Can You Make Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls in the Air Fryer Fast Easy Delicious

Yes, you can make Pillsbury cinnamon rolls in the air fryer for a faster, easier, and deliciously gooey treat! The air fryer cooks them in just 8–10 minutes, giving you soft centers with slightly crisp edges—perfect for a quick breakfast or dessert. No preheating, minimal cleanup, and guaranteed results every time.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can: Cook Pillsbury cinnamon rolls in the air fryer for faster results.
• Preheat first: Ensures even baking and perfect texture every time.
• Adjust time: Reduce baking time to 8–10 minutes at 320°F.
• Space matters: Leave room between rolls for optimal air circulation.
• Check early: Avoid overcooking by monitoring at the 8-minute mark.
• Add glaze after: Drizzle icing post-cooking to prevent melting or burning.

Why Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls Are a Game-Changer

Let me tell you a little secret: I used to dread mornings. Between juggling work, kids, and the endless to-do list, breakfast often became an afterthought. That is, until I discovered the magic of making Pillsbury cinnamon rolls in the air fryer. One lazy Sunday, I popped open a can, tossed the rolls into my air fryer, and within minutes, my kitchen was filled with the warm, buttery aroma of fresh-baked goodness. The result? Soft, gooey centers with a slightly crisp exterior—no oven preheating, no messy baking sheets, and no waiting.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Can you make Pillsbury cinnamon rolls in the air fryer?”, the answer is a resounding yes—and it’s faster, easier, and just as delicious as traditional baking. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or someone who just wants a quick treat without the fuss, this method is a total game-changer. The air fryer’s compact size and rapid heat circulation make it perfect for small batches, and the best part? You get bakery-quality rolls in under 15 minutes. No more waiting 20 minutes for your oven to preheat or risking undercooked dough. It’s the ultimate hack for cinnamon roll lovers.

How to Make Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls in the Air Fryer (Step-by-Step)

What You’ll Need

Before you dive in, let’s make sure you have everything ready. You don’t need fancy tools—just a few basics:

• Air fryer (any model works, but basket-style is ideal)
• Pillsbury cinnamon rolls (original or flavored, like caramel or cream cheese)
• Non-stick cooking spray or parchment paper liners
• Small bowl for the glaze (if your rolls come with one)
• Spatula for gentle removal (trust me, you don’t want to smash them!)

Step 1: Prep the Air Fryer

First things first: grease your air fryer basket. I like to spray it lightly with non-stick cooking spray or line it with a parchment paper liner. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. If you’re using a liner, make sure it’s air fryer-safe (no overhanging edges that could block airflow).

Step 2: Arrange the Rolls

Open your Pillsbury can (yes, that satisfying pop!) and gently separate the rolls. Place them in the basket in a single layer, leaving about ½ inch between each roll. Why? The air fryer needs space to circulate hot air. If they’re too close, they’ll steam instead of crisp. Pro tip: For a 5.5-quart air fryer, 4-5 rolls fit perfectly. If you have a smaller model, do 2-3 at a time.

Step 3: Set the Time and Temperature

Here’s the magic formula: 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes. Start with 8 minutes, then check for doneness. The rolls should be golden brown on top and cooked through in the center. If they’re still doughy, add 1-2 more minutes. Remember: Air fryers vary, so keep an eye on them the first time you try this.

Step 4: Add the Glaze

Once the rolls are out, let them cool for 1-2 minutes (they’ll be very hot inside!). Then drizzle the included glaze or make your own with powdered sugar and milk. I sometimes add a splash of vanilla or a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor. Pro tip: Warm the glaze slightly for a smoother drizzle.

Why the Air Fryer Beats the Oven (And Other Methods)

Speed and Convenience

Let’s be real: Ovens are slow. Preheating takes 10-15 minutes, and baking adds another 15-20. With the air fryer, you’re looking at under 15 minutes total—no preheat, no waiting. It’s perfect for when you’re craving cinnamon rolls but don’t want to wait half an hour.

Perfect Texture Every Time

Ovens can be unpredictable. Too hot, and the edges burn; too cool, and the centers stay doughy. The air fryer’s concentrated heat creates a golden, slightly crisp exterior with a soft, gooey center. It’s like having a mini convection oven that bakes evenly without hot spots.

Energy Efficiency

If you’re eco-conscious, the air fryer is a win. It uses up to 50% less energy than a full-sized oven and heats up faster, which means less power wasted. Plus, it won’t heat up your kitchen on hot days—a big bonus in summer.

Small Batches, No Waste

Not everyone wants to bake a full can of cinnamon rolls. With the air fryer, you can make 1-2 rolls at a time without sacrificing quality. It’s ideal for solo eaters or when you just need a quick treat.

Comparing Methods: A Quick Look

Method	Time (Total)	Texture	Best For
Air Fryer	8-12 minutes	Crisp outside, soft inside	Quick snacks, small batches
Oven (Conventional)	25-30 minutes	Evenly baked, slightly dry	Large batches, meal prep
Microwave	2-3 minutes	Steamed, soggy	Emergency situations (not recommended!)

Expert Tips for Flawless Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls

Don’t Overcrowd the Basket

I learned this the hard way. The first time I tried making Pillsbury cinnamon rolls in the air fryer, I crammed all 8 rolls in. The result? They stuck together, cooked unevenly, and some were still doughy in the center. Lesson learned: less is more. Leave space between rolls so hot air can circulate. If you have a large air fryer, 4-5 rolls work best. Smaller models? Stick to 2-3.

Use Parchment Paper (But Do It Right)

Parchment paper liners are a lifesaver for cleanup, but make sure they’re air fryer-safe. Cut them to fit the basket (no overhanging edges) and weigh them down with the rolls. I once used a liner that was too big—it blocked airflow, and my rolls came out undercooked. Oops!

