Can You Cook Cinnamon Rolls in the Air Fryer A Quick Guide

Yes, you can absolutely cook cinnamon rolls in the air fryer—it’s a fast, convenient method that delivers soft, fluffy rolls with a perfectly golden exterior in under 15 minutes. With minimal prep and no need to heat up the oven, air frying is ideal for quick breakfasts, desserts, or last-minute treats using store-bought or homemade dough.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can: Air fry cinnamon rolls for a quick, crispy treat.
• Preheat first: Ensures even cooking and perfect texture.
• Space matters: Leave room between rolls for proper air circulation.
• Time wisely: Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding and uneven results.
• Check early: Prevent overcooking by monitoring at the 8-minute mark.
• Glaze after: Add icing post-cooking to maintain gooey perfection.

Can You Cook Cinnamon Rolls in the Air Fryer? A Quick Guide

Cinnamon rolls are a beloved breakfast treat, cherished for their soft, gooey centers, fragrant cinnamon-sugar filling, and often topped with a generous swirl of cream cheese frosting. Traditionally baked in the oven, these sweet pastries have become a weekend staple for many families. But as air fryers continue to grow in popularity for their speed, efficiency, and ability to deliver crispy, golden results, a natural question arises: Can you cook cinnamon rolls in the air fryer? The answer is a resounding yes—and not only can you, but you might find that air frying offers some surprising advantages over traditional baking.

With the rise of air fryer cooking, home chefs are reimagining how they prepare everything from frozen snacks to full meals. The air fryer’s rapid air circulation technology mimics deep frying with minimal oil, but it also excels at baking, roasting, and reheating. This makes it an ideal candidate for transforming store-bought or homemade cinnamon rolls into perfectly cooked, warm, and fluffy pastries in a fraction of the time. Whether you’re short on time, want to avoid heating up your entire kitchen, or simply love experimenting with kitchen gadgets, cooking cinnamon rolls in the air fryer is a game-changer. This guide will walk you through the process, from selecting the right rolls to achieving bakery-quality results with your air fryer.

Why Use an Air Fryer for Cinnamon Rolls?

The air fryer isn’t just a trendy kitchen gadget—it’s a versatile appliance that can revolutionize how you cook comfort foods like cinnamon rolls. But why choose the air fryer over the conventional oven? Let’s explore the key benefits that make air frying a compelling option.

Speed and Efficiency

One of the most significant advantages of using an air fryer is speed. While traditional baking can take 25–30 minutes, air frying cinnamon rolls typically takes only 10–15 minutes. The compact cooking chamber and rapid hot air circulation allow the rolls to cook quickly and evenly. This is especially helpful on busy mornings when you want a fresh, warm treat without the long wait.

For example, if you’re preparing breakfast for a family of four, you can cook a batch of four cinnamon rolls in under 15 minutes, with no preheating required (though preheating helps with consistency). That’s half the time of a standard oven, and it frees up your oven for other dishes.

Energy Savings and Kitchen Comfort

Air fryers use significantly less energy than full-sized ovens. Because they heat a smaller space, they require less power and time to reach the desired temperature. This not only reduces your electricity bill but also keeps your kitchen cooler—especially important during hot summer months when turning on the oven can make your home uncomfortably warm.

Additionally, air fryers don’t emit nearly as much ambient heat, which means your kitchen stays pleasant and comfortable. This makes air frying cinnamon rolls a practical choice year-round, not just during the cooler months.

Even Cooking and Crispy Bottoms

The air fryer’s convection-style cooking ensures even heat distribution. This means your cinnamon rolls will cook uniformly, with golden-brown tops and bottoms—something that can be tricky in a regular oven where heat often concentrates at the top or back.

Many people love the slightly crisp bottom of a well-cooked cinnamon roll. The air fryer delivers this texture naturally, without overbaking the center. The result? A roll that’s soft and pillowy inside, with a delicate crunch on the outside—a perfect balance of textures.

Choosing the Right Cinnamon Rolls for Air Frying

Not all cinnamon rolls are created equal, and the type you choose will impact how well they cook in the air fryer. Whether you’re using store-bought or homemade, here’s what to look for to ensure success.

Store-Bought vs. Homemade

Store-bought cinnamon rolls (like those from Pillsbury, Annie’s, or Trader Joe’s) are excellent for air frying because they’re uniform in size and designed for quick baking. These come in pre-rolled dough with pre-measured cinnamon-sugar filling, making them convenient and consistent. Most come with a small packet of icing, which you can drizzle on after cooking.

For example, Pillsbury’s Grands! Cinnamon Rolls work exceptionally well in the air fryer. Their size (about 3 inches in diameter) fits perfectly in most air fryer baskets, and their pre-greased packaging ensures they won’t stick.

