Air-Fried Cinnamon Rolls: A Quick, Crispy Treat

Cinnamon rolls are a wonderful treat, but they can be time-consuming to make from scratch. Fortunately, there is a quick and easy way to make delicious cinnamon rolls using Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls and an air fryer. In just a few minutes, you can have warm, fluffy, and golden brown cinnamon rolls that are perfectly cooked all the way through. This method is a great shortcut for when you're short on time but craving a sweet and tasty treat.

How to prepare the air fryer

Preparing your air fryer for use is a simple process, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure optimal performance and food safety. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare your air fryer:

• Consult the Manual: Before using your air fryer for the first time, it is important to refer to the user manual provided by the manufacturer. The manual will contain specific instructions, safety precautions, and recommendations for your particular model. It is important to familiarize yourself with these guidelines to ensure safe and proper use.
• Unpack and Inspect: Carefully unpack your air fryer from its packaging and inspect all the components for any damage or defects. This includes checking the air fryer unit itself, the basket or tray, and any accessories that come with it.
• Clean the Air Fryer: Before using your air fryer for the first time, it is recommended to clean it thoroughly. Wash the basket or tray with warm, soapy water and a soft-bristled brush to remove any dust or residue from manufacturing or shipping. Wipe down the exterior and interior surfaces of the air fryer with a damp cloth. Ensure that all parts are completely dry before proceeding.
• Placement and Ventilation: Choose a suitable location for your air fryer, preferably on a countertop or a sturdy surface near an electrical outlet. Ensure that the area has adequate ventilation by opening nearby windows or turning on the range hood fan. Air fryers can produce strong smells during the cooking process, so proper ventilation is important.
• Preheating (Optional): Some air fryer models and recipes may require preheating. However, not all air fryers need to be preheated, and you can choose to skip this step if your model and recipe allow it. If you do need to preheat your air fryer, follow the instructions in the user manual. Typically, preheating for a few minutes at the desired temperature is sufficient.
• Prepare the Basket: To prevent food from sticking to the basket or tray, it is recommended to lightly coat it with oil or cooking spray. You can use a light coat of oil, such as coconut oil or cooking spray, depending on your preference. This step will also help achieve even browning and crisping of your food.
• Food Preparation: Depending on the type of food you are cooking, you may need to prepare it before placing it in the air fryer. For proteins like chicken or fish, you can brush or spritz them with oil and season them as desired. For frozen foods or pre-prepared items, follow the package instructions for any specific preparation steps.
• Place Food in the Basket: Once your food is prepared, place it in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Ensure that there is enough space between the food items to allow for proper air circulation. Do not overcrowd the basket, as this can affect cooking performance and even cooking.
• Set Temperature and Timer: Refer to your recipe or user manual to set the appropriate temperature and cooking time for your dish. Air fryers typically cook food faster than conventional ovens, so adjust the time and temperature accordingly. Keep in mind that different foods will have different cooking requirements.
• Monitor and Adjust: During the cooking process, it is important to monitor your food to ensure even cooking and browning. Depending on your air fryer model, you may need to remove the basket or tray and shake or shuffle the food around to ensure even cooking. Adjust the temperature or cooking time as needed to achieve your desired results.

Remember to always follow food safety guidelines and handle food with care. By following these steps, your air fryer will be ready for use, and you can start enjoying the convenience and versatility of air-fried meals.

Air fryer temperature and duration

The temperature and duration for cooking Pillsbury cinnamon rolls in an air fryer vary depending on the type of roll and the air fryer model. The ideal temperature for cooking cinnamon rolls in an air fryer is between 310°F and 360°F. For a crispier texture, preheat the air fryer to 320°F.

For regular-sized Pillsbury cinnamon rolls, the cooking time ranges from 7 to 9 minutes. However, if you're using Pillsbury Grands, which are larger, the cooking time increases to 18 minutes, flipping the rolls halfway through.

It's important to note that air fryer cooking speeds vary, so you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Check on your cinnamon rolls during the last few minutes of cooking to ensure they don't burn and are cooked to your desired level of doneness.

