The Best Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls: Your Ultimate Cinnabon Copycat Recipe

Get ready to indulge in the warm, gooey, and utterly irresistible magic of homemade air fryer cinnamon rolls! Forget about those store-bought cans; this recipe guides you through creating the most phenomenal cinnamon buns from scratch, right in your air fryer. Inspired by the legendary Cinnabon, these giant, fluffy rolls are packed with a rich cinnamon-sugar swirl, air-fried to golden perfection, and generously topped with a decadent cream cheese frosting that will make your taste buds sing.

Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen – that unmistakable scent of freshly baked cinnamon rolls, reminiscent of your favorite mall bakery. This Cinnabon copycat recipe isn’t just a treat; it’s an experience, delivering rolls that are not only incredibly flavorful but also boast that perfectly tender interior and slightly crisp exterior, all thanks to the marvel of the air fryer. They’re perfect for a special breakfast, a delightful brunch, or even a comforting dessert, proving that homemade always tastes best.

For those times when you’re short on time but still craving cinnamon goodness, you might enjoy this viral TikTok hack for canned cinnamon rolls – a super easy way to elevate pre-made dough! But if you’re ready for the ultimate homemade experience and want to master perfect air fryer cinnamon rolls from scratch, keep reading to discover how to achieve cinnamon roll bliss in your air fryer.

Much like our popular air fryer doughnuts, these homemade cinnamon buns prove just how versatile and efficient your air fryer can be for baking. They’re a fantastic choice for a sweet breakfast or brunch, but don’t be surprised if they become your new go-to dessert for any occasion, impressing everyone with their size and flavor.

Why Make Cinnamon Rolls in an Air Fryer?

You might be wondering, why choose the air fryer for cinnamon rolls when traditional ovens exist? While conventional baking methods yield delicious results, the air fryer offers several distinct advantages that make it an excellent choice for these sweet treats, especially if you’re looking for efficiency, consistent perfection, and a touch of novelty. Here’s why your air fryer will become your new best friend for cinnamon buns:

Achieve Even Cooking and Golden Perfection: The air fryer’s powerful convection mechanism circulates hot air rapidly and consistently around your food. This ensures that your homemade air fryer cinnamon rolls cook incredibly evenly, developing a beautiful golden-brown crust on the outside while remaining wonderfully soft, moist, and gooey on the inside. Say goodbye to burnt bottoms or undercooked centers!
Faster Baking Time: Thanks to their compact size and highly efficient heat distribution, air fryers generally cook food much faster than large conventional ovens. This means you can have those warm, fragrant, Cinnabon-style cinnamon rolls on your plate in a fraction of the time, perfect for satisfying sudden cravings or whipping up a quick breakfast on a busy morning.
Energy Efficient Baking: Heating up a large oven for just a couple of cinnamon rolls can be quite energy-intensive and wasteful. An air fryer, being smaller and more focused, uses significantly less energy. This makes it a more economical and environmentally friendly choice for baking smaller batches without compromising on the quality or deliciousness of your homemade cinnamon rolls.
Ideal for Small Batches: If you’re not feeding a crowd or simply prefer fresh, warm rolls without a huge commitment, the air fryer is ideal for making just one or two giant cinnamon rolls at a time. This prevents you from having too many leftovers and ensures every roll is enjoyed at its peak freshness.
Keep Your Kitchen Cooler: On a hot day, running your oven can significantly raise your kitchen’s temperature, making it uncomfortable. The air fryer, however, emits much less heat into the surrounding environment, keeping your cooking space cooler and more pleasant, especially during warmer months.

Unlocking the Cinnabon Copycat Magic at Home

For many, the mention of Cinnabon cinnamon rolls evokes a special, comforting nostalgia. I can still vividly recall the incredible aroma wafting from the Cinnabon in our local mall’s food court when I was a little girl. That sweet, spicy, buttery scent, promising pure indulgence, is absolutely one of my all-time favorite fragrances. This air fryer recipe aims to capture that beloved Cinnabon magic, allowing you to recreate those irresistible, oversized cinnamon rolls right in your own kitchen, but with the added ease of air frying.

