- Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk. Add a pinch of sugar and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Make the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the yeast mixture, sugar, melted butter, eggs, flour, and salt.
- Mix until a soft dough forms. If using a stand mixer, knead the dough on medium speed for 5-7 minutes. If mixing by hand, knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning once to coat the dough with oil.
- Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Chapter 3: Assembling and Air Frying
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
- Roll Out the Dough:
- Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
- Roll the dough into a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick.
- Add the Filling:
- Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Roll and Cut the Rolls:
- Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log.
- Cut the dough into 12 equal-sized rolls using a sharp knife or dental floss.
- Prepare the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Air Fry the Cinnamon Rolls:
- Place the cinnamon rolls in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them to expand.
- Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and cooked through. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
Chapter 4: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze
- Prepare the Glaze:
- In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.
- Adjust the consistency with milk as needed to achieve a smooth, pourable glaze.
Chapter 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Glaze the Cinnamon Rolls:
- Drizzle the warm cinnamon rolls with the cream cheese glaze immediately after removing them from the air fryer.
- Serve Warm:
- Serve the air fryer cinnamon rolls warm, allowing the glaze to melt slightly into the rolls.
Chapter 6: Tips for Success
- Even Slicing: Ensure you cut the rolls evenly to promote even cooking.
- Glaze Timing: Glaze the cinnamon rolls while they are still warm for the best flavor and texture.
- Air Fryer Capacity: Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
- Customization: Add chopped nuts or raisins to the filling for extra texture and flavor if desired.
Conclusion
Air fryer cinnamon rolls are a delicious and convenient way to enjoy freshly baked cinnamon rolls without the need for an oven. With this recipe, you can indulge in warm, gooey cinnamon rolls topped with a decadent cream cheese glaze in no time. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat any time of day!