Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls recipe

Are you a fan of sweet treats but don’t want to deal with the hassle of frying? Look no further than this mouthwatering Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls recipe. With the help of your trusty air fryer, you can whip up a batch of warm, gooey cinnamon rolls in no time.

Using just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is simple yet incredibly delicious. The dough is pillowy soft, while the cinnamon filling adds a burst of warmth and flavor. And let’s not forget about the creamy glaze that perfectly complements the sweet rolls.

But the best part? You don’t have to worry about excessive oil or grease. The air fryer ensures that your cinnamon rolls are cooked to perfection, with a crispy exterior and a tender interior. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods.

Whether you’re indulging in a breakfast treat or satisfying your late-night cravings, these air fryer cinnamon rolls are sure to impress. So why wait? Fire up your air fryer and get ready to enjoy this irresistible dessert.

What are cinnamon rolls?

Cinnamon rolls are a popular baked treat that originated in Sweden. They consist of a sweet, yeasted dough that is rolled out, generously filled with a mixture of cinnamon, sugar, and butter, and then rolled up into a log shape. The log is then sliced into individual rolls, which are typically baked until golden brown and topped with a glaze or frosting.

The combination of fragrant cinnamon, sweet sugar, and rich butter creates a truly irresistible treat. While traditionally baked in an oven, using an air fryer provides a quicker and more convenient way to enjoy these delicious pastries.

Benefits of using an air fryer for cinnamon rolls

Using an air fryer to make cinnamon rolls offers several advantages over traditional baking methods. Here are some of the key benefits:

1. Faster cooking time: Air fryers use hot air circulation to cook food, resulting in faster cooking times compared to conventional ovens. This means you can enjoy freshly baked cinnamon rolls in a fraction of the time.
2. Crispy exterior, tender interior: One of the challenges of baking cinnamon rolls is achieving the perfect balance between a crispy exterior and a soft, tender interior. With an air fryer, the circulating hot air ensures that the rolls are evenly cooked, resulting in a golden brown crust and a fluffy center.
3. Healthier option: Traditional frying methods require a significant amount of oil, which can make cinnamon rolls greasy and heavy. By using an air fryer, you can achieve a similar crispy texture without the excess oil. This makes for a healthier alternative that you can enjoy without any guilt.
4. Convenience: Air fryers are compact and easy to use, making them a convenient option for baking cinnamon rolls. They preheat quickly and often come with preset functions that take the guesswork out of cooking times and temperatures.

With these benefits in mind, it’s clear why using an air fryer for cinnamon rolls is a game-changer. The next step is to gather the ingredients needed to make this delectable treat.

Ingredients for air fryer cinnamon rolls

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

For the dough:

– 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – 2 tablespoons granulated sugar – 1 teaspoon salt – 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast – 1/2 cup milk, warmed – 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted – 1 large egg

For the filling:

– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened – 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar – 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

For the glaze:

– 1 cup powdered sugar – 2 tablespoons milk – 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

You can find these ingredients at your local grocery store or online. Once you have everything you need, it’s time to start making your air fryer cinnamon rolls.

Step-by-step instructions for making air fryer cinnamon rolls

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the warmed milk, melted butter, and egg.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until a sticky dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Shape the dough into a ball and place it back into the mixing bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles.
7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle approximately 12×16 inches in size.
8. Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface of the dough.
9. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture over the buttered dough, making sure to cover the entire surface.
10. Starting from the longer side of the rectangle, tightly roll up the dough into a log shape.
11. Using a sharp knife or a piece of dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal-sized rolls.
12. Place the rolls into the basket of your air fryer, leaving some space between them to allow for expansion.
13. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook the cinnamon rolls for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
14. While the rolls are cooking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth.
15. Once the cinnamon rolls are done, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls, allowing it to seep into the crevices.
16. Serve the air fryer cinnamon rolls warm and enjoy!

Tips and tricks for perfect cinnamon rolls in the air fryer

To ensure that your air fryer cinnamon rolls turn out perfect every time, here are some helpful tips and tricks:

1. Properly measure your flour: Use a kitchen scale or the spoon and level method to measure your flour accurately. Adding too much flour can result in dense and dry rolls.
2. Don’t over-knead the dough: Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic, but be careful not to overdo it. Over-kneading can lead to tough cinnamon rolls.
3. Let the dough rise in a warm place: Find a warm spot in your kitchen for the dough to rise. This will help activate the yeast and ensure a light and fluffy texture.
4. Use dental floss to cut the rolls: Instead of using a knife, use a piece of unscented dental floss to slice through the dough. This prevents the rolls from being squished or misshapen.
5. Leave space between the rolls: When placing the rolls in the air fryer basket, make sure to leave some room between them. This allows for even cooking and prevents them from sticking together.
6. Adjust cooking time if needed: Every air fryer is different, so keep an eye on the cinnamon rolls as they cook. If they are browning too quickly, reduce the cooking time slightly.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making the perfect batch of air fryer cinnamon rolls. Now, let’s explore some variations and add-ons to take your cinnamon rolls to the next level.

Variations and add-ons for your air fryer cinnamon rolls

While traditional cinnamon rolls are delicious on their own, you can easily customize them to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations and add-ons to consider:

1. Raisins or nuts: Add a handful of raisins or chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the cinnamon filling for added texture and flavor.
2. Cream cheese filling: Instead of using just butter, mix softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and spread it over the dough before sprinkling the cinnamon sugar mixture.
3. Fruit-filled rolls: Spread a layer of your favorite fruit jam or preserves over the dough before rolling it up. Raspberry, strawberry, or apple butter are all great options.
4. Citrus zest: Add some grated lemon or orange zest to the dough for a citrusy twist to your cinnamon rolls.
5. Maple glaze: Swap out the vanilla extract in the glaze for maple syrup for a deliciously sweet and fragrant twist.

Serving suggestions and storing leftovers

Freshly baked air fryer cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed warm and gooey. Serve them as is or with a side of fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast or brunch treat. They also make a delightful dessert or snack any time of the day.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply place the rolls in the air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through. They will still be delicious, but may not be as soft and fresh as when first baked.

Frequently asked questions about air fryer cinnamon rolls

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Simply follow the recipe instructions up to the point of letting the dough rise, then cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow the dough to come to room temperature before proceeding with the recipe.
2. Can I freeze the cinnamon rolls? Yes, you can freeze the cinnamon rolls before or after baking. If freezing before baking, follow the recipe instructions until the rolls are cut and placed in the air fryer basket. Instead of cooking them, freeze the rolls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, thaw the rolls in the refrigerator overnight, then cook them as directed. If freezing after baking, allow the rolls to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze. Thaw at room temperature and reheat in the air fryer before serving.
3. Can I use a different type of flour? While all-purpose flour works best for this recipe, you can experiment with other types of flour, such as whole wheat or bread flour. Just keep in mind that the texture and rise of the cinnamon rolls may be slightly different.
4. Can I make these cinnamon rolls without an air fryer? Yes, if you don’t have an air fryer, you can still make these cinnamon rolls in a conventional oven. Simply follow the recipe instructions for preparing the dough and filling. Instead of cooking them in the air fryer, place the rolls in a greased baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Conclusion and final thoughts

Air fryer cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed any time of day. With their soft and fluffy texture, warm cinnamon flavor, and sweet glaze, they are sure to satisfy your cravings. The convenience and speed of using an air fryer make this recipe a game-changer, providing you with a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods.

So why not treat yourself and your loved ones to a batch of homemade air fryer cinnamon rolls? So fire up your air fryer, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a taste of cinnamon roll heaven. You won’t be disappointed!