Additionally, if you prefer your cinnamon rolls with a crispy texture, you can cook them for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Cinnamon roll preparation

Cinnamon rolls are a wonderful treat, but they can be time-consuming to make from scratch. Fortunately, you can use Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls to make delicious cinnamon rolls in your air fryer in a fraction of the time. Here is a step-by-step guide to preparing and cooking cinnamon rolls in an air fryer:

Step 1: Prepare the Air Fryer Basket

First, spray the basket of your air fryer with non-stick cooking spray. You can use coconut oil or any other type of cooking spray. This will help to ensure that the cinnamon rolls don't stick to the basket. If you prefer, you can also line the basket with perforated parchment paper, although this may increase the cooking time slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls

Remove the dough from the can and separate the rolls. If your cinnamon rolls came with icing, set it aside for now. You can also add a splash of heavy cream to the cinnamon rolls before cooking to keep them extra moist.

Step 3: Place the Cinnamon Rolls in the Air Fryer

Place the cinnamon rolls in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between them to allow the hot air to circulate. If you are using a larger air fryer, you may be able to cook multiple rolls at once. For the best results, arrange the rolls in a single layer.

Step 4: Set the Temperature and Cooking Time

Set your air fryer to the recommended temperature and cooking time. Most sources recommend cooking Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls at 350°F for 7 to 9 minutes. However, some sources suggest cooking at 360°F for 8 minutes, and others recommend preheating the air fryer to 310°F/155°C and then air frying for 10 minutes. The exact temperature and cooking time may depend on your particular air fryer and the size of the rolls, so you may need to experiment a little to find the perfect settings.

Step 5: Check and Flip the Cinnamon Rolls

Keep an eye on the cinnamon rolls during the last few minutes of cooking. Depending on your air fryer, you may need to flip the rolls halfway through to ensure even cooking. Check the rolls regularly to prevent overcooking or burning.

Step 6: Remove and Ice the Cinnamon Rolls

Once the cinnamon rolls are golden brown and cooked through, remove them from the air fryer. If desired, warm the icing in the microwave for about 15 seconds until it reaches a pourable consistency. Spread the icing evenly over the cinnamon rolls while they are still warm.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Your cinnamon rolls are now ready to serve and enjoy! You can also add a final touch of flavour by applying some salted butter before serving.

Step 8: Store Leftovers

If you have any leftover cinnamon rolls, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days or leave them on the counter for 1 to 2 days. To reheat, simply place them in the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes until warm.

Icing the cinnamon rolls

You can make your own icing by mixing powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl until you have a smooth icing. If you would like a thinner consistency, simply add a little more milk. You can also add butter to your icing for a richer flavour. If you prefer a cream cheese frosting, you can use softened cream cheese at room temperature, along with powdered sugar.

If you are using a can of Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls, the icing will be included in the package. Simply set it aside while you cook the rolls, and then spread it over the top once the rolls are cooked and slightly cooled.

If you are cooking your cinnamon rolls in an air fryer, you will not need to adjust the recipe for the icing. However, if you are cooking a larger batch of rolls in the oven, you may need to adjust the quantities of your icing ingredients accordingly.

Storing and reheating the cinnamon rolls

Storing cinnamon rolls is a great way to keep them fresh and soft for later consumption. If your cinnamon rolls are unfrosted, you can store them at room temperature for up to 2 days. Wrap the rolls tightly in plastic wrap and seal them in an airtight container or layer of aluminum foil, ensuring they are protected from direct sunlight.

If you wish to store the cinnamon rolls for a longer period, refrigeration is recommended, especially if the rolls are iced with cream cheese icing. Before placing them in the fridge, seal the rolls tightly with plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. The rolls can be safely stored in the fridge for 3 to 4 days before reheating and indulging.

For extended storage, freezing is an option. Wrap the cinnamon rolls well with plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and seal them in an airtight container before freezing for up to 2 months. If the cinnamon rolls are already iced, it is recommended to consume them within a month of freezing.

When you're ready to enjoy your stored cinnamon rolls, there are several reheating methods to choose from:

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 275°F and place a cup of water in a shallow baking dish on a lower shelf. Put the cinnamon rolls on a baking pan and bake for 8-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a cinnamon roll on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in short intervals, checking every 10 seconds, until you achieve your desired temperature. For a softer and gooier texture, consider wrapping the roll in a damp paper towel before microwaving.
• Air fryer: Set the air fryer to 300°F and place the cinnamon roll in the basket for about 3 minutes to warm it up.
• Stovetop: If you don't have access to an oven, microwave, or air fryer, you can reheat the cinnamon rolls on a stovetop. Simply place the cinnamon rolls in a pan and heat them over low heat for a few minutes, flipping them occasionally, until they are warmed through.

Frequently asked questions