That cinnamon-sugar smell drifting through the kitchen? Instant holiday magic. These Grinch Cinnamon Rolls bring all the cozy comfort of classic rollsplus a burst of green frosting and whimsy. Sorta like your childhood memories got dressed up for a Christmas morning party. They’re everywhere this year, and for good reasonsweet, silly, and impossible to ignore.
This festive twist starts with pillowy dough, a buttery brown sugar swirl, and a vibrant green cream cheese icing. It’s comfort food with a wink. You can use store-bought dough to keep things simple, or make your own for a weekend bake. Either way, no stand mixer needed. These holiday cinnamon rolls are done baking in under 25 minutesand kids absolutely lose it for these. Great option for relaxed Christmas breakfast ideas or fun holiday baking days.
I first made these right after Thanksgiving in 2021, when my niece begged for “Grinch buns with gooey stuff.” She licked the frosting bowl clean before the rolls even cooled. What helped? Tinting the icing after it cools a bitkeeps the color bold without turning runny. I’ve been photographing and testing family bakes like this for eight years now, and these are always a total win for playful mornings around the tree.
Thomas Baker
Grinch Cinnamon Rolls: Easy Festive Treats to Make
These easy Grinch Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat perfect for Christmas Breakfast Ideas. Made with canned cinnamon rolls and vibrant green frosting, they bring festive cheer to your holiday table. Quick and simple to prepare, these Holiday Cinnamon Rolls are baked in an air fryer for a convenient and delicious Christmas morning.
10 drop neon green food coloring (plus 3 drops yellow – optional)
8 red heart candy sprinkles
Method
Open the can and separate the individual cinnamon rolls.
Place the rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket with space between each; optionally place perforated parchment under for easy cleanup.
Cook at 360°F for 8-10 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through; flip and cook an additional 2-3 minutes if desired.
While baking, tint the frosting by mixing neon green food coloring and optionally yellow into the frosting until your desired green shade is achieved.
Remove cooked cinnamon rolls and allow to cool slightly to prevent frosting from melting.
Spread the green tinted frosting evenly over the cinnamon rolls.
Top each roll with a red heart candy sprinkle and serve.
Notes
Use canned frosting for convenience or make your own if preferred. Adding a few drops of yellow food coloring helps achieve the perfect Grinch green. Any red heart-shaped candies or Christmas-themed sprinkles work well for decoration. Nutritional values may vary depending on brands and decorations used.
Why You’ll Love These Grinch Cinnamon Rolls
Fast & Easy: These Easy Grinch Cinnamon Rolls are ready in a flash, cooked to golden perfection in your air fryer in just 8-10 minutes. Say goodbye to complicated steps and hello to a quick, festive treat!
Kid-Friendly Fun: With vibrant green frosting and adorable red candy heart toppers, these rolls are sure to be a favorite with little ones, making holiday baking sessions extra special.
Perfect for the Holidays: Bring a playful, Grinch-inspired twist to your Christmas breakfast or holiday brunch menu. These Festive Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful addition to any seasonal spread.
Minimal Clean-Up: Utilizing store-bought dough, convenient ready-made frosting, and parchment paper ensures this recipe is as practical as it is delicious, with very little mess to tackle afterward.
Key Ingredients & Simple Prep
Here’s everything you need to whip up these delightful Sweet Holiday Treats:
Cinnamon Rolls: A 12-ounce can of pre-made cinnamon rolls (typically 8 count) provides that classic, comforting flavor without any fuss.
Frosting: Store-bought vanilla or cream cheese frosting is ideal for ease, but feel free to whip up your favorite homemade version if you prefer.
Food Coloring: Essential for that signature Grinch look! Neon green food coloring is key, and a few drops of yellow can brighten the green even further.
Toppings: Red heart candy sprinkles are the perfect whimsical touch to complete your Grinch masterpiece!
Pro Tip: Red heart sprinkles are commonly available in grocery stores during the holiday season. Alternatively, a festive Christmas sprinkle mix with red accents works beautifully.
Quick Ingredient Overview
Ingredient
Amount
Notes
Canned cinnamon rolls
12 ounces
8 rolls, any brand
Vanilla/cream cheese frosting
8 ounces
Store-bought easiest
Neon green food coloring
8–10 drops
Add 2-3 yellow drops for brighter green
Red heart sprinkles
8 pieces
One per roll, any red candy hearts
Let’s Make Them: Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to infuse your kitchen with cinnamon-sugar coziness? Follow these simple steps for perfect Grinch Cinnamon Rolls:
Prep the Air Fryer: Carefully open the can of cinnamon rolls. Arrange them in a single layer in your air fryer basket, ensuring there’s a little space between each roll for optimal airflow and even cooking. For easier cleanup and to prevent sticking, consider lining the basket with perforated parchment paper.
Cook the Rolls: Set your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) and cook for 8–10 minutes. The rolls should be golden brown and cooked through. If the bottoms appear a little pale, gently flip the rolls and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes.
Mix the Frosting: While the cinnamon rolls are cooking, prepare your festive green frosting. Spoon the vanilla or cream cheese frosting into a bowl and stir in your neon green food coloring. Start with 8–10 drops, mixing well, and add more gradually until you achieve your desired Grinch-perfect shade. For an even brighter, more vibrant green, incorporate 2–3 drops of yellow food coloring.
