15 Minute Air Fryer Pizza Scrolls Recipe – So Easy

Imagine pulling apart warm, cheesy air fryer pizza scrolls with golden edges and a soft, pillowy center—pure comfort food magic! These adorable spiral bites combine everything you love about pizza into a fun, portable snack that’s ready in just 15 minutes.

Perfect for busy weeknights, after-school snacks, or party appetizers, these scrolls are a game-changer. Just like our popular Air Fryer Garlic Bread, these scrolls prove that your air fryer is the ultimate kitchen hero for creating restaurant-quality food at home.

What Are Air Fryer Pizza Scrolls?

Ever wondered why these tasty treats are called “scrolls”? Well, they’re rolled up like ancient parchment scrolls, except instead of wisdom, they’re filled with delicious pizza toppings!

These spiraled beauties are basically pizza dough rolled with sauce, cheese, and your favorite toppings, then sliced into pinwheels and air-fried to crispy, gooey perfection. As they say, the way to anyone’s heart is through their stomach, and these pizza scrolls are your golden ticket! Ready to roll up some deliciousness?

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Pizza Scrolls Recipe

The Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser

These air fryer pizza scrolls deliver all the flavors of traditional pizza in bite-sized portions that kids and adults absolutely devour. The air fryer creates a beautifully crispy exterior while keeping the inside wonderfully soft and melty. Each scroll is bursting with tangy tomato sauce, gooey melted mozzarella, and savory pepperoni that creates an irresistible combination.

Budget-Friendly Family Favorite

Making air fryer pizza scrolls at home costs a fraction of what you’d pay for takeout pizza or frozen appetizers. With simple pantry staples and basic ingredients, you can create dozens of these delicious scrolls for just a few dollars. Plus, you control the quality of every ingredient, ensuring your family gets the best without preservatives or mystery additives.

Endless Customization Options

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Load your scrolls with classic pepperoni, Italian sausage, mushrooms, bell peppers, olives, or even pineapple if you’re feeling adventurous! You can make them spicy with jalapeños, vegetarian with roasted vegetables, or keep them simple with just cheese. Similar to our popular Air Fryer Stromboli, these scrolls let you get creative with your favorite pizza combinations.

Ready to transform simple ingredients into incredible air fryer pizza scrolls? Let’s get rolling!

How to Make Air Fryer Pizza Scrolls

Quick Overview

Air fryer pizza scrolls are surprisingly simple to make, requiring just basic rolling and cutting skills. These portable pizza bites feature a crispy golden exterior with a soft, cheesy interior that melts in your mouth. The air fryer works its magic in just 8-10 minutes, making this the perfect quick meal solution.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
Total Time: 18-20 minutes
Servings: 12-16 scrolls

Key Ingredients for Air Fryer Pizza Scrolls

For the Scrolls:

• 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• ½ cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup mini pepperoni slices (or regular pepperoni, chopped)
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

Optional Toppings:

• Sliced mushrooms
• Diced bell peppers
• Sliced black olives
• Cooked Italian sausage
• Fresh basil leaves

For Serving:

• Extra pizza sauce for dipping
• Ranch dressing
• Garlic butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Workspace

Start by lightly flouring a clean countertop or large cutting board. This prevents the dough from sticking and makes rolling much easier. Remove your pizza dough from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to stretch and roll without springing back.

Roll Out the Dough

Using a rolling pin, roll the pizza dough into a large rectangle, approximately 12×16 inches. Aim for an even thickness of about ¼ inch throughout. If the dough resists stretching, let it rest for another 2-3 minutes, then continue rolling. The edges don’t need to be perfect—rustic is perfectly acceptable here!

Apply the Pizza Sauce

Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the entire surface of the dough, leaving a ½-inch border along one of the long edges. Use the back of a spoon or a silicone brush to create an even layer. Don’t overdo the sauce—too much liquid will make the scrolls soggy. About 2-3 tablespoons per section is ideal.

Add the Cheese and Toppings

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce, ensuring every bite will be cheesy. Distribute the pepperoni slices across the surface, followed by a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. If you’re adding vegetables or other toppings, layer them on now. Press the toppings gently into the cheese to help them stay in place during rolling.

Roll It Up Tightly

Starting from the long edge closest to you (the one with toppings right to the edge), begin rolling the dough away from you into a tight log. Keep the roll firm but not so tight that the filling squeezes out the sides. As you roll, tuck in any toppings that try to escape. When you reach the plain border edge, brush it lightly with water to help seal the roll closed.

