Can You Put Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls in the Air Fryer for Perfect Results

Yes, you can put Pillsbury cinnamon rolls in the air fryer for a faster, crispier, and more evenly baked treat—just preheat to 350°F (175°C), arrange rolls in a single layer with space between them, and cook for 8–10 minutes. No flipping or extra oil needed; the air fryer’s convection heat delivers golden-brown perfection with a soft, gooey center every time.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can air fry Pillsbury cinnamon rolls for faster, crispier results than baking.
• Preheat the air fryer to 320°F for even cooking and golden-brown perfection.
• Space rolls 1-2 inches apart to ensure proper air circulation and prevent sticking.
• Cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding and uneven baking.
• Reduce time by 2-3 minutes vs. oven baking; check for doneness early.
• Add glaze after cooking to prevent burning and maintain ideal texture.

Why Baking Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls in the Air Fryer Might Be Your New Favorite Move

Let’s be real—nothing beats the warm, gooey, cinnamon-kissed aroma of freshly baked Pillsbury cinnamon rolls wafting through your kitchen. It’s that sweet, comforting smell that says, “It’s going to be a good day.” But here’s the thing: what if you could get those same bakery-style results in less time, with less mess, and with a crispier, more even texture? Enter the air fryer. Yes, that countertop gadget that’s been quietly revolutionizing how we cook everything from chicken wings to roasted veggies.

If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a can of Pillsbury cinnamon rolls and wondering, “Can you put Pillsbury cinnamon rolls in the air fryer?”—you’re not alone. I’ve asked that question too, especially on those lazy Sunday mornings when I’m craving something warm and sweet but don’t want to wait 20 minutes for the oven to preheat. After testing, tweaking, and even a few (slightly overcooked) batches, I can confidently say: yes, you absolutely can. And when done right, the results are chef’s kiss—fluffy spirals with a golden crust, gooey centers, and a glaze that melts into every crevice. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to turn your air fryer into a cinnamon roll powerhouse, from prep to plating.

How Air Frying Works—And Why It’s Perfect for Cinnamon Rolls

Before we dive into the how-to, let’s talk about why the air fryer is such a game-changer for baked goods like Pillsbury cinnamon rolls. Unlike traditional ovens that rely on radiant heat (which can create hot spots and uneven baking), air fryers use rapid air circulation. This means hot air swirls around your food at high speed, cooking it evenly and giving it that desirable crispiness—without deep frying.

The Science Behind the Crisp

Air fryers typically operate between 300°F and 400°F, with most models reaching their target temperature in 3–5 minutes. This quick preheat time is a huge win when you’re short on time. The fan inside circulates hot air, creating a convection effect similar to a convection oven—but in a much smaller space. This leads to faster cooking times and a more consistent bake.

For cinnamon rolls, this means the outer layers crisp up beautifully while the inside stays soft and doughy. The result? A texture contrast that’s hard to achieve in a regular oven, where the bottoms can burn before the centers are fully cooked.

Why Pillsbury Rolls Work So Well

Pillsbury cinnamon rolls are pre-rolled, pre-sweetened, and come with their own icing packet—making them ideal for air frying. The dough is designed to rise and caramelize quickly, and the spiral structure allows hot air to penetrate evenly. Unlike homemade dough, which may need proofing or longer baking, Pillsbury’s ready-to-bake format aligns perfectly with the air fryer’s fast-cooking nature.

Pro tip: The key is spacing. Unlike oven baking, where rolls can be placed close together, air frying requires room for airflow. If you crowd them, they’ll steam instead of crisp. I learned this the hard way when my first batch came out soggy—lesson learned!

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Air Fry Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls

Ready to try it? Here’s my tested, no-fuss method for getting perfect Pillsbury cinnamon rolls in the air fryer—crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and ready in under 15 minutes.

What You’ll Need

• 1 can (8-count) Pillsbury cinnamon rolls
• Air fryer (basket or oven-style)
• Non-stick cooking spray or parchment paper
• Small bowl (for optional glaze adjustments)
• Fork or small knife (for separating rolls)

Step 1: Prep the Air Fryer Basket

Start by lightly greasing the air fryer basket with non-stick spray or lining it with air fryer-safe parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. I prefer parchment because it keeps the rolls from falling through the basket’s holes—especially important if your model has wide grates.

