If you’re looking for a stress-free dessert that tastes like fall in every bite, these easy 2-ingredient cinnamon roll apple pie cups are a total game-changer.

With just two simple ingredients (store-bought cinnamon roll dough and apple pie filling), you can whip up warm, gooey mini apple pies that feel just like homemade. They’re soft in the center, golden brown on the edges, and perfect for weeknights, holidays, or anytime you want a cozy treat without baking an entire pie.

This easy recipe is beginner-friendly and comes together in under 30 minutes with minimal cleanup. Plus, it’s a great way to get that classic apple pie flavor with a cinnamon roll twist.

Your whole family will love them, and they can be a hit at large gatherings!

Ingredients

This recipe has the simplest ingredients that you can find at almost any grocery store:

• Refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing): Pillsbury cinnamon rolls or any other brand you love
• Canned apple pie filling: Chop up large apple pieces for easier scooping, if needed
• Cooking spray: For greasing the cupcake pan

Add-Ons & Substitutions

• Add a sprinkle of brown sugar or apple pie spice to the filling for extra warmth
• Swap in homemade apple pie filling made with diced apples, lemon juice, and cinnamon
• Top with a drizzle of caramel sauce for caramel apple pies
• Try cream cheese icing instead of the classic glaze from the can
• Skip the icing topping, and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Cups

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a standard 12-cup muffin pan with cooking spray.

Separate the cinnamon rolls and set the icing aside for later. Place one cinnamon roll into each muffin cup.

Using your fingers or a small rolling pin, press and flatten each roll into the bottom of the pan and slightly up the sides to form a cinnamon roll crust.

Spoon about 1 to 2 tablespoons of apple filling into each cinnamon roll cup, making sure not to overflow.

I used a store-bought apple pie filling with sliced apples, but you can grab one with chopped apples if that’s easier; either will work for this recipe.

Bake for 13 to 17 minutes, or until the cinnamon buns are puffed and golden brown.

Let the cinnamon roll apple pie cups cool in the pan for 5 to 10 minutes before removing them. Then transfer to a wire rack.

Warm the reserved icing (if needed) to room temperature, then drizzle over the top of the warm rolls before serving.

Expert Tips

• If the apple slices in your filling feel too thick, you can slice them lengthwise to make them thinner, or chop them into smaller pieces so they’re easier to scoop into the cups.
• Don’t skip greasing the muffin tin. Even with nonstick pans, the cinnamon roll dough can stick to the bottom of the pan
• If you’re storing leftovers, let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container with a piece of plastic wrap or aluminum foil over the top
• These mini pies are best enjoyed warm: pop them in the air fryer or oven for a few minutes to reheat

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of canned?

Yes! If you’ve got extra time and want to use your own dough from scratch (with active dry yeast or instant yeast), just make sure it has completed its first rise and is at room temperature before shaping the cups. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly.

Here’s a delicious homemade cinnamon roll recipe you can try.

What kind of apples are best for homemade filling?

Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples work beautifully because they hold their shape and balance the sweetness of the cinnamon roll crust.

If you’re using fresh apples, slice or dice them and cook with a bit of brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice to create your own apple pie filling.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, but they’re best the day of! You can bake them and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day or in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheat in the oven (covered loosely with foil) or use an air fryer to crisp them up before serving.

Do I need a muffin pan for this recipe?

A muffin pan helps the rolls keep their shape, but you can try using a pie pan or a prepared baking dish in a pinch. Just space the cinnamon roll dough evenly and keep the apple filling in the center. Baking time may vary slightly.

How should I store the cinnamon roll cups?

Let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container lined with a sheet of plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Keep at room temperature for 1 day or refrigerate for up to 3 days.

If refrigerated, warm them in the oven or air fryer before serving for the best texture.

Can I freeze cinnamon roll apple pie cups?

Yes! Once fully baked and cooled, wrap each cup individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months.

Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F (covered with foil) until warmed through. Avoid freezing with icing on top. You can add that fresh after reheating.

Need inspiration for fall treats? Take a look at the links below for more Pie & Tart Recipes:

Tag me on Instagram or Pinterest so I can see all your amazing creations!

And if you make these Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Cups, please be sure to give them a star rating and leave a comment!