Cinnamon Bites: Air Fryer Magic In Minutes

Cinnamon bites are a fun and tasty treat to make in an air fryer. They are quick and easy to make, taking under 30 minutes, and are a great addition to a breakfast spread or dessert. You can use pre-made cinnamon roll dough, such as Pillsbury, or make your own dough from scratch. The dough is cut into bite-sized pieces, air-fried, and then tossed in cinnamon sugar. They can be served with a sweet dip, such as cream cheese icing or an orange-flavored creamy dip.

Cinnamon roll bites prep

Ingredients

To make cinnamon roll bites in an air fryer, you will need the following ingredients:

• Cinnamon rolls (pre-made or from scratch)
• Sugar (granulated, white, or brown)
• Cinnamon
• Cream cheese (optional)
• Butter (optional)
• Powdered sugar (optional)
• Milk (optional)
• Orange peel (optional)
• Orange juice (optional)

Equipment

You will also need an air fryer and the following equipment:

• Knife or pizza cutter
• Air fryer basket or tray
• Parchment paper or aluminium foil
• Large resealable plastic bag or bowl
• Small bowl (if making the dip)
• Electric mixer (if making the dip)
• Dipping dish (if making the dip)

Cinnamon Roll Prep

First, preheat your air fryer to 325-350°F. Line the bottom of the air fryer basket or tray with parchment paper or aluminium foil.

Next, prepare your cinnamon rolls. If using pre-made cinnamon rolls, pop open the can and separate the rolls. If making the dough from scratch, roll out your dough and cut into small pieces. For bite-sized pieces, cut each roll into 4-6 equal pieces.

Place the cinnamon roll pieces in a single layer in the air fryer, making sure they don't touch. You may need to cook in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.

Cooking

Cook the cinnamon roll bites for 3-6 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness. For a doughy texture, cook for a shorter amount of time. For a crunchier, golden bite, cook for a few minutes longer. Use a toothpick to check if they are cooked through; insert it into the centre of a bite-sized piece, and if it comes out clean, they are ready.

When the cinnamon roll bites are done, carefully remove them from the air fryer. If you prefer your bites warm, you can pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.

Cinnamon Sugar Coating

While the bites are cooking, prepare the cinnamon sugar coating by mixing cinnamon and sugar in a large resealable plastic bag or a bowl. As soon as the bites come out of the air fryer, drop or place them into the cinnamon-sugar mixture and shake to coat.

Icing or Dip

If you are using pre-made cinnamon rolls, set aside the packaged icing that comes with it. You can warm it up by bringing it to room temperature in your hands or by warming it for about 6 seconds in the microwave. Add the icing to a small dipping dish and serve it alongside the warm cinnamon roll bites.

Alternatively, you can make a dip by combining cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, the reserved icing, and milk in a small bowl. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until you reach a dipping consistency. You can also add orange peel and orange juice to the mixture for an orange-flavoured creamy dip.

Air fryer settings

To make cinnamon bites in an air fryer, you will need to preheat your air fryer to a temperature between 325°F and 400°F. The temperature you choose will depend on the model of your air fryer and your personal preference for the texture of the cinnamon bites. A lower temperature will produce a softer, doughier bite, while a higher temperature will result in a crunchier, golden bite.

Once the air fryer has preheated, you can place the cinnamon bites inside. It is important to ensure that the bites do not touch each other and that they are arranged in a single layer. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the bites in batches.

The cooking time will vary depending on the temperature of your air fryer and the desired level of doneness. For a softer bite, cook for around 3-5 minutes. If you prefer them golden and crispy, cook for closer to 6 minutes. Keep a close eye on the bites as they cook, as the high heat of the air fryer can quickly turn them from golden to burnt.

When the cinnamon bites are done to your liking, carefully remove them from the air fryer. They will be very hot, so it is important to use tongs or oven mitts to protect your hands. If you are cooking in batches, you can keep the cooked bites warm by placing them in a low oven or microwave for a few seconds.

