Can I use homemade dough instead of canned cinnamon rolls?

Yes, homemade dough can be used, but it will require extra time for preparation and rising. Make sure it's soft and slightly sweet for best results.

How do I know when the donut bites are fully cooked?

They should be deep golden brown and puffed up. Fry a test piece and cut it open to check for doneness in the center.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

While frying gives the best texture, you can bake them at 375°F for about 10–12 minutes. They may be slightly less crisp.

Is the almond extract necessary?

No, the almond extract is optional. It adds a hint of nutty sweetness, but the bites are delicious without it.

How should I store leftovers?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat briefly in the microwave before serving.

Can I make these ahead of time?

You can prep the cinnamon sugar and icing in advance, but the bites are best fried fresh to maintain their texture.

Cinnamon Roll Donut Bites

Section: Indulgent Desserts for Sweet Endings

These cinnamon roll donut bites are delightfully fluffy and golden, fried to perfection and coated in a cinnamon-sugar blend. Using refrigerated cinnamon rolls keeps things quick and easy, while a simple icing drizzle adds the perfect sweet finish. Ready in minutes, they’re ideal for a quick indulgence or sharing with guests. Serve them warm for the best texture and flavor.

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Recipe Author Maria

Updated as of Mon, 16 Jun 2025 21:44:43 GMT

A bowl of cinnamon roll donut bites. | foodbymary.com

These donut bites are soft, fluffy, and coated in cinnamon and sugar. You won’t be able to stop at just one!

Ingredients

Cinnamon rolls with icing: 1 can (12.4 oz), refrigerated
Vegetable oil: 3 cups
Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup
Ground cinnamon: 1 tablespoon
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
Almond extract (optional): 1/2 teaspoon

Instructions

Heat oil:: Heat oil in a medium skillet or deep-fryer to 350 degrees F.
Mix cinnamon sugar:: Mix the sugar and cinnamon together in a small bowl. Set aside.
Prepare rolls:: Remove cinnamon rolls from container, set icing aside. Cut each roll into quarters.
Fry dough:: Gently and carefully place 6 quarter rolls at a time into the oil and fry for 30 seconds to 1 minute or until really golden brown. (You want to make sure they are fully cooked in the center).
Drain and coat:: Place cooked donut bites onto a paper towel-lined plate to soak up grease, then roll them into the cinnamon and sugar mixture.
Warm and flavor icing:: Pour icing in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for only 8 to 10 seconds. Stir in the vanilla extract, and almond extract if using.
Finish and serve:: Drizzle icing over the donuts then serve. Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use homemade dough instead of canned cinnamon rolls?: Yes, homemade dough can be used, but it will require extra time for preparation and rising. Make sure it's soft and slightly sweet for best results.
→ How do I know when the donut bites are fully cooked?: They should be deep golden brown and puffed up. Fry a test piece and cut it open to check for doneness in the center.
→ Can I bake these instead of frying?: While frying gives the best texture, you can bake them at 375°F for about 10–12 minutes. They may be slightly less crisp.
→ Is the almond extract necessary?: No, the almond extract is optional. It adds a hint of nutty sweetness, but the bites are delicious without it.
→ How should I store leftovers?: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat briefly in the microwave before serving.
→ Can I make these ahead of time?: You can prep the cinnamon sugar and icing in advance, but the bites are best fried fresh to maintain their texture.

Cinnamon Roll Donut Bites

Fluffy donut bites rolled in cinnamon sugar and finished with a warm icing drizzle.

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cooking Time

1 minutes

Overall Time

21 minutes

Recipe Author: Maria

Dish Category: Desserts

Recipe Difficulty: Beginner-Friendly

Cuisine: American

Serves: 4 Serving Size (Approximately 16 donut bites)

Dietary Options: Vegetarian

What You’ll Need to Cook

→ Main Ingredients

Ingredient 01 1 can (12.4 oz) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing

Ingredient 02 3 cups vegetable oil

→ Coating

Ingredient 03 1/2 cup granulated sugar

Ingredient 04 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

→ Icing Flavoring

Ingredient 05 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ingredient 06 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

Steps to Prepare

Step 01

Heat oil in a medium skillet or deep-fryer to 350°F.

Step 02

In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Set aside.

Step 03

Remove cinnamon rolls from container and set icing aside. Cut each roll into quarters.

Step 04

Carefully place 6 dough quarters at a time into the hot oil and fry for 30 to 60 seconds until golden brown.

Step 05

Place fried bites on a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then roll in the cinnamon sugar mixture.

Step 06

Microwave the reserved icing for 8–10 seconds, stir in vanilla and almond extract if using.

Step 07

Drizzle flavored icing over the coated bites and serve warm.

Extra Cooking Tips

Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking.

Must-Have Tools

Medium skillet or deep-fryer
Mixing bowls
Paper towels
Microwave-safe bowl

Allergen Information

Always check ingredient labels for allergens and seek expert advice if uncertain.

Contains wheat
Contains dairy
Contains eggs

Nutrition Info (Per Serving)

These details are for guidance and aren’t a replacement for professional advice.

Calories Count: 220
Fats: 11 grams
Carbs: 28 grams
Proteins: 2 grams