Name: Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Lasagna
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 2 cans pre-made cinnamon rolls (or equivalent homemade dough, unrolled or prepared according to package instructions); 4 large Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced); 1 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought, room temperature); 1 cup brown sugar (packed); 1/2 cup butter (melted); 2 teaspoons cinnamon; 1 teaspoon nutmeg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Creamy, gooey, and warmly spiced — Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Lasagna is the kind of dessert that smells like home the moment it comes out of the oven. Featuring layers of soft cinnamon rolls, tart-sweet apples, and buttery caramel, this dish is comfort on a plate and a crowd-pleaser at brunch or after dinner. Fun fact: combining two favorite treats into one mega-dessert is basically modern food alchemy — like putting pie and cinnamon rolls in a loving sandwich.

This recipe is special because it’s simple, quick to assemble, and delivers bakery-worthy flavor without the fuss. It’s family-friendly — kids love the sticky-sweet layers while adults appreciate the warm spices. If you enjoy layered desserts, you might also like the caramel apple twist featured in our Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Lasagna on RecipesFiber roundup for similar comforts. Ready to make something impressive without complicated steps? Let’s get cooking!

What is Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Lasagna?

What’s in a name? Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Lasagna sounds like a mouthful — because it is — but in the best possible way. Think of it as lasagna for dessert: layers upon layers of cinnamon rolls, caramel, and slices of apple stacked together and baked until bubbling and golden. Who named it? Maybe a baker who dreamed big and loved puns — and maybe they believed “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Why call it lasagna instead of casserole? Because the layers look dramatic and irresistible. Give it a try and see why everyone starts calling it by that joyful name.

Why You’ll Love This

Decadent layered flavor: Each bite combines gooey caramel, warm cinnamon, and tender apple for a rich, balanced taste that feels indulgent but homey.
Cost-effective and easy: Using pre-made cinnamon rolls or a simple homemade dough cuts prep time and costs compared to buying individual pastries from a bakery.
Versatile toppings and add-ins: Caramel drizzle, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or chopped toasted pecans take this from great to unforgettable.

If you like the cozy spice profile of our Pumpkin Apple Cinnamon Caramel Cake, you’ll love how this lasagna stacks and bakes those same autumn flavors into a single, shareable pan. Try it at home and watch guests ask for seconds.

How to Make:

Quick Overview

This recipe is easy to prep and big on comfort. It layers pre-made cinnamon rolls (or homemade dough) with a cinnamon-sugar apple filling and caramel for a soft, gooey interior and a lightly golden top. Total time: about 15 minutes prep; 45–50 minutes bake; allow 15 minutes to cool before serving. Standout elements: the creamy caramel layer and tender baked apples that keep texture without getting mushy.

Ingredients

2 cans pre-made cinnamon rolls, or equivalent homemade dough, unrolled or prepared according to package instructions
4 large Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
1 cup caramel sauce, homemade or store-bought, room temperature
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup butter, melted
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray so the caramel won’t stick too much.
Prepare the cinnamon rolls according to package instructions or make from scratch. If using canned rolls, press each roll gently to flatten slightly so they layer evenly.
Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Toss them in a large bowl with 1 cup brown sugar, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, 1 teaspoon nutmeg, and 1/2 cup melted butter until evenly coated. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Spread a thin, even layer of caramel sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish — this prevents sticking and creates a glossy caramel base.
Layer the prepared cinnamon rolls over the caramel sauce in a single even layer. If rolls are large, cut to fit and make a mostly even layer.
Add a layer of the apple mixture on top of the cinnamon rolls. Spread the apples out so each bite has fruit; press lightly to settle them into the dough.
Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a drizzle of caramel sauce on top. Aim for 2–3 layers depending on your dish depth — the top should be mostly apples and caramel to brown nicely.
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden, the apples are tender when pierced with a fork, and the caramel is bubbly. Tent with foil if the top is browning too quickly after 30 minutes.
Allow to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving to let the layers set slightly — this makes slicing easier and prevents caramel burns.

Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Lasagna

What to Serve With

Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for contrast with the warm caramel and apples.
A small platter of sharp cheddar slices — cheddar and apple is a classic pairing that adds savory balance.
Hot coffee, chai tea, or a warm spiced cider to echo the cinnamon and nutmeg notes.
A light green salad with apple slices and a citrus vinaigrette if serving as part of a brunch spread.

Top Tips for Perfecting

Use tart apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape and provide the right sweet-tart balance.
Prevent sogginess: Toss apples with the melted butter and spices but avoid over-soaking the rolls; layering order matters to keep texture.
Caramel consistency: If store-bought caramel is very thick, microwave for 10–20 seconds to loosen slightly for easier spreading.
Even layers: Flatten canned rolls slightly so layers are uniform and bake evenly.
Avoid overbaking: Check at 40 minutes; apples should be tender but not mushy. Tent with foil if the top darkens too fast.
Add crunch: Sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top 10 minutes before finish baking for texture.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container or tightly covered in the baking dish for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat slices in a 325°F oven for 10–12 minutes (covered loosely with foil) until warmed through. For single servings, microwave 45–60 seconds, but the oven gives a better texture.
Best served slightly warm with a fresh drizzle of caramel or a scoop of ice cream.

FAQs

Can I use different apples?
Yes. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are ideal, but Pink Lady, Fuji, or Braeburn also work well. Choose firmer, tart-sweet varieties to prevent mushy texture.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the lasagna in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if starting cold from the fridge.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes. Use a gluten-free cinnamon roll dough or pre-made gluten-free cinnamon rolls and ensure your caramel and any add-ins are gluten-free.

How do I prevent the bottom from sticking?
Spread a generous but thin layer of caramel on the bottom and grease the dish well. Let the lasagna rest 15 minutes after baking to help it release more easily.

Can I add nuts or other fillings?
Yes. Toasted pecans or walnuts layered between the apples and cinnamon rolls add a lovely crunch. You can also stir in raisins or a sprinkle of coarse sea salt on top for contrast.

Conclusion

Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Lasagna is a joyful, comforting dessert that’s easier to make than it looks and perfect for sharing. It combines buttery cinnamon rolls, tender spiced apples, and rich caramel into a layered treat that’s both impressive and homey. If you want inspiration or a variation to compare, check out this take on the recipe at Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Lasagna from OMG Chocolate Desserts for another style of assembly, and for a slightly different flavor profile try the version on That Oven Feelin’s Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Lasagna. Give it a try, share slices with family, and enjoy every sticky, spiced bite.