Air-Fried Cinnamon Rolls: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Cinnamon rolls are a delicious treat, but they can be time-consuming to make. Air fryers offer a quick and easy solution to this problem, with some recipes taking less than 10 minutes to prepare. Air-fried cinnamon rolls are soft, fluffy, and moist, with a golden-brown exterior. They can be made with just one ingredient: a can of Pillsbury cinnamon rolls. However, some recipes suggest adding a splash of heavy cream to keep the rolls extra moist. The air fryer temperature should be kept low, around 320-360 degrees Fahrenheit, and the rolls should be cooked for 7-10 minutes, depending on the size of the rolls and the air fryer model. For best results, it is recommended to flip the rolls halfway through cooking and to line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or aluminium foil to prevent sticking.

Air fryer temperature and timing

The temperature and timing of your air fryer cinnamon rolls will depend on the brand of the air fryer and the brand of cinnamon rolls you are using.

For instance, if you are using Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls, you can cook them in the air fryer for 8 minutes at 360 degrees Fahrenheit. However, if you are using a different brand, you should check on them after 6 minutes to adjust the timing.

If you are using the Ninja Foodi air fryer, you may not need to flip the cinnamon rolls halfway through. However, if you are using a different air fryer, you may need to flip the rolls halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.

For example, if you are using the Cosori air fryer, you can cook the cinnamon rolls at 340 degrees Fahrenheit for 9 minutes, flipping them halfway through.

If you are making the cinnamon rolls from scratch, the air frying time will be different. For example, one recipe for homemade cinnamon rolls recommends air frying at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 7-8 minutes.

It's important to note that air fryer temperatures can vary, so it's always a good idea to keep an eye on your cinnamon rolls while they are cooking to ensure they don't burn or undercook.

Air fryer basket preparation

Before you begin preparing your cinnamon rolls, it's important to ensure your air fryer basket is ready for use. Here are some steps to follow:

• Line the air fryer basket: It is recommended to line your air fryer basket with either aluminium foil or parchment paper. This will help to catch any drips or mess during the cooking process and make cleaning up easier.
• Preheat the air fryer: Depending on the recipe you are following, you may need to preheat your air fryer to a specific temperature. For example, one recipe suggests preheating to 320 degrees Fahrenheit. However, other recipes suggest that preheating is not necessary for cooking cinnamon rolls in an air fryer.
• Grease the air fryer basket: If you are not using parchment paper or aluminium foil, you may need to grease your air fryer basket with a cooking spray or oil to prevent the cinnamon rolls from sticking.
• Prepare the cinnamon rolls: Place the cinnamon rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them to ensure even cooking. If using a canned variety, such as Pillsbury cinnamon rolls, separate the rolls before placing them in the basket.
• Add toppings: Some recipes suggest adding a splash of heavy cream to the top of the cinnamon rolls before cooking. This is said to help keep the rolls moist and fluffy.

Once your air fryer basket is prepared, you can follow the remaining steps in your chosen recipe to cook and serve your cinnamon rolls.

Cinnamon roll preparation

Ingredients

To make cinnamon rolls in an air fryer, you will need the following:

• 1 can of Pillsbury cinnamon rolls (8-count)
• Cooking spray (coconut oil or another variety)
• Heavy cream (optional)
• Icing (included with cinnamon rolls)

Method

• Spray the basket of the air fryer with cooking spray.
• Place the cinnamon rolls in the basket in a single layer.
• If using, spread a small amount of heavy cream on top of the cinnamon rolls.
• Air fry the cinnamon rolls for 8-9 minutes at 340-360°F. Check on them after 6-7 minutes, as air fryers vary and you don't want them to burn.
• While the cinnamon rolls are cooking, transfer the icing to a microwave-safe bowl and heat for around 15 seconds, or until it is pourable.
• Once the cinnamon rolls are done, remove them from the air fryer and spread the icing on top.

Tips

• You can use a different brand of canned cinnamon rolls if you prefer.
• If your air fryer basket has enough clearance, you shouldn't need to flip the rolls.
• If you want to make your own icing, a simple cream cheese frosting goes well with cinnamon rolls.
• You can also add extras like bacon or fruit to your cinnamon rolls.

Cinnamon roll cooking

Cinnamon rolls are a delicious treat, but they can be time-consuming to make. Here's a quick and easy way to cook cinnamon rolls using an air fryer.

Ingredients

You will need the following ingredients:

• 1 can of cinnamon rolls (e.g. Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls)
• Cooking spray or coconut/olive oil
• Heavy cream (optional)

Method

• Prepare the air fryer by spraying the basket with cooking spray or a thin layer of oil. This will prevent the cinnamon rolls from sticking.
• Place the cinnamon rolls in the air fryer basket. If using, add a small amount of heavy cream on top of each roll.
• Set the air fryer to 340-360°F and cook the cinnamon rolls for 8-9 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don't burn, as cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer.
• While the cinnamon rolls are cooking, prepare the icing by transferring it to a microwave-safe bowl and heating for around 15 seconds, or until it reaches a pourable consistency.
• Once the cinnamon rolls are done, remove them from the air fryer and spread the icing on top.

Tips

• No preheating is required for this recipe.
• For easier cleanup, line the air fryer basket with aluminum foil or parchment paper before spraying with cooking spray or oil.
• For best results, flip the cinnamon rolls halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.
• If you prefer your cinnamon rolls with a more decadent frosting, you can make your own cream cheese frosting instead of using the provided icing.
• Serve your cinnamon rolls with a hot drink, fresh fruit, eggs, or breakfast meat for a delicious breakfast or brunch.

Storage

Cinnamon rolls are best served fresh, but any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or place them back in the air fryer for a few minutes.

Cinnamon roll toppings

Cinnamon rolls are a versatile treat that can be served in many ways. Here are some ideas for toppings to elevate your air-fried cinnamon rolls:

Icing or Frosting

A traditional choice, icing or frosting adds a sweet, creamy element to your cinnamon roll. You can use the icing that comes with the cinnamon rolls or make your own cream cheese frosting for a more decadent option. Warm up the icing before adding it to the warm cinnamon rolls for a more even spread.

Heavy Cream

A splash of heavy cream on top of your cinnamon rolls before air frying can help keep them moist, gooey, and soft. This is a great way to combat dryness, which is a common issue with store-bought cinnamon roll dough.

Fruit

Fresh berries, apple slices, or bananas can add a burst of freshness and colour to your cinnamon roll. This option is especially appealing if you're serving the cinnamon rolls as part of a brunch spread.

Nuts

Chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, can add a crunchy texture and a boost of flavour to your cinnamon rolls. Simply sprinkle them on top of the icing or frosting.

Bacon

For a savoury twist, crumbled bacon bits can be added on top of your cinnamon rolls. The salty, smoky flavour of bacon creates an intriguing contrast with the sweet cinnamon and icing.

Other Sweet Treats

If you're feeling extra indulgent, you can top your cinnamon rolls with other sweet treats like chocolate chips, candy pieces, or even a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce. Get creative and experiment with different combinations!

Frequently asked questions