How Long to Cook Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls in Air Fryer

Warm and fluffy cinnamon rolls, made right at home. Enjoy a sweet treat with these frosted Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls. You’ll be amazed at how delicious cinnamon rolls in the air fryer are!

Air fryers have revolutionized quick and easy cooking, and making Pillsbury cinnamon rolls in one is a game-changer for breakfast or a sweet snack. This method delivers golden-brown, fluffy rolls with a slightly crispy exterior in a fraction of the time compared to a traditional oven. Below, we’ll dive into the specifics of how long to cook Pillsbury cinnamon rolls in an air fryer, tips for perfect results, and answers to common questions to ensure your rolls come out just right.

Why Use an Air Fryer for Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls?

Using an air fryer to cook Pillsbury cinnamon rolls offers several advantages. The hot air circulation in an air fryer ensures even cooking, giving the rolls a delightful texture—crisp on the outside and soft, gooey on the inside. Unlike an oven, which can take 15-20 minutes plus preheating, an air fryer can have your rolls ready in as little as 6-12 minutes, depending on the size and model. It’s also a great option for small households or when you don’t want to heat up the entire kitchen. Plus, cleanup is minimal, especially if you use parchment paper or a light spray of oil.

How Long to Cook Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls in an Air Fryer

The cooking time for Pillsbury cinnamon rolls in an air fryer varies based on the type of rolls (regular or Grands), the air fryer model, and your preferred texture. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

• Regular-Sized Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls (8-count can): These typically cook in 6-9 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Check at the 6-minute mark to ensure they’re not overbrowning, and flip them halfway through for even cooking. If they’re not fully cooked in the center, add 1-2 minutes.
• Pillsbury Grands Cinnamon Rolls (5-count can): These larger rolls require 10-12 minutes at 330°F (165°C). Flip them after 6 minutes to prevent the tops from getting too dark while ensuring the centers are fully cooked.

Since air fryers vary in wattage and size, always monitor your first batch closely. For example, a Ninja Foodi might cook faster than a smaller 3-quart model, so checking for doneness is key. The rolls are ready when they’re golden brown on top and cooked through in the middle.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls

To achieve the best results, follow these steps tailored for Pillsbury cinnamon rolls:

1. Prepare the Air Fryer: If your air fryer requires preheating, set it to 350°F for regular rolls or 330°F for Grands, and preheat for 3-5 minutes. Some models, like the Cosori, don’t need preheating, saving even more time.
2. Line the Basket (Optional): Place a piece of parchment paper or air fryer-specific liners in the basket to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Alternatively, lightly spray the basket with nonstick cooking spray, such as coconut or avocado oil. Avoid using foil, as it can cause uneven cooking by heating the bottoms too much.
3. Arrange the Rolls: Open the can of Pillsbury cinnamon rolls and carefully separate them. Place the rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving a small gap (about 1-2 inches) between each for air circulation. If your air fryer is small, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
4. Cook the Rolls: Set the air fryer to the appropriate temperature (350°F for regular, 330°F for Grands). Cook regular rolls for 6-8 minutes, flipping at the 3-4 minute mark. For Grands, cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping after 6 minutes. Check for doneness by ensuring the tops are golden and the centers are no longer doughy.
5. Add the Icing: While the rolls cook, warm the included icing in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to make it pourable. Once the rolls are done, transfer them to a plate and spread or drizzle the icing over them while they’re still warm for maximum gooeyness.
6. Serve Immediately: Enjoy the rolls fresh from the air fryer for the best flavor and texture. Pair them with fresh fruit, bacon, or a hot cup of coffee for a complete breakfast experience.

Tips for the Best Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls

• Don’t Skip the Flip: Flipping the rolls halfway through ensures even browning and prevents raw centers, especially with larger Grands rolls.
• Check Early: Air fryer models differ, so check your rolls a minute or two before the recommended time to avoid overcooking.
• Enhance the Flavor: For a homemade touch, try adding a splash of heavy cream over the rolls before cooking, as suggested by Wellness by Kay. This keeps them extra moist and fluffy. You can also swap the included icing for homemade cream cheese frosting or add toppings like chopped pecans or a drizzle of maple syrup.
• Storage and Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for 3-5 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes or in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to restore softness.

Common Questions and Troubleshooting

Why are my cinnamon rolls raw in the middle? If the centers are doughy, you may have overcrowded the basket or not flipped the rolls. Try cooking in smaller batches and flipping halfway through. If needed, add 1-2 minutes to the cooking time.

Can I use other brands of cinnamon rolls? Yes, brands like Annie’s or store brands work similarly, but check them earlier (around 5-6 minutes) as sizes and dough compositions vary.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer? Preheating is recommended for most models to ensure even cooking, but some, like certain Ninja or Cosori models, don’t require it. Check your air fryer’s manual.

Can I cook frozen cinnamon rolls? If using frozen Pillsbury rolls, add 2-3 minutes to the cooking time at the same temperature, checking for doneness.

Why This Method Stands Out

Compared to oven baking, the air fryer method is faster, more energy-efficient, and delivers a unique texture that many prefer. The recipes found online, such as those on Pillsbury’s official site, often lack detailed troubleshooting or tips for different air fryer models, which can lead to uneven results. This guide addresses those gaps by offering precise times, temperatures, and practical advice for various scenarios, ensuring your cinnamon rolls are consistently delicious.

Hot and Fluffy Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls are about to become a new family favorite! It’s the easiest, best way to cook cinnamon rolls in a fraction of the time and works with every brand of canned cinnamon rolls. Use Pillsbury, Annie’s Homegrown, Immaculate Baking Co, Great Value, etc!