Easy Pillsbury Cinnamon Roll Donuts: Fried, Baked, or Air Fried (No Yeast!)

If you’ve ever dreamt of having Krispy Kreme-style cinnamon roll donuts right in your own kitchen, get ready to have your mind blown! This recipe transforms humble canned Pillsbury cinnamon rolls into incredibly delicious, soft, and perfectly glazed donuts. Whether you prefer them fried, baked, or even air-fried, this simple hack delivers a decadent treat with minimal effort and absolutely no yeast needed. It’s truly one of the best canned cinnamon roll hacks you’ll ever discover – these fried cinnamon rolls are utterly irresistible!

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If you love this recipe, you’ve got to try my Philadelphia No Bake Cheesecake with Cool Whip, my Sweet Cream Cold Foam Recipe, and my Banana Blueberry Oatmeal Muffins!

Canned Cinnamon Roll Donuts Recipe – Easy, Quick, and Decadent!

Prepare to be amazed! This easy canned cinnamon roll donut recipe is a game-changer. Once you experience the golden perfection of these homemade treats, you’ll never look at store-bought cinnamon rolls the same way again. They’re an instant upgrade to your favorite Pillsbury cinnamon rolls, transforming them into soft, fluffy, and utterly delightful donuts that taste like they came from a high-end bakery. The best part? They require minimal ingredients and even less fuss, making them the ideal solution for a quick breakfast, a satisfying dessert, or an impromptu weekend treat. Forget complicated yeast doughs and long proofing times; these simple fried cinnamon rolls bring all the flavor without any of the headache!

Much like my popular Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls or my comforting Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, these donuts burst with that irresistible sweet cinnamon flavor. However, they boast an even quicker preparation time, making them a fantastic alternative when you’re craving something special but are short on time. Serve them warm with a steaming cup of coffee or a rich homemade hot chocolate for the ultimate cozy experience. They’re perfect for lazy mornings, holiday brunches, or simply satisfying that sweet tooth craving.

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What is a Cinnamon Roll Donut Called? Exploring Names and Flavors

The name for a “cinnamon roll donut” can vary depending on where you are and the specific establishment you’re visiting. For instance, the beloved cinnamon roll donuts Krispy Kreme offers usually don’t have a unique name other than “cinnamon roll donut” or “cinnamon bun.” However, in other bakeries or regions, you might encounter them under different monikers. A common alternative is a “Persian roll,” particularly in some parts of the United States, which often refers to a fried, glazed pastry with a cinnamon swirl. You might also hear them called “cinnamon swirl donuts” or “cinnamon bun donuts,” clearly indicating their delightful fusion of flavors and textures.

At its heart, a cinnamon roll donut is a brilliant hybrid. It expertly marries the warm, sweet, and aromatic brown sugar cinnamon flavors and the tender, swirled pastry texture characteristic of a traditional cinnamon roll with the familiar shape and delightful chewiness of a classic donut. This combination offers the best of both worlds, providing a delightful textural contrast between a crispy exterior (when fried) and a soft, airy interior, all infused with that quintessential cinnamon goodness. It’s a testament to creative baking, taking two beloved treats and blending them into a single, irresistible creation.

Is Donut Dough the Same as Cinnamon Roll Dough? Unpacking the Differences

While both donut dough and cinnamon roll dough are sweet, enriched pastries, they do have some subtle yet important differences in their typical ingredients and preparation methods that result in distinct textures and flavors. A traditional cinnamon roll dough is usually a sweet, yeasted bread dough, designed to be soft, fluffy, and somewhat chewy, allowing for the classic spiral shape and ample filling. It’s often less sweet on its own, relying on the cinnamon-sugar filling and the glaze for much of its sweetness.

Donut dough, on the other hand, tends to be slightly richer and often sweeter than cinnamon roll dough. It commonly includes more sugar and fat (like butter or oil) and sometimes eggs, which contribute to a softer, more tender crumb that holds up well to frying. This richer composition gives donuts their signature melt-in-your-mouth texture. While both often use yeast, many quick donut recipes, like this one using canned cinnamon rolls, rely on leavening agents already present in the pre-made dough, offering a shortcut to that delightful donut experience. This is why canned cinnamon roll dough is such a fantastic base for making quick, no-yeast donuts – it’s already enriched and ready for a quick transformation!

Pillsbury Cinnamon Roll Donuts Ingredients: Simple & Sweet!

I wasn’t kidding when I said these cinnamon bun donuts were incredibly easy! You truly only need a couple of basic ingredients to get started, making this one of the most accessible and least complicated donut recipes you’ll ever find. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, leveraging ready-made ingredients to save you time and effort without sacrificing flavor.

• Canned Cinnamon Roll Dough: This is the star of our show! I highly recommend using Pillsbury cinnamon rolls for their consistent quality and delicious flavor. Make sure to set aside the icing that typically comes with the can – it’s perfect for topping your finished donuts! For another fantastic recipe using Pillsbury cinnamon rolls, check out my Cinnamon Rolls Peach Cobbler! If you’re a fan of warming cinnamon and spices in general, you might also love my Cake Mix Apple Cobbler!
• Canola Oil or Vegetable Oil: Essential for frying these delightful donuts to a beautiful golden brown. You’ll need approximately 6 cups, or enough to fill your pan to a depth of about 2 inches, ensuring the donuts can float and cook evenly.
• Icing or Powdered Sugar Topping: While these cinnamon roll doughnuts are wonderfully delicious on their own, a luscious topping elevates them to new heights. You can use the ready-made icing that comes with your canned cinnamon rolls, or for an extra touch, whip up a simple powdered sugar glaze or simply dust them with powdered sugar for a classic finish.

