Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, melted butter, salt, and eggs. Mix well.
- Combine with Yeast Mixture: Add the frothy yeast mixture to the bowl and stir to combine.
- Add Flour: Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a dough forms. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
- Knead Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Let Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Mix Filling Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well mixed.
Step 3: Assemble the Cinnamon Rolls
- Roll Out Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a large rectangle, about 16×12 inches.
- Spread Filling: Evenly spread the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Roll and Cut: Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss.
- Prepare for Air Frying: Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Place the cinnamon rolls in the basket, leaving space between them for expansion.
Step 4: Air Fry the Cinnamon Rolls
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for about 3 minutes.
- Air Fry: Place the cinnamon rolls in the air fryer basket and cook at 320°F (160°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Mix Frosting Ingredients: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk (if needed) until the frosting is creamy and smooth.
Step 6: Serve the Cinnamon Rolls
- Frost Rolls: Once the cinnamon rolls are done, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm rolls.
- Enjoy: Serve the cinnamon rolls warm and enjoy their gooey, sweet goodness!
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially the butter and cream cheese, are at room temperature for easier mixing and better consistency.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Air fryers can vary, so keep an eye on the cinnamon rolls towards the end of the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
- Spacing: Leave enough space between the rolls in the air fryer basket to allow them to expand and cook evenly.
Variations to Try
- Nuts and Raisins: Add chopped nuts or raisins to the filling for extra texture and flavor.
- Maple Frosting: Replace the cream cheese frosting with a maple glaze for a different but equally delicious topping.
- Pumpkin Spice: Add pumpkin spice to the filling mixture for a seasonal twist.
Serving Suggestions
- With Coffee: Serve your cinnamon rolls with a hot cup of coffee for a perfect breakfast or brunch treat.
- As Dessert: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- For Special Occasions: These cinnamon rolls make a wonderful addition to holiday breakfasts or special gatherings.
Why This Recipe Works
Using the air fryer to cook cinnamon rolls ensures they have a beautifully crisp exterior while maintaining a soft, fluffy interior. This method is faster and often more convenient than traditional oven baking. The combination of a rich, buttery dough with a sweet cinnamon filling and tangy cream cheese frosting makes these cinnamon rolls utterly irresistible.
Final Thoughts
Making Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls for the first time is a delightful and rewarding experience. This recipe provides a straightforward guide to achieving perfect, bakery-quality cinnamon rolls with minimal effort. Enjoy the process and the delicious results that are sure to impress family and friends!