Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Quesadillas
A Cozy Morning Treat That Feels Like Dessert for Breakfast
Some mornings call for more than toast. They call for something warm, buttery, and gently sweet—something that fills the kitchen with the scent of cinnamon and makes the day feel softer from the very first bite. These Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Quesadillas are exactly that kind of comfort.
Golden-crisp tortillas wrap around tender, cinnamon-spiced apples, creating a breakfast that’s simple yet deeply satisfying. They come together in minutes, use pantry staples, and walk the perfect line between cozy breakfast and easy dessert. Whether you’re easing into a slow morning or treating yourself after a long week, this is the kind of recipe that feels like a little reward.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy – ready in under 15 minutes
- Minimal ingredients – just tortillas, apples, and butter
- Warm, comforting flavors – cinnamon-spiced apples in every bite
- Versatile – works for breakfast, brunch, or dessert
- Kid-friendly & crowd-pleasing
- Perfect use for leftover apple filling
Ingredients
- 4 flour tortillas (8-inch size works best)
- 2 cups apple pie filling
(or homemade cinnamon-sautéed apples) - 2 tablespoons butter, divided
Optional Add-Ins (Highly Recommended)
- Ground cinnamon (if apples aren’t heavily spiced)
- Brown sugar or honey (for extra sweetness)
- Cream cheese or mascarpone (for a creamy layer)
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or griddle
- Spatula
- Knife
- Cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Apples
If using store-bought apple pie filling, you can use it as-is or warm it gently in a skillet.
If using fresh apples:
Peel, dice, and sauté them in a pan with a little butter, cinnamon, and a touch of sugar until soft and fragrant (about 6–8 minutes).
2. Assemble the Quesadillas
Lay two tortillas flat. Spoon half of the apple filling onto one half of each tortilla, spreading evenly but not overfilling.
3. Fold
Fold the empty half of each tortilla over the filling, creating a half-moon shape. Press gently to seal.
4. Heat the Pan
Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat until foamy.
5. Cook Until Golden
Place quesadillas in the skillet. Cook 3–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crisp, flipping carefully.
Add remaining butter as needed between batches.
6. Slice & Serve
Remove from heat, cut into wedges, and serve warm.
Pro Tips
- Don’t overfill — too much apple filling can cause leaking
- Medium heat is key — high heat browns too fast before warming inside
- Press lightly with spatula for even browning
- Warm apples = better texture inside the tortilla
- Serve immediately for best crispness
Variations & Substitutions
- Cheesy Apple Quesadilla: Add a thin layer of cream cheese
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts inside
- Healthier Swap: Use whole-wheat tortillas
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter
- Dessert Style: Drizzle caramel or maple syrup before serving
Serving, Pairing & Storage Guide
How to Serve
- Plain and warm
- Dusted with powdered sugar
- With whipped cream or vanilla yogurt
Perfect Pairings
- Hot coffee or chai
- Vanilla ice cream (dessert mode)
- Fresh berries on the side
Storage
- Best eaten fresh
- Refrigerate leftovers up to 1 day
Reheating
- Skillet over low heat (best texture)
- Air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes
- Avoid microwave (softens tortillas)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead?
They’re best fresh, but you can prep the apple filling ahead.
Can I use canned apples?
Yes—apple pie filling works perfectly.
Can I make them sweet & savory?
Absolutely. Add a pinch of salt or a little sharp cheese.
Why are my quesadillas soggy?
Apples may be too wet—drain excess liquid before filling.
Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Quesadillas
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Warm apple filling if desired.
- Spoon apples onto half of each tortilla.
- Fold tortillas into half-moons.
- Melt butter in skillet over medium heat.
- Cook quesadillas 3–5 minutes per side until golden.
- Slice and serve warm.
Notes