Slice Into Individual Scrolls

Using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss (the floss trick works great for clean cuts!), slice the log into 1-inch thick rounds. You should get about 12-16 scrolls depending on how thick you cut them. Slightly thicker scrolls will be softer in the middle, while thinner ones will be crispier throughout.

Prepare for Air Frying

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F for 3-5 minutes. While it heats, brush the tops of each scroll lightly with olive oil or melted butter. This creates that beautiful golden-brown finish and adds extra flavor. Line your air fryer basket with parchment paper or lightly spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Air Fry to Golden Perfection

Place the scrolls in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving about ½ inch of space between each one for proper air circulation. Don’t overcrowd—cook in batches if necessary. Air fry at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, checking at the 6-minute mark. The scrolls are done when they’re golden brown on top and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If they need more time, continue cooking in 1-minute increments.

Cool and Serve

Remove the scrolls carefully using tongs or a spatula and place them on a serving platter. Let them cool for 2-3 minutes before serving—the filling will be extremely hot! Serve with extra pizza sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic butter for dipping.

What to Serve Air Fryer Pizza Scrolls With

These versatile scrolls pair beautifully with so many dishes! Serve them as appetizers alongside a crisp Caesar salad or garden salad for a light meal. They’re perfect with tomato soup or minestrone for a comforting lunch. For game day or parties, set out an array of dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, garlic aioli, or spicy buffalo sauce.

Create a full Italian-inspired meal by pairing them with pasta dishes, garlic breadsticks, or mozzarella sticks. They also work wonderfully as part of a snack board with fresh vegetables, olives, and cheese cubes. For drinks, consider serving Italian sodas, lemonade, or for adults, a crisp white wine or cold beer.

Top Tips for Perfecting Air Fryer Pizza Scrolls

Choose the Right Dough Temperature

Room temperature dough is crucial for easy rolling and better texture. Cold dough from the refrigerator will be stiff and difficult to work with, leading to tears and uneven thickness. Let it sit out for 15-20 minutes before you start. If you’re in a hurry, microwave it for 10 seconds (no more!) to take the chill off.

Don’t Overload with Toppings

While it’s tempting to pile on all your favorite ingredients, too many toppings will make the scrolls difficult to roll and may cause them to fall apart during cooking. Stick to 2-3 main ingredients plus cheese. Remember, quality over quantity—a few well-chosen toppings will taste better than a jumbled mess.

Seal the Edges Properly

Brushing the final edge with water before sealing is essential. This moisture activates the gluten in the flour, creating a natural glue that keeps your scroll tightly closed during cooking. If your scrolls keep opening up, you likely skipped this step or didn’t roll them tightly enough.

Use Parchment Paper Wisely

Cut parchment paper to fit your air fryer basket and poke a few holes in it for airflow. Never use parchment without food on top of it—it can fly up into the heating element. Alternatively, use perforated parchment paper designed specifically for air fryers.

Adjust Cooking Time by Size

Thicker scrolls need a minute or two longer, while mini scrolls (cut at ½ inch) will be done faster. Start checking at 6 minutes regardless of size to prevent burning. Different air fryer models vary in heat distribution, so get to know your machine.

Prevent Sogginess

Pat your toppings dry if they’re wet (like canned mushrooms or olives). Use thicker pizza sauce rather than watery marinara. If your dough seems sticky, dust it with flour. These small steps prevent soggy bottoms and ensure crispy scrolls.

Make Ahead Option

Assemble your scrolls completely, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and freeze for 2 hours. Once frozen solid, transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to the cooking time. Perfect for meal prep!

Flavor Variations to Try

Create BBQ chicken scrolls with barbecue sauce, cooked chicken, red onion, and cheddar. Make breakfast scrolls with scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheese. Try Margherita scrolls with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. The possibilities are endless!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover air fryer pizza scrolls in an airtight container or resealable bag in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Make sure the scrolls have cooled completely before storing to avoid condensation, which creates sogginess.

Freezing for Later

These scrolls freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Freeze them individually on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Label with the date and cooking instructions. This prevents them from freezing together in one big clump.

Reheating Methods

The air fryer remains the best reheating method. Reheat at 320°F for 3-4 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. From frozen, reheat at 350°F for 5-7 minutes. You can also use a conventional oven at 350°F for 5-8 minutes. Avoid the microwave if possible—it makes them rubbery and soggy. If you must microwave, do so for 20-30 seconds and finish in a hot pan for 1 minute to crisp up the outside.

Common Baking Mistakes to Avoid

Rolling the Dough Unevenly

Uneven thickness leads to scrolls that cook inconsistently—some burnt, some undercooked. Use a ruler if needed and check thickness as you roll. Turn the dough 90 degrees occasionally to maintain an even rectangle.

