ensuring they’re fully cooked but not overdone. Once cooled, slice them into rounds or break them into bite-sized pieces. Arrange these evenly in the bottom of a 9×13-inch glass baking dish to form the first layer. Lightly press down to create a stable base.
Cook the Apple Filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add peeled, cored, and thinly sliced apples. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the apples begin to soften. Stir in brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a splash of lemon juice. Continue cooking for another 5–8 minutes until the apples are tender and the liquid has reduced into a syrupy glaze. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract. Slowly pour in heavy cream while continuing to beat the mixture until light and fluffy. Alternatively, fold in thawed whipped topping for a quicker option.
Assemble the Layers: Spread the cooled apple mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll layer in the baking dish. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the apples and use a spatula to spread it into a smooth, even layer. If desired, gently sprinkle chopped nuts or drizzle caramel sauce between or over the layers.
Chill Thoroughly: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.
Serve: Before serving, remove from the fridge 10–15 minutes to soften slightly. Garnish with additional whipped cream, a dusting of cinnamon, or more caramel drizzle if desired. Cut into squares using a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean slices.

Tips

Use room temperature cream cheese: Cold cream cheese will result in lumps. Allow it to sit out for about 30 minutes before mixing.
Don’t skip cooling the apples: Adding warm apples directly onto the cinnamon roll base can make the dish soggy and cause premature melting of the cream layer.
Choose the right apples: Opt for varieties that hold their shape when cooked, such as Granny Smith, Braeburn, or Pink Lady.
Enhance presentation: Use a clear glass dish so all the beautiful layers are visible. Pipe whipped cream around the edges or top with apple slices for a bakery-style finish.
Prevent sticking: Lightly grease the pan or line it with parchment paper for easier removal and slicing.
Double the recipe for crowds: This dessert scales well and can be made in a larger dish or doubled for big events.
Add texture contrast: Consider crushing some baked cinnamon roll pieces and sprinkling them on top just before chilling for a crumbly crust effect.

Variations and Customizations

The beauty of Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna lies in its versatility. Here are several creative variations to suit different tastes and dietary needs:

Vegan Version: Substitute dairy-free butter, vegan cream cheese (like Kite Hill or Miyoko’s), and coconut whipped cream. Use plant-based canned cinnamon rolls or homemade vegan cinnamon roll bites.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free cinnamon rolls (available in many grocery stores) and ensure all other ingredients are certified GF.
Dairy-Free Twist: Replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use non-dairy cream cheese alternatives.
Low-Sugar Alternative: Swap brown sugar for coconut sugar or monk fruit sweetener; use low-sugar applesauce instead of sugar in the apple layer. Choose sugar-free cinnamon rolls or reduce added sugars throughout.
Mini Mason Jar Desserts: Layer ingredients in individual mason jars for portable, elegant servings perfect for parties or gifts.
Fruit Variations: Try pears, peaches, or berries instead of apples for seasonal flair. Combine blueberries and cinnamon for a unique twist.
Spice It Up: Add nutmeg, allspice, ginger, or cardamom to the apple mixture for deeper spice complexity.
Boozy Upgrade: Deglaze the apples with a splash of bourbon, rum, or Calvados during cooking for an adult-friendly version.
Breakfast Parfait Style: Serve chilled in glasses with granola for a brunch-ready parfait.
Chocolate Lover’s Edition: Add chocolate chips to the apple layer or mix cocoa powder into part of the cream layer.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value

While undeniably delicious, Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna is a decadent dessert best enjoyed in moderation. A typical serving (1/12th of the dish) may contain approximately:

Calories: 380–450 kcal
Total Fat: 18–22g (including saturated fat from butter and cream cheese)
Carbohydrates: 55–65g (mostly from refined sugars and flour)
Sugars: 35–45g
Protein: 4–6g
Fiber: 2–3g (mainly from apples)
Sodium: 250–350mg (from processed cinnamon rolls and cream cheese)

Nutritional Highlights:

Apples contribute vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber, particularly pectin, which supports digestive health.
Cinnamon offers antioxidant properties and may help regulate blood sugar levels when consumed in moderation.
Cream cheese provides calcium and protein, though it also contains saturated fats.

Considerations:

Due to high sugar and fat content, individuals managing diabetes, heart conditions, or weight should consume this dessert sparingly.
Those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies should opt for plant-based substitutions.
To improve nutritional balance, serve with a side of Greek yogurt or fresh fruit.
Portion control is key—using smaller serving dishes or cutting narrow slices can help manage intake.

Ingredients

1 tube (10-count) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing (e.g., Pillsbury)
4 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon lemon juice
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream OR 1 tub (8 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed
Optional: 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Optional: 1/3 cup caramel sauce
Additional whipped cream and cinnamon for garnish

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake cinnamon rolls according to package directions. Let cool completely, then break or cut into small pieces. Spread evenly in a 9×13-inch glass baking dish to form the bottom layer.
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add apple slices, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender and sauce is thickened. Transfer to a bowl and let cool to room temperature.
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla; beat until combined. Gradually add heavy cream and continue beating until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes). Alternatively, gently fold in thawed whipped topping for a lighter texture.
Sprinkle half the chopped nuts (if using) over the cinnamon roll base. Spread the cooled apple mixture evenly over the base. Carefully spread the cream cheese mixture over the apples in an even layer.
Drizzle caramel sauce over the top if desired. Sprinkle remaining nuts on top. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Before serving, remove from refrigerator and let sit for 10 minutes. Garnish with whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon. Slice and serve chilled.

FAQ

Can I make Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna ahead of time?
Yes! This dessert actually improves with time. Assembling it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up perfectly.

Can I use store-bought apple pie filling instead of fresh apples?
Absolutely. One 21-ounce can of apple pie filling can replace the sautéed apples. Just drain excess liquid slightly before layering to avoid a runny dessert.

Do I have to bake the cinnamon rolls?
Yes, baking them first ensures structural integrity and develops flavor. Using unbaked dough will result in a mushy, undercooked base.

Can I freeze this dessert?
It’s not recommended. Freezing may alter the texture of the cream layer and make the apples watery upon thawing. However, it keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Is there a way to make this healthier?
Yes. Use whole wheat cinnamon rolls, reduce sugar, increase apples, and substitute low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt for part of the heavy cream. You can also omit caramel and nuts to lower calories.

Why did my cream layer turn out lumpy?
This usually happens if the cream cheese wasn’t softened enough or cold ingredients were mixed too quickly. Always bring cream cheese to room temperature and mix gradually.

Can I use muffin-tin cinnamon rolls?
Yes, mini cinnamon rolls work great! Just adjust baking time and break them apart after cooling.

How do I prevent the apples from turning brown?
Toss them with lemon juice immediately after slicing, and don’t leave them exposed to air for too long before cooking.

Summary

Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna is a show-stopping, layered dessert that blends the cozy flavors of cinnamon rolls and spiced apples with a luxuriously creamy center—perfect for holidays, potlucks, or anytime indulgence.

Easy to assemble, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to impress, this sweet “lasagna” is destined to become a family favorite for generations to come.