Flaky Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls for Air Fryer and Oven

Craving a delightful sweet treat that comes together in a flash? Look no further than these incredible Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls! This recipe delivers all the warm, comforting flavors of classic cinnamon rolls with a fraction of the effort, thanks to the magic of frozen puff pastry. Each bite offers a perfect balance of crispy, flaky pastry, a luscious cinnamon-sugar filling, and a decadent vanilla glaze that will undoubtedly become a family favorite. Whether you prefer baking in the traditional oven or the convenience of an air fryer, these mini cinnamon rolls are a perfect choice for a speedy dessert, a delightful breakfast, or an elegant addition to your next brunch spread.

The irresistible allure of cinnamon sugar is something few can resist, and these puff pastry cinnamon rolls are no exception. They vanish almost as quickly as they’re made in our home! This recipe is a clever adaptation of traditional cinnamon rolls, swapping out the time-consuming yeast dough for readily available frozen puff pastry. This simple change transforms a multi-hour baking project into a quick, stress-free endeavor, perfect for satisfying sudden sweet cravings or whipping up a charming treat for unexpected guests. The result is a batch of buttery, flaky pinwheels, ready to be enjoyed plain or generously drizzled with an optional, yet highly recommended, creamy vanilla glaze. Serve them warm with your morning coffee or tea, or pack them as a special surprise in lunchboxes – they’re sure to bring a smile!

WHY THIS PUFF PASTRY CINNAMON ROLL RECIPE IS A MUST-TRY

• Incredibly Quick & Easy: Say goodbye to long proofing times and complicated doughs. These puff pastry cinnamon rolls are ready from start to finish in less than 20 minutes, including prep. They are the ultimate solution when you’re short on time but still want to create something truly impressive and delicious. It’s baking simplified!
• Requires Minimal Ingredients: You don’t need a pantry full of exotic items for this recipe. With just a handful of basic pantry staples – frozen puff pastry, butter, cinnamon, and sugar – you’ll have everything you need. This simplicity makes it a go-to recipe for last-minute dessert ideas or a simple baking project.
• Kid-Friendly & Fun: Get the whole family involved! This recipe is wonderfully straightforward, making it an excellent activity for baking with children. Kids will delight in helping to spread the butter, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar, and roll the dough, fostering a love for cooking and creating delicious memories together.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you own an air fryer or prefer traditional oven baking, this recipe shines in both. You’ll achieve beautifully golden and perfectly cooked cinnamon rolls either way, offering flexibility based on your kitchen appliances and personal preference. No special equipment is required beyond your chosen baking method.
• Adaptable to Your Taste: While perfect as is, this recipe is also incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different glazes, such as a rich cream cheese frosting, or add finely chopped nuts to the filling for extra texture. You can even use leftover pie dough if you have it on hand for a similar flaky result.

ESSENTIAL INGREDIENTS FOR PERFECT PUFF PASTRY CINNAMON ROLLS

Crafting these delectable puff pastry cinnamon rolls is astonishingly simple, requiring only a few key ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen. The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforwardness, proving that you don’t need a lengthy grocery list to create something truly special. For precise measurements, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card located at the end of this article.

FOR THE PUFF PASTRY CINNAMON ROLLS

• Frozen Puff Pastry: The star of this quick recipe! Ensure it’s partially thawed before you begin. Most frozen puff pastry comes in sheets, which are ideal for easy rolling and cutting. Look for all-butter puff pastry for the richest flavor and flakiest texture, though standard varieties work perfectly well.
• Butter (or Unsalted Butter): Melted butter acts as the adhesive for our cinnamon-sugar filling and adds richness to the pastry. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish, but regular butter is fine if that’s what you have.
• Ground Cinnamon: This spice is non-negotiable for authentic cinnamon rolls. For the best flavor, use fresh ground cinnamon. Old, stale cinnamon loses its potency, so a fresh jar can make a significant difference in the final taste.
• Brown Sugar: While white, raw, or caster sugar can also be used, brown sugar is highly recommended. Its molasses content imparts a beautiful caramel flavor and a slightly chewy texture to the filling, complementing the flaky pastry wonderfully. This is what gives the “sticky bun” effect!

EASY CREAMY VANILLA GLAZE (OPTIONAL BUT HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!)

