There are few things more comforting than the warm aroma of cinnamon and apples wafting through the house. Combine that with gooey cinnamon rolls and a decadent caramel drizzle, and you’ve got the perfect dish to kick off any cozy gathering: Cinnamon Roll Apple “Lasagna.” This indulgent dessert-for-breakfast twist on classic flavors will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether it’s a special brunch or a sweet treat, this dessert is sure to steal the show.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cinnamon Roll Apple “Lasagna” is a delightful mash-up of beloved comfort foods. The layers of soft cinnamon rolls, tender spiced apples, and caramel sauce make for a beautifully layered, gooey dish that’s hard to resist. It’s like a warm hug in dessert form! The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to prepare yet looks and tastes like something you’d find at a fancy brunch spot. This recipe is perfect for making holiday mornings extra special or for impressing your friends and family during a weekend gathering.

Ingredients

For the Apple Filling

4 cups peeled, diced apples (about 4 medium apples)
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Cinnamon Roll Layers

2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls (8 rolls per can), with icing packets included
Extra flour, for dusting the surface

For the Caramel Drizzle

¼ cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat and Prepare
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Apple Filling (10 Minutes)
In a large bowl, toss together the diced apples, granulated sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until the apples are evenly coated.
Flatten the Cinnamon Rolls (5 Minutes)
Open the cinnamon roll cans and set the icing packets aside for later. Slice each roll into ¼-inch thick rounds. Lightly flour your surface and gently flatten each piece into a 3–4 inch disk, making sure they’re thin enough to layer.
Begin Layering (7 Minutes)
- First Layer: Place a layer of flattened cinnamon rolls at the bottom of the greased pan, overlapping slightly. Spoon half of the apple mixture over the dough and drizzle with 2–3 tablespoons of caramel sauce.
- Second Layer: Repeat the process with another layer of flattened cinnamon rolls, followed by the remaining apple mixture and another drizzle of caramel.
- Top Layer: Add a final layer of cinnamon rolls and drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the top.
Bake Covered (30 Minutes)
Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes to ensure the apples soften and the cinnamon rolls cook through.
Bake Uncovered (10 Minutes)
After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes to let the top crisp up.
Cool & Add Icing (15 Minutes)
Remove from the oven and let the dish cool for 15 minutes. Drizzle the icing from the cinnamon roll packets over the top in decorative swirls.
Slice and Serve
Slice into 9 squares (or 12 for smaller portions). Serve warm, or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent touch.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 40 minutes
Rest Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 75 minutes
Servings: 6–8
Calories per Serving: Approximately 380 kcal (1/9 of the pan)

Variations

Apple-Pear Lasagna: Replace half the apples with ripe pears for a slightly softer, more floral flavor.
Maple-Glazed Version: Swap the caramel drizzle for maple syrup or maple butter for a rich, sweet twist.
Pumpkin Spice: Use pumpkin pie spice in place of cinnamon and nutmeg and add a few tablespoons of pumpkin puree to the apple filling for a fall-inspired version.
Cream Cheese Icing Upgrade: Mix the icing from the rolls with a few tablespoons of softened cream cheese for a tangy finish.

Storage/Reheating

Make-Ahead: Assemble the dish the night before, cover, and store in the refrigerator. The next morning, bake straight from the fridge, adding 5–7 extra minutes to the baking time.
Storing Leftovers: Cover with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. The dish will last for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Microwave individual pieces for about 1 minute or reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes.
Freezing: For longer storage, cut into portions, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, use dairy-free cinnamon rolls, a dairy-free caramel sauce, and a non-dairy butter substitute for greasing the pan.

Can I use frozen apples?

It’s best to use fresh apples, but if you have frozen apples on hand, be sure to thaw and drain them before using to prevent excess moisture from affecting the final result.

Can I add nuts to this recipe?

Yes! Adding chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts between the layers adds a nice crunch and flavor contrast to the soft apples and cinnamon rolls.

Can I make this without the caramel drizzle?

While the caramel drizzle enhances the flavor and texture, you can skip it if you prefer. For a simpler option, a dusting of powdered sugar works well, too.

How do I know when the Cinnamon Roll Apple “Lasagna” is done baking?

When baking, the top should be golden brown, and the apples should be tender when pierced with a fork. If you’re unsure, you can check the center for firmness and make sure it’s fully cooked through.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Roll Apple “Lasagna” is one of those dishes that feels like an instant favorite. It combines the warmth of cinnamon and apples with the comfort of cinnamon rolls and a rich caramel drizzle to create a sweet, indulgent treat perfect for any occasion. Whether I’m serving it for a holiday breakfast, a cozy weekend brunch, or as a showstopper at a gathering, it never fails to impress. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make, so I can spend more time enjoying the company of friends and family rather than slaving in the kitchen.