Easy and Delicious Frozen Rolls in Air Fryer Recipe

Frozen dinner rolls can be an absolute lifesaver when you’re in a rush or don’t want to deal with the hassle of making bread from scratch. The beauty of cooking frozen rolls in air fryer is that it’s quick, easy, and results in perfectly toasted, fluffy, and golden-brown rolls that taste like they’ve just been baked.

Whether you are preparing for a busy weeknight meal, a gathering, or a holiday feast, these air fryer frozen rolls are the perfect side dish. Let’s dive into why this method is a game-changer and how you can perfect it every single time.

Why Choose the Air Fryer for Frozen Rolls?

Air fryers have revolutionized how we cook and bake. By using hot air circulation to cook food quickly and evenly, they provide a crispy outside while keeping the inside soft and tender. For frozen rolls, this method is ideal because it removes the need for preheating an oven and makes it possible to cook a batch in a fraction of the time.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the benefits of using the air fryer for frozen rolls:

Speed: Air fryers cook much faster than traditional ovens, so you don’t need to wait for the oven to preheat. Your rolls can be on the table in just minutes.

Even Cooking: The circulating hot air ensures that the rolls cook evenly on all sides, resulting in golden-brown, crispy exteriors with soft and fluffy interiors.

No Oven Overcrowding: Especially during the holidays or large gatherings, an air fryer frees up oven space for other dishes.

Easy Cleanup: The non-stick surface of most air fryer baskets means less mess and hassle during cleanup.

Now that you know why using an air fryer is a great choice, let’s walk through the entire process of making frozen rolls in an air fryer.

Choosing the Right Frozen Rolls

The first step in making air fryer frozen rolls is selecting the right type of rolls. Most frozen dinner rolls will work, but some are better suited for air frying than others.

Pre-Cooked Rolls: These are often the easiest to work with since they only need to be heated up in the air fryer. The most popular pre-cooked rolls are Sister Schubert’s and Rhodes.

Raw Dough Rolls: If you’re using raw dough rolls, you’ll need to let them rise before cooking. These tend to take a little longer but come out perfectly soft when done right.

When selecting rolls, make sure to read the packaging instructions carefully, as cooking times may vary depending on whether you’re using cooked or raw dough rolls.

Ingredients for Frozen Rolls in Air Fryer

The best part about making frozen rolls in an air fryer is that you don’t need many ingredients. The basic essentials are simple:

Frozen Rolls: Choose your preferred brand of frozen rolls. For a standard batch, about 9 rolls can fit into most air fryer baskets.

Butter: Unsalted butter works best for brushing on top of the rolls to add flavor and a crispy texture. You can also use garlic butter, herb butter, or olive oil for an extra flavor boost.

How to Cook Frozen Rolls in Air Fryer

Cooking frozen rolls in the air fryer is incredibly easy. Whether you’re using pre-cooked or raw dough rolls, the process is quick and straightforward.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat Your Air Fryer: Although many air fryers don’t require preheating, it can help the rolls cook more evenly and quickly. Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for best results.

2. Melt the Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt your butter. You’ll need about 1 tablespoon of butter for every 9 rolls. You can also add garlic powder or herbs for extra flavor.

3. Brush the Rolls with Butter: Using a pastry brush, generously spread the melted butter over the tops of each frozen roll. This step will add flavor and give the rolls a beautiful golden-brown finish.

4. Arrange the Rolls in the Air Fryer: Place the frozen rolls in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not overcrowded, as this can result in uneven cooking. For most air fryers, 9 rolls fit perfectly.

5. Air Fry: Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook for 5-6 minutes. If the rolls are not warm in the center, give them an additional minute. Note: Raw dough rolls will need to cook for 7-8 minutes.

6. Check the Rolls: Open the air fryer to check on the rolls. They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, with a soft and fluffy interior.

7. Serve: Once done, remove the rolls from the air fryer and serve immediately while they’re warm. You can drizzle a little extra butter on top or add a sprinkle of salt for enhanced flavor.

