Easy Air Fryer Cinnamon Roll Bites: Quick & Delicious Homemade Treat for Any Occasion

Craving a warm, sweet treat that’s ready in minutes? Look no further than these incredible Air Fryer Cinnamon Roll Bites! They are an absolute game-changer for anyone who loves the classic taste of cinnamon rolls but needs a quick and easy solution. Perfect for a speedy breakfast, a delightful brunch addition, or a satisfying after-dinner dessert, these bite-sized wonders come together in just 10 minutes from start to finish, making them a family favorite you’ll want to make again and again.

I absolutely love experimenting with fun and easy treats in the air fryer, and these cinnamon roll bites have quickly risen to the top of my family’s favorites list. What makes them so appealing? You only need a can of your favorite store-bought cinnamon rolls (the kind with the included icing, of course!) and about 10 minutes in the kitchen. It’s hard to beat that for simple ingredients and minimal effort, especially when the result is so incredibly delicious and satisfying.

This delightful snack is the ultimate indulgence for a relaxed weekend morning or as a sweet ending to any meal. Its small, pop-able size makes it perfect for sharing, for little hands, or for enjoying a few bites without overdoing it. They’re a fantastic alternative to larger pastries when you want something warm, gooey, and full of cinnamon flavor, fast!

If you’re already a fan of our other simple air fryer recipes, like full-sized air fryer cinnamon rolls, you are guaranteed to adore this sweet, bite-sized variation. And for those looking for something extra adorable and festive, be sure to check out our playful cinnamon roll bunnies and charming Mickey cinnamon rolls – they’re always a hit for special occasions or just to make a meal a little more magical!

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Cinnamon Roll Bites Recipe

There are countless reasons why these air fryer cinnamon roll bites have become a go-to treat. Here are just a few:

• Unbelievably Fast: Seriously, from unwrapping the can to serving these warm, gooey bites, you’re looking at about 10 minutes. This makes them ideal for busy mornings, last-minute cravings, or unexpected guests.
• Minimal Effort & Simple Ingredients: This recipe leverages the convenience of store-bought canned cinnamon rolls, eliminating the need for complex dough making or a long list of ingredients. All the hard work is done for you!
• Perfectly Bite-Sized: The smaller size means a higher surface area for that delightful golden crispness, while keeping the inside soft and tender. They’re easy to eat, perfect for kids, and great for sharing.
• A Guaranteed Family Favorite: Who doesn’t love cinnamon rolls? This recipe takes that universal appeal and makes it even more accessible and fun.
• Highly Customizable: While delicious on their own, these bites are a fantastic base for various toppings and flavor variations. You can easily adapt them to suit different tastes or occasions.
• Air Fryer Advantages: Using an air fryer means less oil, less mess, and consistently even cooking. You get that perfectly baked texture without heating up your entire kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

The beauty of this recipe truly lies in its simplicity. You only need one core ingredient, plus the accompanying icing, to create a fantastic treat. However, for those who love an extra touch of sweetness and spice, we have a simple optional addition that takes these bites to the next level.

• Cinnamon Rolls: One can of your preferred brand of refrigerated cinnamon rolls. I personally find that popular brands like Pillsbury cinnamon rolls work exceptionally well due to their consistent quality, reliable texture, and delicious flavor. Make sure to choose the classic rolls that typically come with a small tub of cream cheese icing—this icing is a crucial component for serving!
• (Optional) Melted Butter and Cinnamon Sugar: For an extra layer of decadence and a more pronounced cinnamon flavor, consider brushing the warm, cooked bites with a little melted butter and then rolling them in a mixture of cinnamon sugar. This creates a slightly crispier, wonderfully spiced exterior that many find irresistible. To make cinnamon sugar, simply combine about 1/4 cup of granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.

While you can certainly experiment with different brands of canned cinnamon rolls, or even go the extra mile to make these using a homemade cinnamon roll dough recipe, I find that this particular dish shines brightest when it’s kept quick and easy. That’s why I almost always opt for a convenient premade can. It delivers fantastic results with minimal fuss, which is often the primary goal when utilizing an air fryer for speedy treats!