What makes a Cinnabon roll so iconic and universally loved? It’s the meticulous balance of a rich, tender, slightly brioche-like yeast dough, an abundance of warm, aromatic cinnamon sugar filling that melts into a gloriously gooey masterpiece during baking, and that generous, luscious slathering of tangy-sweet cream cheese frosting. Our air fryer version delivers all these essential elements, but with the added convenience and unique texture that only an air fryer can provide, resulting in a perfectly baked exterior and an incredibly soft, moist interior. And yes, these bad boys are truly huge – just like the originals that sparked your childhood memories!

If you’re a fan of colossal cinnamon buns and love experimenting with decadent flavors, you might also enjoy these Oreo cookies and cream cinnamon rolls— another delightfully oversized and yummy treat that’s perfect for a special occasion or just because!

Essential Ingredient Notes for Perfect Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls

Crafting the perfect air fryer cinnamon roll from scratch starts with understanding your ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that sought-after Cinnabon texture and flavor. Here’s a closer look at the key ingredients and some tips for using them effectively:

Warm Milk: The temperature of your milk is paramount for activating the yeast. Aim for a comfortable warmth, specifically between 100-110°F (38-43°C). You can easily warm it in the microwave for about 30 seconds; just be sure to test it with a thermometer or your finger – it should feel pleasantly warm, like a baby’s bath, never hot. Whole milk or 2% milk works best, as their higher fat content contributes to a richer, more tender dough. If the milk is too hot, it will unfortunately kill the yeast, preventing your dough from rising properly and resulting in dense rolls.
Yeast: This recipe primarily calls for active dry yeast. This type of yeast needs to be “proofed” or activated in warm liquid with a little sugar before being mixed with other ingredients. This crucial step confirms your yeast is alive and ready to make your rolls light and fluffy. However, you can also use instant (or rapid-rise) yeast. Instant yeast doesn’t strictly require proofing and can often be mixed directly with the dry ingredients. Regardless of type, ensure your yeast is fresh and active for the best rise. See our detailed tips on using yeast below for more guidance.
Brown Sugar: The choice between light and dark brown sugar for the filling can subtly impact the final flavor profile of your air fryer cinnamon rolls. Light brown sugar is typically what I use, offering a classic, mild molasses flavor that pairs beautifully with cinnamon. Dark brown sugar will provide a deeper, more pronounced caramel note, adding another layer of richness. Whichever you choose, ensure it’s packed tightly into your measuring cup to get the correct amount for that gooey, sweet filling.
Cinnamon: As the star spice, the quality of your cinnamon truly makes a significant difference in these rolls. A high-quality cinnamon, such as Korintije cinnamon, offers a robust, warm, and slightly sweet flavor that elevates the entire dish, giving it that authentic bakery taste. Don’t skimp on this essential spice; it’s the very heart of your cinnamon roll experience!
Eggs (and Egg Yolk): Using a combination of a whole egg and an extra egg yolk adds incredible richness, enhances the tenderness, and contributes to a beautiful golden hue in your dough. It’s important to ensure your eggs are at room temperature. This helps them incorporate more smoothly and evenly into the dough mixture, resulting in a more uniform and pliable dough that’s easier to work with.
Unsalted Butter: Butter is a key player throughout this recipe, used in multiple stages: in the dough for richness, spread generously in the filling for moisture and flavor, and as a base for the creamy frosting. For the dough and frosting, use unsalted butter softened to room temperature. For the filling, soft, room-temperature butter spreads effortlessly and helps the cinnamon-sugar mixture adhere perfectly to the dough.
All-Purpose Flour: Standard all-purpose flour is ideal for these cinnamon rolls. Measure it correctly by spooning it into your measuring cup and leveling it off with a straight edge, rather than scooping directly from the bag. Scooping can compact the flour, leading to an excess amount, which can result in a dry, dense dough. You’ll also need a little extra for dusting your work surface to prevent sticking.
Salt: A small but essential amount of salt in the dough is crucial. It plays several roles: balancing the sweetness, enhancing all the other wonderful flavors, and controlling the yeast’s activity to ensure a proper, well-regulated rise.

