Can You Make Cinnamon Rolls in the Air Fryer

Can You Make Cinnamon Rolls in the Air Fryer? A Step-by-Step Guide to Perfectly Fluffy Treats

There’s something undeniably comforting about the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through the kitchen. But let’s be real—sometimes you don’t have the time or energy to fire up the oven and wait for those sweet, gooey rolls to bake. Enter the air fryer: a game-changer for quick, delicious cinnamon rolls that don’t skimp on flavor or texture. If you’ve ever wondered, “Can you make cinnamon rolls in the air fryer?” the answer is a resounding yes! Whether you’re using canned Pillsbury rolls or whipping up a batch from scratch, the air fryer delivers warm, fluffy cinnamon rolls in a fraction of the time. Here’s everything you need to know to nail this easy, crowd-pleasing treat.

Why Use an Air Fryer for Cinnamon Rolls?

Air fryers are like mini convection ovens, circulating hot air to cook food evenly and quickly. This makes them ideal for cinnamon rolls, giving you a crispy, golden exterior and a soft, gooey center without heating up your entire kitchen. Compared to traditional oven baking, which can take 15-20 minutes, air fryer cinnamon rolls are often ready in under 10 minutes. Plus, cleanup is a breeze—especially if you use parchment paper or a light spritz of cooking spray. Whether you’re making a quick breakfast for the kids or a last-minute dessert, the air fryer is your shortcut to cinnamon roll heaven.

Using Canned Cinnamon Rolls in the Air Fryer

For most of us, canned cinnamon rolls (like Pillsbury Grands) are the go-to for convenience. They’re pre-made, pre-cut, and come with icing, so you’re just a few steps away from a warm, indulgent treat. Here’s how to make them in your air fryer:

Ingredients:

• 1 can of refrigerated cinnamon rolls (e.g., Pillsbury Grands, 5-count or 8-count)
• Non-stick cooking spray or parchment paper
• Optional: Heavy cream for extra moist rolls

Instructions:

1. Prep the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 320-350°F (160-175°C) for about 3 minutes. While preheating isn’t always necessary, it helps ensure even cooking. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray or line it with air fryer-safe parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Arrange the Rolls: Open the can of cinnamon rolls and carefully separate them. Place the rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving about 1-2 inches of space between each roll to allow for expansion. If your air fryer is small, you may need to cook in batches.
3. Add a Moist Touch (Optional): For extra gooey rolls, drizzle a tablespoon of heavy cream over each roll before cooking. This trick, popularized by food bloggers, mimics the texture of homemade rolls by keeping the interior soft and moist.
4. Cook: Air fry at 320-350°F for 6-10 minutes, depending on your air fryer and the size of the rolls. For 5-count Pillsbury Grands, aim for 8-10 minutes; for smaller 8-count rolls, check at 5-6 minutes. Flip the rolls halfway through to ensure even browning. Keep an eye on them, as air fryer models vary, and you want a golden top without overcooking.
5. Frost and Serve: Remove the rolls from the air fryer and let them cool for 1-2 minutes. Spread the included icing over the warm rolls for that classic gooey finish. Serve immediately for the best flavor.

Tips for Success:

• If the tops brown too quickly, flip the rolls earlier or lower the temperature slightly to 320°F.
• For a fun twist, try adding a sprinkle of chopped pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce after icing.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes for that fresh-baked texture.

Making Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch in the Air Fryer

If you’re feeling ambitious, homemade cinnamon rolls in the air fryer are just as achievable and arguably even more rewarding. The air fryer’s rapid cooking time means you can enjoy from-scratch rolls without the long wait. Here’s a simplified recipe inspired by Healthful Blondie that yields soft, fluffy rolls with a healthier cream cheese frosting.

Ingredients for Dough:

• 1 cup warm milk (110°F, not hot)
• 2 ¼ tsp instant yeast
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

Ingredients for Filling:

• 2 tbsp softened butter
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon

Ingredients for Frosting:

• 2 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup vanilla Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp maple syrup

Instructions:

1. Make the Dough: In a microwave-safe bowl, warm the milk in 20-second intervals until it reaches 110°F. Whisk in sugar and yeast, letting it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add melted butter, salt, and flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead by hand for 5 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling: Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Roll the dough into a ¼-inch thick rectangle on a floured surface. Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly.
3. Shape the Rolls: Roll the dough tightly from the long side and cut into 8 equal pieces. Place the rolls in a parchment-lined air fryer basket, leaving space for expansion.
4. Cook: Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Air fry the rolls for 5 minutes, flip, then cook for 2-3 more minutes until golden and cooked through.
5. Frost: Mix cream cheese, vanilla yogurt, and maple syrup until smooth. Spread over warm rolls and enjoy!

Tips for Homemade Rolls:

• Use fresh instant yeast to ensure a good rise. If the dough doesn’t double in size, your yeast may be expired.
• Don’t overheat the milk, as it can kill the yeast. A food thermometer is your friend here.
• For a festive twist, add orange zest to the frosting or mix in chopped nuts with the filling.

Common Questions and Troubleshooting

Can I use any brand of canned cinnamon rolls? Absolutely! While Pillsbury is a popular choice, brands like Annie’s or store brands work just as well. Adjust cooking time slightly for smaller or larger rolls, checking for doneness around the 5-6 minute mark.

Why are my rolls doughy in the middle? This can happen if the temperature is too high, cooking the outside too quickly. Lower the temperature to 320°F and extend the cooking time by 1-2 minutes. Flipping halfway also helps.

Can I make cinnamon rolls without parchment paper? Yes, a light spray of cooking spray like avocado or olive oil works well to prevent sticking. Avoid coconut oil, as its low smoke point can affect flavor.

How do I store and reheat? Store unfrosted rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes or in the microwave for 20 seconds.

Why Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls Are a Game-Changer

The air fryer isn’t just a trendy gadget—it’s a practical tool for busy mornings or impromptu dessert cravings. Canned rolls offer unmatched convenience, while homemade versions let you control the ingredients for a fresher, customizable treat. Either way, the air fryer’s speed and even cooking make it a superior choice to traditional baking. As The Kitchn notes, air fryer cinnamon rolls are a revelation for their quick prep and consistent results.

So, next time you’re craving that warm, cinnamon-sugar goodness, skip the oven and reach for your air fryer. Whether you’re popping open a can or rolling out homemade dough, you’ll have fluffy, golden cinnamon rolls on the table in no time. What’s your favorite way to enjoy them—classic icing, cream cheese frosting, or maybe a drizzle of caramel? Let me know in the comments below!