If you’re craving a cozy, comforting breakfast or brunch that feels like a warm hug, let me introduce you to this remarkable Apple Pecan Cinnamon Roll Bake Recipe. It takes the beloved cinnamon roll to a whole new level by layering in tender apples and crunchy pecans, all soaked in a luscious custard and baked to golden perfection. The aroma alone will have your kitchen smelling like fall, and every bite delivers soft spirals, sweet spice, and just the right amount of nutty crunch. It’s an irresistible treat that looks as stunning as it tastes, perfect for family mornings or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Apple Pecan Cinnamon Roll Bake Recipe comes together with a handful of straightforward ingredients that work harmoniously to create a symphony of flavors and textures. Each component is essential – from the ready-made cinnamon rolls providing a fluffy base to the apples and pecans adding brightness and crunch, and the aromatic spices wrapping everything in cozy warmth.
- Refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing (1 can, 12 oz): The soft, buttery dough and sweet glaze form the heart and soul of the bake.
- Medium apples (2, peeled, cored, diced): They bring a fresh, slightly tart contrast and tender bite.
- Chopped pecans (1/2 cup): For that delightful nutty crunch that balances the sweetness.
- Brown sugar (1/4 cup): Adds deep caramel undertones that meld with the apples perfectly.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): The quintessential spice for warm, inviting flavor.
- Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Provides a subtle warm spice note enhancing the cinnamon.
- Eggs (2): Create the custard that holds this bake together with richness.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Combines with eggs to give the custard a silky texture.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): A touch of sweetness that lifts all the flavors.
How to Make Apple Pecan Cinnamon Roll Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to ensure your creation doesn’t stick and bakes evenly with a golden crust. This simple prep step sets the stage for perfect results.
Step 2: Cut and Arrange Cinnamon Rolls
Slice each cinnamon roll into quarters. These bite-sized pieces create layers of fluffy dough that soak up the custard and bake into luscious pillows. Spread them out evenly in your greased baking dish, creating a bed for the apples and pecans.
Step 3: Mix Apples, Pecans, and Spices
In a medium bowl, toss the diced apples with chopped pecans, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Each ingredient brings a specific character – the sweetness from brown sugar, the warm spices that evoke fall, and the crunch of pecans paired with juicy apples. Sprinkle this flavorful mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll quarters.
Step 4: Whisk the Custard Mixture
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. This custard is the magic that binds the bake, soaking into the dough and apple layers, giving each bite a rich, creamy finish that’s impossible to resist.
Step 5: Pour Custard and Bake
Carefully pour the egg mixture over the cinnamon rolls and apple topping, letting it seep into every nook and cranny. Place your dish in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is set, signaling that custard perfection.
Step 6: Add Icing and Cool Slightly
Once out of the oven, drizzle the included cinnamon roll icing all over the warm bake. The icing melts gently into the crevices, adding an irresistible glossy sweetness. Let it cool just enough to be comforting but still warm for serving.
How to Serve Apple Pecan Cinnamon Roll Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Adding just a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a few extra toasted pecans on top can elevate this dish’s presentation and flavor. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream transforms it into an indulgent treat.
Side Dishes
This bake pairs beautifully with fresh fruit salad or a simple cup of spiced chai or coffee. The light freshness of fruit balances the richness, while a warm beverage complements the spices and sweet notes.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Apple Pecan Cinnamon Roll Bake Recipe in individual ramekins for a charming touch at brunch gatherings or cut into squares and arranged on a rustic wooden board for sharing family-style. You can also drizzle extra maple syrup or honey for a personalized sweetness boost.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover the bake tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a perfect make-ahead breakfast or snack.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this Apple Pecan Cinnamon Roll Bake Recipe in advance, freeze it unbaked or fully baked. Wrap it securely with foil and plastic wrap, and it will keep well in the freezer for up to two months. Just thaw before baking or reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10–15 minutes to regain that fresh-baked warmth and texture. Avoid microwaving to prevent the custard from becoming rubbery, although the microwave works in a pinch for quick warming.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cinnamon rolls instead of refrigerated ones?
Absolutely! Fresh cinnamon rolls can be substituted, just adjust baking time slightly since dough texture may vary. The results will be equally scrumptious and fresh-tasting.
What type of apples work best in this recipe?
Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji hold their shape well and offer a nice balance of tartness and sweetness that complements the pecans and spices perfectly.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or egg-free?
To make it dairy-free, swap regular milk with almond, soy, or oat milk. For egg substitutions, use flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer but expect a slightly different texture. The dish will still taste amazing!
Is it possible to add other nuts or dried fruits?
Yes, feel free to customize the bake with walnuts, almonds, or dried cranberries. Each addition brings a new layer of flavor and texture to the dish.
How do I know when the bake is fully cooked?
Look for a golden-brown top and a custard that is set but still slightly jiggly in the middle. A toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Apple Pecan Cinnamon Roll Bake Recipe enough for anyone looking to bring a little extra joy and warmth to their table. It’s straightforward to make, bursting with flavor, and sure to become a treasured classic you look forward to again and again. Trust me, once you try it, this dish will quickly become a beloved favorite in your kitchen as well.
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Apple Pecan Cinnamon Roll Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Apple Pecan Cinnamon Roll Bake is a delightful twist on classic cinnamon rolls, combining tender rolls with a warm apple and pecan topping baked to golden perfection. Drizzled with sweet icing, it’s a perfect comforting breakfast or brunch dish that is easy to prepare and serves six.
Ingredients
Cinnamon Rolls
- 1 can (12 oz) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
Apple-Pecan Topping
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Egg Mixture
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to ensure easy removal of the bake.
- Prepare Cinnamon Rolls: Cut the refrigerated cinnamon rolls into quarters and spread them evenly across the prepared baking dish to create a uniform base layer.
- Combine Topping: In a mixing bowl, combine the diced apples, chopped pecans, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg thoroughly. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the cinnamon roll pieces in the baking dish.
- Mix Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until fully blended. This mixture will soak into the cinnamon rolls and topping during baking.
- Pour Egg Mixture: Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over the cinnamon rolls and apple-pecan topping, ensuring all pieces are moistened.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Add Icing: Remove the bake from the oven and immediately drizzle with the icing that came with the cinnamon roll package for extra sweetness.
- Serve: Let the bake cool slightly, then serve warm for a cozy and delicious treat.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance against the sweetness.
- Feel free to substitute pecans with walnuts if preferred.
- If you like a sweeter bake, add a bit more brown sugar or drizzle extra icing.
- Allow the bake to cool for 5-10 minutes as it will be very hot right out of the oven.
- This dish can be prepared the night before and baked fresh in the morning.
