Name: Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls That Are Super Quick & Delicously Easy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Milk (Can substitute with non-dairy milk); 2 teaspoons Instant/Rapid Rise Yeast (Active dry yeast requires longer activation time); 3 tablespoons Butter (melted); 1 large Egg (Can replace with flax egg for vegan option); 2.5 cups All-Purpose Flour (Bread flour may yield fluffier rolls); 1 teaspoon Sea Salt; 0.25 cup Sugar (granulated); 2 tablespoons Butter (softened); 0.5 cup Brown Sugar; 2 tablespoons Ground Cinnamon; 4 ounces Cream Cheese; 2 tablespoons Butter (softened); 1 cup Powdered Sugar; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 2 tablespoons Milk (optional) (For adjusting icing consistency)

The aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafted through my kitchen, wrapping me in a warm, nostalgic embrace. I can’t resist a good cinnamon roll, especially when I can whip them up in under an hour! These Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful solution for anyone seeking a homemade touch without the hassle of kneading dough for ages. With their fluffy texture and ooey-gooey cinnamon filling, they make for a perfect treat any time of day, whether you’re enjoying a leisurely weekend breakfast or surprising your loved ones with an afternoon snack. Plus, they’re so simple to prepare—ideal for busy weekday mornings or whenever the craving strikes! Curious about how to bring this deliciousness to your table? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Choose Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls?

Quick and Easy: The no-knead method makes this recipe a breeze, allowing you to whip up delicious cinnamon rolls in under an hour.

Irresistible Aroma: Your kitchen will be filled with the enticing scent of cinnamon and sugar, making it hard to resist enjoying these fresh from the air fryer.

Versatile Cooking Options: Whether you choose the air fryer or a traditional oven, you can savor these rolls however you prefer.

Dairy-Free Friendly: With simple substitutions, you can cater to various dietary needs, ensuring everyone can indulge in this treat.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a busy weekday morning or a special gathering, these cinnamon rolls are sure to impress, as they pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. If you’re looking for more indulgent breakfast ideas, check out my Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Glaze or enjoy a twist with Peanut Butter Banana Cinnamon Rolls.

Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to create these delightful rolls!

For the Dough

Milk – Provides moisture and activates yeast; substitute with non-dairy milk for dairy-free rolls.
Instant/Rapid Rise Yeast – Ensures quick dough rising; note that active dry yeast requires a longer activation time.
Butter (melted) – Adds richness and flavor to the dough.
Egg – Contributes to the structure and richness of the rolls; replace with a flax egg for a vegan option.
All-Purpose Flour – Creates the dough’s structure and is easily accessible; consider bread flour for fluffier rolls.
Sea Salt – Enhances flavor and controls yeast activation.
Sugar (granulated) – Sweetens the dough.

For the Filling

Butter (softened) – Used to spread over the dough for extra flavor.
Brown Sugar – Provides a rich sweetness and caramel flavor in the filling.
Ground Cinnamon – The key spice that infuses warmth and aroma into every roll.

For the Icing

Cream Cheese – Adds creaminess and tang to the frosting.
Butter (softened) – Enhances flavor in the icing.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor to the icing; a must for a delicious finish.
Milk (optional) – Adjusts consistency of the frosting for your desired thickness.

With these vibrant ingredients ready to go, you’ll be just moments away from enjoying your very own Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, blend warmed milk, instant yeast, melted butter, and egg until combined. Gradually add sea salt, sugar, and all-purpose flour while stirring until a cohesive dough forms. If the dough feels sticky, sprinkle in additional flour a tablespoon at a time until it achieves a soft, manageable consistency.

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes. During this time, the dough will puff slightly, getting ready to be rolled out. This no-knead technique yields fluffy Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls with minimal effort!

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Once the dough has rested, generously flour your work surface and roll the dough into a rectangle approximately 12 inches long and 7 inches wide. Aim for an even thickness of about 1/4 inch. The goal is to create a nice canvas for your delicious filling, bringing your vision of homemade Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls to life.

Step 4: Add the Filling
Spread softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a half-inch perimeter around the edges. Evenly sprinkle the brown sugar and ground cinnamon mixture over the buttered surface, ensuring every bite will be delightfully sweet. Prepare to roll it up for the ultimate ooey-gooey experience!

Step 5: Roll and Slice
Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log shape. Once rolled, use a sharp knife to slice the log into 9 equal sections, producing your beautiful Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls. Make sure to cut gently to maintain the integrity of the fluffy dough.

Step 6: Prepare for Air Frying
Line the air fryer basket with aluminum foil shaped into a makeshift pan, ensuring it fits snugly. Place the sliced rolls inside, leaving space for them to expand. Cover the rolls loosely with the kitchen towel and let them rest for another 10 minutes for a final rise.

Step 7: Air Fry the Rolls
Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C), then carefully place the resting rolls inside. Cook for about 10 minutes, checking for doneness at the 8-minute mark. They should turn golden brown and feel soft to the touch, promising a delightful treat.

Step 8: Make the Icing
While the rolls are air frying, prepare the icing. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and softened butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until blended. If the icing is too thick, stir in a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.

Step 9: Ice and Serve
As soon as the Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls are done cooking, drizzle or spread the prepared icing over warm rolls for an extra indulgent finish. The icing will melt slightly into the rolls, creating a sweet, delightful layer that enhances every delightful bite.

How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls

Fridge: Store cooled rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For best freshness, seal each roll separately with plastic wrap before placing them in the container.

