Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls | How to Make Rolls? [Best Tips]

Indulge in the delightful world of Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls, a quicker and more convenient way to savor the classic sweetness and warmth of cinnamon-infused pastries. Today I am going to share the ingredients and recipe of these rolls.

These rolls, baked to perfection in the air fryer, offer a shortcut to fluffy, aromatic treats that boast all the comforting flavors and soft textures you love, with a touch of convenience.

What are Cinnamon Rolls?

Cinnamon rolls are a delightful baked treat that combines the richness of a soft, yeasted dough with the comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar.

They start with a dough made from flour, yeast, sugar, butter, eggs, and milk or water, creating a soft and pliable base. After the dough is mixed, kneaded, and allowed to rise, it’s rolled out into a thin rectangle.

The filling is a key component, typically comprising a luscious blend of softened butter, sugar, and ground cinnamon. This aromatic mixture is generously spread across the rolled-out dough, creating a delightful layer of sweetness and spice.

Next comes the rolling—carefully and tightly, the dough is rolled up into a log, ensuring the delicious filling is enclosed. The log is then sliced into individual rounds, each revealing a beautiful swirl of cinnamon sugar within.

Once arranged in a baking dish or on a sheet, the rolls are given time to rise again, becoming even more pillowy and tender. They’re then baked to golden perfection, filling the kitchen with the irresistible aroma of warm cinnamon and freshly baked dough.

When they emerge from the oven, slightly golden and fragrant, they’re often adorned with a glaze or icing, adding sweetness.

The combination of soft, fluffy dough, cinnamon warmth, and sugar sweetness creates a comforting and indulgent treat that’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a delightful dessert.

How to Make Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls?

Making cinnamon rolls in an air fryer is a convenient and quicker alternative to traditional oven baking. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• ¾ cup warm milk
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ½ teaspoon salt

Filling:

• ⅓ cup softened butter
• ⅔ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

For Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions Step-by-Step Guide:

Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the mixture and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the activated yeast mixture, melted butter, egg, salt, and flour. Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place for about an hour until it doubles in size.

Make the Filling: Mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl until it forms a smooth paste.

Roll and Fill: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the filling mixture evenly over the dough.

Roll Up: Carefully roll the dough into a log, starting from one of the longer sides. Seal the seam by pinching the edges together.

Cut the Rolls: Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the log into 1-inch thick slices. You should get around 8-10 rolls.

Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C).

Arrange the Rolls: Place the cinnamon rolls in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between them to allow for expansion.

Air Fry: Cook the cinnamon rolls in the air fryer for about 10-12 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Cooking time may vary depending on the air fryer model.

Prepare the Glaze: While the rolls are cooking, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract (if using) to make the glaze. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed.

Glaze and Serve: Once the cinnamon rolls are done, drizzle them with the prepared glaze while they’re still warm. Serve and enjoy!

Remember, air fryer temperatures and cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on the rolls as they cook to avoid over-browning.

What to Serve With Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls?

Cinnamon rolls are delightful on their own, but you can pair them with various accompaniments to enhance the experience:

Fresh Fruit: Serve sliced strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries alongside the cinnamon rolls for a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.

Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: Top the warm cinnamon rolls with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Coffee or Tea: Enjoy your cinnamon rolls with a cup of hot coffee, espresso, or your favorite tea to complement the sweetness with a contrasting beverage.

Breakfast Meats: For breakfast or brunch, pair them with crispy bacon or sausage links for a savory-sweet combination.

Warm Beverages: Hot chocolate, chai latte, or a steaming mug of cider can make a cozy pairing with the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls.

Nuts: Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon rolls or serve them on the side for added texture and flavor.

These accompaniments complement the sweet, aromatic flavors of the cinnamon rolls and can turn them into a more diverse and enjoyable dining experience.

Tips and Tricks for Better Taste

Here are some tips and tricks to elevate the taste of your cinnamon rolls in an air fryer:

Dough Consistency: Ensure the dough is well-kneaded and smooth before allowing it to rise. Properly risen dough leads to softer and fluffier rolls.

Filling Distribution: Spread the filling evenly across the rolled-out dough to ensure every bite is bursting with cinnamon-sugar goodness.

Room Temperature Ingredients: Use ingredients like butter and eggs at room temperature. They incorporate better into the dough and filling, enhancing the overall texture and flavor.

Proofing Time: Allow the rolls to be proofed after cutting them and before air frying. This second rise ensures they become airy and light.

Preheating the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer before adding the cinnamon rolls. This helps achieve consistent and even cooking throughout.

Check Doneness: Keep an eye on the rolls while they’re cooking to prevent over-browning. Adjust the cooking time if needed based on your air fryer’s temperature.

Glazing at the Right Time: Glaze the cinnamon rolls while they’re still warm. This allows the glaze to melt slightly and infuse into the rolls, adding extra sweetness.

Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to play with flavors! Add a hint of nutmeg or cardamom to the filling for a unique twist.

Adding Nuts or Raisins: Sprinkle chopped nuts or raisins onto the filling before rolling for extra texture and flavor variation.

Serve Fresh: Enjoy the cinnamon rolls while they’re warm for the best taste and texture. They’re most delicious right out of the air fryer.

By paying attention to these details and tweaking them based on personal preferences, you’ll create cinnamon rolls in an air fryer that are not only visually appealing but also incredibly flavorful and delightful to eat.