Mastering Yeast: Tips for a Perfect Rise Every Time

Working with yeast might seem a bit daunting to beginners, but it’s a straightforward process once you understand the basics. The key to achieving light, airy, and fluffy cinnamon rolls lies in properly activated yeast. Here’s how to ensure your yeast is vibrant and ready to perform its magic:

Proofing Active Dry Yeast: If your recipe calls for active dry yeast, proofing it is a non-negotiable step. To do this, combine the specified amount of warm milk (100-110°F / 38-43°C) with the active dry yeast and a pinch of granulated sugar in a mixing bowl. The sugar acts as food for the yeast, helping to kickstart its activity. Gently stir the mixture, then let it sit undisturbed for 5-10 minutes. What you’re looking for is a noticeable bubbly, foamy layer to form on the surface. This foam is the tell-tale sign that your yeast is alive and active, meaning you can proceed with confidence. If you don’t see any foam, your yeast might be old or the milk too hot/cold, and it’s best to start again with a fresh packet of yeast.
Using Instant/Quick Rise Yeast: Instant yeast is a more robust variety, designed to be less finicky. It doesn’t strictly require proofing and can typically be mixed directly with your dry ingredients (flour, sugar, salt). However, if you’re unsure about the freshness or viability of your instant yeast, or if you simply prefer the added assurance, you can still proof it in warm milk with sugar, just like active dry yeast. The process will be the same, and you should still observe the characteristic foam.
Temperature is Your Best Friend (and Enemy): Remember, extreme temperatures are the arch-nemesis of yeast. Liquid that is too cold won’t activate it, preventing the dough from rising. Conversely, liquid that is too hot will kill the yeast, rendering it inactive and leading to a dense, heavy dough. Always aim for that “comfortably warm” range – think baby bath water – to create the ideal environment for yeast activity.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch

Making these glorious Cinnabon copycat air fryer cinnamon rolls from scratch is a truly delightful and rewarding process. Follow these detailed steps to ensure fluffy, perfectly baked results every time, showcasing the best of homemade baking and air fryer convenience:

1. Prepare and Initiate the First Dough Rise

Begin by preparing the dough as meticulously outlined in the comprehensive recipe card located at the bottom of this post. This initial stage involves activating your yeast in warm milk, then carefully combining all your wet and dry ingredients. Knead the dough thoroughly until it achieves a smooth, elastic consistency. Whether you opt for the efficiency of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook or prefer the tactile satisfaction of kneading by hand, the goal is a soft, pliable dough that is no longer overly sticky. Once kneaded to perfection, form the dough into a ball and place it in a well-oiled bowl, turning it once to ensure the entire surface is lightly coated. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Find a warm, draft-free spot in your kitchen and allow the dough to undergo its first rise (known as bulk fermentation) for approximately 90 minutes, or until it has visibly doubled in size. This initial rise is absolutely crucial for developing both the rich flavor and the tender, airy texture of your final cinnamon rolls.

2. Roll, Spread, and Fill the Dough

Once your dough has completed its impressive first rise, gently punch it down to release the accumulated air. Next, carefully divide the dough into two equal sections. Lightly flour your work surface – this is important to prevent sticking without incorporating too much extra flour into the dough. Using a rolling pin, roll out one section of the dough into an approximate 12-inch by 12-inch square (or as close to this shape as you can achieve). The key here is to maintain an even thickness throughout the dough, which ensures consistent baking and a uniform spiral. Now, take your softened, room-temperature unsalted butter and spread it evenly over the entire rolled-out dough, making sure to leave a small margin (about half an inch) unbuttered around the edges. This unbuttered margin will help create a good seal when you roll the dough. In a separate small bowl, combine your light or dark brown sugar with the high-quality ground cinnamon to create the irresistible filling. Sprinkle this fragrant mixture generously and evenly over the buttered dough. Use your (clean!) hands to gently press the cinnamon sugar into the butter – this helps it stick better and prevents it from falling out during the rolling process.

