Can You Cook Rhodes Rolls in Air Fryer Perfectly Every Time

Yes, you can cook Rhodes rolls in an air fryer to achieve perfectly golden, fluffy results every time—just preheat the air fryer to 325°F and cook the frozen rolls for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway. This quick, hands-off method delivers consistent texture and saves time compared to conventional ovens, making it ideal for busy home cooks.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can: Cook Rhodes rolls in an air fryer for perfect results every time.
• Preheat first: Always preheat the air fryer for even baking and golden crusts.
• Adjust timing: Bake at 325°F for 8-10 minutes, checking early to avoid over-browning.
• Space matters: Leave room between rolls to ensure proper air circulation and rising.
• Thaw properly: Partially thaw frozen rolls first for consistent texture and faster cooking.
• Brush with butter: Add a light butter glaze post-bake for enhanced flavor and softness.

Can You Cook Rhodes Rolls in Air Fryer Perfectly Every Time

Let’s be honest—few things beat the smell of freshly baked dinner rolls wafting through the kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just craving a warm, fluffy side, Rhodes rolls are a go-to for many home cooks. They’re convenient, reliable, and taste like they came straight from a bakery. But if you’re like me, you’ve probably looked at your air fryer and wondered: Can I cook Rhodes rolls in air fryer instead of the oven?

The short answer? Yes, absolutely. But—and this is a big but—there’s a right way and a not-so-right way to do it. I’ve spent the last few months testing different methods, adjusting temperatures, and even burning a batch (oops). What I’ve learned is that cooking Rhodes rolls in an air fryer isn’t just possible—it can actually be better than the oven if done right. You get that golden, crispy crust with a soft, pillowy center in less time, with less mess, and with more even browning. But it takes a little finesse. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to cook Rhodes rolls in air fryer perfectly—every single time.

Why Air Fry Rhodes Rolls? The Benefits You Might Not Know

You might be thinking, “Why switch from the oven if Rhodes rolls already come with oven instructions?” Great question. While the oven is the traditional method, the air fryer offers several advantages that make it worth considering—especially if you’re short on time or space.

Faster Cooking Time

One of the biggest perks? Speed. Air fryers use rapid hot air circulation to cook food quickly and evenly. While oven-baked Rhodes rolls take about 20–25 minutes (plus preheating), air-fried rolls can be ready in 10–14 minutes. That’s nearly half the time—perfect when you’re in a rush or just impatient (we’ve all been there).

Even Browning and Crispy Bottoms

Ovens often heat unevenly, especially older models. This can lead to rolls that are golden on top but pale on the bottom. Air fryers, on the other hand, circulate hot air 360 degrees around the food. The result? A consistent golden-brown crust all around. Plus, the elevated basket allows hot air to hit the bottom, giving you that satisfying crunch without flipping.

Energy and Space Efficiency

If you’re cooking for two or just don’t want to heat up your entire kitchen, the air fryer is a game-changer. It uses less energy than a full-sized oven and doesn’t require preheating in most cases. Plus, it frees up oven space when you’re roasting a turkey or baking a casserole. Think of it as your secret weapon for holiday meals.

Less Mess, Easier Cleanup

Baking rolls in the oven often means greasing a pan or using parchment paper. With an air fryer, you just place the rolls in the basket (no greasing needed if you use parchment liners or a light spray). When you’re done, the basket wipes clean in seconds. No scrubbing, no stuck-on crumbs.

Pro tip: If you’re making a large batch, cook in small batches to avoid overcrowding. This ensures even cooking and prevents soggy rolls. Trust me—I learned this the hard way after trying to cram a dozen rolls into my 5-quart basket. Lesson learned.

Preparing Rhodes Rolls for Air Frying: Step-by-Step Guide

Before you hit “start,” there’s a little prep work involved. Rhodes rolls come frozen, so you’ll need to thaw and rise them first. But don’t worry—it’s not as fussy as it sounds. Here’s how to get them ready for air frying perfection.

Step 1: Thaw the Rolls

Remove the frozen rolls from the packaging and place them on a lightly greased baking sheet or plate. Let them thaw at room temperature for 1–2 hours. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re soft to the touch and have doubled in size. If you’re in a hurry, you can speed up the process by placing them in a warm (not hot) oven for 30 minutes—just make sure they don’t melt!

Note: Never microwave Rhodes rolls to thaw. It can make them rubbery or unevenly soft. Patience is key here.

Step 2: Let Them Rise

Once thawed, cover the rolls loosely with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let them rise in a warm, draft-free spot for another 1–2 hours. This is crucial. Under-proofed rolls will be dense; over-proofed ones might collapse. Look for a 50–100% increase in size. They should feel light and springy when gently pressed.