Homemade cinnamon rolls offer more customization and flavor control. If you’re using a recipe from scratch, make sure the rolls are rolled to a thickness of about ½ inch and cut into even portions. Smaller or thinner rolls may overcook, while larger ones may not cook through properly. Aim for 2.5–3 inch diameter rolls for optimal air fryer performance.

Frozen vs. Refrigerated Rolls

Many grocery stores now offer frozen cinnamon rolls (such as Rhodes or Bridgford), which are convenient for long-term storage. These can absolutely be air fried, but they require a slightly longer cooking time—usually 15–20 minutes, depending on the model. It’s best to thaw them slightly (10–15 minutes at room temperature) before air frying to prevent a cold center.

Refrigerated cinnamon rolls (like those from the dairy section) are already partially risen and ready to bake. These cook faster and more evenly, typically in 10–12 minutes. They’re ideal for quick breakfasts or impromptu desserts.

Size and Spacing Matter

Air fryers have limited space, so it’s crucial to choose rolls that fit without overcrowding. Most standard air fryer baskets (4–6 quarts) can accommodate 3–4 cinnamon rolls at a time, depending on their size. Never stack rolls—this blocks airflow and leads to uneven cooking.

For best results, leave at least ½ inch of space between each roll. This allows hot air to circulate freely, ensuring all sides cook evenly. If you have a larger air fryer (7+ quarts), you might be able to fit 6 smaller rolls, but always prioritize airflow over quantity.

Step-by-Step Guide to Air Frying Cinnamon Rolls

Now that you’ve selected the right rolls, it’s time to cook them. Follow this detailed, step-by-step process to achieve perfect air-fried cinnamon rolls every time.

Preheat the Air Fryer

While some air fryers don’t require preheating, doing so ensures more consistent results. Preheat your air fryer to 325°F (163°C) for 3–5 minutes. This mimics the initial heat of an oven and helps the rolls rise and brown properly.

Tip: Use the “bake” or “air fry” setting, depending on your model. Avoid using the “fry” or “crisp” setting, as these may overheat the rolls.

Prepare the Rolls

If using store-bought rolls, place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on a parchment paper liner. If using homemade or frozen rolls, ensure they’re at room temperature (or slightly thawed). For homemade dough, you can lightly brush the rolls with melted butter before cooking for extra flavor and browning.

Optional: Spray the rolls lightly with non-stick cooking spray or brush with oil to enhance browning. Avoid using too much oil, as it can pool and make the bottoms soggy.

Cooking Time and Temperature

Place the rolls in the preheated air fryer. Cook at 325°F (163°C) for:

• Refrigerated rolls: 10–12 minutes
• Frozen rolls (thawed slightly): 15–18 minutes
• Homemade rolls (½ inch thick): 12–14 minutes

After 7–8 minutes, pause the air fryer and check the rolls. They should be golden brown on top and puffed. If they’re browning too quickly, reduce the temperature to 300°F (149°C) for the remainder of cooking.

Tip: Rotate the basket or flip the rolls halfway through (if possible) for even browning. Some air fryers circulate air from the top only, so flipping ensures the bottoms don’t overcook.

Check for Doneness

The best way to check if cinnamon rolls are done is with an instant-read thermometer. Insert it into the center of a roll—it should read at least 190°F (88°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, gently press the top of a roll; it should spring back slightly. The center should no longer look doughy or wet.

Overcooking is a common mistake. If the rolls look golden but feel firm, they may be overdone. Undercooking is rare but possible with very large or frozen rolls—extend cooking time by 2–3 minutes if needed.

Rest and Add Icing

Let the rolls rest in the air fryer basket for 2–3 minutes after cooking. This allows the heat to distribute evenly and prevents the filling from being too hot when you eat them. Then, transfer them to a plate or wire rack.

Warm the icing packet (if included) in a bowl of hot water for 30 seconds, then drizzle over the rolls. For a gourmet touch, make your own cream cheese frosting: mix 4 oz cream cheese, 2 tbsp butter, 1 cup powdered sugar, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Air-Fried Cinnamon Rolls

Even with the right recipe and technique, small adjustments can elevate your air-fried cinnamon rolls from good to exceptional. Here are expert tips to help you master the process.

Use Parchment Paper Liners

Air fryer baskets can be tricky to clean, especially with sticky cinnamon-sugar filling. Using air fryer parchment paper liners (pre-cut circles with holes for airflow) makes cleanup a breeze. These liners also prevent sticking and help the rolls maintain their shape.

Note: Avoid using aluminum foil unless your air fryer manufacturer approves it. Foil can block airflow and cause hot spots, leading to uneven cooking.

Experiment with Fillings

Once you’ve mastered the basics, get creative! Try adding:

• Chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts) for crunch
• Mini chocolate chips for a decadent twist
• Apple or pear slices for a fruity variation
• Pumpkin spice for a seasonal fall flavor

For homemade rolls, mix these into the cinnamon-sugar filling before rolling the dough. For store-bought, you can sprinkle them on top before air frying.

