Air Fryer Rolls: Soft, Fluffy, and Golden

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Making rolls in an air fryer might sound unconventional, but it’s an easy and effective way to achieve soft, fluffy rolls with a perfectly golden crust. Whether you’re preparing dinner rolls, sweet rolls, or even savory stuffed rolls, the air fryer offers a quick and efficient method to get bakery-quality results at home. Let’s dive into a detailed guide on how to make delicious rolls using your air fryer.

Ingredients:

  • For the Dough:
    • 3 cups all-purpose flour
    • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
    • 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 cup warm milk (about 110°F/45°C)
    • 1/4 cup warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
    • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
    • 1 large egg
  • For Brushing:
    • 2 tablespoons melted butter
    • Optional: 1 teaspoon honey (for sweet rolls)

Equipment:

  • Air fryer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Dough hook attachment or wooden spoon
  • Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap
  • Rolling pin (if shaping rolls)
  • Parchment paper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
  1. Activate the Yeast:
    • In a small bowl, combine the warm water, warm milk, and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the liquid mixture and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.
  2. Mix the Dough:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the softened butter, egg, and the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough begins to form.
  3. Knead the Dough:
    • If using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment, knead the dough on medium speed for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If kneading by hand, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes.
  4. First Rise:
    • Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
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2. Shape the Rolls:
  1. Divide the Dough:
    • After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 12-16 equal portions, depending on the size of rolls you prefer.
  2. Shape the Rolls:
    • Roll each portion of dough into a smooth ball. For a fancier presentation, you can also roll the dough into ropes and tie them into knots.
  3. Second Rise:
    • Place the shaped rolls on a piece of parchment paper. Cover them loosely with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let them rise for another 20-30 minutes until they’ve puffed up slightly.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
  • Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the rolls will cook evenly and develop a nice golden crust.
4. Air Fry the Rolls:
  1. Cook the Rolls:
    • Carefully place the parchment paper with the risen rolls into the air fryer basket. Make sure the rolls are spaced slightly apart to allow for expansion as they cook.
  2. Air Fry Time:
    • Air fry the rolls at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes. Depending on your air fryer model and the size of the rolls, you may need to adjust the time slightly. The rolls should be golden brown on the outside and sound hollow when tapped.
  3. Check for Doneness:
    • If the rolls need more time, continue air frying in 1-2 minute increments. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out quickly.
5. Finish and Serve:
  1. Brush with Butter:
    • Once the rolls are done, remove them from the air fryer and immediately brush them with melted butter. For sweet rolls, you can mix honey into the butter before brushing for a subtle sweetness.
  2. Cool Slightly:
    • Let the rolls cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. This allows them to finish setting inside without becoming too dense.
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6. Enjoy:
  1. Serve Warm:
    • These air fryer rolls are best enjoyed warm, straight out of the air fryer. They’re perfect with a dab of butter, a drizzle of honey, or alongside your favorite meal.
  2. Pairing Suggestions:
    • Serve these rolls with soups, stews, salads, or use them as a base for sliders and sandwiches.

Tips and Variations:

  1. Adding Flavors:
    • For garlic rolls, mix minced garlic into the melted butter and brush over the rolls before air frying. You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before cooking.
  2. Stuffed Rolls:
    • Make stuffed rolls by placing a small cube of cheese, a spoonful of jam, or a dollop of garlic butter inside each portion of dough before shaping it into a ball.
  3. Sweet Rolls:
    • For a sweeter version, add 2-3 tablespoons of sugar to the dough and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar before the second rise.
  4. Storing Leftovers:
    • If you have leftover rolls, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 325°F (160°C) for 2-3 minutes to revive their softness.
  5. Freezing Dough:
    • You can freeze the shaped, unbaked rolls after the first rise. Place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When ready to bake, let them thaw and rise at room temperature before air frying.

Conclusion

Making rolls in an air fryer is a game-changer for anyone who loves fresh bread but doesn’t want to deal with the lengthy process of traditional baking. With this method, you get soft, fluffy rolls with a golden, crispy crust in a fraction of the time. Whether you’re serving them with dinner, using them for sliders, or enjoying them with a sweet spread, these air fryer rolls are sure to impress. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the satisfaction of homemade rolls made easy!

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