Freezer: Unbaked rolls can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place each roll on a parchment-lined tray until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the usual cooking time.

Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, warm cinnamon rolls in the air fryer at 300°F for about 3-5 minutes until heated through. For extra deliciousness, apply a little icing before reheating.

Make-Ahead: Prepare rolls the night before and place in the fridge. Let them come to room temperature and rise briefly before air frying for a fresh-baked taste in the morning.

What to Serve with Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls

The perfect pairing can elevate your breakfast feast or afternoon treat, allowing you to indulge even more!

Freshly Brewed Coffee: Complements the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls and offers a robust flavor contrast that enhances the overall experience.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of ice cream on the side creates a delightful, indulgent dessert, blending warm and cold for sensational textures.
Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of berries and citrus adds a refreshing brightness to balance the sweetness of the rolls, making for a more well-rounded meal.
Maple Bacon: Crispy, savory bacon adds a salty kick that pairs beautifully with the warm cinnamon rolls, creating a delicious sweet and salty contrast.
Hot Tea: A warm cup of chai or Earl Grey provides a soothing element, with aromatic spices enhancing the flavor notes of cinnamon and sugar in the rolls.
Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, a dollop of homemade whipped cream creates a luscious topping to compliment the luscious cinnamon and sugar layers in each roll.
Nutty Granola: Sprinkle some granola over the cream cheese icing for a delightful crunch that adds a new layer of texture and nutty flavor to the buns.

Elevate your breakfast or snack time with these delightful pairings that make every bite of your Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls even more enjoyable!

Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity with these variations, turning your cinnamon rolls into something uniquely yours!

Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with your favorite non-dairy option, such as almond or oat milk, ensuring everyone can enjoy them.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for a delightful crunch that perfectly contrasts the soft dough.
Fruit-filled Delight: Incorporate raisins or dried cranberries into the filling for a sweet and chewy surprise in each bite.
Spiced Twist: Experiment with adding nutmeg or ginger to your cinnamon-sugar filling for a warm, spiced flavor that’s perfect for fall.
Frosting Flavors: Try almond or maple extract in the icing for a unique twist that elevates the classic cream cheese frosting.
Coconut Sugar: Swap brown sugar for coconut sugar for a richer, caramel-like flavor with a hint of tropical flair.
Chocolate Lovers: Add chocolate chips to the filling for gooey, melty goodness that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Baking Option: If you prefer your rolls baked, use the same steps but pop them into a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes instead.

These variations can turn your ordinary Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls into extraordinary treats! For more sweet inspiration, don’t forget to check out my recipe for Cinnamon Rolls Soft or enjoy a hearty breakfast with Air Fryer Egg. Happy baking!

Expert Tips for Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls

Fluffy Dough: Don’t over-knead your dough. This can lead to dense rolls. Just mix until combined for the fluffiest Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls.
Proof Yeast: If using active dry yeast, be sure to proof it in warm milk first. This helps activate the yeast for better rising.
Cut Smart: Use a serrated bread knife or sharp knife to slice your rolls cleanly, keeping the fluffy texture intact and preventing squishing.
Space Them Out: When placing the rolls in the air fryer, leave enough space between them to allow for expansion during cooking.
Check Early: Air fryers can vary, so start checking for doneness at around 8 minutes to avoid overcooking.

Remember, achieving perfect Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls is all about balancing the technique and enjoying the process!

Make Ahead Options

These Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls are fantastic for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy mornings! You can prepare the unbaked rolls and refrigerate them up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe until you’ve shaped and sliced the rolls, then place them in a buttered airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, just allow them to rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes before cooking directly from the fridge for that fresh-out-of-the-air-fryer taste. For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked rolls for up to two months; just make sure to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before air frying. This way, you’ll still enjoy the same delicious flavor and texture with minimal effort!

Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best ingredients for my cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! Choosing quality ingredients impacts the final flavor and texture of your cinnamon rolls. For the milk, aim for fresh, whole milk to ensure a rich dough. When selecting your butter, make sure it’s of good quality—you’ll taste the richness. Look for instant or rapid rise yeast, which is perfect for quick recipes. If substituting, note that active dry yeast requires proofing in warm water first, which adds time.

What is the best way to store leftover cinnamon rolls?
Very! To keep your Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls fresh, allow them to cool before storing. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For ultimate freshness, you can individually wrap each roll in plastic wrap before placing them in the container. This prevents them from drying out and retains their gooey goodness.

Can I freeze unbaked cinnamon rolls? How?
Yes, indeed! Freezing unbaked rolls is a great way to save time. After making your rolls and slicing them, arrange them on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Then, transfer the frozen rolls to a freezer-safe bag, sealing out as much air as possible. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove them from the freezer, let them come to room temperature, and add a couple of extra minutes to the air frying time.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If you find your dough is too sticky to handle, no worries! Add additional flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a soft and manageable consistency. Remember, the dough should be soft but not overly sticky. Be careful not to over-knead, as that can lead to denser rolls.

Are there any dietary substitutions I can make?
Absolutely! You can make these Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls dairy-free by using non-dairy milk and butter alternatives. For a vegan version, simply replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes). This way, everyone can enjoy your delightful creation without any dietary concerns!

How long do these cinnamon rolls take to prepare from start to finish?
From start to finish, these delightful Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls can be ready in just under an hour! This includes a 15-minute resting period for the dough, minimal prep time for rolling and cutting, and about 10 minutes of air frying. Enjoy freshly baked cinnamon rolls without the lengthy wait!