3. Shape Your Signature Giant Cinnamon Rolls

Now comes the most satisfying part: shaping your magnificent air fryer cinnamon rolls! Starting from one edge of your dough (the side closest to you, if rolling away), begin to tightly roll the dough into a log. A tight, even roll is absolutely essential for achieving those beautiful, distinct spirals and ensuring the filling stays put. Once you have a neatly rolled log, you have a couple of options for shaping these truly giant, Cinnabon-style rolls. You’ll need to cut the dough into strips. Grab a pizza cutter or a very sharp large knife and carefully slice your dough log lengthwise into strips, each about 1 to 1.5 inches wide. Then, take these individual strips and carefully roll them together, building one upon the other, to form one magnificent, oversized cinnamon roll spiral. This unique technique creates a wonderfully large and impressively grand final product that truly lives up to its “giant” name.

4. The Second Rise and Air Frying Process

Carefully transfer your newly formed giant cinnamon roll into a greased springform pan. It is crucial to ensure that the pan fits comfortably inside your air fryer basket, leaving a little room for air circulation. Cover the pan loosely with a clean cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest for another 15 minutes. This is a crucial second rise, also known as proofing. It allows the dough to relax, puff up slightly, and become even lighter and airier, contributing significantly to a tender texture after baking. While the first roll is enjoying its second rise, you can efficiently start preparing the second section of dough, following the same rolling, buttering, and shaping steps, so it’s ready to cook immediately after the first batch finishes. Preheat your air fryer according to the recipe card instructions (typically around 350°F / 175°C). Once preheated and your first roll has rested sufficiently, carefully place the springform pan into the air fryer basket. Cook for approximately 20 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden brown and the internal temperature reaches around 200-205°F (93-96°C) when checked with an instant-read thermometer. Remember that cooking times can vary slightly based on your specific air fryer model, so it’s always wise to keep a close eye on your rolls during the last few minutes.

5. The Heavenly Cream Cheese Frosting and Finishing Touches

While your air fryer cinnamon rolls are baking to perfection, it’s the ideal time to whip up the irresistible star of the show: the luxurious cream cheese frosting. In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, room-temperature unsalted butter, confectioners’ (powdered) sugar, and a generous splash of pure vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat these ingredients together until the mixture is completely smooth, wonderfully creamy, and entirely free of any lumps. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is thoroughly combined into a cohesive frosting. Once the cinnamon rolls are done cooking, carefully remove them from the air fryer and allow them to cool slightly in the springform pan for about 5-10 minutes before gently releasing them. While still warm, generously spread the homemade cream cheese frosting over the top. The warmth of the rolls will perfectly melt the frosting just enough, allowing it to beautifully seep into every luscious crevice, creating that signature gooey, rich Cinnabon experience. Serve immediately and prepare for an unforgettable moment of pure bliss!

Pro Tips for the Best Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls

Achieving bakery-quality cinnamon rolls at home, especially when utilizing an air fryer, is all about attention to a few key details. Here are some extra professional tips to ensure your Cinnabon copycat rolls turn out perfectly, incredibly delicious, and irresistibly gooey every single time:

