Crock Pot Cinnamon Rolls with Apple

Crock pot cinnamon rolls with apple take everything you love about classic cinnamon rolls—sweet, sticky, cinnamon-sugar spirals—and infuse them with tender, juicy apples and slow-cooked flavor. These rolls are soft, fluffy, and bursting with cinnamon apple goodness, making them perfect for a cozy breakfast, lazy brunch, or decadent dessert.

Why Make Cinnamon Rolls in a Crock Pot?

Slow cooking delivers soft, melt-in-your-mouth cinnamon rolls with minimal effort. The enclosed steam environment of the crock pot ensures that the rolls stay moist, while the bottom develops a caramelized, sticky glaze from the cinnamon sugar and apple juices. It’s nearly impossible to overbake or dry them out, making this a foolproof method even for beginners.

Ingredients

1 can refrigerated cinnamon roll dough (8-count, with icing)
2 medium apples (peeled, cored, diced)
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
2 tablespoons melted butter
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Non-stick spray or parchment paper

Instructions

Spray the crock pot insert with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
In a small bowl, toss diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and melted butter.
Separate the cinnamon rolls and cut each into quarters.
Layer half of the chopped cinnamon rolls into the bottom of the crock pot.
Spread half of the apple mixture over the dough.
Repeat with the remaining dough and apple mixture.
Cover and cook on low for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until rolls are cooked through and edges are golden.
Turn off the heat and let them sit uncovered for 10 minutes to set.
Drizzle with the included icing before serving.

Optional Toppings and Add-Ins

Chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch
Raisins for a classic cinnamon-raisin twist
Caramel sauce or maple glaze for extra indulgence
Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for dessert-style serving

Apple Varieties That Work Best

Granny Smith: tart and firm, great contrast to the sweet dough
Honeycrisp: juicy and sweet with a nice texture
Fuji: sweet and holds shape well during cooking

Avoid overly soft varieties like Red Delicious, which can turn mushy.

Tips for Best Results

Don’t lift the lid during cooking—this lets out steam and affects cook time.
If the center still looks doughy, cook in 15-minute increments until done.
To avoid soggy bottoms, place a paper towel under the lid to absorb condensation.
Serve warm for best taste and texture.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Make ahead: Assemble the ingredients in the crock pot insert and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, place it in the crock pot base and cook as directed.

Store leftovers: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

Freeze: Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to one month. Thaw and warm before serving.

When to Serve These Cinnamon Rolls

Holiday mornings like Thanksgiving or Christmas
Weekend brunches with family
Dessert with coffee after a casual dinner
Potluck breakfasts or church gatherings

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this with homemade cinnamon roll dough? Yes, just prepare the dough in advance, roll and slice, then follow the same layering instructions.

Can I use apple pie filling? Yes, for a shortcut, replace fresh apples with canned apple pie filling. Reduce added sugar to avoid excess sweetness.

Can I cook on high? Yes, but reduce the cooking time to about 1 to 1.5 hours. Keep a close eye on doneness.

What size crock pot should I use? A 4 to 6-quart crock pot works best. Smaller sizes may crowd the dough; larger ones may dry it out.

Crock pot cinnamon rolls with apple are the definition of low-effort, high-reward comfort food. With a gooey cinnamon swirl, juicy apple bites, and sweet icing drizzle, every bite tastes like a warm hug from the inside out. It’s the kind of recipe that turns ordinary mornings into something special with very little work in the kitchen.