There is something utterly delightful about biting into a warm, flaky Cinnamon Twists Recipe that fills the kitchen with the cozy aroma of sweet cinnamon and buttery pastry. This easy-to-make treat grabs your attention with its golden, puffed texture and its perfectly balanced cinnamon sugar coating that satisfies any sweet tooth instantly. Whether you need a quick snack or a charming dessert to impress friends, this Cinnamon Twists Recipe hits all the right notes with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple but essential ingredients is the first step to creating the perfect Cinnamon Twists Recipe. Each one plays a vital role—from creating that tender, flaky texture to delivering the warm sweetness and golden finish that make these twists irresistible.
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen): The flaky, buttery foundation of your twists, bringing lightness and crunch.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): Adds richness and helps the cinnamon sugar stick evenly.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Provides the essential sweetness that caramelizes beautifully during baking.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: The star spice that delivers that warm, aromatic kick in every bite.
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash): Creates a glossy, golden-brown crust that is as pretty as it is tasty.
- Optional glaze (1/2 cup powdered sugar + 1–2 tablespoons milk or cream): Drizzled over cooled twists for an extra touch of sweetness and a pretty finish.
How to Make Cinnamon Twists Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures your twists bake evenly and don’t stick, setting you up for success.
Step 2: Prepare the Pastry Base
Unfold the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking. Brush the entire sheet with melted butter, which adds a luscious richness while helping the cinnamon sugar adhere flawlessly.
Step 3: Add Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this fragrant mixture evenly over the buttered pastry, covering every inch for a consistent cinnamon flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Fold and Slice
Fold the pastry sheet in half lengthwise like closing a book, gently pressing together. Then, use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to slice the folded sheet into 1-inch wide strips, which will become your twists.
Step 5: Twist and Arrange
Grab each strip and give it a playful twist two or three times to create beautiful spirals. Place these twists on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them 1 to 2 inches apart so they have room to puff perfectly.
Step 6: Egg Wash and Bake
Brush the tops of the twists with the beaten egg. This step gives them that gorgeously glossy, golden finish that makes it impossible to resist. Bake in your preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the twists have puffed up and reached a gorgeous golden brown.
Step 7: Optional Glaze
If you’re in the mood for a little extra sweetness, mix powdered sugar with milk or cream to create a simple glaze. Drizzle this over the warm twists once they have cooled slightly for a beautiful and delicious finishing touch.
How to Serve Cinnamon Twists Recipe
Garnishes
While these cinnamon twists are wonderful on their own, a sprinkling of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of honey can elevate their appearance and flavor. Toasted chopped pecans or slivered almonds add a crunchy contrast that pairs wonderfully with the soft pastry.
Side Dishes
Cinnamon twists pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making them a perfect morning treat or afternoon pick-me-up. They also complement creamy desserts like vanilla ice cream or custard for a delightful sweet combo.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Serve your Cinnamon Twists Recipe in a large bowl or on a pretty wooden board piled high. You can also place them in colorful cupcake liners or tuck them into a basket lined with a festive napkin for a charming presentation at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftover cinnamon twists (though they rarely last long), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This will help retain their flaky texture and keep them delicious for snacking later.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked twisted strips on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once firm. When you’re ready, bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for fresh-from-the-oven goodness anytime you crave this Cinnamon Twists Recipe.
Reheating
To bring back that just-baked magic, warm your twists in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the pastry chewy rather than crisp and flaky.
FAQs
Can I use crescent roll dough instead of puff pastry for the Cinnamon Twists Recipe?
Absolutely! Crescent roll dough works well as a substitute if you don’t have puff pastry on hand. It will create a slightly different texture but still produces tasty and satisfying twists.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
While traditional puff pastry contains gluten, you can find gluten-free versions at specialty grocery stores. Just ensure it’s thawed carefully and handled gently to keep the texture light and flaky.
Can I add nuts or other toppings to the Cinnamon Twists Recipe?
Yes, sprinkling chopped pecans, walnuts, or even sliced almonds over the cinnamon sugar before folding adds a delightful crunch and extra flavor. You can also experiment with a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a unique spice twist.
How do I prevent my cinnamon twists from getting soggy?
Make sure to space your twists evenly on the baking sheet so air circulates around them, allowing them to puff and crisp properly. Using parchment paper and brushing them with egg wash also helps create a golden, crisp exterior.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, the simple powdered sugar glaze can be made a day in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Before drizzling, give it a quick stir and add a tiny splash of milk if it has thickened too much.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Twists Recipe is an absolute joy to make and enjoy, whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with loved ones. The combination of flaky pastry, buttery cinnamon sugar, and golden crust is a surefire way to brighten up any day. Don’t wait—grab your ingredients, have fun twisting, and savor every delicious bite!
Print
Cinnamon Twists Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 twists 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cinnamon Twists are a delightful and easy-to-make baked pastry treat featuring flaky puff pastry, buttery cinnamon sugar, and a golden egg wash finish. Perfect for a sweet snack or dessert, they offer a light, crispy texture with warm cinnamon flavor that pairs beautifully with coffee or tea.
Ingredients
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
Optional Glaze
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk or cream
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Pastry: Unfold the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface to avoid sticking. Brush the entire surface evenly with melted butter, which will help the cinnamon sugar adhere and provide a rich flavor.
- Add Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered pastry to guarantee a sweet and fragrant coating.
- Fold the Pastry: Fold the puff pastry in half lengthwise like a book, gently pressing to seal the cinnamon sugar inside without squeezing out the filling.
- Cut into Strips: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the folded pastry into strips about 1 inch wide, ensuring uniform cooking.
- Twist the Strips: Take each strip and twist it several times to create the iconic spiral shape of the cinnamon twists. Arrange the twists spaced 1–2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet for even baking.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the tops of each twist with the beaten egg to promote a beautiful, golden brown finish during baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the twists are puffed up, golden, and crisp.
- Optional Glaze: While the twists cool slightly, mix powdered sugar with 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk or cream to create a smooth glaze. Drizzle this over the warm twists for added sweetness and shine.
Notes
- You can also use crescent roll dough or homemade pastry as alternatives to puff pastry.
- For a nutty flavor, sprinkle chopped pecans over the cinnamon sugar before folding the pastry.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet so the twists bake evenly and puff properly.
- The egg wash is key for a glossy, golden crust but can be omitted for a dairy-free or vegan variation by substituting with a plant-based milk and maple syrup mixture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
