Name: Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 can (8 count) refrigerated cinnamon roll dough (with icing); 2 medium tart apples (like Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and diced small; 2 tablespoon unsalted butter; 2 tablespoon brown sugar, packed; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker filling); Pinch of salt; 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Craving the magic of warm apple pie and gooey cinnamon rolls all at once? Meet your new obsession: Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Cups! These bite-sized beauties are everything you love about two classic desserts, fused into one unforgettable treat.

Imagine flaky, caramelized cinnamon roll crusts overflowing with juicy, tender cinnamon-spiced apples and topped with a dreamy drizzle of frosting. They're sweet, comforting, and delightfully fun to eat-basically, the ultimate answer to "What should I make for dessert?"

Best of all, these little cups are incredibly easy and come together in just 40 minutes. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight treat, an irresistible addition to your holiday brunch, or a kid-approved snack, this recipe is a surefire winner.

This is hands-down one of my go-to recipes for cozy gatherings-everyone raves about them, and you won't believe how simple they are to make!

Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Cups baked golden brown on a platter, drizzled with sweet icing

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Super easy with minimal prep-perfect for busy days
Classic comfort flavors in a fun, single-serve format
Great for kids, parties, or potlucks
Ready in under an hour but tastes like you baked all day
Customizable with favorite spices or toppings

Key Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Cups

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Refrigerated Cinnamon Roll Dough

This is the no-fail shortcut for that incredible soft and sweet crust. Choose your favorite brand-just make sure it includes icing! If you'd like, swap for homemade cinnamon roll dough, but store-bought keeps things simple and speedy. Jumbo rolls create a thicker "cup," while regular-size will yield smaller bites.

Apples

The star of the show! Go for crisp, tart apples such as Granny Smith, which hold their shape and provide luscious, tangy-sweet flavor. Peel, core, and dice them into small pieces for the best texture. Don't have Granny Smith on hand? Honeycrisp or Fuji are excellent, or mix and match for complex flavor.

Ground Cinnamon

Essential for that signature cozy warmth that defines both apple pie and cinnamon rolls. Adjust to taste-if you're a cinnamon lover, add a pinch more! Feeling adventurous? A dash of nutmeg or allspice can take the filling to new heights.

Brown Sugar

Brown sugar not only sweetens but adds a subtle richness and caramel undertone to the apple filling. Light or dark brown both work well here; dark brown offers deeper molasses notes. If needed, regular white sugar can be substituted, though you'll lose a bit of depth.

Butter

Butter brings moisture and that classic pie-like richness to the apple filling. Dice it into small bits and let it melt with the apples for syrupy goodness. For a dairy-free option, plant-based butter substitutes do the trick.

Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Cups cooking process

Instructions for Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Cups

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Preheat the Oven and Prep the Pan

First things first: preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a standard muffin tin so your cups pop out effortlessly later.

Shape the Cinnamon Roll Cups

Pop open your cinnamon rolls and separate them. Press each roll flat with your hands or a small rolling pin, then gently press each disc into the bottom and up the sides of muffin cups to form a cup shape. Don't worry if they seem thin; they'll puff up as they bake.

Make the Apple Pie Filling

In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, a pinch of salt, and (if using) lemon juice and cornstarch. Cook, stirring frequently, for 4 to 6 minutes until the apples have softened and the mixture looks thick and syrupy. Let cool slightly so it doesn't melt the dough!

Fill and Bake the Cups

Spoon a generous amount of the apple filling into each cinnamon roll cup. Don't overfill, but be sure each one has plenty of apple goodness! Bake for 13 to 16 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and your kitchen smells heavenly.

Drizzle with Icing

Let the cups cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then gently transfer them to a wire rack. Warm the cinnamon roll icing for a few seconds in the microwave if needed, and drizzle it over the tops while they're still warm. Serve right away for ooey-gooey perfection!

Recipe Variations

Make It Gluten-Free

Use your favorite gluten-free refrigerated cinnamon roll dough and double-check that your other ingredients are certified gluten-free. The results are just as tasty and satisfying!

Add a Crunch

For texture lovers, sprinkle a little chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top of the apple filling before baking. You'll get a lovely crunch with each bite.

Caramel Lovers' Twist

Drizzle cups with warm caramel sauce in addition to (or instead of) the icing for an extra decadent, bakery-style finish. Salted caramel takes it over the top!

Apple-Pear Fusion

Mix in diced ripe pear with the apples for a mellow, juicy-sweet twist that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon roll base.

Vegan Option

Use a vegan-friendly cinnamon roll dough and substitute plant-based butter for the filling. Omit the included icing and drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and non-dairy milk.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Cups warm for maximum goo factor! They're wonderful on their own but shine even brighter with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For brunch or holiday parties, pair with hot apple cider or coffee. Top with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon or a few toasted nuts for a festive flair.

Storage and Reheating

Store cooled cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, pop one or two in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or gently warm in a 325°F (160°C) oven until soft and heated through. Freezing is possible-wrap each cup tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Cups (FAQ)

Q: Can I make Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Cups ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can prep the apple filling a day ahead and refrigerate. Assemble and bake the cups fresh for best texture, or bake fully and reheat gently before serving.

Q: What kind of apples work best for this recipe?

A: Tart, firm apples like Granny Smith work great because they hold their shape and don't get mushy. Feel free to experiment with Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Pink Lady-or use a blend!

Q: Can I use homemade cinnamon roll dough instead of store-bought?

A: Absolutely! Homemade dough adds a personal touch and rich flavor, though it does require extra time. Adjust baking time as needed if using thicker dough.

I hope these Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Cups become your new go-to sweet treat. They're cozy, easy, and completely irresistible-perfect for any occasion! If you give this recipe a try, don't forget to leave a comment or rating below. Happy baking!

★★★★★ 4.70 from 193 ratings