Introduction
The Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Roll is the ultimate solution for a quick, crispy, and satisfying dessert that tastes remarkably like a churro, but requires minimal effort and zero deep frying. Originating from the simple concept of transforming pantry staples into a delicious treat, this recipe takes humble flour tortillas and turns them into irresistible, caramelized rolls. The air fryer is the secret weapon here, providing an intense, dry heat that crisps the tortilla exterior while melting the butter and adhering the cinnamon sugar blend, resulting in a perfectly textured snack in under 10 minutes.
Ingredients
- 6 small (6-inch / 15 cm) flour tortillas
- 4 tablespoons (56 grams) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated white sugar
- 1 tablespoon (15 grams) ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt (optional, to enhance sweetness)
Step-by-step Preparation
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Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating: In a shallow bowl or plate, thoroughly whisk together the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and the optional pinch of salt. Set aside.
Tip: Using a shallow dish makes the rolling and coating process much easier and cleaner. -
Butter and Roll the Tortillas: Lay one tortilla flat. Using a pastry brush, lightly coat the entire surface with melted butter. Starting from one edge, roll the tortilla tightly into a cylinder. Secure the roll with a wooden toothpick inserted horizontally through the center to prevent it from unraveling during cooking. Repeat for all six tortillas.
Tip: Rolling them tightly is crucial for maintaining their shape and achieving a crunchy texture throughout. - Coat the Rolls: Lightly brush the outside of each rolled tortilla with any remaining melted butter. Immediately roll the buttered tortilla in the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring the entire exterior is evenly coated.
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Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the coated rolls seam-side down in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch. Air fry for 4 to 6 minutes. The rolls should be golden brown, firm, and the cinnamon sugar should appear slightly caramelized.
Tip: Depending on the power of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to steaming instead of crisping. - Serve: Carefully remove the rolls from the air fryer. Immediately remove the toothpicks before serving. Serve warm.
Nutritional Information
These cinnamon sugar tortilla rolls are considered a treat, offering a significant reduction in fat compared to traditional deep-fried pastries like churros or donuts. Each serving (one roll) typically contains between 150 to 200 calories, depending on the size of the tortilla and the amount of butter used. They provide a quick source of carbohydrates and energy. While they are a dessert and should be enjoyed in moderation, the air fryer preparation ensures you satisfy your sweet tooth without excessive saturated fats.
Storage
These rolls are best enjoyed immediately after preparation when they are at their crispiest. If you have leftovers, allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 to 2 days. To reheat, place the rolls back into the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2 to 3 minutes until crisp again. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as this will result in a soft, chewy texture rather than a crisp one.
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Rolls are the perfect example of how simple ingredients can create spectacular results. They are incredibly versatile for serving. Try drizzling them with warm chocolate sauce, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, or a dollop of sweetened cream cheese frosting for an elevated experience. For variations, you can experiment with fillings—a thin layer of Nutella or apple butter spread on the tortilla before rolling adds a delightful complexity. Enjoy this fast, flavorful, and family-friendly dessert!