While the cinnamon rolls are delicious on their own, a simple vanilla glaze elevates them to an even higher level of indulgence. I’ve marked it as optional, but given how effortlessly it comes together, I genuinely urge you to whip up a batch! You only need three common ingredients for this luscious topping:

• Milk: A small amount of milk (any type – dairy or non-dairy) is used to create the desired consistency for the glaze. Start with a tablespoon and add more drop by drop until you reach a pourable yet thick consistency.
• Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract is crucial for a robust and aromatic vanilla flavor that beautifully complements the cinnamon. A good quality vanilla extract makes all the difference.
• Icing Sugar (also known as Powdered Sugar or Confectioners’ Sugar): This very fine sugar dissolves easily to create a smooth, lump-free glaze. Sifting it first can help ensure an even silkier texture.

STEP-BY-STEP: HOW TO MAKE GOLDEN BROWN PUFF PASTRY CINNAMON ROLLS

Follow these straightforward instructions to create perfect, golden-brown puff pastry cinnamon rolls, whether you’re using an air fryer or a conventional oven. The process is quick and rewarding!

AIR FRYER INSTRUCTIONS: For Quick & Crispy Perfection

First, prepare your irresistible cinnamon sugar filling. In a small bowl, combine your ground cinnamon with the brown sugar, mixing them thoroughly until evenly distributed. Next, lay out your partially thawed sheet of puff pastry on a lightly floured work surface. A clean, flat countertop works perfectly. Using a pastry brush, generously brush the entire surface of the puff pastry sheet with melted butter. This butter layer is essential; it not only adds richness but also acts as the “glue” for your cinnamon sugar. Evenly sprinkle the prepared cinnamon and brown sugar mix over the buttered pastry, ensuring coverage from edge to edge for maximum flavor.

Now comes the fun part: rolling! Carefully and tightly roll the puff pastry dough sheet into a log, starting from one of the longer sides. The tighter you roll it, the better your cinnamon rolls will hold their classic pinwheel shape. Once rolled, brush the entire exterior of the log with a little more melted butter. This helps achieve that beautiful golden-brown finish and adds another layer of delicious flavor. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the pastry log into 8 even pieces. A serrated knife or even a piece of dental floss can help create clean cuts without squishing the layers.

Carefully place the individual cinnamon rolls into your air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. You might need to cook them in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer. Cook them at 180°C (350°F) for approximately 10 minutes, or until they are beautifully puffed up, golden brown, and cooked through to the center. Keep an eye on them, as air fryer cooking times can vary. Once baked, gently transfer the hot cinnamon rolls to a wire rack to cool slightly before glazing.

While the rolls are cooling, prepare your easy creamy vanilla glaze. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the powdered sugar (icing sugar) and vanilla extract. Gradually add the milk, one tablespoon at a time, whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth, glossy, and reaches your desired drizzling consistency. If you prefer a thinner glaze, add a few more drops of milk; for a thicker glaze, add a touch more powdered sugar. Drizzle this irresistible glaze generously over the cooled cinnamon rolls. For an extra touch of indulgence and crunch, sprinkle with toasted pecans before serving. Enjoy these flaky, buttery delights!

OVEN INSTRUCTIONS: For Classic Baked Goodness

Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tray with baking paper or parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. In a small bowl, thoroughly mix the ground cinnamon and brown sugar together to create your fragrant filling. Lay out the thawed puff pastry sheet on a clean, flat surface. Using a pastry brush, generously coat the entire surface of the puff pastry with melted butter. This buttery base ensures the cinnamon-sugar adheres perfectly and adds a rich flavor. Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered pastry, making sure to cover it completely for maximum flavor in every bite.

Gently but firmly roll the puff pastry sheet up tightly into a log, starting from one of the longer edges. A tight roll is key to achieving well-defined spirals in your finished cinnamon rolls. After rolling, brush the exterior of the pastry log with any remaining melted butter for extra crispiness and golden color. Then, using a sharp knife, carefully slice the log into 8 equally sized pieces. Take care to cut cleanly to maintain the delicate layers of the puff pastry.

Arrange the cut cinnamon rolls onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving a small space between each one to allow for expansion. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 10 minutes, or until the rolls are beautifully golden brown, visibly puffed up, and cooked through. Baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them towards the end. Once baked to perfection, transfer the warm cinnamon rolls to a wire rack to cool down slightly. This prevents the bottoms from getting soggy and prepares them for glazing.

