Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Twists

These air fryer cinnamon sugar twists are a quick and irresistible treat you can pull together with simple ingredients for a cozy snack or dessert. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they bring that warm cinnamon sugar flavor with minimal fuss using your air fryer.

I tossed these together one afternoon when I was craving something sweet but didn’t want to heat up the oven. They quickly became a family favorite for weekend snacks.

Ingredients

• 12 thawed frozen dinner roll dough balls: choose good quality dough for the best texture and flavor
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: simple sweetener that caramelizes nicely on the twists
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon: provides the warm, aromatic spice classic to cinnamon sugar treats fresh and fragrant cinnamon powder makes all the difference
• 4 ounces cream cheese: to whip up a creamy dip that balances the sweetness
• 2 to 3 tablespoons canola oil: helps the twists brown evenly and keeps them moist choose a neutral oil for subtle flavor

Instructions

Build The Twists:

Cut each thawed dough ball in half, then roll each piece into a 6-inch long thin rope shape The length is important to create neat twists and ensure even cooking

Brush And Rest:

Lightly brush the twisted dough with canola oil This adds shine and helps the sugar stick Let the twists puff up for 15 minutes to develop a light, airy texture during cooking

Preheat The Air Fryer:

Set your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit Proper preheating is key for a crispy exterior

Air Fry The Twists:

Place twists in a single layer in your air fryer basket Cook for 7 minutes then flip over Cook an extra 4 to 5 minutes until they turn golden and crispy Watch closely towards the end so they do not burn

Serve Warm:

These are best enjoyed fresh and warm with a side of cream cheese dip to complement the cinnamon sugar You can reheat leftovers, but freshness shines through on day one

My favorite part of this recipe is definitely the cream cheese dip It adds a tangy creaminess that cuts through all the sweetness making every bite delightful I remember making these with my kids on rainy days and how their eyes lit up at the warm cinnamon aroma filling the kitchen

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days To keep them crisp, reheat in the air fryer or oven rather than the microwave which can make them soggy

Ingredient Swaps

Try using whole wheat dough for a nuttier flavor or vegan cream cheese if dairy free You can also swap canola oil for melted coconut oil to add a subtle tropical hint

Serving Ideas

Serve these twists with fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness A cup of chai tea or coffee pairs wonderfully for a comforting treat time

This recipe is a perfect balance of sweet and spice with a satisfying crunch to enjoy anytime you want a warm, comforting snack.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ How do I shape the cinnamon sugar twists?

Cut thawed dough balls in half, then roll each piece into a 6-inch long snake shape before twisting gently to form the twists.

→ What is the best oil to brush before air frying?

Canola oil is ideal for brushing the twists to help them brown evenly and develop a crispy texture.

→ Can I add a cream cheese dip?

Yes, serving these twists with a side of cream cheese makes a smooth, tangy complement to the sweet cinnamon sugar coating.

→ How can I ensure twists cook evenly in the air fryer?

Preheat the air fryer and flip the twists halfway through cooking to promote even browning on all sides.

→ Is it possible to use fresh dough instead of frozen?

Fresh dough works well too; just make sure it's pliable and not too cold before shaping and air frying.