Step 2: Separate and Arrange the Rolls

Carefully unroll the dough and separate each cinnamon roll. Gently stretch them slightly to loosen the spirals—this helps them cook evenly. Place them in the basket, leaving about ½ to 1 inch of space between each roll. For most standard air fryers (5–6 quarts), you can fit 4–6 rolls comfortably. If you’re cooking all 8, do it in two batches.

Why spacing matters: Air needs to circulate around each roll. If they’re too close, they’ll steam instead of crisp, and the centers may stay undercooked.

Step 3: Preheat (Optional but Recommended)

Preheat your air fryer to 325°F for 3–5 minutes. This mimics oven preheating and ensures even cooking from the start. Not all models have a preheat function—if yours doesn’t, just let it run for a few minutes before adding the rolls.

Step 4: Air Fry the Rolls

Place the basket in the air fryer and cook at 325°F for 8–10 minutes. After 5 minutes, pause and check the rolls. They should be golden brown on top and puffed. If they’re browning too quickly, reduce the temperature to 315°F for the remaining time. If they’re undercooked, add 1–2 more minutes.

Watch closely: Air fryers vary in power. My Ninja Foodi cooks faster than my Philips model, so adjust based on your machine.

Step 5: Add the Icing

Once the rolls are done, remove them carefully—they’re hot! Let them cool for 1–2 minutes, then drizzle with the included icing. The warmth will melt it slightly, creating that classic gooey glaze. For extra decadence, I sometimes add a splash of milk or vanilla extract to the icing for a smoother texture.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Air-fried cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed fresh. The crust stays crisp longer than oven-baked ones, but they’ll soften as they cool. Serve with coffee, tea, or a cold glass of milk for the ultimate treat.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Air-Fried Cinnamon Rolls

Even with a simple recipe, a few small tweaks can elevate your results from good to amazing. Here are my favorite tips, learned from trial, error, and a few too many overcooked spirals.

Adjust Temperature Based on Your Air Fryer

Not all air fryers are created equal. Some run hot, others run cool. If your rolls are browning too fast, drop the temp to 315°F. If they’re taking longer than 10 minutes, try 335°F. I keep a small notebook with cooking notes for each model I use—it’s saved me more than once!

Don’t Skip the Parchment Paper

I’ve tried cooking directly on the basket, and while it works, it’s a pain to clean. Parchment paper (cut to fit your basket) prevents sticking and makes removing the rolls easier. Just make sure it’s labeled “air fryer safe” and doesn’t cover the heating element.

Add Flavor Boosters (Sparingly)

Want to level up your rolls? Try these easy upgrades:

• Sprinkle with coarse sugar before air frying for extra crunch.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the included icing for warmth.
• Drizzle with melted butter halfway through cooking for a richer crust.

But don’t overdo it—Pillsbury’s flavor is already balanced. Too much can overpower the delicate cinnamon-sugar filling.

Batch Cooking? Do It Right

If you’re cooking all 8 rolls, don’t rush. Cook in two batches. The second batch will cook slightly faster since the air fryer is already warm. Just add 1 minute to the timer. And yes, you can reheat leftovers in the air fryer—just 2–3 minutes at 300°F brings back the crispiness.

Watch for Doneness Cues

Golden brown tops are good, but the real test is the center. Press a roll gently—it should spring back slightly but still feel soft. If it’s doughy, add more time. If the edges are dark brown, it’s likely overdone. I use a small knife to peek at the center if I’m unsure.

Common Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

Even the best air fryer recipes can go sideways if you miss a detail. Here are the most common pitfalls—and how to dodge them.

Overcrowding the Basket

This is the #1 mistake. When rolls are too close, they steam instead of crisp. The result? Soggy, pale spirals. Always leave space—think “social distancing” for cinnamon rolls. If your basket is small, cook fewer rolls per batch.