I like to place mine near a warm oven or on top of the fridge—both are cozy spots for rising dough. If your kitchen is cold, this step might take longer. Don’t rush it.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer (Optional but Recommended)

Most air fryers don’t require preheating, but I’ve found that a quick 2–3 minute preheat at 350°F (175°C) helps achieve a better crust. It’s not mandatory, but it’s a small step that makes a noticeable difference.

Step 4: Arrange the Rolls

Place the risen rolls in the air fryer basket, leaving at least 1 inch of space between each one. Overcrowding is the #1 mistake people make. If they touch, they’ll steam instead of bake, resulting in soggy, uneven rolls. For a 5-quart air fryer, 6–8 rolls is ideal. For larger models, you can go up to 10.

Pro tip: Use parchment paper liners or lightly spray the basket with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. I prefer liners—they make cleanup a breeze.

How to Cook Rhodes Rolls in Air Fryer: Temperature, Time, and Tips

Now for the main event: the actual cooking. This is where precision pays off. Too hot, and the outside burns while the inside stays doughy. Too low, and you end up with pale, undercooked rolls. Here’s the method I’ve perfected after dozens of tests.

Temperature Settings: The Sweet Spot

Set your air fryer to 325°F (163°C). This temperature is high enough to crisp the outside but low enough to allow the inside to cook through without drying out. I’ve tried 350°F and 375°F—both caused the crust to darken too quickly. 325°F gives you that perfect golden-brown finish with a soft, fluffy center.

Cooking Time: 10–14 Minutes

Cook the rolls for 10 minutes initially. After 10 minutes, check their color. If they’re golden on top and bottom, they’re likely done. If they’re still pale, add 2–4 more minutes. Total cooking time should be between 10–14 minutes.

Important: Air fryer models vary in power. My Ninja Foodi cooks faster than my Cosori. Always keep an eye on them after the 10-minute mark. Use tongs to gently lift a roll and check the bottom—it should be golden, not pale or doughy.

Optional: Brush with Butter for Extra Flavor

About 2 minutes before they’re done, open the basket and quickly brush the tops with melted butter. This adds richness and enhances the golden color. I use salted butter for a little savory kick, but unsalted works too. You can also sprinkle with garlic powder, parsley, or sea salt for a gourmet touch.

Don’t Open the Basket Too Early

Resist the urge to peek before 10 minutes. Every time you open the basket, heat escapes, which can lower the temperature and extend cooking time. Wait until the timer hits 10 minutes, then check. If you need to adjust, do it quickly and close the lid.

Cooling and Serving

Once done, remove the rolls from the basket and place them on a wire rack. Let them cool for 2–3 minutes before serving. This allows the steam to escape, preventing them from becoming soggy. Serve warm with butter, jam, or as a side to your favorite meal.

Real-life example: I made a batch for Sunday brunch. I brushed them with garlic butter and served them with honey butter on the side. My guests asked for the recipe—and I didn’t even mention they were Rhodes rolls! That’s how good they looked and tasted.

Common Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

Even with the best intentions, things can go wrong. I’ve made every mistake in the book—overcrowding, wrong temperature, under-proofing—and I’m here to save you the trouble. Here are the most common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

1. Overcrowding the Basket

This is the #1 culprit behind soggy, uneven rolls. When rolls touch, they trap steam instead of allowing hot air to circulate. The result? Pale, doughy bottoms and tops that look done but aren’t. Always leave space—1 inch between each roll is ideal.

Tip: If you need to cook more than your basket holds, do it in batches. It’s better to wait an extra 10 minutes than to ruin a whole batch.

2. Skipping the Rise

Some people try to air fry Rhodes rolls straight from the freezer or after a short thaw. Big mistake. Without proper rising, the rolls will be dense, chewy, and undercooked inside. Always let them rise for at least 1–2 hours after thawing.

3. Wrong Temperature

Too high? Burnt crust, raw center. Too low? Pale, undercooked rolls. Stick to 325°F. If your air fryer runs hot, go down to 320°F. If it runs cool, bump it to 330°F—but never go above 350°F.

4. Not Using Parchment or Spray

Rhodes rolls are sticky when warm. Without a non-stick surface, they’ll glue themselves to the basket. Use parchment liners (I love the pre-cut ones) or lightly spray with oil. I once skipped this step—my rolls were stuck so badly I had to chisel them out. Not fun.

5. Peeking Too Often

Every time you open the basket, heat escapes. This lowers the internal temperature and can extend cooking time by several minutes. Set the timer, walk away, and check only after 10 minutes.

6. Forgetting to Cool

Hot rolls straight from the air fryer are delicious, but they’re also full of steam. If you serve them immediately, the steam condenses and makes the crust soggy. Let them cool for 2–3 minutes on a wire rack first.

Air Fryer vs. Oven: Which Method Is Better for Rhodes Rolls?

Now that we’ve covered the air fryer method, let’s compare it to the traditional oven. Both have pros and cons, and the “best” method depends on your priorities.