To make the optional, yet highly recommended, vanilla glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar (icing sugar) and vanilla extract. Gradually add the milk, one tablespoon at a time, stirring until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. Adjust the thickness by adding more sugar or a few drops more milk as needed. Generously drizzle this delightful glaze over your cooled puff pastry cinnamon rolls and serve immediately for the ultimate treat!

EXPERT TIPS FOR MAKING THE BEST PUFF PASTRY CINNAMON ROLLS

Achieving bakery-quality puff pastry cinnamon rolls is easy with these helpful tips designed to ensure perfect results every time. These simple tricks will elevate your baking and help you avoid common pitfalls, guaranteeing flaky, flavorful treats.

• Roll Tightly for Perfect Spirals: This is a crucial step! Before slicing, make sure you roll the puff pastry log as tightly as possible. A firm, even roll prevents the layers from separating too much during baking and helps the cinnamon rolls maintain their beautiful pinwheel shape, creating those signature swirls we all love.
• Prevent Sticking in the Air Fryer: Puff pastry can be prone to sticking, especially in the air fryer basket due to the melted butter. To ensure easy removal, consider lining your air fryer basket with a small piece of parchment paper. Alternatively, use a heat-safe spatula to gently lift the cinnamon rolls once they are cooked, preventing any breakage.
• Always Use Fresh Spices: The quality of your cinnamon significantly impacts the overall flavor of these rolls. Freshly ground cinnamon or cinnamon from a recently opened jar will offer a much more vibrant and aromatic taste compared to stale, old spices. A little freshness goes a long way in enhancing the depth of flavor.
• Consider Doubling the Recipe: These puff pastry cinnamon rolls are incredibly addictive and tend to disappear rapidly! If you’re serving a larger group, planning for leftovers, or simply want to ensure you have enough to satisfy everyone’s cravings, it’s highly advisable to double the recipe. They store well, so you won’t regret having extra.
• Cool Completely Before Glazing: Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to glazing. If you apply the vanilla glaze while the cinnamon rolls are still warm, the heat will cause the glaze to melt and run off, resulting in a less appealing, thin coating. Allow them to cool on a wire rack for at least 10-15 minutes until they are barely warm or at room temperature for the perfect thick, even glaze.
• Thaw Puff Pastry Properly: Ensure your frozen puff pastry is partially thawed but still cold and firm. If it’s too frozen, it will crack when you try to unfold or roll it. If it’s too warm, it will become sticky and difficult to handle, and the butter layers might melt, compromising the flakiness. About 20-30 minutes at room temperature is usually sufficient.
• Sharp Knife for Clean Cuts: Using a very sharp knife is essential for slicing the rolled pastry. A dull knife will squish the dough, distorting the layers and shape of your cinnamon rolls. For extra clean cuts, you can even chill the rolled log for 10-15 minutes before slicing.

STORING TIPS FOR FRESH & DELICIOUS PUFF PASTRY CINNAMON ROLLS

Properly storing your homemade puff pastry cinnamon rolls is key to maintaining their delightful freshness and flaky texture, allowing you to enjoy them for days after baking or even save them for a future craving. Here’s how to ensure they remain as delicious as possible:

• Room Temperature Storage: Once your puff pastry cinnamon rolls have completely cooled down to room temperature, place them in an airtight container. Store this container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. They will remain fresh and delightfully flaky for up to 2 days. This method is best for preserving the crispness of the puff pastry.
• Refrigeration for Extended Freshness: For a longer shelf life, you can refrigerate the cooled cinnamon puff pastry rolls. Again, store them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out or absorbing other odors from your fridge. When refrigerated, they will stay fresh for up to 4 days, making them a great make-ahead option.
• Freezing for Future Enjoyment: To enjoy freshly baked flavor anytime, flash-freeze the baked and cooled rolls. Place them in a single layer on a baking tray and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or reheat directly from frozen.
• Reheating for That “Just Baked” Taste: To bring back their crisp, golden texture and warm, gooey center, reheat your cinnamon rolls. Preheat your oven or air fryer to 180°C (350°F). Reheat for a few minutes (typically 5-10 minutes for refrigerated, a bit longer for frozen) until they are warmed through and crispy on the outside. If reheating glazed rolls, you might want to cover them loosely with foil to prevent the glaze from burning or melting too much.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT PUFF PASTRY & CINNAMON ROLLS

MORE EASY SWEET TREATS YOU’LL LOVE

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• 20 Easy Puff Pastry Desserts
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If you’ve had the pleasure of trying this recipe for quick and easy puff pastry cinnamon rolls, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Please take a moment to leave a comment and a star rating below to share your thoughts. Your feedback helps other bakers in our community discover delicious new recipes!

