Indulge in a dessert that’s both warm and welcoming—Homemade Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna. This unique creation blends the soft, sweet goodness of cinnamon rolls with the rich flavor of spiced apples and velvety cream cheese filling. A dessert that’s decadent, comforting, and made to impress, it’s perfect for holidays, brunches, potlucks, or anytime you want something unforgettable.
This recipe isn’t your average cinnamon roll. Instead of traditional buns, it’s layered like a lasagna—complete with golden-baked cinnamon dough, gooey caramel, and soft, cinnamon-spiced apples nestled between luscious cream cheese layers. The result? A rich, tender, melt-in-your-mouth experience in every slice.
Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is detailed and easy to follow. Get ready to roll, layer, and bake your way to a show-stopping dessert that will quickly become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients
For the Cinnamon Roll Dough
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 cup warm milk (around 110°F)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
For the Apple Filling
- 4 medium apples (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ¼ cup water
For the Creamy Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping
For Assembly
- ½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, combine warm milk, melted butter, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until slightly foamy.
- Add the egg, salt, and 2 cups of flour. Mix until well combined. Gradually add the remaining flour until a soft dough forms.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm area until doubled in size—about 1 hour.
Cook the Apple Filling
- In a medium saucepan, combine the apple slices, cinnamon, brown sugar, and lemon juice.
- Mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl, then pour it into the apple mixture.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the apples are soft and the mixture thickens. Let it cool completely before using.
Make the Creamy Filling
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gently fold in the whipped cream until the mixture is light and fluffy. Keep it chilled until ready to assemble.
Roll and Layer
- Roll the risen dough into a large rectangle (about 14×10 inches).
- Spread a layer of the creamy filling evenly across the dough.
- Top with a layer of apple filling, followed by a light drizzle of caramel sauce.
- Starting from one edge, roll the dough tightly like a jelly roll. Slice it into even rounds (about 1–1.5 inches thick).
Bake
Variations
Nutty Crunch
Add chopped pecans or walnuts between layers for a toasty, nutty element. This adds a nice contrast to the soft textures.
Maple Magic
Replace caramel sauce with pure maple syrup to add earthy sweetness and a cozy aroma.
Berry Burst
Include fresh or frozen berries like blueberries or raspberries between the layers for a tart twist.
Chocolate Indulgence
Mix mini chocolate chips into the cream cheese filling for a dessert that satisfies every craving
Tips for Success
- Use Softened Ingredients: Make sure cream cheese and butter are at room temperature to blend smoothly.
- Don’t Overstuff the Dough: Keep fillings light enough to roll without tearing the dough.
- Let It Cool Before Cutting: Let the lasagna sit for 10–15 minutes before slicing to help the layers hold their shape.
- Use a Serrated Knife for Serving: This makes it easier to cut through the layers cleanly without dragging.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought cinnamon rolls?
Yes, you can use pre-made cinnamon roll dough to save time. It works well, but homemade dough offers a richer texture and flavor.
What kind of apples work best?
Use firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for the best texture and flavor contrast.
Can this be made in advance?
Absolutely. You can assemble the rolls and refrigerate overnight. Bring them to room temperature and bake when ready.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Warm individual portions in the microwave before serving.
Can I freeze it?
Yes. Bake and cool the rolls completely, then wrap tightly and freeze. Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through.
Final Thoughts
Homemade Cinnamon Roll Apple Lasagna isn’t just a dessert—it’s an experience. The layered harmony of spiced apples, fluffy cinnamon dough, creamy filling, and gooey caramel makes each bite unforgettable. Whether you’re baking for your family, entertaining guests, or just indulging your sweet tooth, this recipe delivers comforting, bakery-level perfection right from your oven.