Speed: Air Fryer Wins

Oven: Preheat (10–15 min) + cook (20–25 min) = 30–40 minutes
Air fryer: No preheat (or 2 min) + cook (10–14 min) = 10–16 minutes
That’s a huge time savings—especially during busy holidays.

Texture and Flavor

Oven: Soft, even crust with a slightly chewy texture. Great for traditional rolls.
Air fryer: Crispy bottom, golden top, and a slightly crispier exterior. The inside stays fluffy. If you like a bit of crunch, the air fryer wins.

Energy Use

Air fryers use significantly less electricity than ovens. According to Energy.gov, air fryers use about 75% less energy than conventional ovens. If you’re eco-conscious or trying to cut utility bills, this is a big plus.

Batch Size

Ovens can handle larger batches (12+ rolls at once). Air fryers are limited by basket size. If you’re cooking for a crowd, the oven might be more practical. But for 2–6 people, the air fryer is ideal.

Convenience

Air fryers are easier to clean, take up less space, and don’t heat up your kitchen. Ovens require greasing pans, more cleanup, and longer wait times.

Here’s a quick comparison table:

Factor	Air Fryer	Oven
Cooking Time	10–14 minutes	20–25 minutes (plus preheat)
Texture	Crispy bottom, golden top	Soft, even crust
Energy Use	Low	High
Batch Size	6–10 rolls (depending on model)	12+ rolls
Cleanup	Quick and easy	Greasing, scrubbing pans
Best For	Small batches, quick meals	Large gatherings, traditional feel

So, which is better? If you want speed, crispiness, and efficiency, go with the air fryer. If you’re feeding a crowd or prefer a softer, more traditional roll, the oven is still a solid choice. I use both—depending on the situation.

Final Tips for Perfect Air-Fried Rhodes Rolls Every Time

You’ve got the method down. Now let’s make sure you never have a dud batch again. Here are my final tips—gathered from trial, error, and a lot of buttery rolls.

1. Use a Timer (Not Just the Air Fryer Timer)

Set a separate timer on your phone or kitchen clock. Air fryer timers can be inaccurate, and you don’t want to rely solely on them. I’ve burned rolls because I got distracted and forgot to check.

2. Rotate the Basket (If Needed)

Some air fryers cook more evenly than others. If your rolls are browning faster on one side, pause at 6 minutes and gently rotate the basket. This ensures even color.

3. Store and Reheat Like a Pro

Leftover rolls? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 300°F for 3–4 minutes. They’ll taste almost as good as fresh.

4. Experiment with Flavors

Brush with garlic butter, sprinkle with rosemary, or add a pinch of cinnamon and sugar for sweet rolls. Rhodes rolls are a blank canvas—don’t be afraid to get creative.

5. Keep a Batch Frozen for Emergencies

Rhodes rolls freeze beautifully. I keep a few bags in the freezer for last-minute dinners. Just thaw and rise as usual—no need to adjust cooking time.

6. Know Your Air Fryer

Every model is different. Spend a few batches learning how your air fryer behaves. Does it run hot? Cool? Adjust temperatures and times accordingly. Once you know your machine, you’ll be unstoppable.

At the end of the day, cooking Rhodes rolls in air fryer isn’t just possible—it’s a smart, delicious choice. With the right technique, you’ll get golden, fluffy rolls in half the time, with half the effort. Whether you’re a busy parent, a holiday host, or just someone who loves warm bread, this method is a game-changer.

So go ahead—try it tonight. Your taste buds (and your schedule) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you cook Rhodes rolls in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook Rhodes rolls in an air fryer for a quick, golden, and fluffy result. Preheat the air fryer, place the frozen rolls in a single layer, and cook at 320°F (160°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What’s the best way to air fry Rhodes rolls without drying them out?

To keep Rhodes rolls moist, lightly brush them with melted butter before air frying and avoid overcooking. Cooking in batches ensures even heat distribution and prevents overcrowding, which can lead to dryness.

How long should you cook frozen Rhodes rolls in an air fryer?

Frozen Rhodes rolls typically take 8–10 minutes at 320°F (160°C) in an air fryer. Flip them halfway for even browning, and check for a soft, pillowy texture before removing.

Do you need to thaw Rhodes rolls before air frying?

No, you can air fry Rhodes rolls directly from frozen—no thawing required. This makes them a convenient option for quick snacks, sides, or last-minute meals.

Can you cook Rhodes rolls in an air fryer with other foods?

It’s best to cook Rhodes rolls alone to ensure even rising and browning. If cooking with other foods, choose items with similar cook times and temperatures to avoid uneven results.

Why are my air-fried Rhodes rolls too crispy or burnt?

This usually happens from cooking at too high a temperature or for too long. Stick to 320°F (160°C) and monitor the rolls closely, especially during the last few minutes of cooking.