Reheating Leftovers

Air-fried cinnamon rolls reheat beautifully in the air fryer. Place them in the basket and cook at 300°F (149°C) for 3–5 minutes. This restores the crisp bottom and warm, gooey center without drying them out.

Never microwave cinnamon rolls—they become rubbery and lose their texture. The air fryer is the best way to revive leftovers.

Customizing Icing and Toppings

While cream cheese frosting is classic, try these alternatives:

• Maple glaze: Mix ½ cup powdered sugar, 2 tbsp maple syrup, and 1 tsp milk
• Brown butter frosting: Brown 2 tbsp butter, then mix with powdered sugar and milk
• Spiced honey drizzle: Warm honey with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves

For a healthier option, use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese in your frosting.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced cooks can run into issues when air frying cinnamon rolls. Here are the most common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

Overcrowding the Basket

One of the biggest mistakes is trying to cook too many rolls at once. Overcrowding blocks airflow, leading to undercooked centers and burnt edges. Always leave space between rolls—even if it means cooking in batches.

Example: If your air fryer basket is 5 inches wide, don’t try to fit five 3-inch rolls. Four is the max for even cooking.

Incorrect Temperature

Air fryers vary in power, so 325°F on one model might feel like 350°F on another. If your rolls are browning too fast, reduce the temperature to 300°F. If they’re not browning enough, increase to 330°F. Always monitor the first few batches to find your ideal setting.

Not Preheating

Skipping preheating can result in uneven cooking and longer cook times. Preheating ensures the rolls start cooking immediately, promoting proper rise and browning.

Ignoring the Icing

Adding cold icing to hot rolls causes it to melt into a messy puddle. Instead, warm the icing slightly (as mentioned earlier) or add it just before serving. For a firmer texture, let the rolls cool for 5 minutes before icing.

Using the Wrong Pan or Liner

Never use silicone mats or non-airflow liners in your air fryer. These block circulation and can cause smoke or fire. Stick to parchment paper with holes or use the basket directly (with a light oil spray).

Data Table: Air Fryer Cinnamon Roll Cooking Guide

Type of Roll	Size (Diameter)	Temperature	Cook Time	Special Notes
Pillsbury Grands!	3 inches	325°F (163°C)	10–12 min	Pre-greased; use parchment liner
Frozen (Rhodes)	2.5–3 inches	325°F (163°C)	15–18 min	Thaw 10–15 min before cooking
Homemade (½ inch thick)	2.5–3 inches	325°F (163°C)	12–14 min	Brush with butter for browning
Mini Rolls (1.5 inches)	1.5 inches	325°F (163°C)	8–10 min	Perfect for kids or snacks
Large Homemade (4 inches)	4 inches	325°F (163°C)	18–20 min	Check internal temp: 190°F

Conclusion

Cooking cinnamon rolls in the air fryer is not only possible—it’s a smart, efficient, and delicious alternative to traditional baking. Whether you’re using store-bought convenience or crafting your own from scratch, the air fryer delivers fluffy interiors, golden exteriors, and perfectly gooey centers in record time. From busy weekday mornings to weekend brunches, this method offers unmatched convenience without sacrificing flavor or texture.

By choosing the right rolls, following the step-by-step guide, and avoiding common mistakes, you can master air-fried cinnamon rolls with confidence. The added benefits of energy savings, reduced kitchen heat, and easy cleanup make this technique a must-try for any air fryer owner. So the next time you’re craving a warm, cinnamon-scented treat, skip the oven and reach for your air fryer. With a little practice, you’ll wonder why you ever cooked cinnamon rolls any other way. Happy air frying!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you cook cinnamon rolls in the air fryer?

Yes, you can cook cinnamon rolls in the air fryer! It’s a quick and convenient way to achieve golden, fluffy rolls with a crisp exterior in under 15 minutes.

How long do you air fry cinnamon rolls?

Most cinnamon rolls take 8–12 minutes at 350°F (175°C) in the air fryer. Check for a golden-brown top and a cooked-through center to ensure they’re ready.

Do store-bought cinnamon rolls work in the air fryer?

Absolutely! Store-bought cinnamon rolls, like Pillsbury or similar brands, cook perfectly in the air fryer. Just follow the package instructions and adjust time slightly for crispier results.

Can you cook frozen cinnamon rolls in the air fryer?

Yes, you can air fry frozen cinnamon rolls. Increase the cooking time by 2–4 minutes and preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking without drying them out.

What’s the best way to prevent air-fried cinnamon rolls from drying out?

To keep them moist, lightly brush the rolls with melted butter before cooking and avoid overcooking. Cooking in batches with proper spacing also helps retain moisture.

Can you reheat cinnamon rolls in the air fryer?

Yes! Reheat leftover cinnamon rolls in the air fryer at 320°F (160°C) for 3–5 minutes. This restores their fresh-baked texture better than a microwave.