Description

Apple Strudel Casserole is a delicious and easy-to-make dessert featuring tender granny smith apples and soft cinnamon roll dough baked together in a creamy, spiced custard. This crowd-pleasing casserole combines the flavors of classic apple strudel with the convenience of store-bought cinnamon rolls, topped with warm icing, caramel syrup, and vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 (17.5 oz) Pillsbury Grands cinnamon rolls (regular 12.4 oz cinnamon rolls work too)
2 granny smith apples, peeled and thinly sliced

Custard Mixture

1/4 cup butter, melted (plus extra for greasing dish)
2 eggs
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tbsp flour
3 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1 tsp vanilla extract

Toppings

Icing from cinnamon rolls
Caramel syrup, for drizzling (optional)
Vanilla ice cream, for serving

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Instructions

Prepare Apples: Peel and slice the granny smith apples into bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly and incorporate well into the casserole.
Grease Baking Dish: Melt the butter and thoroughly coat a 9×13 inch baking dish with it. Use a generous amount of butter to prevent sticking and add flavor.
Make Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, beat together the eggs, heavy whipping cream, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract until fully combined to create a smooth custard base.
Combine Ingredients: Open the canned cinnamon rolls and slice each roll into eighths, similar to slicing a pizza. Toss the cinnamon roll pieces and the sliced apples into the custard mixture, ensuring all pieces are thoroughly coated.
Assemble Casserole: Pour the coated cinnamon roll and apple mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly. Pour or brush any remaining custard mixture over spots that appear dry to keep the casserole moist.
Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 18-25 minutes or until the dough no longer appears wet and is fully set but still soft.
Cool and Add Toppings: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for at least 5 minutes. Warm the icing from the cinnamon rolls in the microwave for about 15 seconds, then drizzle evenly over the casserole.
Serve: Serve the casserole warm topped with vanilla ice cream and an optional drizzle of caramel syrup for extra indulgence.

Notes

Using Granny Smith apples provides a nice tart contrast to the sweet cinnamon and custard.
Make sure to coat the baking dish generously with butter to prevent sticking and add flavor.
Keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes to avoid overcooking; the dough should be set but soft.
The casserole is best served warm, and adding vanilla ice cream enhances the dessert’s richness.
Caramel syrup is optional but adds a delicious complementary sweetness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American