Frost and Decorate: Allow the baked cinnamon rolls to cool for just a few minutes before generously spreading the vibrant green frosting over each one. Finally, adorn each roll with a red heart candy for that essential Grinch-y charm!
Pro Tip: Always tint your frosting while the rolls are cooling. Applying frosting to warm rolls can cause it to melt and become runny, diminishing that beautiful, vibrant green color.
Timing Chart for Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls
Step
Time
Cooking in air fryer
8–10 minutes
Additional cooking if needed (optional flip)
2–3 minutes
Cooling before frosting
2–3 minutes
Troubleshooting & Adjustments for Perfect Grinch Rolls
Frosting Too Runny? If your beautifully tinted frosting feels too thin, place it in the fridge for 5-10 minutes. Chilling helps it thicken, making it easier to spread for a smoother finish.
Cinnamon Rolls Too Light? Air fryer models can vary in their cooking power. If your rolls aren’t as golden as you’d like, try flipping them over and air frying for a few extra minutes until they reach your desired brownness.
Craving Homemade Frosting? For a quick, fresh DIY version, simply whisk together powdered sugar, softened cream cheese, and a splash of milk until smooth. Then, add your green food coloring!
Pro Tip: Consider doubling the recipe if you’re serving a crowd; these Grinch Cinnamon Rolls disappear fast at holiday gatherings!
Serving & Storing Your Grinch Cinnamon Rolls
These delightful Green Frosted Cinnamon Rolls are truly best enjoyed fresh, but here’s how to manage them for later:
Serving: Serve them warm, ideally within an hour of baking, to savor their soft, gooey texture. They make a divine addition to your Christmas Breakfast Ideas, perfectly paired with hot cocoa or coffee.
Storing: Any leftover Grinch Cinnamon Rolls should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To refresh them, a quick 10–15 second reheat in the microwave will bring back their warmth and softness.
Storage Tips at a Glance
Storage Method
Time
Reheating
Room Temperature
1–2 days
Microwave 10–15 sec
Fridge
3 days
Microwave 15–20 sec
Pro Tip: For optimal freshness and presentation, avoid frosting any rolls you plan to store for later. Keep the frosting in a separate airtight container and apply it fresh just before serving.
Expert Says: The Science Behind Grinch Cinnamon Rolls
Grinch Cinnamon Rolls achieve their incredibly tender interior and beautifully browned exterior thanks to the air fryer’s efficient convection cooking. The rapid circulation of hot air ensures even heat distribution, encouraging the Maillard reaction that caramelizes the sugar topping and bakes the dough to perfection without drying it out. This method provides a fun, efficient, and delicious way to enjoy a festive twist on a classic treat.
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The Journey to Perfect Grinch Cinnamon Rolls
Crafting these festive Grinch Cinnamon Rolls was a journey of delightful experimentation. After several attemptsone batch proved too doughy, another had a glaze that was just too thinI finally perfected them. The bright green swirl now achieves just the right vibrancy, and the balance of sweet and spice makes them feel truly festive without being overwhelming. This recipe is a culmination of those kitchen lessons and happy mistakes, transforming into a cherished holiday favorite I’m thrilled to share.
FAQs ( Grinch Cinnamon Rolls )
Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls the night before. Just assemble them, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake or air fry them fresh in the morning for that perfect festive cinnamon rolls experience. This saves you time and keeps breakfast stress-free.
What is the best way to store leftover rolls?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze the rolls individually wrapped, then thaw and reheat when ready. Reheating in the air fryer or oven helps maintain their soft texture and fresh taste.
Can I substitute the green frosting for another type?
Absolutely! While the green frosting adds festive charm, feel free to use classic cream cheese or vanilla glaze instead. This flexibility lets you customize the look and flavor to suit your holiday preferences without compromising taste.
Is it possible to make this recipe without an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake the rolls in a conventional oven at 350°F for 18-22 minutes until golden and cooked through. Adjust baking time as needed, keeping an eye on texture. This makes the recipe accessible whether or not you own an air fryer.
How do I prevent the cinnamon sugar from leaking during cooking?
To minimize leakage, wrap the rolls tightly when assembling and place them snugly in the air fryer basket. Keeping the dough rolled evenly helps keep the filling inside. Using a thicker cinnamon sugar mix or adding a little butter can also reduce spills.
Conclusion
Grinch Cinnamon Rolls offer that perfect blend of soft, gooey dough generously topped with vibrant green frosting, making them as delightful to create as they are to devour. Ready in under 25 minutes from start to finish, these easy cinnamon rolls effortlessly infuse your kitchen with holiday spirit and minimal fuss. You’ll cherish the sweet surprise and cozy warmth they add to your Christmas breakfast ideas or any festive morning gathering.
For an extra treat, consider swapping in tangy cream cheese frosting or sprinkling chopped pecans into the rolls before baking for a delightful crunch. Planning ahead? Store unfrosted leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently to preserve that fresh-baked feel. A quick tip from pastry pros: always tint your frosting once it has cooled slightly to ensure that bold, green color truly popsperfect for making your holiday cinnamon rolls truly festive and fun.
Did these Grinch Cinnamon Rolls bring back memories of a quirky holiday treat from your childhood? Share your photos or favorite tweaks in the comments belowI’d absolutely love to see how you make these sweet holiday treats uniquely your own. Don’t forget to pass along this recipe to your favorite kitchen crew and make space for a little more joy around the table this season.
