As a sudden craving hit me for something delightful, I found myself dreaming of warm, flaky, Homemade Cinnamon Twists. With just 30 minutes to spare, these pastries can do wonders, transforming any breakfast table into a cozy café experience or serving as a delectable dessert. The beauty of these twists lies not only in their irresistible cinnamon and sugar filling but also in their adaptability—they can easily become a vegan treat without sacrificing any flavor. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven with a cup of coffee or wrapped around a scoop of ice cream, these Cinnamon Twists are a sure crowd-pleaser. Curious about how to whip up this easy recipe in your own kitchen? Let’s dive in!
Why are these Cinnamon Twists irresistible?
Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have golden, flaky treats ready to impress.
Versatile Options: Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy breakfast or a sweet dessert, these twists fit the bill. Plus, they can be easily made vegan!
Delightful Aromas: As they bake, your kitchen will fill with a warm, inviting scent that will have everyone eagerly waiting.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for brunches or special occasions, these twists are sure to knock the socks off your guests and leave them asking for seconds!
Flavor Explosion: Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch, combined with a sweet cinnamon filling that feels like a warm hug. If you enjoy tasty breakfast ideas, check out these Cinnamon Roll French roll-ups for a delightful variation.
Cinnamon Twists Ingredients
For the Pastry
- Puff Pastry – Ensures that your Cinnamon Twists are wonderfully flaky and buttery; remember to use thawed pastry for the best results.
- Unsalted Butter – Used for brushing to achieve a golden glaze; swap for vegan butter for a delicious dairy-free option.
For the Filling
- Granulated Sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness to the filling; consider using brown sugar instead for a deeper, richer flavor.
- Ground Cinnamon – Infuses the twists with that classic cinnamon flavor; always opt for fresh for the best taste.
- Salt – Enhances the sweetness in your cinnamon mixture; fine salt is ideal for even distribution.
Optional Glaze
- Powdered Sugar – Perfect for a sweet finish; mix with a little milk or vanilla for an easy glaze that elevates these Cinnamon Twists.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Twists
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin your journey to delicious Cinnamon Twists by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that warms up, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking. Set this aside for when you’re ready to place your twists in the oven.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these ingredients together until fully blended, allowing the sweet aroma of cinnamon to fill your kitchen. This fragrant mixture will be the heart of your delightful Cinnamon Twists.
Step 3: Prepare the Pastry
Take your thawed puff pastry and unfold it on a lightly floured surface. Gently smooth out any creases to create a flat rectangle so that it can easily absorb the flavors of the filling. This step sets the stage for the flaky layers that will make your Cinnamon Twists irresistible.
Step 4: Roll Out the Pastry
Using a rolling pin, roll out the puff pastry into a rectangle approximately 1/8 inch thick. This process creates a larger area to work with, ensuring a perfect balance of pastry and filling in each twist. As you roll, take care to keep the shape even for consistent baking.
Step 5: Brush with Butter
Melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter and use a pastry brush to generously coat the surface of the rolled-out pastry. This buttery layer not only adds richness but also helps the cinnamon sugar mixture adhere beautifully, creating that golden sheen once baked. Don’t rush this step; make sure to cover every corner.
Step 6: Sprinkle the Filling
Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the brushed pastry, covering it entirely. Gently pat the mixture down with your palms to ensure it sticks well. This step is crucial, as it infuses each bite of your Cinnamon Twists with that sweet, warming flavor that everyone loves.
Step 7: Slice the Pastry
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the pastry into 12 strips, each about 1 inch wide. Try to keep your cuts straight for even twisting. Each strip will transform into a beautiful Cinnamon Twist, bringing delightful texture to your morning routine or dessert spread.
Step 8: Twist the Strips
Take each pastry strip and twist it 4-5 times, creating an appealing spiral shape. As you handle the strips, be gentle to avoid tearing the delicate pastry. Once twisted, place each one carefully on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they have enough space to puff up as they bake.
Step 9: Final Brush and Sprinkle
With any remaining melted butter, brush the tops of the twists lightly. This will help them achieve a gorgeous golden-brown color in the oven. For an extra touch of sweetness, sprinkle with a bit more cinnamon sugar over the top—this will create that satisfying crackly crust.
Step 10: Bake the Twists
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the Cinnamon Twists for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as you’re looking for a lovely golden hue and a puffed appearance. The intoxicating smell of cinnamon and sugar will make it hard to wait!
Step 11: Cool and Serve
Once golden brown, remove your Cinnamon Twists from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. This will let the flavors settle and make them easier to handle. Serve warm, perhaps drizzled with a simple glaze or dusted with powdered sugar for that extra touch of sweetness.
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Twists
Room Temperature: Let the baked Cinnamon Twists cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours for the best texture.
Fridge: If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just reheat them for a few minutes to restore their warmth and flakiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Cinnamon Twists (either unbaked or baked) in airtight packaging for up to 3 months. Ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To enjoy them fresh again, thaw frozen twists in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes until warmed through.
What to Serve with Irresistibly Easy Homemade Cinnamon Twists
Pair your warm Homemade Cinnamon Twists with delightful accompaniments that will elevate your breakfast or dessert experience!
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Fresh Fruit Medley: A vibrant mix of strawberries, blueberries, and bananas adds a juicy, refreshing contrast to the sweet pastry. The balancing sweetness enhances the flavors in each bite.