Achieve Proper Dough Consistency: Correct kneading is paramount. Over-kneading can lead to overly tough and chewy rolls, while under-kneading won’t develop enough gluten, resulting in a dense, bread-like texture. Aim for a dough that is smooth, elastic, and passes the “windowpane test” (you should be able to stretch a small piece thin enough to see light through it without tearing).
Always Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This tip applies to eggs, butter, and cream cheese. Using ingredients at room temperature allows them to emulsify and combine much better. This creates a smoother, more uniform dough and ensures a cohesive, lump-free, and perfectly creamy frosting.
Ensure a Warm, Draft-Free Rising Environment: Yeast thrives in warmth! If your kitchen is on the cooler side, consider creating a slightly warmer spot for your covered dough. You can place it in a slightly warmed (then turned off) oven, near a sunny window, or in a proofer if you have one. A warm, consistent environment helps the yeast activate properly and ensures the dough doubles in size efficiently, leading to lighter rolls.
Prevent Overbaking: Air fryers are powerful and can cook quickly. It’s crucial to keep a close eye on your cinnamon rolls, especially during the last few minutes of baking. Overbaking is the quickest way to dry out your delicious rolls. They should be beautifully golden brown on top and feel light and springy to the touch. For an accurate measure, an internal temperature of 200-205°F (93-96°C) is ideal for the dough.
Allow Rolls to Rest Before Icing: While you definitely want your air fryer cinnamon rolls warm enough for the icing to melt slightly and seep into the crevices, don’t ice them immediately straight out of the air fryer. Let them cool for about 5-10 minutes in the pan. This brief resting period helps the rolls set slightly and prevents the icing from becoming excessively runny or completely melting away.
Invest in Quality Cinnamon: As previously emphasized, the quality of your cinnamon will significantly impact the overall flavor and aroma of your homemade cinnamon rolls. Investing in a good, fresh brand of ground cinnamon makes a noticeable difference, transforming your rolls from good to absolutely phenomenal.

Serving Suggestions & Creative Variations

These giant air fryer cinnamon rolls are an absolute showstopper on their own, a complete treat in every bite. However, here are some delightful ideas to make them even more special and customize them to your liking:

Classic Pairings: Serve your warm cinnamon rolls with a freshly brewed cup of coffee, a creamy latte, or a fragrant herbal tea. The slight bitterness or richness of the beverage perfectly balances the sweetness of the rolls.
Fresh Fruit Medley: Add a refreshing contrast by serving a side of fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) or thinly sliced oranges. The natural acidity and sweetness of the fruit provide a lovely counterbalance to the rich rolls.
Nutty Crunch: For an added layer of texture and flavor, sprinkle chopped pecans, walnuts, or even toasted almonds over the cinnamon-sugar filling before rolling the dough.
Citrus Zest in Frosting: To introduce a bright, zesty twist, add a teaspoon of fresh orange or lemon zest to your cream cheese frosting. This simple addition elevates the flavor profile and adds a lovely aromatic note.
Spice It Up: Experiment with adding a pinch of other warm spices like nutmeg, cardamom, or a tiny bit of allspice to your cinnamon sugar filling for a more complex and nuanced spice profile.
Chocolate Drizzle: For the ultimate indulgence, once the frosting is on, lightly drizzle melted chocolate (dark, milk, or white) over the top of your cinnamon rolls.

Looking for more amazing air fryer desserts to expand your repertoire? Don’t miss these crispy on the outside, wonderfully chewy on the inside chocolate chip air fryer cookies. Or, satisfy your cravings for something sweet and salty with these addictively delicious air fryer cinnamon sugar pretzel bites.

How to Store Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls

To ensure you can enjoy these delicious homemade air fryer cinnamon rolls beyond their initial bake, proper storage is absolutely key to maintaining their freshness, moisture, and incredible flavor. Here’s how to store them effectively:

In the Fridge (Short-Term): Once your cinnamon rolls have cooled completely to room temperature, place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out. Stored this way, they will stay fresh and delicious in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, simply microwave a single roll for 20-30 seconds, or until it’s warmed through and soft. This quick reheat brings back much of their original softness and gooeyness.
In the Freezer (Un-iced for Best Results): For longer-term storage, it is highly recommended to freeze your cooked cinnamon rolls before applying the cream cheese frosting. Allow the baked rolls to cool completely to room temperature. Then, place them individually in a freezer-safe bag or an airtight container, ensuring they are well-sealed to prevent any freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the frozen rolls in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds (or for a few minutes in a low oven, covered with foil) and then whip up a fresh batch of cream cheese frosting to top them, ensuring maximum indulgence and the best texture.
In the Freezer (Iced – if necessary): While it’s generally best to freeze un-iced, if you absolutely must freeze them with frosting, ensure the rolls are completely cold before freezing. Flash freeze them on a baking sheet until the frosting is firm (about 1-2 hours). Then, wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator. Be aware that the frosting might become a bit watery or separate slightly upon thawing.

