Grilled Apple Pie Cinnamon Roll Cups – Easy Smoky Dessert for the Grill

Introduction

Grilled Apple Pie Cinnamon Roll Cups are a genius twist on two beloved comfort desserts. Combining the soft, doughy goodness of cinnamon rolls with the fruity warmth of apple pie, this recipe takes an extraordinary leap when it hits the grill. Not only does grilling add an irresistible smoky note, but it also transforms these cups into the perfect outdoor treat for BBQs, potlucks, or weekend brunch.

What Are Grilled Apple Pie Cinnamon Roll Cups?

These miniature pie cups are made by pressing cinnamon roll dough into muffin tins, adding spoonfuls of apple pie filling, and grilling until golden and bubbling. The direct heat from the grill lightly chars the edges and caramelizes the sugars, bringing out richer flavors than oven baking. It’s a creative blend of traditional comfort food and backyard cooking innovation.

Ingredients

Core Ingredients:

• 1 can of refrigerated cinnamon rolls (8-count)
• 1 can of apple pie filling (or homemade cooked apples)

Optional Flavor Boosters:

• Chopped pecans or walnuts
• Brown sugar or cinnamon sugar blend
• Caramel drizzle or cream cheese glaze
• A crumbly streusel topping

Tools You’ll Need:

• Grill with a lid
• Muffin tin (or foil cups)
• Tongs
• Cooking spray or melted butter
• Aluminum foil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat the Grill

• Preheat to medium heat (around 350°F)
• Create an indirect heat zone (push charcoal to one side or turn off one gas burner)

2. Shape the Dough Cups

• Separate each cinnamon roll and flatten slightly
• Press into greased muffin tin slots, forming small cups

3. Fill With Apples

• Spoon 2 tbsp of apple pie filling into each dough cup
• Add optional toppings if desired

4. Grill the Cups

• Place the muffin tin on the indirect heat side of the grill
• Close the lid and cook for 12–18 minutes
• Check for bubbling fruit and golden brown edges

5. Cool and Finish

• Carefully remove and let cool for 5 minutes
• Drizzle with icing or caramel sauce before serving

Pro Tips for Grilling Success

• Indirect heat ensures even cooking without burning
• Drain extra syrup from the filling to prevent soggy bottoms
• Use a foil tent to trap heat like an oven
• Cast iron pans or foil muffin cups work well on the grill
• Add a sprinkle of salt to enhance the sweetness

Creative Variations to Try

Fruit Fillings:

• Blueberry + lemon zest
• Peach + brown sugar
• Cherry + almond extract

Extra Toppings:

• Graham cracker crumbs for a pie crust texture
• Toasted coconut flakes
• Marshmallows for s’mores vibes

Savory-Sweet Combos:

• Bacon bits and maple glaze
• Sharp cheddar and apples

Make-Ahead Tips:

• Assemble and refrigerate up to 1 day in advance
• Freeze unbaked cups and grill straight from frozen (add 5 minutes)

For more filling ideas, explore this Cinnamon Roll Hack Guide.

Serving Ideas

• Pair with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
• Serve with apple cider or warm spiced tea
• Stack on a cake stand for a dessert centerpiece
• Use as part of a brunch board or BBQ dessert platter

FAQs

Conclusion

Grilled Apple Pie Cinnamon Roll Cups are an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert that elevate everyday ingredients into something extraordinary. Whether you’re camping, grilling out, or celebrating the weekend, this recipe blends the best of grilled desserts and cinnamon-spiced baking into one unforgettable bite.

Grilled Apple Pie Cinnamon Roll Cups – Easy Smoky Dessert for the Grill

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• Author: Velma
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 dessert cups 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Grilled Apple Pie Cinnamon Roll Cups combine two nostalgic treats in one handheld dessert: flaky cinnamon rolls shaped into cups, filled with warm spiced apples, and lightly grilled for a golden, crisp finish. These easy-to-make treats are perfect for backyard barbecues, camping trips, or anytime you want to bring the charm of a campfire dessert to your outdoor party—with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 can (8-count) refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing packet)
• 1 ½ cups apple pie filling (store-bought or homemade)
• Butter or nonstick spray (for greasing grill-safe pan)
• Optional toppings: whipped cream, caramel sauce, vanilla ice cream

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Instructions

1. Prepare the grill:
   • Heat your grill to medium (about 350°F / 175°C).
   • Grease a grill-safe muffin tin or disposable foil muffin tray.
2. Shape the cups:
   • Unroll each cinnamon roll slightly and press it into a muffin cup, forming a shallow bowl.
3. Add filling:
   • Spoon a generous amount of apple pie filling into each cinnamon roll cup.
4. Grill:
   • Place the muffin tin on the grill over indirect heat.
   • Close the lid and cook for 15–20 minutes, until the rolls are golden and set.
5. Finish & serve:
   • Remove from grill and cool for 5 minutes. Drizzle with included icing.
   • Top with whipped cream, caramel, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.

Notes

• Homemade touch: Use your own apple pie filling or spice it up with extra cinnamon and nutmeg
• Change the fruit: Try with cherry, peach, or blueberry pie filling
• No grill? Bake in a 375°F oven for 15–18 minutes
• Campfire option: Cook over a covered fire using a cast-iron muffin tin and indirect heat

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Grilled
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cinnamon roll cup
• Calories: 240 kcal
• Sugar: 21g
• Sodium: 310mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 39g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 10mg