Fluffy Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls in Just 30 Minutes

I used to think cinnamon rolls were strictly a weekend project – you know, the kind where you wake up early, turn on the oven, and spend half your morning waiting for dough to rise. Then I discovered the magic of making Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls from scratch, and my breakfast game changed forever. Now I can whip up warm, gooey cinnamon rolls in under 30 minutes – yes, even on busy weekday mornings when my kids are begging for something sweet.

What makes these air fryer cinnamon rolls special is how incredibly fluffy they turn out, with that perfect golden-brown swirl that’s just begging to be pulled apart. The air fryer works its magic by circulating hot air around each roll, giving them an even bake without drying them out. No more worrying about undercooked centers or burning the bottoms. Plus, my kitchen stays cool (a lifesaver in summer) and cleanup is a breeze. Trust me, once you try making cinnamon rolls this way, you’ll never go back to the oven method.

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Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls (From Scratch)

Once you try these cinnamon rolls, you’ll wonder why you ever bothered with the oven. Here’s what makes them so special:

• Crazy fast – From mixing bowl to plate in under 30 minutes (no yeast means no waiting for dough to rise)
• Perfectly fluffy – The air fryer gives that golden-brown exterior while keeping the centers soft and tender
• Minimal mess – Just one small bowl and the air fryer basket to clean (goodbye, flour-covered countertops)
• Weekday-friendly – Small batch means you can make just enough for breakfast without leftovers tempting you all day
• Customizable – Add nuts, raisins, or drizzle with cream cheese icing if you’re feeling fancy

Seriously, these are the cinnamon rolls you’ll make when that sweet craving hits and you need instant gratification.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls (From Scratch)

Here’s everything you’ll need for the most delicious homemade cinnamon rolls your air fryer has ever seen:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder (fresh is best)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup milk (whole milk makes them extra rich)
• 1/4 cup melted butter (cooled slightly)
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (pack it tight)
• 1 tbsp cinnamon (the good stuff – don’t skimp)
• 2 tbsp softened butter (for that perfect spreadable consistency)

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

Don’t stress if you’re missing something – here’s how to adapt:

• Milk: Almond or oat milk work well for dairy-free. The rolls might be slightly less rich.
• Sugar: Coconut sugar can replace brown sugar 1:1, though the flavor will be milder.
• Butter: While I love real butter, coconut oil works in a pinch for the melted portion.
• Dough tip: If it’s too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it’s soft but not tacky.
• Cinnamon lovers: Feel free to up the cinnamon to 1.5 tbsp if you’re like me and can’t get enough.

Remember – the better quality your ingredients, the more amazing your cinnamon rolls will taste. That said, these are pretty forgiving, so use what you’ve got.

Equipment Needed for Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls (From Scratch)

You won’t need much – that’s the beauty of air fryer baking. Here’s what I grab every time:

• Your trusty air fryer (any size works – just adjust batch size)
• 1 medium mixing bowl (I use my favorite ceramic one)
• A wooden spoon or spatula
• Rolling pin (or improvise with a wine bottle)
• Sharp knife for cutting rolls

That’s it, No fancy gadgets required – just simple tools you probably already have.

How to Make Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls (From Scratch)

Alright, let’s get rolling – literally. Making these air fryer cinnamon rolls is easier than you think, but I’ve got some tricks to share that’ll make them perfect every time.

Preparing the Dough

First things first – grab that mixing bowl and whisk together your dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt). Now here’s my secret: make a little well in the center before adding the wet stuff – it helps everything incorporate more evenly. Pour in the milk, melted butter (make sure it’s cooled slightly so it doesn’t cook the egg), and crack in that egg.

Stir everything together with a wooden spoon until it just comes together – don’t overmix. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky, but still manageable. If it’s clinging to your fingers like crazy, sprinkle in a bit more flour (a tablespoon at a time) until it’s just right. Let it rest for 5 minutes while you prep your surface – trust me, this little break makes rolling so much easier.

Rolling and Filling the Cinnamon Rolls

Flour your counter or cutting board generously – this dough loves to stick. Roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick (no need to be perfect here). Now spread that softened butter all over the surface – get right to the edges. Mix your brown sugar and cinnamon together in a little bowl, then sprinkle it evenly over the buttered dough.

Here comes the fun part: starting from one long edge, roll the dough up tightly (but gently) into a log. If some filling spills out, just tuck it back in – no stress. Use a sharp knife to cut the log into 8 equal pieces. Pro tip: wipe your knife between cuts to keep the rolls looking neat.

Air Frying to Perfection

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F while you’re assembling – this gives the rolls a nice head start. Arrange them in the basket with space between each (they’ll puff up), and don’t overcrowd – you might need to cook in batches depending on your air fryer size.

Cook for 10 minutes first, then peek – they should be golden brown and smell amazing. If they need another minute or two, go for it, but watch closely. Every air fryer runs a bit different. Let them cool for just a minute before diving in – that cinnamon sugar filling gets crazy hot.

Tips for the Best Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls (From Scratch)

After making dozens of batches (some more successful than others, I’ll admit), I’ve learned all the tricks for perfect air fryer cinnamon rolls every time:

• Space them out, Overcrowding the basket leads to steamed rolls instead of golden-brown beauties. Give each roll breathing room.
• Parchment is your friend. Cut a round to fit your basket – no more sticky messes when removing the rolls.
• Rotate halfway if your air fryer has hot spots (most do). Just a quick turn ensures even browning.
• Check early. Air fryers vary wildly – start peeking at 8 minutes to prevent overcooking.
• Let them rest for 2-3 minutes before eating – that molten cinnamon sugar needs time to settle down.

Follow these simple tips, and you’ll be making bakery-quality cinnamon rolls before your coffee gets cold.

Serving and Storing Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls (From Scratch)

Oh boy, this is my favorite part – the finishing touches. While these air fryer cinnamon rolls are absolutely heavenly plain (the way my kids devour them the second they’re cool enough to touch), I love dressing them up sometimes. A simple powdered sugar glaze (just mix 1/2 cup powdered sugar with 1-2 tbsp milk) takes them over the top. For special occasions, I’ll whip up a quick cream cheese icing – trust me, it’s worth the extra 2 minutes.

Now, if by some miracle you have leftovers (it happens), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They’re best fresh, but a quick 30-second zap in the air fryer brings them back to life beautifully. Just don’t tell anyone I said you could microwave them – we’re purists here.

Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls (From Scratch) FAQs

I get asked these questions all the time about my air fryer cinnamon rolls – here’s what you really want to know:

Nutritional Information

Here’s the scoop on what you’re biting into (because we all want to know, right?). Keep in mind these are estimates – your actual numbers might vary slightly based on specific ingredients:

• Calories: 220 per roll (worth every one)
• Sugar: 12g
• Fat: 8g
• Carbs: 34g
• Protein: 4g

Not bad for a warm, gooey treat that’ll make your whole kitchen smell like a bakery.

Share Your Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls (From Scratch)

I’d love to see your cinnamon roll creations. Snap a pic of those golden swirls and tag me on Instagram – nothing makes me happier than seeing folks enjoy these recipes. Leave a comment below telling me how yours turned out, or share your favorite twist (I’m always looking for new ideas). Happy air frying.

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