Tips for Perfect Air Fried Frozen Rolls

To help you achieve the perfect batch of frozen rolls, here are a few tips:

Even Cooking: Avoid overcrowding the rolls. Air needs to circulate around the rolls for them to cook evenly.

Use the Right Air Fryer Temperature: If you find your rolls aren’t browning evenly, increase the temperature by 10-15°F (5-8°C) and adjust the cook time accordingly.

For Extra Flavor: Experiment with adding herbs or spices to the butter. Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or even cinnamon and sugar for sweet rolls can make a big difference.

Check for Doneness: If you’re unsure if the rolls are done, open the air fryer basket and check. The texture should be soft and pillowy inside, and slightly crispy on the outside.

Frozen Dough Rolls: If you’re using frozen dough rolls, ensure that they’ve had enough time to rise before placing them in the air fryer. This will help them cook to the desired texture.

With these simple steps and tips, you can enjoy perfectly toasted, soft, and buttery rolls in no time!

How to Make Frozen Rolls in Air Fryer with Different Flavors

While basic frozen rolls in the air fryer are delicious on their own, there are many ways to elevate them by adding extra flavors and toppings. Whether you want savory, herbed rolls or a sweet cinnamon variation, the air fryer provides an excellent base to experiment with different ingredients. Let’s explore some exciting ways to take your frozen rolls to the next level.

1. Herb-Infused Rolls

Add a burst of savory flavor to your rolls by infusing the butter with fresh or dried herbs. This can make the rolls taste like they’ve come straight from a bakery, adding a sophisticated twist to the simple dish. Here’s how you can do it:

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or fresh if available)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Instructions:

1. Melt the butter in the microwave.

2. Stir in the Italian herbs and garlic powder (if using).

3. Brush the mixture over the tops of the frozen rolls before cooking.

4. Follow the same cooking instructions mentioned earlier, and you’ll have herb-infused rolls that are fragrant and flavorful.

This variation works well with pasta dishes, salads, or any meal where you want a fresh, herbal accompaniment.

2. Garlic Butter Rolls

Garlic butter rolls are a classic for a reason – the combination of butter and garlic is irresistible. This is a simple way to add extra flavor to your rolls without requiring too much time or effort.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

• 1-2 cloves of garlic, minced or garlic powder (to taste)

• Parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl.

2. Add the minced garlic (or garlic powder) to the butter and stir well.

3. Brush the mixture over the tops of your frozen rolls.

4. Air fry at 350°F for 5-6 minutes. Once done, garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired for a pop of color.

These garlic butter rolls are perfect for serving with pasta, grilled meats, or as a stand-alone snack.

3. Cinnamon Sugar Rolls

For those with a sweet tooth, cinnamon sugar rolls are an excellent choice. The cinnamon-sugar coating combined with the soft, pillowy texture of the rolls creates a dessert-like treat that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish with coffee.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

• 1 tablespoon cinnamon

• 1 tablespoon sugar

Instructions:

1. Melt the butter and brush it generously over the tops of the frozen rolls.

2. In a separate bowl, mix together the cinnamon and sugar.

3. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top of the buttered rolls.

4. Air fry at 350°F for 5-6 minutes, and enjoy these sweet, cinnamon-flavored rolls that everyone will love.

These are perfect for breakfast or as a special treat for dessert.

4. Cheddar and Jalapeño Rolls

If you’re craving something spicy and cheesy, cheddar and jalapeño rolls will satisfy your taste buds. This recipe adds a flavorful kick and melty cheese to your frozen rolls, making them the ideal accompaniment to Mexican or barbecue dishes.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

• ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 tablespoon pickled jalapeños (or fresh jalapeños, chopped)

• 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)

Instructions:

1. Melt the butter and brush it over the frozen rolls.

2. Sprinkle a little chili powder on top if you want extra spice.

3. Add a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese and chopped jalapeños to the tops of the rolls.

4. Air fry at 350°F for 5-6 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

These spicy, cheesy rolls are perfect for barbecues or as an appetizer for taco nights.

