Cinnamon Twists Recipe
If you’re looking for a delectably simple treat that feels like a warm hug, this Cinnamon Twists Recipe is exactly what you need. These flaky, buttery twists combine the comforting aroma of cinnamon with a crisp, golden puff pastry that practically melts in your mouth. Perfect as a quick snack or a delightful dessert, these twists are irresistibly light yet packed with cozy flavor that will have you reaching for seconds—and maybe thirds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of straightforward ingredients, this Cinnamon Twists Recipe strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and irresistible taste. Each ingredient plays its part: the puff pastry brings flaky layers, cinnamon and sugar add that classic sweet-spice combo, and butter ensures everything turns out golden and rich.
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed: This is the base for your twists, providing light and airy layers once baked.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps the cinnamon sugar cling beautifully.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the twists and caramelizes during baking for a lovely crust.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: Infuses that warm, aromatic flavor we all adore in cinnamon treats.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional): Boosts the overall flavor with a subtle hint of sweetness and depth.
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash): Creates that glistening, golden-brown finish that looks as good as it tastes.
- Powdered sugar or glaze for topping (optional): Adds an elegant finishing touch and extra sweetness if desired.
How to Make Cinnamon Twists Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step ensures your twists bake evenly with no sticking, resulting in perfect golden puffs every time.
Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon, adding vanilla extract if you’re using it. This mixture is the heart of the Cinnamon Twists Recipe’s irresistible flavor, coating each layer with sweet spice.
Step 3: Roll Out and Butter the Puff Pastry
Roll your thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to ensure it’s smooth and ready to absorb all that cinnamon-sugar goodness. Brush the surface evenly with melted butter—this step guarantees a rich flavor and helps the sugar mixture stick perfectly.
Step 4: Sprinkle and Fold
Sprinkle your cinnamon sugar mixture evenly across the entire sheet of buttered puff pastry. Then, fold the pastry in half lengthwise and gently press it down. This folding creates the beautiful layers and added texture that make these twists so special.
Step 5: Cut and Twist
Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the folded pastry into 1-inch strips. Take each strip and give it several twists to reveal the swirls of buttery cinnamon sugar inside. Place them spaced slightly apart on your prepared baking sheet.
Step 6: Brush with Egg Wash and Bake
Brush the tops of your twists generously with beaten egg. This gives them that lovely golden shine after baking. Pop them in the oven and bake for about 15 to 18 minutes until puffed, golden, and utterly irresistible.
Step 7: Cool and Finish
Once baked, let your twists cool slightly on the baking sheet so they set up perfectly. Then, dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle with your favorite glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.
How to Serve Cinnamon Twists Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling powdered sugar right before serving adds a snowy, bakery-style look that makes these twists impossible to resist. Alternatively, a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a dash of milk can be drizzled for a sweet, glossy finish.
Side Dishes
These cinnamon twists are fabulous alongside a steaming cup of coffee, chai tea, or hot chocolate, making for a cozy breakfast or afternoon pick-me-up. They also pair wonderfully with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for a light dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, arrange your twists in a circular pattern on a decorative platter, creating a stunning edible centerpiece. You can also sprinkle chopped nuts or a little cinnamon on top after glazing to add texture and flavor twists.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (and you might!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This helps keep the pastry crisp enough to enjoy later without losing that signature flaky texture.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked twisted strips by placing them on a lined baking sheet and freezing until solid, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag. When ready, bake them right from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
Reheat your twists in a toaster oven or conventional oven at a low temperature to bring back their fresh-from-the-oven crispiness. Microwave reheating is possible but may result in a softer texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen puff pastry straight from the freezer?
It’s best to thaw puff pastry fully before working with it to prevent cracking and ensure smooth rolling—usually about 30-40 minutes at room temperature.
What if I don’t have vanilla extract?
No worries at all! Vanilla extract is optional and just adds subtle depth; the cinnamon and sugar will still shine beautifully on their own.
Can I add nuts or raisins to this recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts or raisins can be sprinkled on the cinnamon sugar before folding for added texture and flavor variations.
How do I make a glaze to drizzle over the twists?
Simply mix powdered sugar with a little milk or cream until smooth and runny enough to drizzle. You can add a drop of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
Are these twists suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! This recipe uses vegetarian-friendly ingredients and is a fantastic sweet treat for everyone to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a delightful and straightforward way to bring the magic of warm cinnamon pastries into your kitchen, this Cinnamon Twists Recipe is your go-to. It’s quick, satisfying, and endlessly delicious—perfect for sharing with friends, family, or simply enjoying as a cozy personal treat. Give it a try and let those golden twists fill your home with comforting scents and smiles!
Print
Cinnamon Twists Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 twists 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cinnamon Twists are a delightful, easy-to-make pastry featuring flaky puff pastry layered with cinnamon sugar, twisted into elegant shapes, baked until golden and crisp. Perfect as a sweet snack or dessert, these twists offer a warm cinnamon flavor with a buttery finish, optionally topped with a light glaze or powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
Ingredients
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Topping
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Powdered sugar or glaze for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the twists bake evenly and don’t stick.
- Mix Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract if using. This mixture will give the twists their signature sweet and spicy flavor.
- Roll Out Puff Pastry and Add Butter: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet to smooth it out. Then, brush the entire surface with melted butter to help the cinnamon sugar stick and to add richness.
- Sprinkle Cinnamon Sugar and Fold Pastry: Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the buttered puff pastry. Fold the pastry sheet in half lengthwise and gently press down to seal the filling inside.
- Slice and Twist Pastry Strips: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the folded pastry into 1-inch wide strips. Twist each strip several times to create the signature twisted shape and arrange them spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the twists with the beaten egg to promote browning and give a glossy finish once baked.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the twists are golden brown and puffed up, signifying the perfect flaky texture.
- Cool and Add Toppings: Allow the twists to cool slightly on a wire rack before dusting with powdered sugar or drizzling with a glaze if desired. This final touch adds extra sweetness and visual appeal.
Notes
- For a sweeter twist, prepare a simple glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a splash of milk and drizzle it over the cooled twists.
- These twists are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
- Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to ensure clean cuts for even twisting.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American