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Bites in the Air Fryer

Making these delightful air fryer cinnamon roll bites is incredibly simple. Follow these easy, step-by-step instructions to get perfectly golden and fluffy treats every time, ready to enjoy in just minutes:

NOTE: I primarily make this recipe in my Cosori 5.8 qt. air fryer or my 6.8 quart air fryer. Please remember that air fryer models, sizes, and wattages can vary significantly. As a general rule, cooking times may need to be adjusted by 1-2 minutes in either direction. It’s always best to keep a close eye on your cinnamon roll bites, especially during the first batch, to determine the ideal cooking time for your specific appliance.

Expert Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Cinnamon Roll Bites

Achieving perfectly cooked, golden, and delicious cinnamon roll bites every time is simple with these expert tips:

• Avoid Overcrowding the Basket: This is perhaps the most important tip for any air fryer recipe. Air fryers work by circulating hot air, so if the basket is too full, the air can’t reach all surfaces evenly. This results in unevenly cooked or soggy bites. Always cook in a single layer and in batches if needed.
• Consider Preheating Your Air Fryer: While not strictly essential for this particular recipe, preheating your air fryer for 2-3 minutes before adding the bites can ensure a more consistent cooking temperature and often leads to a slightly crispier exterior.
• Monitor Cooking Closely: Air fryers can cook incredibly fast! Keep a close eye on your cinnamon roll bites, especially during the last few minutes of cooking, to prevent them from burning. They should be a beautiful golden brown, not dark brown.
• Always Prepare Your Basket: To prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze, always lightly spray your air fryer basket with a non-stick cooking spray (ensure it’s air fryer-safe if specified by your manufacturer) or use perforated parchment paper liners designed for air fryers.
• Ensure Uniform Size: When you’re rolling your dough into balls, try your best to make them as close in size as possible. Uniformity ensures that all the bites cook evenly at the same rate, preventing some from being undercooked while others are overdone.
• Flip for Even Browning: Don’t forget to flip the cinnamon roll bites halfway through the cooking time. This ensures that both sides get equally exposed to the hot air, leading to a consistent golden-brown finish.

Flavor Variations & Creative Topping Ideas

While classic cinnamon roll bites with cream cheese icing are always a winning combination, don’t hesitate to get creative and customize them! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Chocolate Chip Bites: For a chocolatey twist, gently press a few mini chocolate chips into each dough ball before air frying. The chocolate will melt beautifully, adding an extra layer of sweetness.
• Nutty Crunch: After air frying, sprinkle the warm bites with finely chopped pecans, walnuts, or even almonds for added texture and a delightful nutty flavor.
• Powdered Sugar Dusting: For a simple yet elegant alternative to the traditional icing, dust the warm cinnamon roll bites generously with powdered sugar immediately after removing them from the air fryer.
• Fruity Companions: Serve your bites with a side of warm berry compote, a dollop of apple pie filling, or fresh sliced fruit for a refreshing, fruity touch.
• Decadent Caramel Drizzle: Elevate your treat by drizzling warm caramel sauce over the cream cheese icing, or even instead of it. A sprinkle of sea salt can balance the sweetness perfectly.
• Maple Glaze Delight: Instead of using the included cream cheese icing, whip up a quick maple glaze. Combine powdered sugar with a splash of maple syrup and a tiny bit of milk until it reaches a pourable consistency.
• Cream Cheese Dip: Make extra cream cheese frosting from scratch to have a richer, thicker dipping sauce for your bites.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I prepare my air fryer basket for cinnamon roll bites?

To ensure your delicious cinnamon roll bites don’t stick and to make cleanup effortless, it’s crucial to prepare your air fryer basket. I typically use a nonstick cooking spray, lightly coating the bottom and sides of the basket to create a barrier. Alternatively, using pre-cut parchment paper liners specifically designed for air fryers is a fantastic, mess-free option. These liners not only prevent sticking but also significantly reduce cleanup time. Just make sure the parchment paper doesn’t cover too many of the air vents, allowing proper air circulation for even cooking.