For even more inspiring fall dessert ideas and delightful sweet treats, be sure to explore my comprehensive roundup of the 36 Best Fall Desserts, perfect for any autumn gathering or festivity!

Essential Equipment for Perfect Cinnamon Roll Donuts

To successfully make these delightful cinnamon roll donuts, whether frying or baking, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s a quick rundown of the essential equipment you’ll need for a smooth and enjoyable cooking process:

• Heavy-Bottomed Pan: For frying, a sturdy pan is crucial to maintain consistent oil temperature. Options include a braiser, a deep sauté pan, or a Dutch oven. These types of pans distribute heat evenly and help prevent oil temperature fluctuations.
• Cooking Thermometer: This is a non-negotiable for frying. A reliable cooking thermometer, specifically a deep-fry or candy thermometer, allows you to accurately monitor the oil temperature, which is key to perfectly cooked donuts – not greasy, not burnt.
• Small Round Cookie Cutter: To create that classic donut hole in the center of your cinnamon rolls. A small biscuit cutter or even a clean, narrow bottle cap can work in a pinch.
• Tongs: Essential for safely handling the donuts in hot oil, turning them, and removing them from the pan.
• Wire Cooling Rack: Once fried, your donuts need a place to drain excess oil and cool. A wire rack placed over a baking sheet (or parchment paper) allows air to circulate, preventing the bottoms from becoming soggy. This is also the perfect spot to drizzle your vanilla glaze or sprinkle powdered sugar, catching any drips below.
• Baking Sheet (optional, for baking): If you opt for the baked version, a baking sheet lined with parchment paper will be needed.
• Donut Pan (optional, for baking): For perfectly shaped baked donuts, a donut pan is highly recommended.

Instructions for Cinnamon Roll Donuts (Fried Cinnamon Rolls): Step-by-Step Perfection

Frying these canned cinnamon roll donuts is surprisingly simple and creates an incredibly tender, golden-brown exterior. The process shares some similarities with my Peach Cobbler Egg Rolls, but these cinnamon roll donuts are even easier to prep, making them a fantastic quick treat. Follow these steps for perfectly fried cinnamon roll donuts:

Hint: For an effortless topping, simply use the icing that comes with your canned cinnamon rolls. Alternatively, for a more custom touch, dust your cooked cinnamon roll donuts with powdered sugar for a classic, subtle sweetness. My personal favorite is to make an easy homemade powdered sugar glaze: combine powdered sugar, milk, and a touch of vanilla extract in a small bowl, whisking until smooth. I’ll include the full recipe for this glaze in the recipe card below, so you can easily whip it up!

Baked Cinnamon Roll Donuts: A Lighter, No-Yeast Option

While frying gives these donuts that classic, crispy exterior and tender interior, baking is a fantastic alternative for a slightly lighter touch, still delivering all the cinnamon-y goodness without the need for deep oil. This method is perfect if you’re looking to reduce fat or simply prefer not to deep-fry. To make baked cinnamon roll donuts, start by using your small cookie cutter to create the signature donut holes in the center of your canned cinnamon rolls, just as you would for the fried version.

Once shaped, simply place your cinnamon roll donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them according to the package directions on your Pillsbury cinnamon roll can, which is typically around 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. For an even more perfect donut shape, you can use a donut pan. This will help them maintain their round form and develop a lovely crust. After baking, let them cool slightly on a wire rack before drizzling with the reserved icing or your homemade glaze. You’ll be amazed at how well these “no yeast” baked donuts capture that sweet bakery flavor!

Cinnamon Roll Donuts – Air Fryer Version: Quick & Convenient

For an incredibly quick and convenient method that provides a wonderfully crispy exterior without the mess of deep frying, the air fryer is your best friend! Making these easy cinnamon roll donuts in an air fryer is a fantastic option for busy mornings or whenever a craving strikes. Just like with the other methods, begin by cutting the holes in the middle of your canned cinnamon rolls using a small cookie cutter. Remember to save those delightful donut holes too!

Once your cinnamon rolls are donut-shaped, simply follow the steps outlined in my popular Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls recipe for precise cooking times and temperatures. Generally, you’ll place the prepared donuts in a single layer in your air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them to allow for even cooking. Air fry at around 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and puffed up. The result is a surprisingly light yet satisfying donut, ready for glazing or dusting with powdered sugar. It’s a perfect blend of speed and deliciousness!

Storage & Reheating Tips for Your Homemade Cinnamon Roll Donuts

Once you’ve indulged in these delightful cinnamon roll donuts, whether fried or baked, you might find yourself with a few leftovers (though that’s a rare occurrence!). Proper storage will ensure they remain fresh and delicious for as long as possible. You can store your homemade cinnamon roll donuts in an airtight container or tightly covered with plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. While they are best enjoyed fresh and warm, they still make for a wonderful treat the next day.

I haven’t personally tried freezing these donuts, as they tend to disappear far too quickly in my household! However, if you do want to try, ensure they are fully cooled before freezing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container once solid. For reheating, a quick zap in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or a few minutes in a toaster oven can bring back some of their warmth and softness. If your sweet tooth is anything like mine, though, you probably won’t have to worry about long-term storage!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Roll Donuts

More Sweet Treats You’ll Love! Related Recipes

Craving more delightful and easy-to-make sweet treats like this canned cinnamon roll donut recipe? Explore these other fantastic recipes that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth:

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