Name: Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Twists with Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 26 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 frozen dinner roll balls (thawed according to package directions); 3 tbsp canola oil; ½ cup sugar; 1 tbsp cinnamon; 2 tbsp salted butter (melted); 4 oz cream cheese (room temperature); ½ tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup powdered sugar; 5 tbsp milk

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 1 review

If you love a little twist on classic comfort snacks, you’re going to absolutely adore this Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Twists with Cream Cheese Dip Recipe. These golden, crispy, and sweet twists made from simple dough carry the perfect crunchy exterior and a pillowy-soft inside, all sprinkled with cinnamon sugar and paired with a luscious cream cheese dip that elevates every bite. It’s the kind of treat that’s ridiculously easy to whip up but feels like a little celebration for your taste buds, making it ideal for breakfasts, snacks, or even a cozy dessert. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become your new favorite go-to for anytime indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A smooth, round ball of pale beige dough with a soft, slightly shiny surface sits alone on a white marbled texture. The dough looks freshly made, with a few faint lines and creases showing its elasticity and softness. The simple shape and uniform color give a clean and fresh impression photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Don’t be intimidated by the simplicity here—each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to bring out the best flavor and texture in your Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Twists with Cream Cheese Dip Recipe. From the softness of the dinner roll dough to the buttery richness and that vibrant cinnamon sugar crunch, these components create magic together.

Frozen dinner roll balls, 12 (thawed): The soft base that becomes wonderfully tender and twistable when cooked.
Canola oil, 3 tbsp: Helps achieve a crispy and golden crust without overpowering the flavor.
Sugar, ½ cup: Adds the right touch of sweetness, especially when mixed with cinnamon for that signature sparkle.
Cinnamon, 1 tbsp: Brings a warm, spicy note that makes these twists irresistible.
Salted butter, 2 tbsp (melted): Adds a rich, creamy layer of flavor and helps the cinnamon sugar stick beautifully.
Cream cheese, 4 oz (room temperature): The star of the dip, giving a smooth and tangy contrast to the sweet twists.
Vanilla extract, ½ tsp: Enhances the dip’s flavor with a mellow, inviting aroma.
Powdered sugar, 1 cup: Sweetens and thickens the creamy dip to that perfect drizzle consistency.
Milk, 5 tbsp: Added in small amounts to create the ideal dip texture—smooth, yet rich enough to coat each twist.

How to Make Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Twists with Cream Cheese Dip Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Dough Twists

The magic starts by taking those fluffy dinner roll balls and cutting each into halves, giving you 24 perfect portions to work with. Rolling each piece into a six-inch “snake” shape is super fun and creates the perfect canvas for twisting. Grasping both ends and twisting them clockwise simultaneously gives the dough its signature spiral look, while pinching and tucking in the ends keeps everything neatly together and ready for air frying.

Step 2: Get Ready to Proof

Next, you’ll want to brush each twist generously with canola oil to encourage that crisp, golden finish. Arrange them in your air fryer basket with enough space to grow and puff up—about an inch apart. Covering them with plastic wrap keeps the dough moist, and letting them rest for 15 minutes allows the twists to become nice and airy. It’s such a satisfying pause knowing that fluffier twists are just moments away.

Step 3: Air Frying to Perfection

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F, and whisk together the cinnamon and sugar while you wait. The cinnamon sugar mix is what brings these twists to life, elevating simple dough into a sweet powerhouse. Air fry the twists in batches: seven minutes on the first side, then a quick brush of oil if needed, and 4 to 5 minutes more after flipping to get a flaky, golden brown finish. You’ll love the aroma filling your kitchen—pure cozy happiness.

Step 4: Whip the Cream Cheese Dip

While the twists are baking, whip your cream cheese and vanilla extract together until silky smooth. Then, gradually add the powdered sugar and a splash of milk to reach that perfect thick yet drizzly dip consistency. This creamy dip is the perfect cooling complement to the crunchy cinnamon sugar exterior and adds a playful tang that keeps you coming back.

Step 5: Finishing Touches and Serving

As soon as the twists come out of the air fryer, brush them with melted butter to lock in moisture and then toss or brush with that inviting cinnamon sugar blend. Serve the warm, glistening twists immediately alongside your luscious cream cheese dip for those perfect first bites filled with sweetness and creamy delight.

How to Serve Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Twists with Cream Cheese Dip Recipe

A close-up shows one twisted, golden brown pastry stick covered in a layer of coarse sugar and cinnamon being dipped into a white bowl filled with creamy, light beige sauce that is smooth and slightly thick, with some cinnamon sprinkled on top; the pastry is dripping sauce as it is lifted, with blurred similar pastries in the soft background, all set on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar over the twists just before serving for a sparkly finish that adds texture and visual appeal. You can also scatter a few chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts onto the cream cheese dip for added crunch and nuttiness, making the dish feel even more special.

Side Dishes

These twists pair beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee or tea for breakfast or afternoon snack vibes. For a heartier treat, serve alongside fresh fruit or a simple yogurt parfait to balance the richness of the twists with bright, refreshing flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging the cinnamon sugar twists in a circular pattern on a large platter with the cream cheese dip bowl in the center for a fun and inviting spread. You can also drizzle some honey or caramel sauce over the twists for a decadent twist that will impress guests without extra fuss.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any twists left over (though they’re so good it’s rare), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Keep the cream cheese dip chilled in the fridge separately to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze the prepared, uncooked twists by placing them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transferring them to a sealed freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw and puff up before air frying as usual to maintain that perfect texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftover twists in your air fryer at 350°F for about 3 to 4 minutes to bring back the crisp exterior and fluffy inside. Warm the cream cheese dip slightly or stir well before serving to restore its creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I make these cinnamon sugar twists without an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake these twists in a conventional oven at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. The air fryer just speeds up the process and gives an extra crispy texture, but the oven works well too.

What type of dough works best for this recipe?

Frozen dinner roll dough is perfect because it’s soft, buttery, and easy to shape. You can also experiment with other yeasted doughs, but rolls provide the best combination of tenderness and structure.

Can I make the cream cheese dip ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the cream cheese dip a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before serving to restore its smooth texture.

Is it necessary to brush the twists with oil before air frying?

Brushing with canola oil helps achieve that golden, crispy crust and prevents sticking in the air fryer. It also helps the cinnamon sugar coat the twists evenly, so it’s definitely worth the extra step.

Can I substitute the canola oil with another oil?

Yes, you can use other neutral oils like vegetable or sunflower oil. Just avoid strong-flavored oils that might overpower the subtle buttery and cinnamon flavors.

Final Thoughts

I encourage you to give this Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Twists with Cream Cheese Dip Recipe a try because it’s a delightful combination of ease, flavor, and fun. Whether you’re sharing with family or treating yourself, the cozy cinnamon warmth paired with that creamy dip is sure to bring smiles all around. Once you taste these twists fresh from the air fryer, you’ll understand why they’re such a beloved snack that’s just waiting to make your kitchen moments a little sweeter.

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