More Breakfast & Brunch Favorites to Try

If you loved creating and enjoying these incredible air fryer cinnamon rolls, you’ll surely enjoy exploring more delightful recipes perfect for any breakfast or brunch occasion. Expand your culinary repertoire and treat yourself and your loved ones with these other fantastic options:

Breakfast Cookies – A wholesome and delicious way to start your day, packed with good-for-you ingredients.
Instant Pot Egg Bites – Effortlessly recreate your favorite Starbucks copycat egg bites, perfect for meal prep or a quick protein-packed breakfast.
Biscuit & Gravy Casserole – A hearty, comforting, and incredibly satisfying dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or for a special weekend brunch.
Best Buttermilk Pancakes – Master the art of classic, fluffy pancakes that are consistently perfect every single time.
Monkey Bread – An incredibly easy 5-ingredient recipe that’s always a hit with kids and adults alike, perfect for sharing!
Sheet Pan Pop Tart – A fun, oversized version of a beloved childhood classic, baked on a sheet pan and ideal for sharing with everyone.

Recipe

5 from 13 votes

Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls

Author: Jaclyn

Prep: 30 minutes

Cook: 20 minutes

Rise Time 1 hour 45 minutes

Total: 2 hours 35 minutes

Skip the can and make the best air fryer cinnamon rolls from scratch with this Cinnabon copycat recipe.

Servings: 2 large rolls

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Ingredients

For the dough:

▢ ¾ cup warm milk 100-110°F
▢ 2 ¼ teaspoons active yeast
▢ ¼ cup granulated sugar
▢ 1 egg + 1 egg yolk room tempterature
▢ ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
▢ 3 cups all-purpose flour plus extra for dusting
▢ ¾ teaspoon salt

For the filling:

▢ ⅔ cup light brown sugar
▢ 1 ½ Tablespoon ground cinnamon
▢ ¼ cup unsalted butter room temperature

For the cream cheese frosting:

▢ 4 ounces cream cheese room temperature
▢ 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter room temperature
▢ ¾ cup confectioners’ sugar
▢ 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Pour warm milk into a mixing bowl and add yeast. Stir and let sit for 5 minutes. Mix in eggs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Stir in flour and salt until dough begins to form.
Using a stand mixer, attach a dough hook and mix on medium until dough forms into a ball and is not sticking to the bowl. Add some flour if too sticky. If using hands to knead, knead the dough for 10 minutes on a floured surface until the dough is no longer sticky.
Place the dough ball in a well-oiled bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and a warm towel. Place the bowl on the counter for an hour and a half to allow for the dough to double in size.
Separate dough into two sections. Place one section of the dough on a floured surface and flatten with a rolling pin until the dough is roughly a square foot of surface.
Rub room temperature butter over the dough, leaving a slight margin around the dough. Combine the cinnamon and sugar for the filling in a small bowl and sprinkle on top of buttered dough. Press it into the dough gently with your hands.
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into inch and a half wide strips. Roll the strips into a spiral, with each strip building on the one before. Place dough wheel into spring mold pan that fits the air fryer basket. Cover the pan with a cloth and allow the dough to sit for 15 minutes.
Cook in an air fryer for 20 minutes at 350°F. Meanwhile, prepare the second dough section into another cinnamon roll that you will cook when this one has finished in the air fryer.
When done cooking, remove from air fryer and allow to cool before releasing from pan.
In a medium bowl, beat to combine the frosting ingredients until smooth. Top the cinnamon roll with the frosting and enjoy!

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