| |

Crockpot Apple Pie Cinnamon Roll Casserole (Warm & Gooey Brunch Bake)

If you’ve ever wished dessert and breakfast could merge into one glorious dish, meet your new obsession: Crockpot Apple Pie Cinnamon Roll Casserole. It’s sweet, gooey, and smells like the inside of a bakery mixed with fall magic.

Basically, it’s what happens when apple pie and cinnamon rolls have a cozy, delicious baby. Bonus—it’s made in the crockpot, which means zero babysitting and all the reward. 🍎✨

Why This Recipe is Awesome

Let’s be honest—anything with the words “cinnamon roll” and “apple pie” in the same sentence is automatically legendary. But this recipe? Next level. The slow cooker turns the cinnamon rolls into a warm, pillowy base while the apple pie filling caramelizes on top. It’s sticky, soft, and dangerously good.

You can make it for brunch, dessert, or “oops I forgot breakfast” mornings. It’s idiot-proof, uses minimal ingredients, and will make your kitchen smell so good that neighbors might “just happen” to drop by. (Don’t say I didn’t warn you.)

Course: Breakfast / Brunch / Dessert
Cuisine: American
Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 6–8 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 2–2.5 hours on low
Calories: Around 350 per serving
Total time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing) – the lazy baker’s secret weapon.
  • 1 (20 oz) can apple pie filling – the star of the show.
  • 4 eggs – for that custardy texture.
  • ½ cup heavy cream or milk – makes it rich and creamy.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract – for extra flavor.
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon – because there’s no such thing as too much cinnamon.
  • Butter or nonstick spray – to keep cleanup easy.

Optional add-ons:

  • Chopped pecans or walnuts – for crunch.
  • Caramel drizzle or maple syrup – for the overachievers.
  • Powdered sugar dusting – if you want that “I totally baked this from scratch” look.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prep your crockpot. Spray the inside with nonstick spray or rub with butter. (You’ll thank yourself later.)
  2. Cut the cinnamon rolls. Pop open the cans and cut each roll into quarters. Toss them into a bowl.
  3. Mix the magic. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, vanilla, and cinnamon.
  4. Layer it up. Place half the cinnamon roll pieces at the bottom of the crockpot. Spoon half the apple pie filling over them. Repeat with the rest.
  5. Pour and coat. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top. Gently stir once to make sure everything gets cozy.
  6. Cook low and slow. Cover and cook on low for 2 to 2.5 hours. The edges should be golden and the center gooey but set.
  7. Add icing. Warm the icing packets slightly and drizzle over the top. (Or go wild with caramel if you’re feeling fancy.)
  8. Serve warm. Grab a spoon, a plate, and maybe some ice cream because you’re living your best life.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overcooking it. Keep an eye on your crockpot—it’s done when the edges are firm but the middle still jiggles a bit.
  • Using too much liquid. A splash of cream is perfect; more than that and it gets soggy.
  • Not greasing the crockpot. Unless you enjoy scraping baked-on sugar with a chisel.
  • Skipping the icing. Why would you even do that? That’s like skipping frosting on a cake.
  • Serving cold. Warm = gooey heaven. Cold = sadness.

Alternatives & Substitutions

  • No apple pie filling? Use peach or cherry pie filling instead—it’s just as magical.
  • Want homemade vibes? Use fresh sliced apples tossed with brown sugar and cinnamon.
  • No heavy cream? Substitute milk, half-and-half, or even almond milk if you’re keeping it lighter.
  • Gluten-free? Use gluten-free cinnamon rolls (they exist, and they’re surprisingly good!).
  • Nut allergy? Skip the nuts—no one’s judging. Maybe add extra icing instead. 😉

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can I make this ahead of time?
Sort of. You can assemble it the night before and refrigerate. Just let it come to room temp before cooking in the morning.

Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls?
Sure, but the store-bought kind saves your sanity and still tastes incredible.

How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for that fresh-out-of-the-crockpot vibe.

Can I freeze it?
Yes! Freeze portions in airtight containers. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.

Do I have to use the icing that comes with the rolls?
No, but why wouldn’t you? It’s sugary, sticky perfection.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely, but use a large crockpot (6–7 quart) and extend the cook time by 30 minutes.

What can I serve with it?
Coffee, whipped cream, or vanilla ice cream if you’re feeling wild. It’s basically brunch dessert anyway.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Apple Pie Cinnamon Roll Casserole is the definition of warm, gooey comfort food. It’s the perfect mix of cinnamon, sweetness, and nostalgia—all wrapped in a no-fuss, slow-cooker dream. Whether it’s Christmas morning, brunch with friends, or just a random Wednesday, this recipe never disappoints.

So grab your crockpot, pop open that cinnamon roll can (try not to flinch), and let the magic happen. By the time it’s done, you’ll have a dessert-brunch hybrid so good, it’ll make your kitchen smell like pure happiness. 🍏🍂

Similar Posts