It is important to note that air fryer models can vary significantly in terms of cook times and temperatures. Always refer to your air fryer's manual for general cook times and adjust the temperature and cooking time as needed. Additionally, be sure to use a timer when cooking the cinnamon bites, as they can quickly overcook and become hard.

Cooking times

The cooking time for cinnamon bites in an air fryer depends on the consistency you want to achieve. If you prefer your cinnamon bites to be doughy, set your air fryer to 325°F and cook for 5 minutes. If you want a crunchier, golden bite, leave them in for 6 minutes.

If you are cooking in batches, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. For example, one source suggests cooking the first batch for 3 minutes, turning the bites over, and then cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes or until golden brown. The same source also suggests that if you are cooking in an oven, you can bake at 375°F for 10 minutes without needing to turn the bites.

It is important to note that cooking times can vary depending on the brand and size of your air fryer, so it is recommended to refer to your air fryer manual for general cook times and make adjustments as necessary.

Dipping sauces

Cinnamon bites are best served with a sweet and creamy dipping sauce. Here are some ideas for dipping sauces to accompany your cinnamon bites:

Sweet Cream Cheese Icing

This classic pairing is the perfect complement to the warm, buttery cinnamon bites. The tanginess of the cream cheese balances the sweetness of the cinnamon, creating a delicious flavour combination.

Orange-flavoured Creamy Dip

For a refreshing twist, add freshly grated orange peel and orange juice to your cream cheese dip. This dip will add a bright, citrusy note to your cinnamon bites and is sure to impress your guests.

Frosting-like Cream Cheese Dip

Take your cinnamon bites to the next level with a sweet and fluffy cream cheese dip. The addition of maple extract can enhance the flavour and create an even more indulgent experience. This dip is sure to be a crowd-pleaser and will keep your guests coming back for more.

Cinnamon Sugar

While not exactly a dipping sauce, tossing your cinnamon bites in cinnamon sugar is a simple and effective way to enhance their flavour. The extra layer of cinnamon and sugar creates a delicious crunch and adds to the overall taste experience.

Cinnamon roll bites serving

Cinnamon roll bites are a fun and delicious treat that can be served in a variety of ways. They are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even as an appetizer when you're hosting a party. Here are some tips and ideas for serving cinnamon roll bites:

• Serving Size: Cinnamon roll bites are meant to be poppable and bite-sized, so it's best to serve a small portion as a tasty treat. A serving of 4 to 6 bites per person is generally a good amount, especially if you're serving them with other dishes. This way, your guests can enjoy a variety of flavors without feeling too full.
• Dipping Sauce: Cinnamon roll bites are often served with a sweet dipping sauce or icing. You can warm up the packaged icing that comes with the cinnamon rolls or make your own cream cheese icing. For a unique twist, create a creamy dip with a hint of orange flavor by mixing cream cheese, confectioner's sugar, orange zest, and orange juice. This dip will add a refreshing citrus note to your cinnamon roll bites.
• Presentation: To make your cinnamon roll bites look even more inviting, present them in a creative way. Place them in small paper cups or mini bowls, allowing for easy grabbing and dipping. You can also skewer the bites with toothpicks or small cocktail sticks, making them easier to pick up and giving them a fun, festive look.
• Accompaniments: Consider serving cinnamon roll bites with a variety of beverages, such as coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. For a refreshing option during warmer months, offer cold milk or citrus-infused iced tea. If you want to provide a contrast to the sweetness of the bites, pair them with a crisp green salad or some fresh fruit on the side.
• Leftovers: Cinnamon roll bites are best served fresh, but if you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container. To maintain their crispness, reheat them in the air fryer for a brief period. Alternatively, pop them into the microwave for a few seconds to bring them back to a warm and toasty texture.

With these tips in mind, you're ready to serve up some delicious cinnamon roll bites! They are a versatile treat that can be tailored to your taste preferences and the occasion, making them a delightful choice for any gathering or meal.

Frequently asked questions