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📋 RECIPE CARD: QUICK PUFF PASTRY CINNAMON ROLLS

Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls

Yield:
10 servings

Prep Time:
10 minutes

Cook Time:
10 minutes

Total Time:
20 minutes

Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls are a quick and easy treat perfect for satisfying sweet cravings. These rolls are effortlessly made with frozen pastry, filled with a rich blend of butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon that caramelizes beautifully during baking. Prepare to fall in love with these buttery, flaky, and utterly delicious mini bites!

Ingredients

• 1 sheet Frozen Puff Pastry, partially thawed
• ¼ cup Brown Sugar
• 1 tablespoon Ground Cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon Butter or Unsalted Butter, melted

OPTIONAL CREAMY VANILLA GLAZE

• ½ cup Icing Sugar / Powdered Sugar
• ½ teaspoon Vanilla Extract
• 2 tablespoons Milk, or more if needed

Instructions

AIR FRYER METHOD

1. In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon and brown sugar, mixing well.
2. Lay the partially thawed puff pastry sheet on a clean, lightly floured surface. Brush the entire surface with melted butter.
3. Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered pastry.
4. Tightly roll the pastry sheet into a log, starting from one of the longer sides. Brush the exterior of the log with any remaining melted butter.
5. Using a sharp knife, cut the pastry log into 8 even pieces.
6. Place the cinnamon rolls into the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded (cook in batches if necessary).
7. Cook at 180°C (350°F) for 10 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
8. Transfer the baked rolls to a wire rack to cool slightly.
9. To prepare the optional glaze: In a bowl, whisk together the icing sugar and vanilla extract. Gradually add milk, one tablespoon at a time, stirring until a smooth, pourable glaze forms.
10. Drizzle the glaze generously over the cooled cinnamon rolls and serve.

OVEN BAKING METHOD

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tray with baking paper or a silicone mat.
2. In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon and brown sugar, mixing well.
3. Lay the partially thawed puff pastry sheet on a clean, flat surface. Brush the entire surface with melted butter.
4. Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered pastry.
5. Tightly roll the pastry sheet into a log, starting from one of the longer sides. Brush the exterior of the log with any remaining melted butter.
6. Using a sharp knife, cut the pastry log into 8 even pieces.
7. Place the cinnamon rolls on the prepared baking tray, leaving a small space between them.
8. Bake for 10 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
9. Transfer the baked rolls to a wire rack to cool slightly.
10. To prepare the optional glaze: In a bowl, whisk together the icing sugar and vanilla extract. Gradually add milk, one tablespoon at a time, stirring until a smooth, pourable glaze forms.
11. Drizzle the glaze generously over the cooled cinnamon rolls and enjoy!

Chef’s Notes & Tips

• Roll Tightly: For well-formed spirals, roll the pastry as tightly as possible before slicing.
• Prevent Air Fryer Sticking: Use a small piece of parchment paper or a spatula to lift rolls if they stick to melted butter.
• Fresh Spices Matter: Fresh ground cinnamon makes a significant difference in flavor.
• Double Up: These disappear quickly! Double the recipe if serving a crowd or wanting leftovers.
• Cool Before Glazing: The glaze will melt if applied to warm rolls. Allow them to cool on a cooling rack for a few minutes first.

Nutrition Information (per serving):

Yield: 10 servings
Serving Size: 1 roll

Approximate Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 75
Total Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 24mg
Sodium: 47mg
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 6g
Protein: 1g

This recipe was originally published on January 14, 2020. The content has been thoroughly reviewed and updated to include an optional glaze, enhanced instructions for both oven and air fryer methods, and refreshed photographs to inspire your baking. No other fundamental changes to the recipe itself have been made.