Cinnamon Roll Apple Rose Tart

Name: Cinnamon Roll Apple Rose Tart
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 red apples (such as red delicious); 1 can refrigerated cinnamon roll dough; 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted); 4 tbsp brown sugar; Powdered sugar for dusting

Published: August 2, 2025

by lara

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Impressive Presentation – The apple roses create a visually stunning centerpiece that will wow your guests.
Easy to Prepare – With simple steps and ready-made dough, you can whip this up in no time.
Delicious Flavor Combination – The combination of cinnamon rolls and sweet apples makes for an irresistible treat.
Versatile Dessert – Perfect for various occasions, from casual get-togethers to formal dinners.
Customizable Options – Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits for extra texture and flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Nonstick cooking spray
9-inch round baking dish
Sharp paring knife
Microwave-safe bowl
Mixing bowls

Importance of Each Tool

Nonstick cooking spray – Ensures easy removal of the tart from the baking dish without sticking.
Sharp paring knife – Allows for precise slicing of the apples, making rose formation easier.
Microwave-safe bowl – Ideal for softening apple slices quickly in the microwave.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make the delightful Cinnamon Roll Apple Rose Tart:

For the Tart Base

2 red apples (We used red delicious)
1 can refrigerated cinnamon roll dough

For the Apple Mixture

2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
4 tbsp brown sugar

For Serving

Powdered sugar

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Apple Rose Tart

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (191°C). Spray a 9-inch round baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls

Open the can of cinnamon rolls. Unwind several rolls and arrange them into a large spiral to fill up the dish, following any visual guides if needed.

Step 3: Prepare the Apples

Halve each apple lengthwise. Remove the core and seeds. Using a sharp paring knife, slice each apple half into 1/8-inch thick pieces.

Step 4: Mix Apples with Lemon Juice

In a large bowl, add the apple slices along with lemon juice. Mix well to coat all slices evenly.

Step 5: Combine Sugar and Butter

In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and melted butter. Pour this mixture over the apple slices and stir until all slices are well coated.

Step 6: Soften Apple Slices

Microwave the coated apple slices for about 2 minutes or until they become pliable. After microwaving, strain out any accumulated liquid.

Step 7: Form Apple Roses

Arrange about eight apple slices in a straight row, overlapping them by an inch. Starting from one end, gently roll the slices together to form a rose shape. Place this rose in the center of your cinnamon dough spiral.

Step 8: Fill Gaps with Apples

Insert additional apple slices into any gaps between the cinnamon rolls in your spiral arrangement.

Step 9: Bake

Once your dish is full, bake it in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the dough is golden brown.

Step 10: Serve

Remove from oven and dust with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy this delightful Cinnamon Roll Apple Rose Tart!

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Apple Rose Tart

Serving your Cinnamon Roll Apple Rose Tart can elevate any gathering. This delightful dessert can be enjoyed in various ways to please every palate.

Pair with Fresh Whipped Cream

A dollop of whipped cream adds a light, creamy texture that balances the sweetness of the tart.

Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream

The warmth of the tart combined with cold vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast, making each bite special.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

A drizzle of caramel sauce enhances the flavors and adds an extra touch of sweetness that complements the apples beautifully.

Add a Sprinkle of Nuts

Chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, provide a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the soft cinnamon rolls and apples.

Offer a Side of Fresh Berries

Fresh berries offer a refreshing burst of flavor and color that pairs well with the rich sweetness of the tart.

Dust with Extra Powdered Sugar

A light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving makes for an elegant presentation and a touch more sweetness.

How to Perfect Cinnamon Roll Apple Rose Tart

To make your Cinnamon Roll Apple Rose Tart even more delightful, consider these helpful tips.

Choose Firm Apples: Opt for apples that are crisp, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, as they hold their shape better when baked.
Adjust Sweetness: Taste your apple mixture before adding it to the dough. You can adjust sugar levels based on your preference for sweetness.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cinnamon roll dough is at room temperature for easier handling and better results during baking.
Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the tart while it bakes; ovens vary. Remove it once the dough is golden brown to avoid overbaking.
Let It Cool Slightly: Allow the tart to cool for about 10 minutes before serving, which makes slicing easier and improves flavor development.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the apple mixture for an extra layer of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Roll Apple Rose Tart

A well-rounded meal can enhance your enjoyment of Cinnamon Roll Apple Rose Tart. Here are some side dishes that complement this dessert beautifully.

Mixed Green Salad
A light salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the rich flavors of the tart.
Roasted Vegetables
Seasonal roasted vegetables provide earthiness and depth, offering a savory contrast to sweet desserts.
Cheese Platter
A selection of mild cheeses pairs wonderfully with dessert, creating an interesting combination of flavors and textures.
Chilled Fruit Salad
A chilled fruit salad can refresh your palate after enjoying something sweet, keeping things light and fruity.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes
If served as part of a larger meal, creamy mashed potatoes add comfort and richness that works well before dessert.
Herbed Couscous
Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs provides a subtle flavor that complements both savory dishes and sweet desserts alike.
Savory Quiche
A light quiche can serve as an excellent brunch companion to this sweet tart offering variety in taste and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Cinnamon Roll Apple Rose Tart can be a delightful experience, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.

Using unripe apples: This can lead to a tart flavor that overpowers the dish. Choose ripe, sweet apples for the best taste.
Not rolling the dough tightly: Loose rolls may not hold their shape during baking. Make sure to roll the cinnamon dough snugly for a beautiful presentation.
Skipping the microwave step: Failing to soften apple slices in the microwave can make them difficult to roll. Always microwave them until pliable for easier handling.
Overbaking: Leaving the tart in the oven too long can dry it out. Keep an eye on it and remove it as soon as the dough is golden brown.
Neglecting to dust with powdered sugar: Skipping this final touch can make your tart look less appealing. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a perfect finishing touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Place parchment paper between layers if stacking slices to prevent sticking.

Freezing Cinnamon Roll Apple Rose Tart

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for best results.
Frozen tarts will keep for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cinnamon Roll Apple Rose Tart

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for 30 seconds or until warm.
Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying the Cinnamon Roll Apple Rose Tart.

How do I make my Cinnamon Roll Apple Rose Tart more flavorful?

You can enhance flavor by adding spices like nutmeg or cardamom along with the cinnamon. Fresh herbs like mint can also add a unique twist.

Can I use different types of apples?

Absolutely! While red delicious apples work well, feel free to try Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a different flavor profile.

What should I serve with my Cinnamon Roll Apple Rose Tart?

This tart pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Consider serving it with a drizzle of caramel sauce for added sweetness!

How can I customize my Cinnamon Roll Apple Rose Tart?

You can add nuts or raisins into the apple mixture for extra texture. Experimenting with different spices can also personalize your tart.

Can I make this Cinnamon Roll Apple Rose Tart ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare it up to baking and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Bake it fresh before serving.

Final Thoughts

The Cinnamon Roll Apple Rose Tart is not only visually stunning but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for gatherings or as a delightful dessert any day of the week. Feel free to customize it with your favorite fruits or spices, making it uniquely yours!

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