Fried Cinnamon Roll Bites
These Fried Cinnamon Roll Bites are golden and crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy inside, and coated in sweet cinnamon sugar. Finished with a generous drizzle of vanilla icing, they’re an easy treat that tastes like a cross between cinnamon rolls and warm doughnut holes.
Made with refrigerated cinnamon roll dough, this quick recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, holidays, parties, sleepovers, or a cozy weekend dessert.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in about 20 minutes
- Uses convenient refrigerated dough
- Crispy outside and fluffy inside
- Coated in cinnamon sugar
- Delicious warm vanilla glaze
- Perfect for sharing
- Easy to prepare in small batches
- Great for breakfast or dessert
Ingredients
Cinnamon Roll Bites
- 1 can refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
- Vegetable or canola oil, for frying
Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
Optional Vanilla Glaze
- Reserved icing from the cinnamon roll package
- 1–2 teaspoons milk, if needed
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, optional
How to Make Fried Cinnamon Roll Bites
Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar
Combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl.
Set the mixture aside so it is ready when the warm bites come out of the oil.
Step 2: Cut the Cinnamon Rolls
Open the package of cinnamon rolls and separate the individual rolls.
Cut each roll into four equal pieces.
Gently roll each piece between your hands to form a small ball. Avoid pressing too firmly because compacted dough may not cook evenly.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Pour approximately 2 inches of oil into a heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet.
Heat the oil to 350°F.
Use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the temperature. Oil that is too cool will make the bites greasy, while excessively hot oil may brown the outside before the center cooks.
Step 4: Fry in Batches
Carefully lower a few cinnamon roll bites into the hot oil.
Do not overcrowd the pot because the oil temperature will drop.
Fry for approximately 1½–2½ minutes, turning occasionally, until the bites are evenly golden brown.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
Remove one bite and carefully cut it open.
The center should be soft and fluffy without any raw or sticky dough.
Larger pieces may need an additional minute of frying at a slightly lower temperature.
Step 6: Drain
Transfer the fried bites to a paper towel-lined plate using a slotted spoon.
Allow them to drain for approximately 30 seconds.
Step 7: Add the Cinnamon Sugar
While the bites are still warm, roll them in the prepared cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Coat every side for the best flavor.
Step 8: Prepare the Icing
Place the included cinnamon roll icing in a microwave-safe bowl.
Warm it for approximately 5–10 seconds, just until it becomes easy to drizzle.
If necessary, mix in a teaspoon of milk. Add vanilla extract for extra flavor.
Step 9: Serve
Arrange the cinnamon roll bites on a serving plate.
Drizzle them with the warm icing and serve immediately.
How to Keep the Centers from Being Raw
Cut the cinnamon rolls into small, evenly sized pieces so they cook at the same rate.
Keep the oil close to 350°F. If the bites become dark too quickly, reduce the heat slightly.
Frying too many pieces at once can also cause uneven cooking, so work in small batches.
Air-Fryer Cinnamon Roll Bites
Preheat the air fryer to 350°F.
Lightly coat the basket and cinnamon roll pieces with cooking spray.
Arrange the pieces in a single layer and cook for approximately 5–7 minutes, turning halfway through.
Toss the hot bites in cinnamon sugar and finish with icing.
They will not have exactly the same texture as deep-fried bites, but they will still be golden and delicious.
Flavor Variations
Apple Cinnamon Bites
Serve the warm bites with apple pie filling or apple butter for dipping.
Caramel Pecan Bites
Drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with chopped toasted pecans.
Chocolate Cinnamon Bites
Add mini chocolate chips and warm chocolate sauce before serving.
Pumpkin Spice Bites
Replace half the cinnamon with pumpkin pie spice for a cozy autumn variation.
Cream Cheese Glaze
Mix the packaged icing with softened cream cheese and a splash of milk for a richer topping.
What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Bites
These sweet bites pair well with:
- Fresh berries
- Sliced bananas
- Scrambled eggs
- Crispy bacon
- Hot coffee
- Cold milk
- Vanilla ice cream
- Apple or caramel dipping sauce
- Chocolate sauce
- Cream cheese glaze
Can I Make Them Ahead?
Fried Cinnamon Roll Bites are best served immediately while the outside is crisp and the center is warm.
You can cut and shape the dough a few hours ahead. Keep the pieces covered in the refrigerator until you are ready to fry them.
Wait to add the cinnamon sugar and icing until after frying.
Storage
Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container.
Store them at room temperature for up to 1 day or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Store the icing separately when possible.
How to Reheat
Reheat the bites in a 325°F oven for approximately 5–7 minutes.
You can also warm them in an air fryer at 320°F for 2–3 minutes.
Microwaving works, but it will make the bites softer.
Add fresh icing after reheating.
Can You Freeze Fried Cinnamon Roll Bites?
Yes, although freshly fried bites have the best texture.
Freeze completely cooled, unglazed bites in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
Reheat them directly from frozen in a 325°F oven until warm, then coat with cinnamon sugar and add the glaze.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any refrigerated cinnamon rolls?
Yes. Regular-sized refrigerated cinnamon rolls work best. Large or jumbo rolls should be cut into additional pieces.
What oil is best for frying?
Vegetable, canola, peanut, or another neutral oil with a high smoke point works well.
Why are my cinnamon roll bites greasy?
The oil was probably not hot enough. Maintain a temperature close to 350°F and fry in small batches.
Why are the centers still raw?
The pieces may be too large, or the oil may be too hot. Cut the dough into smaller portions and maintain a steady temperature.
Can I make these without deep-frying?
Yes. Use an air fryer or bake them according to the cinnamon roll package directions.
Do I need to coat them in cinnamon sugar?
No, but it gives the bites a delicious doughnut-like finish. You can use only the included icing if preferred.
Can I use homemade cinnamon roll dough?
Absolutely. Cut the prepared dough into small portions and fry until golden and fully cooked.
Can I add fillings?
Small amounts of chocolate, caramel, or cream cheese can be added, but seal the dough carefully to prevent the filling from leaking into the oil.
Pro Tips
Keep the cinnamon roll pieces small and evenly sized so the centers cook completely.
Use a thermometer to maintain the oil at approximately 350°F, and allow it to return to temperature between batches.
Coat the bites in cinnamon sugar while they are still warm, but wait until just before serving to drizzle on the icing.
Final Thoughts
These Fried Cinnamon Roll Bites turn simple refrigerated dough into a warm, irresistible treat. Their combination of crispy golden edges, fluffy cinnamon centers, sweet cinnamon sugar, and creamy vanilla icing makes them perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Serve them fresh with coffee, milk, caramel sauce, or fruit for an easy treat everyone will love.
