Nothing beats the warm, gooey comfort of freshly baked cinnamon rolls, especially when they’re ready in a fraction of the time thanks to an air fryer. If you’re wondering how long to cook Pillsbury cinnamon rolls in an air fryer, you’re in for a treat. This method is a game-changer—quick, easy, and delivering that perfect balance of crispy edges and soft, fluffy centers. I’ve spent plenty of mornings experimenting with my air fryer to get this just right, and I’m sharing everything you need to know to nail it every time.
Why Use an Air Fryer for Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls?
Air fryers are fantastic for baking because they circulate hot air evenly, cooking food faster than a traditional oven. For Pillsbury cinnamon rolls, this means you get that golden-brown crust and tender interior in under 10 minutes, compared to the 15-20 minutes it takes in an oven. Plus, there’s no need to heat up the whole kitchen, and cleanup is a breeze—especially if you use parchment paper. Whether it’s a rushed weekday breakfast or a lazy weekend brunch, this method delivers.
How Long to Cook Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls in an Air Fryer
The cooking time depends on the type of Pillsbury cinnamon rolls you’re using—regular (8-count can) or Grands (5-count can, larger rolls)—and your air fryer model. Here’s a breakdown based on my experience and insights from trusted sources like Pillsbury and air fryer recipe blogs:
Regular Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls (8-count can):
- Temperature: 350°F (175°C)
- Time: 6-8 minutes
- Steps: Place the rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each for air circulation. No preheating is necessary unless your air fryer manual recommends it. Check at the 6-minute mark to ensure they’re golden brown on top and cooked through. If the tops brown too quickly, flip them halfway through for even cooking.
Pillsbury Grands Cinnamon Rolls (5-count can):
- Temperature: 330°F (165°C)
- Time: 10-12 minutes
- Steps: Because Grands are larger, they need a slightly lower temperature and longer cooking time. Arrange them in a single layer, ideally with a bit of space between each. Flip them after 6 minutes to ensure the bottoms don’t stay doughy. Check at 10 minutes and add 1-2 minutes if needed.
Pro Tip: Every air fryer is different. For example, my Ninja Foodi cooks a tad faster than my friend’s Cosori, so start checking a minute or two before the recommended time to avoid overcooking. If you’re at a high altitude, you might need an extra minute or two, as one home cook noted on A Taste of Madness.
Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls
Here’s how I make these rolls in my air fryer, ensuring they’re fluffy, golden, and irresistible every time:
the Air Fryer Basket:
Lightly spray the basket with nonstick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. I prefer parchment paper for easier cleanup—Air Fryer Fanatics suggests using air fryer-specific parchment liners for the best fit. If you use foil, poke a few holes to maintain air circulation.
the Rolls:
Pop open the can (that satisfying “pop” never gets old!) and carefully separate the rolls. Place them in a single layer in the basket. For an 8-count can, you might fit all in a larger air fryer, but in a smaller 3-quart model, you may need to cook in batches. Don’t crowd them—space allows the hot air to work its magic.
the Temperature and Time:
For regular rolls, set the air fryer to 350°F and cook for 6-8 minutes. For Grands, go with 330°F for 10-12 minutes. Check halfway through and flip if the tops are browning faster than the bottoms.
While Warm:
Once done, transfer the rolls to a plate. Spread the included icing over them while they’re still warm so it melts into every crevice. If you’re feeling fancy, whip up a quick cream cheese frosting for an extra decadent touch.
and Enjoy:
These are best eaten fresh, paired with a hot cup of coffee or some fresh fruit to balance the sweetness. If you’re serving kids, they’ll love dipping them in extra icing!
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcrowd: If the rolls touch, they might not cook evenly. Cook in batches if your air fryer is small.
- Check Early: Air fryers vary in wattage and size. Start checking a minute early to prevent over-browning.
- Heavy Cream Hack: For extra moist rolls, drizzle a tablespoon of heavy cream over each roll before cooking. This trick from Wellness by Kay makes them taste closer to homemade.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes or in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.
Common Questions Answered
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
It depends on your model. Some sources, like Air Fryer Fanatics, recommend preheating to 360°F for 3-5 minutes for even cooking, while others, like A Gouda Life, skip it to save time. I usually don’t preheat my Ninja Foodi, and the rolls turn out great, but check your manual.
Can I use other brands of cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! While Pillsbury is the gold standard, brands like Annie’s or store brands work too. Just check them a minute earlier, as sizes and dough textures vary.
What if the rolls are doughy in the middle?
If the centers are undercooked, flip the rolls and add 2-3 minutes at the same temperature. Using parchment paper can sometimes reduce air circulation, so poke holes in it if needed.
Why Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls Are a Game-Changer
I used to save cinnamon rolls for special occasions because heating the oven felt like such a commitment. Now, with the air fryer, I can whip them up any morning in under 10 minutes. The texture is unbeatable—crispy on the outside, soft and gooey inside, with that warm cinnamon aroma filling the kitchen. Plus, it’s a fun way to get kids involved (my niece loves placing the rolls in the basket!). Whether you’re a busy parent or just craving a quick sweet treat, this method will make you ditch the oven for good.
Final Thoughts
Cooking Pillsbury cinnamon rolls in an air fryer is the ultimate shortcut to a warm, delicious breakfast or snack. Stick to 6-8 minutes at 350°F for regular rolls or 10-12 minutes at 330°F for Grands, and you’ll have perfect rolls every time. Experiment with your air fryer, check early, and don’t skip the icing—it’s the best part! Got a favorite way to jazz up your cinnamon rolls? Let me know in the comments—I’m always up for trying new twists, like a sprinkle of chopped pecans or a drizzle of maple syrup.
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