Storing Leftover Rolls

Once you’ve cooked your delicious air fryer frozen rolls, it’s important to store them correctly to preserve their freshness. Storing them properly will keep them soft and tasty for several days. Here’s how to store your leftovers:

Room Temperature Storage:

After the rolls have cooled, place them in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. These rolls will stay fresh at room temperature for about 4-5 days.

Refrigeration:

If you want to extend their shelf life, you can store the rolls in the fridge for up to 7 days. Make sure they are fully cooled before sealing them in an airtight container.

Freezing:

If you’ve made a large batch and want to store them for later, freezing is an option. Place the cooled rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, you can reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes to bring them back to life.

How to Reheat Rolls in the Air Fryer

If you’ve got leftovers and want to reheat them for later, the air fryer is perfect for bringing back that fresh, warm texture. Follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).

2. Place the leftover rolls in the air fryer basket in a single layer.

3. Heat for 2-3 minutes, or until they’re warmed through and crispy on the outside.

4. Serve immediately, and enjoy!

Reheating in the air fryer is the best way to retain that crispy texture on the outside while keeping the inside soft and fluffy.

FAQs On Frozen Rolls in Air Fryer

Can you cook frozen rolls in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook frozen rolls in an air fryer. Simply preheat the air fryer and place the frozen rolls inside for even cooking.

Can I put frozen bread in an air fryer?

Absolutely! You can put frozen bread in an air fryer. Just adjust the temperature and cook for a few minutes until it’s warm and crispy.

How long do you cook frozen rolls for?

Typically, frozen rolls cook in an air fryer for about 5-8 minutes at 350°F (175°C), depending on their size and thickness.

How long to cook frozen bun in air fryer?

Frozen buns usually take around 6-8 minutes to cook in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a soft and lightly toasted result.

Final Thoughts on frozen rolls in air fryer

Cooking frozen rolls in the air fryer is a fast, efficient, and delicious way to enjoy soft, fluffy rolls with a crispy exterior. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can elevate your dinner rolls with various flavors, store them for later, and avoid common cooking mistakes. Whether you’re serving them for a weeknight meal or a holiday gathering, these air fryer rolls are sure to impress.

Give it a try today, and enjoy the convenience and flavor of homemade-style rolls with minimal effort!

Print Recipe

Frozen Rolls in Air Fryer Recipe

Frozen rolls in the air fryer are a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy fluffy, golden-brown rolls in no time. Perfect for any meal or special occasion, these rolls are a crowd-pleaser and come out perfectly crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. Here’s how you can make them effortlessly!

Prep Time2 minutes mins

Cook Time7 minutes mins

Total Time9 minutes mins

Method: Air Fryer

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Frozen Rolls in Air Fryer Recipe

Servings: 4

Calories: 289kcal

Ingredients

• 9 frozen dinner rolls your favorite brand
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter melted
• Optional: garlic powder Italian seasoning, cinnamon-sugar, or herbs for added flavor

Instructions

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
• Melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Brush the melted butter generously over the tops of the frozen rolls.
• Place the rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded.
• Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5-6 minutes. Check for golden-brown color and crispy texture. If using raw dough rolls, allow them to rise before air frying and cook for 7-8 minutes.
• Once done, remove the rolls from the air fryer and serve warm.

Notes

• For additional flavor, you can brush the rolls with garlic butter, sprinkle Italian seasoning, or cinnamon-sugar before cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the basket—leave some space between each roll for even cooking.
• If storing leftovers, place the rolls in an airtight container. They stay fresh at room temperature for 4-5 days, or refrigerate for up to 7 days. Freezing is an option for longer storage (up to 3 months).
• Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes for best results.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, 2 rolls):

• Calories: 289 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 8mg
• Sodium: 532mg
• Potassium: 112mg
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 2g
• Calcium: 171mg
• Iron: 3mg