Apple & Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe

September 1, 2025

As autumn settles in, I find myself craving comfort foods that do more than just fill the belly. This Apple & Cinnamon Roll Casserole brings an unexpected burst of nostalgia with a sophisticated twist—perfect for lazy weekend mornings or right after a crisp walk through fallen leaves. The sweet, spiced aroma baking in the oven makes the whole house smell like a warm hug from grandma.

I love how this dish transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Layers of tender apples and gooey cinnamon rolls come together in a creamy custard, creating a tender, flavorful bite with each forkful. It’s one of those dishes that makes you pause, savor, and feel truly cozy—regardless of the weather outside.

WHY I LOVE THIS RECIPE?

  • The way the cinnamon scent melds with apple’s tartness sparks joy every time.
  • Feeling proud of a breakfast that feels indulgent, but is surprisingly simple to make.
  • Relishing the chaos of bubbling caramel that spills over just enough to make cleanup fun.
  • Nostalgic flashes of childhood mornings paired with a touch of my own culinary twist.
  • Sharing this with loved ones makes chilly mornings brighter and more flavorful.

AVOID MY DISASTER (You’re Welcome)

  • FORGOT: To grease the baking dish? Loosened the edges with a spatula—no sticking!
  • DUMPED: Cold apple slices? Warm them briefly to soften, so they cook evenly.
  • OVER‑TORCHED: The cinnamon roll tops? Cover with foil to prevent burning, then bake a bit longer.
  • FAILED: Custard too runny? Reduce liquid slightly or bake a few minutes longer for firm edges.

QUICK FIXES THAT SAVE YOUR DAY

  • When custard is too watery, splash in a bit more cornstarch to thicken.
  • Patch phone for a few extra minutes if the top isn’t golden enough.
  • Shield edges with foil if they brown too quickly in the oven.
  • When apples aren’t soft enough, stir them and bake five more minutes.
  • When last-minute aroma is weak, sprinkle cinnamon on top and bake briefly for a CRACKLE.

This Apple & Cinnamon Roll Casserole feels like a warm welcome in any season, but especially during fall. Its inviting scent, soft textures, and layered sweetness make it a perfect dish to slow down and enjoy. Sometimes, simplicity paired with a little chaos makes the best memories—and bites.

Whether you serve it for brunch or just as a sweet breakfast treat, it’s a dish that invites comfort and celebration. Every spoonful promises a taste of home, a dash of nostalgic warmth, and a little bit of kitchen magic that turns ordinary mornings into something special.

Apple & Cinnamon Roll Casserole

This apple and cinnamon roll casserole combines tender baked apples layered with gooey cinnamon rolls immersed in a creamy custard. The dish features a soft, bubbling texture with a caramelized top and fragrant aroma, resulting in a comforting, layered dessert or breakfast dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 340

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large apples peeled, cored and sliced
  • 1 package cinnamon rolls store-bought or homemade, cut into pieces
  • 2 cups milk whole or 2%
  • 4 large eggs beaten lightly
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar for custard
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon optional, for extra flavor
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar for topping or mixture

Equipment

  • Baking dish
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Whisk
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease your baking dish to prevent sticking.
  2. Slice your peeled and cored apples into thin, even pieces and spread them evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish. This creates a sweet, tart layer that will soften and meld with the other ingredients.
  3. Cut the cinnamon rolls into bite-sized pieces and scatter them over the apples, covering the entire surface for a gooey, layered effect.
  4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined. This custard will soak into the rolls and apples as it bakes.
  5. Pour the custard evenly over the entire casserole, ensuring all the ingredients are coated and some liquid seeps between the layers. This will create a soft, cohesive bake.
  6. Sprinkle the brown sugar on top for a caramelized, sweet crust as it bakes, and add a pinch of cinnamon if desired for extra aroma.
  7. Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for about 35 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown and bubbling.
  8. Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. The edges will be slightly crisp, and the center will be soft and custardy.
  9. Serve warm, optionally topped with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

Making this dish is a gentle reminder that cozy mornings can be simple yet unforgettable. The combination of warm apples and cinnamon swirl into a tender casserole that’s both hearty and sweet. It’s a gentle embrace that suits the changing seasons perfectly, reminding us to slow down and savor each moment.

While it’s easy to get caught up in busy routines, dishes like this encourage us to pause and enjoy home-cooked comfort food. It’s more than a recipe; it’s a little ritual that turns a regular morning into a warm memory—one bite at a time.

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