Using Too High a Temperature

350°F might seem like a good idea for speed, but it’s too hot. The outside burns before the center cooks. Stick to 325°F max. I once tried 375°F—let’s just say my rolls looked like charcoal briquettes.

Skipping the Preheat

It’s tempting to skip preheating, but it helps the dough rise evenly. Without it, rolls can be dense or undercooked in the center. Even 3 minutes makes a difference.

Adding Icing Too Early

Pouring icing on hot rolls can make it run off. Let them cool for 1–2 minutes first. The residual heat will melt the icing just enough for a gooey, sticky finish.

Ignoring Your Air Fryer’s Quirks

Some models have hot spots (usually near the back). Rotate the basket halfway through if needed. And if your rolls are cooking unevenly, try placing the smaller ones in the center, where heat is less intense.

Data Table: Air Fryer vs. Oven for Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls

Factor	Air Fryer	Conventional Oven
Preheat Time	3–5 minutes	10–15 minutes
Cook Time	8–10 minutes	12–15 minutes
Total Time	11–15 minutes	22–30 minutes
Texture	Crispy exterior, soft center	Uniform softness, less crisp
Energy Use	Lower (smaller space)	Higher (larger oven)
Cleanup	Easy (basket or parchment)	Moderate (baking sheet)
Batch Size	4–6 rolls (standard basket)	8–12 rolls (baking sheet)
Best For	Quick, small batches	Large groups or meal prep

This table shows why the air fryer wins for speed, texture, and convenience—especially for 1–6 rolls. But if you’re feeding a crowd, the oven still has its place.

Final Thoughts: Is Air Frying Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls Worth It?

So, back to the original question: Can you put Pillsbury cinnamon rolls in the air fryer? The answer is a resounding yes—and it might just become your go-to method. The air fryer delivers faster results, a superior texture (crispy outside, soft inside), and less energy use than a conventional oven. Plus, cleanup is a breeze.

But it’s not magic. Success depends on spacing, temperature, and a little attention. Avoid overcrowding, stick to 325°F, and preheat when possible. And don’t be afraid to experiment—maybe you’ll discover that a pinch of orange zest in the icing or a sprinkle of chopped pecans takes your rolls to the next level.

At the end of the day, this method is perfect for busy mornings, late-night cravings, or when you want a treat without heating up the whole kitchen. I’ve made air-fried cinnamon rolls for my kids’ sleepovers, my book club, and even my dog (okay, just the plain dough—no icing for Fido). They’ve never disappointed.

So grab that can of Pillsbury, fire up your air fryer, and give it a try. You might just find that the humble cinnamon roll—already a classic—has a new, crispy, golden life in the world of air frying. And hey, if your first batch isn’t perfect? That’s okay. There’s always the next one. Happy air frying!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you put Pillsbury cinnamon rolls in the air fryer?

Yes, you can cook Pillsbury cinnamon rolls in the air fryer for a quick and evenly baked treat. The air fryer’s circulating heat ensures a golden-brown finish with a soft, gooey center.

What temperature should I use to air fry Pillsbury cinnamon rolls?

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook the rolls for 8–10 minutes. Adjust time slightly based on your air fryer model and desired doneness.

Do I need to adjust the cooking time for Pillsbury cinnamon rolls in an air fryer?

Yes, air frying typically takes less time than oven baking—start checking at 8 minutes. Overcooking can dry them out, so monitor closely for optimal results.

Can I cook the frosting with the Pillsbury cinnamon rolls in the air fryer?

No, add the frosting after baking to prevent melting or burning. The air fryer’s high heat will make the frosting too runny if added before cooking.

Do I need to grease the air fryer basket for Pillsbury cinnamon rolls?

Lightly spray or brush the basket with oil to prevent sticking, but the rolls’ own butter content helps. Use parchment paper liners for easier cleanup.

Can you reheat leftover Pillsbury cinnamon rolls in the air fryer?

Yes! Reheat at 320°F (160°C) for 2–3 minutes to restore warmth and softness. The air fryer prevents sogginess compared to microwaving.