What to do with Leftovers

Leftover cinnamon rolls air fryer can be repurposed into delicious treats or enjoyed in various ways:

Reheat and Enjoy: Warm the leftover cinnamon rolls in the microwave for a few seconds or briefly in the air fryer to revive their warmth and softness. Enjoy them as a quick snack or dessert.

French Toast or Bread Pudding: Transform the leftover cinnamon rolls into a decadent breakfast or dessert by using them to make French toast or bread pudding. Dip slices of the rolls in a mixture of beaten eggs, milk, and cinnamon, then cook them on a skillet for French toast. For bread pudding, cube the rolls and soak them in a custard mixture before baking until set.

Crumble or Topping: Crumble leftover cinnamon rolls over ice cream, yogurt, or oatmeal to add a sweet and flavorful topping.

Cinnamon Roll Bites: Cut the leftover rolls into bite-sized pieces, dip them in melted butter, roll them in cinnamon sugar, and bake until they’re crispy for a delightful snack.

Cinnamon Roll Waffles or Pancakes: Press the leftover rolls in a waffle iron or use them as an addition to pancake batter for a twist on classic breakfast dishes.

Trifle or Parfait: Layer cubed cinnamon rolls with whipped cream, fresh fruits, and perhaps a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce to create a delicious trifle or parfait.

Freeze for Later: If you can’t finish them right away, freeze the leftover cinnamon rolls. Wrap them individually in foil or plastic wrap, place them in a freezer bag, and freeze them for up to a month. Thaw and reheat as needed.

These creative ideas can breathe new life into leftover cinnamon rolls air fryer, ensuring they’re enjoyed in different, delightful ways!

FAQs

Are cinnamon rolls better in oven or air fryer?

Both the oven and air fryer produce delicious cinnamon rolls, but the oven generally results in slightly softer interiors, while the air fryer can yield a crispier exterior. It ultimately depends on personal preference for texture and convenience.

How long to heat up cinnamon rolls in air fryer?

Heat cinnamon rolls in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 320°F (160°C) for warmed, previously baked rolls. Adjust timing based on desired warmth and the specific air fryer model.

How do you know when canned cinnamon rolls are done?

Canned cinnamon rolls are typically done when they turn golden brown and appear puffed and cooked through. Follow package instructions for suggested baking times.

How long to cook cinnamon rolls in can?

Canned cinnamon rolls usually take about 15-20 minutes to bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C). Always follow the instructions on the can for precise timing and temperature.

How to cook Pillsbury cinnamon rolls perfectly?

For Pillsbury cinnamon rolls: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place rolls in a greased pan. Bake for 15-20 mins or until golden brown. Ice while warm & enjoy!

How long do you cook Pillsbury grands cinnamon rolls?

Around 20-25 minutes at 350°F (175°C) usually does the trick for Pillsbury Grands cinnamon rolls.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to cinnamon rolls, they’re not just a treat for the taste buds but also a canvas for culinary creativity. From the comforting warmth of cinnamon to the sweet embrace of glaze, these rolls offer a delightful experience with every bite.

Whether enjoyed fresh out of the air fryer or repurposed into inventive dishes, their versatile nature makes them a delicious addition to any meal or a satisfying snack any time of day. Embrace the sweetness, savor the aroma, and indulge in the joy they bring—a delightful treat that’s sure to lift spirits and satisfy cravings!

Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls

Amy Nicholson

Air fryer cinnamon rolls are a quick and easy treat. Using pre-made cinnamon roll dough, they cook in the air fryer for about 8-10 minutes. The result is golden, crispy on the outside, and soft on the inside. It's a fuss-free way to enjoy delicious cinnamon rolls without using an oven.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 2 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Servings 8

Calories 55 kcal

Equipment

• Air Fryer

Ingredients

  

• 2 ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
• ¾ cup warm milk
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• ½ tsp salt

Instructions

 

• In a bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the mixture and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
• In a large bowl, mix the activated yeast mixture, melted butter, egg, salt, and flour. Knead the dough until it's smooth and elastic. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place for about an hour until it doubles in size.
• Mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl until it forms a smooth paste.
• Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the filling mixture evenly over the dough.
• Carefully roll the dough into a log, starting from one of the longer sides. Seal the seam by pinching the edges together.
• Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the log into 1-inch thick slices. You should get around 8-10 rolls.
• Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C).
• Place the cinnamon rolls in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between them to allow for expansion.
• Cook the cinnamon rolls in the air fryer for about 10-12 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Cooking time may vary depending on the air fryer model.
• While the rolls are cooking, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract (if using) to make the glaze. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed.
• Once the cinnamon rolls are done, drizzle them with the prepared glaze while they're still warm. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

Preparation: Ensure the air fryer basket is preheated or lightly oiled to prevent sticking.

Spacing: Leave some room between cinnamon rolls in the air fryer basket to allow air circulation for even cooking.

Check Frequently: Air fryer temperatures may vary, so keep an eye on the rolls; they might cook faster than in an oven.

Glazing: Consider applying the glaze after cooking for a more even and appealing finish.

Experiment: Try different temperatures and timings based on your air fryer model for the perfect texture and doneness.

Keyword Air Fryer, Cinnamon Rolls, Rolls