If you’ve ever dreamed of blending the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls with the crisp freshness of apples and the satisfying crunch of pecans, you’re in for a real treat with this Apple Pecan Cinnamon Roll Bake Recipe. This delightful bake transforms classic cinnamon rolls into an irresistible breakfast or brunch centerpiece, layering gooey sweetness and nutty goodness in every bite. Whether it’s a cozy weekend or a festive gathering, this recipe will have everyone reaching for seconds while filling your kitchen with an aroma that spells pure comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients together for this Apple Pecan Cinnamon Roll Bake Recipe is as simple as it is rewarding. Each component plays a specific role, contributing to the harmony of taste, texture, and color that makes this dish so special. From the soft doughy cinnamon rolls to the tangy apples and crunchy pecans, every bite bursts with flavor and warmth.
- 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing (8-count each): These provide the fluffy, cinnamon-swirled base for the bake and that signature sweet glaze to drizzle on top.
- 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and diced): Choose a sweet-tart variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to add brightness and a juicy texture.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans: Adds a lovely nutty crunch and depth to the soft layers.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted): Ensures the mixture is rich and moist, keeping everything comfy and tender.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Brings warmth and a caramel-like sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spices.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Elevates the classic cinnamon roll experience and perfectly spices the apples.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds aromatic complexity and rounds out the sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors so everything is well rounded and delicious.
How to Make Apple Pecan Cinnamon Roll Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Cinnamon Rolls
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish well, so your cinnamon rolls don’t stick and everything bakes evenly. Next, open the cinnamon roll cans and cut each roll into quarters to create bite-sized pieces that will soak up all the delicious flavors.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in a Bowl
In a large bowl, gently toss the cinnamon roll pieces with the diced apples, chopped pecans, melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt. This step is crucial for coating every bit of dough with sweetness and spice. Take your time filling the bowl with these layers of texture and flavor.
Step 3: Spread and Bake
Transfer your beautifully coated mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly so it cooks uniformly. Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the bake is golden brown and cooked through at the center. Your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible aroma during this time!
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touch
Once baked, allow the dish to cool slightly for 5 to 10 minutes—this helps everything settle and makes serving easier. Then, drizzle the reserved icing from the cinnamon roll cans generously on top to add that final, glossy sweetness that pulls the whole recipe together beautifully.
How to Serve Apple Pecan Cinnamon Roll Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Apple Pecan Cinnamon Roll Bake Recipe with simple garnishes like a light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of extra chopped pecans. For a truly indulgent touch, swirl on some caramel sauce or add a dollop of whipped cream just before serving. These little extras elevate the presentation and texture, making it feel extra special.
Side Dishes
This bake is rich and flavorful enough to stand on its own, but why not offer some fresh seasonal fruit or a crisp green salad to balance the sweetness? A cup of hot coffee or warm spiced cider is an excellent partner that complements the cozy, cinnamon-scented flavors perfectly for brunch or dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Apple Pecan Cinnamon Roll Bake Recipe straight from the dish for a rustic, comforting vibe, or cut into neat squares and plate them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a brunch-meets-dessert experience. You can also pass a small pitcher of warm caramel or syrup on the side so guests can customize their sweetness level.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator to extend freshness for up to four days. The bake tastes wonderful warmed slightly, allowing the flavors to come back to life.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this Apple Pecan Cinnamon Roll Bake Recipe ahead of time, you can freeze it before baking. Just cover the dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds or warm the whole dish in a 350°F oven covered with foil for 10-15 minutes to maintain moisture and tenderness. Drizzle a bit of extra icing or syrup after reheating for that fresh-out-of-the-oven feeling.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cinnamon rolls instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh cinnamon rolls work wonderfully if you prefer a homemade touch. The bake will still be deliciously soft and flavorful, though the icing drizzling step might be best done with a homemade glaze for perfect consistency.
What type of apples should I choose?
Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples are ideal because they offer a nice balance of tartness and sweetness, which pairs beautifully with the rich cinnamon and brown sugar flavors. Feel free to experiment with your favorites though!
Can I make this recipe vegan?
With a few substitutions like vegan butter and cinnamon rolls made without dairy or eggs, you can certainly adapt this Apple Pecan Cinnamon Roll Bake Recipe to be vegan-friendly. Just be sure the icing you use is also vegan or make your own simple glaze.
Is it possible to add more nuts or dried fruit?
Yes! Feel free to increase the pecans or incorporate dried cranberries or raisins for extra texture and sweetness, which complements the apple and cinnamon notes beautifully.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields about 10 generous servings, making it perfect for a family brunch or a cozy gathering with friends.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a straightforward, crowd-pleasing dish that combines the best of cinnamon rolls, apples, and pecans, this Apple Pecan Cinnamon Roll Bake Recipe is your new go-to. It’s warm, inviting, and packed with flavors that spell comfort and joy. I can’t wait for you to make it for your next brunch or holiday gathering — your family and friends will love every sticky, sweet bite!
Print
Apple Pecan Cinnamon Roll Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Apple Pecan Cinnamon Roll Bake is a warm, comforting dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Combining soft cinnamon rolls with juicy apples and crunchy pecans, it’s coated in a buttery cinnamon-sugar mixture and baked to golden perfection. Topped with sweet icing, it delivers a delightful mix of flavors and textures that capture the essence of fall and holidays.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing (8-count each)
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Flavoring & Topping
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Cinnamon Rolls: Open the cinnamon rolls and cut each roll into quarters. Set the icing aside for drizzling later.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently toss the cinnamon roll pieces with diced apples, chopped pecans, melted butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, ensuring an even layer for consistent baking.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the bake turns golden brown and is cooked through in the center.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and allow it to cool for 5–10 minutes. Drizzle the reserved icing evenly over the top before serving.
Notes
- For enhanced richness, drizzle with caramel sauce or serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
- Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples work best to provide a sweet-tart balance.
