Air-Fryer Cinnamon Rolls: A Quick, Crispy Treat?

Cinnamon rolls are a beloved treat, but baking them can be a lengthy process. Fortunately, air fryers offer a quick and easy alternative to baking Pillsbury cinnamon rolls, with some recipes requiring just one ingredient and taking less than 10 minutes to cook. Air-fried Pillsbury cinnamon rolls are said to be crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and moist in the middle.

Air fryer temperature and timing

Air frying Pillsbury cinnamon rolls is a quick and convenient way to make this delicious treat. The best part is that it takes less than 10 minutes!

The ideal temperature for cooking Pillsbury cinnamon rolls in an air fryer is between 340-360˚F. If you are using a Ninja air fryer, you can skip preheating the air fryer. However, if you are using a different type of air fryer, it is recommended to preheat it to 310˚F.

The cooking time for Pillsbury cinnamon rolls in an air fryer is typically around 8-10 minutes. It is important to keep an eye on the rolls during the cooking process, as the timing may vary depending on the size of the rolls and the specific model of the air fryer. For larger rolls, such as the Pillsbury Grands, 8-10 minutes at 350˚F should be sufficient. For smaller rolls, 5-6 minutes at the same temperature, followed by 2-4 minutes on the other side, is recommended.

If you want your cinnamon rolls to be crispy, you can cook them for an additional 1-2 minutes. It is also a good idea to check on the rolls after about 6-7 minutes, as different air fryers have different cooking times and temperatures. Flipping the rolls halfway through the cooking process is also recommended to ensure even browning and cooking.

Preparing the air fryer basket

Step 1: Line the Basket

It is recommended to line the air fryer basket with parchment paper. This helps to ensure even cooking and makes clean-up easier. Parchment paper specifically designed for air fryers is available, which fits over the holes and maintains air circulation while preventing sticking. Alternatively, you can use aluminium foil, which is also suitable for air fryers.

Step 2: Spray the Basket

Once your basket is lined, it is a good idea to spray it with a cooking spray. Coconut oil cooking spray is a popular choice, but other options are available. This step adds a bit of extra insurance against sticking and gives your cinnamon rolls a nice, even finish.

Step 3: Place the Cinnamon Rolls

Now it's time to place your cinnamon rolls in the basket. If using a pre-made variety, like Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls, arrange them in a single layer, ensuring they are evenly spaced. If you are making your cinnamon rolls from scratch, you may want to place them in a pan before putting them in the basket, or cook them directly on the parchment paper.

Step 4: Set the Temperature and Timer

Before you turn on your air fryer, it is essential to consult the recipe you are following for specific temperature and timing instructions. Different recipes may require slightly different temperatures and cooking times. For example, some recipes suggest cooking at 360 degrees Fahrenheit for 8 minutes, while others recommend 340 degrees Fahrenheit for 9 minutes. Always refer to your chosen recipe for the best results.

Preparing the cinnamon roll dough

Ingredients:

• All-purpose flour or bread flour (bread flour will make the rolls chewier)
• White granulated sugar (for flavour and to feed the yeast)
• Salt
• Whole milk, buttermilk, or non-dairy milk (avoid using low-fat or nonfat milk)
• Butter (at room temperature)
• Egg
• Yeast (use a strong and dependable variety, such as Platinum Yeast from Red Star or Fleischmann’s® RapidRise® Yeast for faster activation)

Optional Ingredients:

• Brown sugar (for an extra depth of flavour)
• Cinnamon (a must-have for cinnamon rolls!)
• Sour cream

Instructions:

• Combine 3/4 cup of warm milk with the yeast in a medium bowl. Let this stand until the mixture becomes foamy, which should take about 10 minutes.
• In a separate bowl, stir together melted butter, sugar, sour cream, egg, and 1/4 cup of milk.
• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. You should gradually add the flour in phases to properly hydrate the dough.
• Stir half of the flour mixture into the butter mixture.
• With a mixer on low speed, add the yeast mixture and beat until combined.
• Beat in the remaining flour mixture.
• Switch to a dough hook attachment and beat at medium speed until the dough is smooth and elastic, which should take about 4 minutes. You can add a little more flour if needed, but the dough should not be sticky.
• Once the dough is prepared, let it rest for about 10 minutes. This will allow the gluten to settle and relax, making it easier to roll out.
• Roll out the dough and spread softened butter on top, leaving a 1/2-inch border around all edges. This border will help the cinnamon rolls seal up at the ends.
• Sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon on top of the butter, spreading them evenly.
• Roll the dough from the longest end to create a giant log.
• Let the log rest, then press the two ends towards the centre to condense it slightly and undo any stretching that occurred during rolling.

Once the dough is prepared, you can cut the rolls and place them in your air fryer! Remember to adjust the cooking time as needed, as all air fryers heat differently. Enjoy your freshly baked cinnamon rolls!

Icing the cinnamon rolls

Icing cinnamon rolls is a simple process, but it can be made even easier by preparing the icing while the rolls are cooking. This can be done by mixing powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl until you have a smooth icing. If you prefer your icing to be thinner, you can add more milk. If you want the icing to be absorbed into the dough, spread it on the cinnamon rolls while they are still hot. If you would like the icing to remain on top, wait until the rolls have cooled to room temperature before adding it.

If you are using Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls, you will need to set the icing that comes with the package aside before placing the rolls in the air fryer. Once the rolls are cooked and cooled, you can add the icing.

If you are making cinnamon rolls from scratch, you can make a cream cheese frosting by mixing cream cheese, butter, vanilla yogurt, and powdered sugar. This frosting can be made vegan by substituting the cream cheese and butter with yogurt.

Storing and reheating the cinnamon rolls

Storing cinnamon rolls

If you have leftover cinnamon rolls, you can store them at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. Wrap the rolls tightly in plastic and seal them in an airtight container or a layer of aluminium foil, leaving the rolls at room temperature but out of direct sunlight.

If you want to store the rolls for up to 3 to 4 days, or if the rolls are already iced, it's best to store them in the fridge. Before refrigerating, seal the rolls tightly with plastic wrap and then in an airtight container. The rolls can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days before reheating and enjoying.

If you wish to store cinnamon rolls for more than just a few days, you'll want to freeze them. Wrap the rolls well with plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminium foil before sealing in an airtight container and freezing for up to 2 months. If the rolls are already iced, they can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Reheating cinnamon rolls

There are several ways to reheat your cinnamon rolls, including using an oven, microwave, or air fryer.

Oven: Preheat the oven to 275°F and place a cup of water in a shallow baking dish on a lower shelf of the oven. Place the cinnamon roll on a baking pan and bake for 10-15 minutes or until the roll is warmed through. You can also add a bit of butter on top of the cinnamon roll to make the top extra gooey.

Microwave: Place a roll on a microwave-safe plate and heat it to your desired temperature. Every microwave is different, so start slow, checking every 10 seconds or so. You can also lightly wrap the roll in a dampened paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute, depending on your microwave's wattage.

Air fryer: Turn the heat to 300°F and place the cinnamon roll in the air fryer basket, on a baking pan or a piece of aluminium foil. Cook for about 3 minutes.

Frequently asked questions