Check for Doneness Early

Air fryers vary in power, so don’t rely solely on the timer. At the 8-minute mark, open the basket and peek. The rolls should be golden brown on top. If they’re pale, add 1-2 more minutes. If they’re browning too fast, lower the temperature to 325°F and extend the time slightly.

Glaze After Cooking (But While Warm)

Adding glaze too soon can make the rolls soggy. I like to let them cool for 1-2 minutes so the heat sets the outside, then drizzle the glaze while they’re still warm. The glaze melts slightly into the crevices—heavenly. For extra decadence, try a cream cheese frosting or a caramel drizzle.

Reheat Leftovers Like a Pro

Got leftovers? Reheat them in the air fryer at 300°F for 2-3 minutes. This restores the crisp exterior without drying them out. (Microwaving turns them into a rubbery mess—no thanks!)

Creative Twists: Beyond the Classic Cinnamon Roll

Add Toppings Before Cooking

Why stop at plain cinnamon rolls? Before air frying, sprinkle on:

• Chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch
• Mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise
• Crushed graham crackers for a s’mores vibe
• Shredded coconut for a tropical twist

Just press them gently into the dough so they don’t fall off during cooking.

Make a Breakfast Sandwich

Cut a cooked cinnamon roll in half and fill it with scrambled eggs, cheese, and a slice of bacon. It’s a sweet-and-savory combo that’ll keep you full until lunch.

DIY Glaze Variations

The included glaze is great, but why not experiment? Try:

• Cream cheese glaze: Mix ¼ cup cream cheese, 2 tbsp powdered sugar, and 1 tsp milk.
• Orange glaze: Add 1 tbsp orange zest to the included glaze for a citrusy kick.
• Caramel drizzle: Heat 2 tbsp caramel sauce and drizzle over the rolls.

Freezer Hack: Cook from Frozen

Did you know you can air fry Pillsbury cinnamon rolls straight from the freezer? Just increase the time to 12-14 minutes at 350°F. Perfect for when you’re craving a treat but forgot to thaw!

Common Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

Undercooking or Overcooking

This is the #1 issue I see. Undercooked rolls are doughy in the center; overcooked ones are dry or burnt. The fix? Check early and often. Use a toothpick—if it comes out clean, they’re done. Also, remember that rolls continue cooking a bit while cooling, so pull them out just before they look “perfect.”

Sticking to the Basket

Nothing’s worse than a cinnamon roll that falls apart when you try to remove it. To prevent this:

• Spray the basket generously with non-stick spray.
• Use parchment paper liners (but trim them to fit).
• Let the rolls cool for 1-2 minutes before removing—they’ll firm up slightly.

Ignoring Air Fryer Differences

Not all air fryers are created equal. Some run hotter or have weaker fans. If your rolls are cooking too fast, try reducing the temperature by 25°F. If they’re taking too long, increase it by 25°F. It’s all about finding your machine’s sweet spot.

Skipping the Glaze

I get it—glaze can seem like an extra step. But trust me, it’s essential for that classic Pillsbury flavor. If you’re short on time, just warm the glaze slightly so it spreads easier. No glaze? Try a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey.

Forgetting to Preheat (Sometimes!)

While you don’t need to preheat for cinnamon rolls, some air fryer models benefit from a 2-3 minute preheat at 350°F. This ensures even cooking from the start. Check your manual to see if yours recommends it.

Final Thoughts: A Sweet, Simple Win

So, can you make Pillsbury cinnamon rolls in the air fryer? Absolutely—and it’s one of the easiest, fastest, and most delicious ways to enjoy them. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who loves a good shortcut, this method delivers soft, gooey, bakery-quality rolls in minutes. No oven, no mess, no fuss.

The best part? You don’t have to sacrifice flavor or texture. With a few simple tips—like spacing the rolls properly, checking for doneness early, and adding creative toppings—you can turn a humble can of cinnamon rolls into a gourmet treat. And let’s be honest: There’s nothing quite like the smell of cinnamon and sugar filling your kitchen on a lazy morning.

Next time you’re craving something sweet, skip the oven and reach for your air fryer. Pop open a can of Pillsbury cinnamon rolls, set the timer for 8-10 minutes, and let the magic happen. You’ll have a warm, delicious breakfast (or dessert!) in no time—no stress, no mess, just pure joy. Now that’s what I call a win-win.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you make Pillsbury cinnamon rolls in the air fryer?

Yes, you can absolutely make Pillsbury cinnamon rolls in the air fryer! It’s a quick and convenient way to achieve warm, gooey rolls with a slightly crisp exterior in under 15 minutes.

What temperature should I set my air fryer to for Pillsbury cinnamon rolls?

Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for best results. This lower temperature ensures the rolls cook evenly without burning the frosting or undercooking the center.

How long do Pillsbury cinnamon rolls take in the air fryer?

Cook Pillsbury cinnamon rolls in the air fryer for 8–10 minutes at 320°F. Check at the 8-minute mark, as cook times may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model.

Do I need to adjust the recipe when making Pillsbury cinnamon rolls in the air fryer?

No recipe adjustments are needed—just pop the rolls in as directed on the package. However, avoid overcrowding the basket and leave space between rolls for even air circulation.

Can I make Pillsbury cinnamon rolls in the air fryer without the frosting?

Yes, you can skip or delay adding the frosting. If you prefer less sweetness, bake the rolls first, then drizzle frosting on after cooking to control the amount.

Why are my Pillsbury cinnamon rolls in the air fryer turning out dry?

Dry rolls may result from overcooking or high air fryer temperatures. Stick to 320°F and check them early, or lightly brush with butter before serving to add moisture.