Lightly grease an 8-inch or 9-inch air fryer-safe pan. Set aside.
In a measuring cup or microwave-safe bowl, mix the milk, water, and butter together. Microwave until the butter melts and the mixture is warm (about 110-115°F).
¼ cup milk, 2 tablespoons water, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Pour the warm liquid, flour, sugar, yeast, egg, and salt into the bowl of stand mixer or a large mixing bowl. Using a dough hook, mix on low-medium speed until a mostly smooth dough forms. This will take about 5-7 minutes. The dough will feel dense and somewhat heavy.
1 ½ cups bread flour, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast, 1 large egg, ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
If kneading by hand, turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes.
Lightly grease a clean, large bowl. Place the dough into the bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a clean towel, and allow the dough to rest for 20-30 minutes.
After the dough rests, use a rolling pin to roll it out onto a lightly floured surface into an 8x10-inch rectangle or oval.
To Make the Filling:
Use a spatula to spread the softened butter across the dough. Then, sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon over the butter.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, ½ cup light brown sugar, ½ tablespoon ground cinnamon
Roll the dough tightly starting with the short side. Cut the roll into 6 pieces and arrange them into the prepared pan. Cover, and allow the rolls to rise for about an hour or until they’ve doubled in size.
Preheat the air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 320°F or according to manufacturer's instructions. Then, cook for 5-7 minutes (up to 8-10 minutes depending on the model of air fryer) or until golden brown.
To Make the Icing:
While rolls are baking, prepare icing. Place all ingredients in a medium mixing bowl and mix until well combined.
1 ounce block-style cream cheese, ¼ cup powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, ¼ cup heavy whipping cream, 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Drizzle icing over warm rolls and serve.
See post for storage options.
Notes
*The calories listed are an approximation based on the ingredients in the recipe card and a serving size of 1 cinnamon roll. Actual calories will vary.*For more information, tips, and answers to frequently asked questions, please refer to the post.*Photos courtesy of Tanille Hartwig Photography.