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
Scale
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
