Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls: A Quick and Easy Recipe for a Warm, Gooey Delight

If you’re craving warm, gooey cinnamon rolls but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, the air fryer is here to save the day! With its ability to cook food quickly and evenly, you can make perfect cinnamon rolls in under 15 minutes. Whether you’re whipping up a cozy breakfast, a decadent dessert, or a snack, these air fryer cinnamon rolls are an easy and delicious treat. Plus, they come out fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside—just like they’re baked in a traditional oven but with far less time and effort.

Ingredients

For the Cinnamon Rolls:

• 1 can (8 count) refrigerated crescent roll dough (or cinnamon roll dough)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar (packed)
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• A pinch of salt (optional)

For the Icing:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1–2 teaspoons milk (adjust to desired consistency)

Equipment:

• Air fryer (preferably 5-6 quart capacity for optimal space)
• Small bowl (for mixing cinnamon sugar)
• A pastry brush (optional, for spreading butter)
• Small spoon or spatula (for icing)

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Step-by-Step Method:

Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling

Start by preparing the cinnamon-sugar filling that will give the rolls their signature sweet flavor. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt if you prefer an added balance. Mix them thoroughly with a spoon to ensure the cinnamon is evenly distributed throughout the sugar.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

Open the can of refrigerated crescent roll dough (or cinnamon roll dough, depending on your preference). If you’re using crescent roll dough, you’ll want to press the seams together to form a single rectangular sheet. Lay the dough flat on a clean surface (a countertop or cutting board) and use a rolling pin to slightly flatten the dough if needed. If you’re using ready-made cinnamon rolls, just unroll them and skip this step.

Step 3: Spread Butter

Using a pastry brush or a spoon, spread the softened butter evenly over the entire surface of the dough. Be generous! The butter will help the cinnamon-sugar mixture stick and create that irresistibly gooey filling inside the rolls.

Step 4: Sprinkle the Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture

Once the butter is spread, sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough. Make sure it covers the entire surface, reaching the edges for the perfect balance of sweetness in every bite.

Step 5: Roll Up the Dough

Now, carefully roll the dough from one edge to the other, making a tight log. This will help create the swirl pattern in the cinnamon rolls. Once rolled up, gently pinch the seam to seal the dough and prevent the filling from leaking out while cooking.

Step 6: Slice Into Rolls

Using a sharp knife or dental floss, slice the dough into 6–8 equal pieces. The number of rolls you get will depend on the size of your dough and the thickness of the slices. For thinner rolls, you might get 8, while thicker rolls will yield 6. Keep in mind that they should be no thicker than 1 inch to ensure they cook evenly in the air fryer.

Step 7: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 330°F (165°C). This step is crucial to ensure your cinnamon rolls cook evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown exterior. The air fryer works by circulating hot air, and starting it preheated will allow the dough to rise slightly before cooking, creating that desirable fluffy texture.

Step 8: Arrange the Rolls in the Air Fryer Basket

Lightly grease the air fryer basket or tray with non-stick spray or a bit of butter to prevent sticking. Place the cinnamon rolls in the basket in a single layer, leaving a little bit of space between each roll so that the air can circulate and cook them evenly. If your air fryer basket is small, you may need to cook them in batches.

Step 9: Cook the Cinnamon Rolls

Air fry the rolls at 330°F (165°C) for 8–10 minutes. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to make sure they don’t overcook. The rolls should be golden brown on top, with the cinnamon filling slightly oozing out the sides. You’ll also notice the air fryer’s signature crispiness on the outside.

Step 10: Make the Icing

While the cinnamon rolls are cooking, take a moment to prepare the icing. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, softened butter, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. Adjust the milk to achieve the desired consistency of the icing—add more milk for a thinner glaze or less for a thicker drizzle.

Step 11: Drizzle the Icing

Once the cinnamon rolls are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and allow them to cool for a minute or two. Drizzle the icing over the warm rolls with a spoon or spread it with a small spatula. The warmth of the rolls will make the icing melt slightly, creating that perfect glaze.

Step 12: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your air fryer cinnamon rolls while they’re warm for the best experience! The combination of the soft, fluffy dough with the crunchy edges and gooey cinnamon filling, all topped off with sweet icing, is nothing short of divine. They make for an indulgent breakfast, a decadent dessert, or a satisfying snack.

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Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls:

• Use High-Quality Dough: For the best results, use fresh, high-quality refrigerated cinnamon roll dough or crescent rolls. Some brands even have pre-sweetened dough, which adds extra flavor.
• Spacing is Key: Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Proper air circulation is essential for even cooking and crispiness.
• Keep an Eye on the Rolls: Every air fryer is a little different, so be sure to check the cinnamon rolls toward the end of cooking to prevent burning. You can always adjust the time and temperature slightly based on your model.
• Add a Little Extra Flavor: For a fun twist, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) to the cinnamon-sugar mixture, or sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top before air frying.

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Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls

• Quick and Easy: No waiting for dough to rise or using your oven. These rolls are done in under 15 minutes!
• Fluffy and Crispy: The air fryer gives them a unique texture that’s both soft on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside.
• Customizable: Adjust the sweetness or add your favorite mix-ins, like raisins or chopped chocolate.

These air fryer cinnamon rolls are the perfect treat when you’re short on time but still craving something sweet and comforting. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the cozy, delicious flavors of homemade cinnamon rolls—no oven required!

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