These Air-Fryer Cinnamon Rolls are perfectly fluffy and full of warm, cinnamon flavors. Your favorite traditional breakfast treat made easy!
My grandmother was a fantastic baker. Whenever we visited her for the weekend or during summer vacation, she always brought us into the kitchen to help her make everything from chocolate chip cookies to elegant éclairs. My brother and I had our own aprons, neatly folded in her pantry, always ready for the next baking adventure. One time, we even surprised our parents with a triple-layered coconut cake for their anniversary. I still remember how fussy that recipe was, but I also remember the satisfaction we felt when our parents showered us with compliments as they polished off every crumb on their plate. My grandmother was intent on passing down the love of baking to us, and she certainly succeeded.
But if there’s one recipe that really brings back special memories of baking with my grandmother, it’s cinnamon rolls. I loved the warm aromas that would spread through the house as the little swirls on their bellies puffed up golden brown, ready to be crowned with sweet, sticky icing.
I admit, it’s not often that I make cinnamon rolls these days, but when I do, you can bet that nine times out of ten, I’ll be making them in the air fryer. Why? Because they bake up in half the time of a traditional oven while still delivering that perfectly golden exterior and soft, gooey center. Honestly, my mind is blown. This might be the biggest game changer when it comes to your cinnamon roll-making life. These cinnamon rolls are full of cinnamon sugar delight and pull-apart buttery goodness. I’m sure my grandmother would approve!
Are Air-fryer Cinnamon Rolls Healthy?
How I wish they were! The reality is that cinnamon rolls are a special treat that should be enjoyed in moderation, much like anything made with white flour, sugar, and butter. I wouldn’t recommend altering this recipe too much in an attempt to make it healthier, as each component plays a crucial role in creating the signature flavor and texture we love. That said, you could easily make this recipe vegan by substituting the dairy with plant-based versions and the egg with three tablespoons of aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas).
Recipe Variations
Yes, traditional cinnamon rolls are loved by all, but why not play around with this recipe to create other delicious rolls? A great tip is to scatter some chopped pecans or raisins on the cinnamon-sugar filling before rolling up the dough. Another great idea is to leave out the cinnamon and add a few drops of orange blossom water to the butter, along with the zest of an organic orange. Spread it over the dough and sprinkle in some dried cranberries. When making the glaze, use a few drops of orange blossom water as well, and finish them off with extra orange zest. And my favorite variation? Skip the cinnamon and sugar, slather the dough with chocolate-hazelnut spread, sprinkle with chopped pistachios, and roll it up!
How to Make Ahead And Store
To prep in advance, you can follow steps 1 through 3, and place the dough in the fridge until the next morning. The next day, simply continue with the rest of the recipe. Once cooked, leftover cinnamon rolls can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or frozen in Ziploc bags for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
Though they’re perfect on their own, with perhaps a cappuccino made with some oat milk, these cinnamon rolls would be a welcome addition to a breakfast brunch buffet that includes a hearty Potato-Egg Casserole, Breakfast Sausages, and a healthy Fruit Salad.
Ingredients
For the cinnamon rolls:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon Platinum Yeast from the brand Red Star
- 7 tablespoons milk
- 1 1/2 tablespoons butter
- 1 egg at room temperature
For the filling:
- 2 tablespoons butter softened to room temperature
- 3 tablespoons coconut sugar (or brown sugar)
- 1/2 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the frosting:
- 4 tablespoons cream cheese softened to room temperature
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
- In a microwave-safe, measuring cup, heat the 7 tablespoons of milk and 1 1/2 tablespoons of butter until it reaches 110-120 degrees Fahrenheit. You don’t want it hotter than that or it will kill the yeast. Add the mixture into the bowl, along with the egg. Stir until well mixed and the dough is soft and pretty sticky.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 3-4 minutes, until it just comes together. Don't knead too long, or the rolls won't be as fluffy! Spray the mixing bowl with cooking spray and place the dough back inside to rest for 10 minutes.
- Once the dough has rested, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to a 14×8-inch rectangle. Spread the butter from the filling all over it.
- In a small bowl, mix together the coconut sugar and cinnamon. Spread all over the dough using your fingers to really rub it in.
- TIGHTLY roll the dough up and carefully cut into 8 buns with a very sharp knife.
- Spray the mesh basket of your air fryer with cooking spray and place the rolls inside. Heat your air fryer to "keep warm." Cover lightly with aluminum foil and let the buns rise in the heated air fryer for 90 minutes.
- Once risen, remove the foil and turn the air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake the rolls uncovered for 7-8 minutes, until lightly golden brown. Then, lightly cover with foil to prevent too much browning, and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- While the buns bake, whisk together the softened cream cheese, vanilla, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth.
- Pour the glaze over the buns and serve immediately!
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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