If you’re searching for the perfect mix of buttery pastry, sweet cinnamon swirls, and a melt-in-your-mouth texture, Sweet Cinnamon Twists are about to become your new go-to indulgence. These delightful twists combine tender yeast dough, rich cinnamon-sugar filling, and a dreamy vanilla glaze in every bite. Whether you’re making them for a holiday brunch, inviting friends for coffee, or just treating yourself to a cozy morning, this recipe turns simple ingredients into something truly special. One batch, and you’ll see why they deserve a spot in the regular breakfast (or dessert) rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Sweet Cinnamon Twists are all about simplicity—each ingredient adds something essential, whether it’s the flavor, texture, or golden color. When you bring these elements together, you get that irresistible bakery treat at home.
- Active Dry Yeast: The magic behind the rise, ensuring each twist is fluffy and pillowy.
- Warm Milk: Activates the yeast and creates extra tenderness in the dough.
- Granulated Sugar: A touch of sweetness for the dough itself, giving balance to the filling.
- Unsalted Butter (melted): Adds richness and keeps the dough soft.
- Salt: Just a teaspoon to boost all the other flavors and prevent blandness.
- Large Egg: Binds the dough and gives a lovely golden hue when baked.
- All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of the dough—use fresh flour for the best texture.
- Unsalted Butter (softened): The luscious, spreadable base for the cinnamon-sugar filling.
- Packed Brown Sugar: Adds deep, caramel notes to the classic cinnamon swirl.
- Ground Cinnamon: The star spice—don’t be shy with a generous tablespoon or two.
- Powdered Sugar: The secret to a silky-smooth glaze on top.
- Milk: Just enough to loosen up the glaze to the perfect drizzling consistency.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash here elevates the glaze and adds warm, sweet aroma.
How to Make Sweet Cinnamon Twists
Step 1: Bring the Dough to Life
Begin by dissolving active dry yeast in a bowl with warm milk. Letting it sit until foamy ensures your dough will be light and airy—don’t rush this step! The simple scent of yeast in warm milk is instantly comforting and is the foundation of these Sweet Cinnamon Twists.
Step 2: Mix and Knead
Stir in granulated sugar, melted butter, salt, the egg, and two cups of flour. Mix together until everything is well combined, then add in the rest of the flour gradually. This slow addition helps you get just the right dough consistency—soft, but not sticky. After that, turn the dough out and knead for about 5 to 6 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic. Think of it as a mini arm workout with a delicious reward at the end!
Step 3: Let It Rise
Transfer the kneaded dough to a greased bowl, cover it up, and let it rest in a warm spot for an hour. You’re looking for the dough to double in size, which creates a light and fluffy texture. This anticipation is all part of the magic that makes Sweet Cinnamon Twists so irresistible.
Step 4: Shape and Fill
Punch down your risen dough and roll it into a large rectangle. Now, spread a blanket of softened butter from edge to edge. Sprinkle over the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture so every bite is packed with sweet spice. Fold the dough lengthwise, slice it into strips, then twist each one a few turns. Set your twists on parchment-lined baking sheets—this ensures perfect golden bottoms without sticking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide your trays into a 375°F oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye out for that wonderful transformation: the twists should turn golden brown, and the aroma wafting from the oven will let everyone know something special is happening. When they come out, you’re just a step away from Sweet Cinnamon Twists bliss!
Step 6: Glaze and Enjoy
While the twists are still slightly warm, whisk together powdered sugar, a splash of milk, and vanilla extract for a luscious glaze. Drizzle over your twists—it’ll settle into every little crevice and spiral, adding a glossy, sweet finish that makes these truly irresistible.
How to Serve Sweet Cinnamon Twists
Garnishes
Dress up your Sweet Cinnamon Twists by showering them with a little extra powdered sugar just before serving, or add a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted nuts for a buttery crunch. If you’re feeling extra festive, a bit of citrus zest adds brightness and color.
Side Dishes
For brunch, pair your twists with tangy Greek yogurt and fresh berries for a lovely contrast to the sweetness. If you’re serving these as part of a dessert spread, a small bowl of vanilla or caramel dipping sauce is a terrific addition. And of course, a hot cup of coffee or chai is always welcome alongside these golden treats.
Creative Ways to Present
Sweet Cinnamon Twists look gorgeous piled high on a rustic cake stand or arranged in a basket lined with a pretty tea towel. For gatherings, consider tying them into little bundles with bakers’ twine, or serve them with a variety of flavored glazes so everyone can drizzle their own.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to end up with leftovers (not always easy, trust me), simply store Sweet Cinnamon Twists in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two. They’ll stay soft and flavorful—just be sure not to leave them uncovered, so they don’t dry out.
Freezing
These twists are very freezer-friendly. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place them in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to two months. When those cravings hit, you’ll always be prepared!
Reheating
To enjoy that fresh-baked warmness, unwrap your Sweet Cinnamon Twists and heat them in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes. The glaze softens and melts slightly, making them just as good (maybe even better) as the first day.
FAQs
Can I make Sweet Cinnamon Twists ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and shape the twists the night before, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature and rise a bit before baking in the morning for a freshly-baked treat with minimal morning effort.
What type Dessert, Breakfast
For this recipe, active dry yeast works best and is easy to find at most supermarkets. If you only have instant yeast, you can substitute it in equal amounts without changing the rising times.
Can I add other spices or mix-ins?
Definitely! Feel free to play with the filling by adding a pinch of nutmeg (as suggested), cardamom, a bit of orange zest, or even a handful of finely chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra twist.
How do I get perfectly even twists?
To help keep your Sweet Cinnamon Twists consistent, use a ruler or bench scraper to cut evenly sized strips. Twist each strip the same number of turns for a neat, uniform look—don’t worry if they turn out a little rustic, though; they’ll taste delicious either way.
Can I make these vegan?
With a few simple swaps, absolutely: use a plant-based butter and milk, and substitute a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for the egg. The result is just as soft and satisfying!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about baking Sweet Cinnamon Twists from scratch—your kitchen fills with the smell of warm spice, and the first bite is pure comfort. I hope you’ll give these a try soon, whether for your next brunch or as a sweet snack to share with loved ones. They’re little twisted spirals of happiness, and I promise, you’ll want to make them again and again!
Print
Sweet Cinnamon Twists Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 twists 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the sweet and aromatic delight of these homemade sweet cinnamon twists. Perfectly twisted pastry filled with a cinnamon-sugar mixture, baked to golden perfection, and drizzled with a vanilla glaze.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 1 package (1/4 oz) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Dough Preparation: In a large mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk. Add sugar, melted butter, salt, egg, and 2 cups of flour. Mix until smooth. Add remaining flour gradually until a soft dough forms. Knead for 5-6 minutes. Let rise for 1 hour.
- Baking: Preheat oven. Roll out dough, spread softened butter, sprinkle cinnamon-sugar mixture, fold, cut into strips, twist, and bake for 12–15 minutes.
- Glaze: Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Drizzle over warm twists.
Notes
- Enhance flavor with a pinch of nutmeg in the filling.
- Best served warm; reheat in the microwave if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour rising)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 twist
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 16 g
- Sodium: 160 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 31 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
