Description
Cinnamon Swirls are delightful, flaky pastries made from puff pastry rolled with a sweet cinnamon, brown sugar, and butter filling. These easy-to-make treats are baked to golden perfection and topped with a simple powdered sugar glaze for a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, ideal for dessert or a special snack.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cinnamon Swirls:
- 2 sheets puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- ½ cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 1½ tablespoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
For the Glaze:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Make Cinnamon Filling: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients form a smooth, flavorful filling.
- Roll Puff Pastry and Spread Filling: Unroll one sheet of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking. Spread half of the cinnamon mixture evenly over the surface, ensuring a consistent layer throughout.
- Form the Logs: Roll the pastry tightly from one edge to form a compact log, which will create the signature swirls when sliced. Repeat the same process with the second puff pastry sheet and the remaining filling.
- Slice the Swirls: Using a sharp knife, cut each rolled pastry log into 1-inch thick slices. This thickness ensures proper baking with a golden, puffed texture.
- Arrange and Apply Egg Wash: Place the slices cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart to allow for expansion when baking. Lightly brush the tops of each swirl with the beaten egg to achieve a glossy, golden finish.
- Bake the Swirls: Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, or until the swirls are puffed, golden brown, and cooked through.
- Cool on Rack: Remove the swirls from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly, preventing sogginess on the bottom.
- Prepare the Glaze: While the swirls cool, whisk together powdered sugar and milk until smooth and slightly runny, adjusting milk quantity as needed for the desired consistency.
- Drizzle Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the glaze over the warm cinnamon swirls just before serving to add a sweet finishing touch that complements the cinnamon flavor.
Notes
- For extra texture and flavor, add chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon filling before rolling.
- To make a vegan version, substitute with dairy-free puff pastry and butter, and omit the egg wash or replace it with a plant-based milk wash.
- Ensure that puff pastry sheets are fully thawed for easier handling and better results.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