Cutting with a Dull Knife

A dull knife smashes the scrolls and squeezes out the filling. Use a very sharp knife in a swift sawing motion, or use the dental floss method: slide floss under the log, cross the ends over the top, and pull tight to slice cleanly through.

Overcrowding the Air Fryer

When scrolls touch each other, they steam instead of crisping. That ½ inch space between each scroll is non-negotiable. Cooking in batches ensures every scroll gets perfectly crispy.

Skipping the Preheat

A cold air fryer means longer cooking time and potentially soggy scrolls. Preheating for just 3-5 minutes makes a significant difference in texture and even cooking.

Not Checking Early Enough

Air fryers vary wildly in power. What takes 10 minutes in one model might take 7 in another. Always check at the minimum time to prevent burning. It’s easier to add time than to fix burnt food.

Using Too Much Oil

While a light brush of oil creates that gorgeous golden color, too much makes scrolls greasy. You only need about 1 teaspoon of oil for 4-6 scrolls. A pastry brush gives you the perfect amount of control.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought pizza dough for air fryer pizza scrolls?

Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough from the refrigerated section works perfectly for this recipe. You can also use crescent roll dough for a flakier texture, or even puff pastry for an extra-fancy version. Homemade dough works wonderfully too if you have the time.

How do I prevent my pizza scrolls from unrolling in the air fryer?

The key is rolling tightly and sealing the edge properly. Brush the final edge with water before completing the roll, then place the scrolls seam-side down in the air fryer. The weight and heat will help seal them closed. You can also secure them with toothpicks, but remember to remove them before serving!

Can I make air fryer pizza scrolls ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the scrolls completely, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if cooking from frozen.

What temperature should I cook pizza scrolls in the air fryer?

The ideal temperature is 350°F for 8-10 minutes. Some air fryers run hotter, so start checking at 6 minutes. If your scrolls are browning too quickly on top but still doughy inside, lower the temperature to 320°F and cook a bit longer.

Why are my pizza scrolls soggy in the middle?

Sogginess usually comes from too much sauce, wet toppings, or undercooking. Use a moderate amount of thick pizza sauce, pat toppings dry, and ensure scrolls are fully cooked. Slicing them slightly thinner (¾ inch instead of 1 inch) also helps them cook through more evenly.

Can I make vegetarian or vegan pizza scrolls?

Definitely! For vegetarian scrolls, use any combination of vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, spinach, or olives. For vegan versions, use vegan pizza dough (most are naturally vegan), vegan cheese, and load up on vegetables. They’re just as delicious!

Do I need to flip the scrolls while cooking?

Not necessary! The circulating air in the air fryer cooks them evenly from all sides. However, if your air fryer has hot spots or you notice uneven browning, you can carefully flip them halfway through cooking using tongs.

What’s the best cheese for pizza scrolls?

Mozzarella is the classic choice because it melts beautifully and has that perfect stretchy quality. A combination of mozzarella and cheddar adds more flavor. Provolone, Monterey Jack, or Italian cheese blends also work wonderfully. Avoid cheeses that don’t melt well, like feta or cotija.

How can I make mini pizza scrolls for parties?

Simply slice your log into ½-inch thick rounds instead of 1-inch. You’ll get twice as many scrolls that are perfect bite-sized appetizers. Reduce the cooking time to 5-7 minutes since they’re smaller. These are fantastic for party platters!

Can I cook these in a regular oven instead?

Yes! Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place scrolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown. The air fryer gives a crispier result, but the oven works well for larger batches.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Per Scroll (1 of 12)
Calories	145
Total Fat	6g
Saturated Fat	2.5g
Cholesterol	15mg
Sodium	310mg
Total Carbohydrates	16g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Sugars	1g
Protein	7g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Final Thoughts

Air fryer pizza scrolls are the ultimate solution when you’re craving pizza but want something fun and different. These spiraled beauties deliver all the flavors you love in a portable, party-friendly format that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re feeding hungry kids after school, hosting game day, or just want a quick dinner, these scrolls have you covered.

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility—make them exactly how you like your pizza, from classic pepperoni to loaded veggie versions. The air fryer does all the heavy lifting, creating that perfect crispy-on-the-outside, melty-on-the-inside texture that makes every bite a celebration.

So grab your pizza dough and let’s get scrolling! Your kitchen is about to smell absolutely amazing, and your family will be asking for these on repeat. Don’t forget to serve them with your favorite dipping sauces and watch them disappear in minutes. Happy cooking!