Weight Watchers-Friendly Apple Cinnamon Roll Bake Recipe

This Weight Watchers-Friendly Apple Cinnamon Roll Bake is a delicious twist on a traditional cinnamon roll bake that has been reimagined to fit within your WW SmartPoints budget. Perfect for a family breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this dish combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls, apple pie filling, and a touch of nuts for extra crunch, while keeping it lower in points.

In this guide, we will walk you through every step of the process, from ingredients to detailed instructions, all designed to help you create this WW low point apple cinnamon roll bake that fits seamlessly into your Weight Watchers journey. With the right ingredients and modifications, this recipe will become one of your go-to indulgent treats without the guilt. Let’s explore this simple yet fantastic recipe!

Ingredients for WW-Friendly Apple Cinnamon Roll Bake

To make this recipe Weight Watchers-friendly, we’ve swapped a few ingredients for lower-calorie alternatives. The final result still has all the delicious flavors of the original dish, but with fewer SmartPoints per serving. Below are the ingredients you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dessert.

For the Bake:

2 cans (8 oz each) of reduced-fat cinnamon rolls (look for a WW-friendly or light version): These will form the base of your bake while keeping the calorie count and SmartPoints low.
1 can (21 oz) sugar-free apple pie filling: The sugar-free version ensures fewer carbs and calories, making it a much healthier option than traditional apple pie filling.
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans: Adds a nice crunch and some healthy fats. Walnuts or pecans are great for boosting the flavor and texture without adding too many points.
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce: This helps with moisture and sweetness while keeping the SmartPoints low.
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Enhances the flavor of the apples and cinnamon rolls, adding warmth and spice.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds richness to the flavor profile of the dish.

For the Topping:

Cinnamon roll icing (from the cans of cinnamon rolls): Keep this topping light and use sparingly once the dish comes out of the oven. This will give it that familiar cinnamon roll sweetness without going overboard on points.

Equipment Needed

Here’s a list of the kitchen equipment you’ll need to make this Weight Watchers-friendly Apple Cinnamon Roll Bake:

9×13-inch baking dish: This is the ideal size for the recipe, ensuring even baking and enough room for all of the ingredients to fit comfortably.
Large mixing bowl: To combine the apple filling, cinnamon rolls, and nuts together.
Measuring spoons and cups: For accurate measurements of ingredients like cinnamon, applesauce, and walnuts.
Knife: To chop the nuts and cinnamon rolls into smaller pieces.
Spoon or spatula: To mix the ingredients together and spread them evenly in the baking dish.
Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) for the perfect bake.

Step-by-Step Instructions for WW-Friendly Apple Cinnamon Roll Bake

Now, let’s break down how to make this simple and tasty WW-Friendly Apple Cinnamon Roll Bake. Each step is designed to maximize flavor while keeping the dish within your SmartPoints budget.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Quarter the cinnamon rolls: Open the cans of reduced-fat cinnamon rolls and cut each roll into four equal pieces. This will allow them to distribute more evenly throughout the dish and help the other ingredients blend together better.
Chop the walnuts or pecans: If you haven’t already, chop your walnuts or pecans into small pieces. This will help distribute the crunch more evenly and allow the flavor to shine throughout the dish.
Add the apple pie filling: Open the can of sugar-free apple pie filling and stir to ensure it’s smooth. You can even chop the apples into smaller pieces if you prefer smaller chunks of apple in the dish.
Mix in cinnamon and applesauce: In a large bowl, combine the sugar-free apple pie filling, 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Stir to combine and set aside.

Step 2: Assemble the Dish

Layer the ingredients in the baking dish: Spray your 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the bake from sticking. Then, add the quartered cinnamon rolls to the dish.
Add the apple mixture: Pour the apple pie filling mixture over the cinnamon rolls in the baking dish. Use a spoon to spread it out evenly and ensure the apples and sauce coat all of the cinnamon roll pieces.
Top with chopped nuts: Sprinkle the chopped walnuts or pecans over the top of the mixture. This adds texture, flavor, and a little extra crunch to the bake.

Step 3: Bake the Apple Cinnamon Roll Bake

Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to preheat fully before placing the dish inside.
Bake for 45 minutes: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the cinnamon rolls are fully cooked through, the apple filling is bubbly, and the top is golden brown. You can check the doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the dish — it should come out clean when the dish is done.
Cool for a few minutes: Once the bake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes. This will help set the dish, making it easier to serve.

Step 4: Add the Icing and Serve

Drizzle the icing: Once the bake has cooled slightly, drizzle the cinnamon roll icing that came with the cans of cinnamon rolls over the top of the dish. You can be sparing with the icing to keep the SmartPoints low, or use the whole packet for a richer flavor.
Serve and enjoy: Slice into 9 generous servings, serve, and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this apple cinnamon roll bake.

Tips and Variations for WW-Friendly Apple Cinnamon Roll Bake

Use a different fruit: If apples aren’t your favorite, feel free to swap them for another fruit, like pears, peaches, or berries. Just make sure the fruit is cut into small chunks so they cook evenly.
Go nut-free: If you prefer a nut-free dessert, you can skip the walnuts or pecans and add a sprinkle of oats for crunch or just leave them out entirely.
Sweetener adjustments: If you want a little extra sweetness, feel free to add a touch of sugar substitute like Stevia or Monk Fruit. This will help keep the SmartPoints low while still satisfying your sweet cravings.
Add a dollop of whipped cream: For an extra special treat, serve this dish with a dollop of sugar-free whipped cream or a scoop of low-fat vanilla ice cream for a dessert that feels indulgent without the high SmartPoints.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

This recipe serves 9. Below is the nutritional breakdown for one serving of the WW-Friendly Apple Cinnamon Roll Bake:

Calories: 220 kcal
Total Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
Protein: 4g
Total Carbs: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Net Carbs: 23g
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 250mg
Cholesterol: 25mg

Weight Watchers SmartPoints: 6 SmartPoints per serving

This recipe provides a satisfying dessert or breakfast option that fits perfectly into your WW SmartPoints plan while keeping you full and satisfied without going over your points for the day.

Final Thoughts on WW-Friendly Apple Cinnamon Roll Bake

The WW-Friendly Apple Cinnamon Roll Bake is an incredibly easy, crowd-pleasing dish that can be made ahead of time and baked when needed. With its sweet apple filling, soft cinnamon rolls, and crunchy nuts, it’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. Plus, it fits perfectly within your Weight Watchers SmartPoints goal, making it an indulgent yet balanced option for anyone following the WW program.

This dish proves that you don’t need to sacrifice flavor when following a healthier eating plan. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or just treating yourself to something special, this low-point apple cinnamon roll bake is sure to become a staple in your WW recipe collection. Enjoy every bite, guilt-free!

Weight Watchers-Friendly Apple Cinnamon Roll Bake