This Apple Cinnamon Bun Cookie Cobbler is the ultimate dessert, combining tender cinnamon-spiced apples with a gooey, cookie-like topping. Topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, it’s a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and comforting flavors. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday meal, a family gathering, or simply as a sweet treat, this dessert is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Apple Cinnamon Bun Cookie Cobbler is everything you love about apple pie and cinnamon buns combined. The soft apples, lightly spiced with cinnamon, create a deliciously tender base, while the cookie topping gives the dish a perfect, slightly crispy contrast. The cream cheese frosting takes it to another level, making every bite irresistible. It’s easy to make, comforting, and perfect for any occasion!

Apple Cinnamon Bun Cookie Cobbler

Ingredients

For the Cobbler:

5 large apples (Honeycrisp recommended), peeled and diced
2/3 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp lemon juice
2 1/4 cups Cinnamon Bun Cookie Mix (or sugar cookie mix with 1 tsp cinnamon and 1/2 cup cinnamon chips)
1 cup unsalted butter, melted (e.g., Plugra butter)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

4 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
1 cup powdered sugar
1/4 tsp vanilla extract
Milk (to thin the frosting, as needed)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For the Cobbler:

Cook the apples:
In a large sauté pan over medium heat, add the diced apples, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Cook down until the apples are tender, about 10 minutes.
Prepare the baking dish:
Spray a 9-x-13-inch baking dish with baking spray or butter. (Note: The recipe was photographed in an 8-x-8 pan for visual effect, but the 9×13 dish works perfectly for larger servings.)
Assemble the cobbler:
Pour the cooked apple mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the cinnamon bun cookie mix evenly over the apples. Then, pour the melted butter over the cookie mix to create a buttery, golden topping.
Bake:
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

For the Frosting:

Make the frosting:
Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
Add the powdered sugar:
With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the powdered sugar, 1/2 cup at a time, until smooth and creamy.
Finish the frosting:
Beat in the vanilla extract, and thin the frosting with milk if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Top the cobbler:
Once the cobbler has cooled, drizzle or pipe the cream cheese frosting over the top. You can create a crisscross pattern or cover the entire top, depending on your preference.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6 servings (or more, depending on portion size)
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
Caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top for extra sweetness.
Vegan Version: Use a dairy-free butter and cream cheese substitute to make it vegan-friendly.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Storage: Store leftover cobbler in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes to warm it through before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, you can use other apples like Granny Smith or Gala, but Honeycrisp apples are the best for their balance of sweetness and tartness.

2. Can I make this cobbler ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the cobbler and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. Just add the frosting after baking and cooling.

3. Can I use a pre-made cookie mix?

Yes, you can use a pre-made cinnamon bun or sugar cookie mix for convenience, but homemade mixes or homemade cookie dough will elevate the flavor.

4. How can I make the cobbler even sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter cobbler, increase the amount of sugar for the apple mixture or add extra frosting on top.

5. Can I freeze this cobbler?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled cobbler (without the frosting) for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and then add the frosting.

6. Can I use a different frosting?

You can substitute the cream cheese frosting with whipped cream or vanilla icing, but the cream cheese gives it a rich, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the apples.

7. How do I prevent the cobbler from getting too soggy?

Let the apple mixture cool slightly before adding it to the dish, and be sure to bake the cobbler long enough to achieve a crispy topping.

8. Can I use a smaller pan for this recipe?

Yes, using a smaller pan (like an 8×8) will work, but the cobbler may be thicker, and the baking time may need to be adjusted slightly.

9. How do I know when the cobbler is done?

The cobbler is done when the top is golden brown and the apples are tender. A toothpick inserted into the topping should come out clean.

10. How do I store leftover frosting?

If you have leftover frosting, store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Let it come to room temperature before using it again.

Conclusion

Apple Cinnamon Bun Cookie Cobbler is a delicious and comforting dessert that combines the best flavors of fall. With tender apples, a gooey cookie crust, and a rich cream cheese frosting, it’s the perfect dessert to enjoy after a cozy meal. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday dinner or just because, this cobbler will be a hit with everyone!