Description
These Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Twists are a delightful, easy-to-make treat featuring twisted dough coated in cinnamon sugar and served with a creamy vanilla cream cheese dip. Perfectly golden and crispy thanks to the air fryer, these twists offer a delicious balance of soft interior and crunchy exterior, ideal for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack.
Ingredients
Dough and Topping
- 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)
Cream Cheese Dip
- 4 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 5 tbsp milk
Instructions
- Prepare Dough Portions: Cut each ball of thawed dough in half to create 24 equal portions.
- Shape the Twists: Roll each portion into a 6-inch long ‘snake’. Hold both ends of the dough and twist them clockwise simultaneously to form a twisted shape.
- Secure the Ends: Pinch together the ends of each dough twist and tuck the thinnest part underneath to prevent unraveling during cooking.
- Arrange and Oil: Place twists at least 1 inch apart in the air fryer basket. Generously brush both sides with canola oil to promote browning.
- Proof the Dough: Cover the basket with plastic wrap and let the dough puff up at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Prepare remaining twists on a baking sheet similarly covered, keeping them covered until ready to cook.
- Preheat and Mix Topping: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Meanwhile, whisk together cinnamon and sugar in a large bowl for coating later.
- Air Fry the Twists: Cook the first batch in the air fryer for 7 minutes. If not browned, lightly brush with additional oil, flip the twists, and air fry for another 4 to 5 minutes until golden brown.
- Make Cream Cheese Dip: While twists bake, beat cream cheese and vanilla extract on low speed until smooth in a medium bowl.
- Incorporate Sugar and Milk: Gradually add powdered sugar, beating on low speed until combined. Add milk in splashes to achieve a thick, drizzly consistency. Set aside.
- Finish Twists: Once baked, brush the twists with melted butter. Immediately coat generously in the cinnamon sugar mixture by brushing or tossing in the bowl.
- Serve: Serve the warm cinnamon sugar twists immediately with the prepared cream cheese dip on the side.
Notes
- Ensure dough is fully thawed before shaping for best texture and easier handling.
- Brush oil generously to help achieve a crisp and golden finish.
- Adding milk slowly to the cream cheese dip allows better control over the consistency.
- You can prepare the cinnamon sugar coating and dip in advance to save time during serving.
- Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model, so keep an eye on the twists to avoid overbaking.