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Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls: A Quick and Delicious Treat

Cinnamon rolls are a beloved indulgence, perfectly soft and sweet, often enjoyed as a breakfast treat or a delightful dessert. Traditionally baked in the oven, these fluffy delights can now be made in an air fryer, reducing cooking time while still delivering that irresistible taste. Here’s how you can whip up air fryer cinnamon rolls, complete with a simple recipe and tips for success!

Why Choose an Air Fryer?

Air fryers have surged in popularity in recent years, thanks to their versatility, speed, and ability to create crispy textures without excessive oil. They cook food quickly by circulating hot air, making them an excellent option for baking. Using an air fryer for cinnamon rolls not only speeds up the preparation process but also ensures a wonderfully moist centre and a perfectly golden exterior.

Ingredients

For the dough:

• 250g all-purpose flour
• 50g granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 60ml whole milk
• 1 large egg
• 30g unsalted butter, melted

For the filling:

• 40g unsalted butter, softened
• 50g brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• Optional: chopped nuts or raisins for added texture

For the icing:

• 100g icing sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough
   In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. In a separate bowl, combine the milk, egg, and melted butter. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.

2. Knead and Roll
   Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently for about 2-3 minutes until smooth. Roll the dough into a rectangle, approximately 0.5 cm thick.

3. Make the Filling
   In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined. Spread the mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough. Sprinkle with nuts or raisins if desired.

4. Roll and Slice
   Starting from one edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Once rolled, slice it into approximately 2.5 cm thick pieces.

5. Preheat the Air Fryer
   Preheat your air fryer to 160°C (320°F) for about 5 minutes.

6. Arrange and Cook
   Place the sliced cinnamon rolls in the air fryer basket, ensuring they have a bit of space between them for expansion. Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to cook in batches. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, checking for a golden-brown finish.

7. Prepare the Icing
   While the cinnamon rolls are cooking, mix the icing sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if necessary.

8. Glaze and Serve
   Once the cinnamon rolls are done, remove them from the air fryer and allow them to cool slightly. Drizzle the icing over the warm rolls, and they are ready to serve!

Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls

• Don’t Overcrowd: Leave enough space between rolls in the air fryer to ensure they cook evenly.
• Watch the Time: Every air fryer is different, so keep an eye on the rolls as they cook to prevent burning.
• Experiment with Flavours: Feel free to customise your rolls with different spices, fillings, or toppings to create your perfect version.

Conclusion

Air fryer cinnamon rolls are a delicious and speedy way to enjoy this classic treat without the long baking time. Perfect for breakfast or as a sweet afternoon snack, they’re sure to become a favourite in your kitchen. So, go ahead and treat yourself—your taste buds will thank you!