How do I store leftover cinnamon roll bites?

If you happen to have any leftover cinnamon roll bites (which is a rare occurrence in my house, as they’re usually devoured instantly!), they store beautifully. Once completely cooled, place the remaining bites in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat and enjoy them as if they were freshly made, simply add the cinnamon bites back to your air fryer basket and reheat at 320 degrees Fahrenheit (160°C) for 1-2 minutes, or until they are heated through to your liking. They’ll regain their soft, warm texture and deliciousness.

How do I make additional icing?

It’s a common dilemma – sometimes the small tub of icing that comes with the canned cinnamon rolls just isn’t enough for all those delicious bites, especially if you love a generous amount of frosting! Don’t worry, making extra icing is incredibly easy. In a small bowl, whisk together about one cup of powdered sugar (also commonly known as confectioners’ sugar) with 1-2 Tablespoons of milk (any type will do, dairy or non-dairy). Start with 1 tablespoon of milk and gradually add more, a teaspoon at a time, until the icing has reached your preferred desired thickness and a smooth, pourable consistency. For an extra boost of flavor, you can also add a tiny splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.

Can I use frozen cinnamon rolls for this recipe?

This recipe is specifically designed for refrigerated, canned cinnamon rolls, which are pre-portioned and easy to roll into bites. Frozen cinnamon rolls will typically require a much longer cooking time and may need to be thawed first, which would significantly change the overall quick prep time. For the best and fastest results with this recipe, we highly recommend sticking to the refrigerated kind.

How do I know the cinnamon roll bites are cooked through?

The best indicator that your cinnamon roll bites are perfectly cooked is their appearance. They should be beautifully golden brown on all sides and look nicely puffed up. If you’re unsure, you can gently press one with a fork; it should feel soft yet cooked through in the center, not doughy or sticky. Keep in mind that overcooking can make them dry, so it’s always better to check them a little early until you get a feel for your air fryer’s performance.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes You’ll Love:

If you’re enjoying the incredible convenience and delicious results of air frying, be sure to explore some of our other fantastic quick recipes. The air fryer is truly a versatile appliance, perfect for creating both sweet and savory treats with minimal fuss!

• Air Fryer Soft Pretzels: Craving a classic carnival snack? These soft, chewy pretzels are much easier to make at home than you might think, all thanks to your air fryer.
• Air Fryer Two-Ingredient Bagels: An incredibly simple and surprisingly delicious way to enjoy fresh, homemade bagels with just two basic ingredients.
• Air Fryer Banana Nut Bread: Transform ripe bananas into a moist, flavorful, and perfectly baked banana nut bread right in your air fryer.
• Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Muffins: Start your day (or enjoy a delightful snack) with warm, fluffy muffins packed with melty chocolate chips, cooked perfectly in the air fryer.
• Crispy Air Fryer Bacon: Say goodbye to greasy stovetop splatters! The air fryer is the easiest and cleanest way to cook perfectly crispy bacon every single time.

These air fryer cinnamon roll bites are more than just an easy dessert; they’re a quick, delightful escape that comes together in mere minutes. The best part? They’re usually devoured faster than I can make them, a true testament to their irresistible deliciousness and universal appeal. Give them a try and watch them disappear – you won’t regret it!

We Would Love to Hear From YOU!

Let Us Know What You Think!

Be sure to leave a review of this recipe and give it a star rating. It lets us know how we are doing and lets others know they should try it!

Tag Us In Your Photos! Are you on Facebook? If so, join our Easy Air Fryer Recipes Group (with over a million Air Fryer Foodie Fans!) and share your photos! We love to see your creations.

Like to watch TikTok? Follow along with our recipes on TikTok @airfryingfoodie.

Are you on Instagram? Follow along and TAG US @airfryingfoodie.

Have a Question or General Feedback?

Jump down to the COMMENT section and let us know! We would love to help and also love feedback on all of our posts.