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Smooth Cream Cheese Frosting: Rich and tangy, this frosting complements the cinnamon flavor beautifully. A dollop on top brings a delightful creaminess that feels indulgent.
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Flavored Coffee: Enjoy your twists with a warm cup of vanilla or hazelnut coffee. The aromatic notes of coffee pair perfectly with the warm spices in your twists.
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Spiced Chai Tea: For an afternoon treat, a warm cup of spiced chai complements the sweet cinnamon with earthy notes. The combination is cozy and comforting, perfect for a chilly day.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of maple syrup adds a layer of sweetness, making each bite even more delightful. It’s like adding a hug of flavor on top of your twists!
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Cashew Milk or Almond Milk: Perfect for a dairy-free pairing, these nut milks offer a creamy texture without overpowering the sweet cinnamon flavor. Their nutty undertones bring an extra depth to the breakfast experience.
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Chocolate Ganache: Elevate your Cinnamon Twists to decadent dessert status by dipping them in rich chocolate ganache. The deep chocolate complements the sweetness wonderfully and makes for an indulgent treat.
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Powdered Sugar Dusting: A simple light dusting of powdered sugar creates an elegant touch. It adds sweetness and a beautiful finishing look for an extra special presentation.
These delightful pairings are sure to transform your Homemade Cinnamon Twists into a feast fit for any occasion!
Make Ahead Options
These Homemade Cinnamon Twists are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time on mornings or special occasions! You can prepare the twists up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps — make and twist the pastry strips, then place them on a baking sheet and cover with plastic wrap to refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, simply brush them with melted butter, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, and follow the baking instructions. For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked twists for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. This prep-ahead approach ensures that your Cinnamon Twists are just as delicious and fresh with minimal effort when you’re ready to enjoy them!
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Twists
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Chill the Dough: If your puff pastry becomes warm while working, pop it in the fridge for 10 minutes. This keeps its delicate structure intact for perfect Cinnamon Twists.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Ensure you give each twist enough space on the baking sheet. This prevents them from sticking together and allows for even baking.
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Fresh Cinnamon: Always use fresh ground cinnamon for the best flavor; stale spices can dull the delightful taste of your Cinnamon Twists.
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Butter Brushing: Be generous when brushing the melted butter. A good coat ensures a beautiful golden color and enhances the flaky texture.
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Make Ahead: Prepare your twists and refrigerate them unbaked for up to 24 hours. Just bake them fresh when you’re ready—perfect for breakfast surprises!
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Customization Options: Feel free to experiment with fillings like chocolate or nut butter to create unique variations of your Cinnamon Twists!
Cinnamon Twists: Fun Customization Ideas
Feel free to get creative with these Cinnamon Twists and make them your own—cooking is all about personal flavor!
- Vegan Option: Substitute unsalted butter with high-quality vegan butter for a delightful dairy-free treat.
- Brown Sugar: Swap granulated sugar for brown sugar in the filling for a deeper, toffee-like sweetness.
- Phyllo Dough: Use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry for a lighter, crispier twist that still delivers on flavor.
- Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for added crunch and richness—nut lovers will rejoice!
- Spice Boost: For a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or nutmeg to the cinnamon mixture for an exciting twist.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Once baked, drizzle melted chocolate over the twists for an indulgent dessert experience that’s hard to resist.
- Maple Glaze: Mix powdered sugar with maple syrup for a delightful glaze that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
- Fruit Filling: Experiment by adding fruit preserves or fresh fruit slices in with the cinnamon for a fruity flavor explosion.
Whichever variation you choose, these Cinnamon Twists are sure to bring joy to your breakfast or dessert table. For additional treats, don’t forget to check out these delicious Iced Vanilla Cinnamon drink ideas to pair with your warm pastries!
Cinnamon Twists Recipe FAQs
What type of puff pastry should I use?
I recommend using high-quality, store-bought puff pastry that is thawed before use. This ensures a wonderfully flaky and buttery texture. If you’re looking for a vegan option, make sure to choose a vegan puff pastry that suits your dietary needs!
How should I store my Cinnamon Twists?
After baking, let your Cinnamon Twists cool completely. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours. If you’re looking to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore that delicious flakiness!
Can I freeze my Cinnamon Twists?
Absolutely! You can freeze your Cinnamon Twists, whether they’re baked or unbaked. To freeze unbaked twists, prepare them up to the final twist step, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. For baked twists, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
What if my dough feels too warm while I’m working with it?
If your puff pastry starts to warm up while you’re shaping the twists, don’t worry! Just pop it into the fridge for about 10 minutes. This will help maintain the dough’s structure, ensuring your Cinnamon Twists bake up beautifully flaky.
Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Definitely keep an eye on dietary restrictions! If you’re making the recipe for someone with allergies, substitute the unsalted butter with vegan butter for a dairy-free option. Additionally, always check the puff pastry label for any hidden allergens. Enjoy making these delectable Cinnamon Twists with peace of mind!
Can I customize the filling for these Cinnamon Twists?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! You can definitely add your twist to the filling by incorporating chocolate chips, nuts, or even a drizzle of nut butter. Just remember to adjust the quantity so it doesn’t overpower the delightful cinnamon flavor. Experimentation is the key to your own perfect blend!
Cinnamon Twists: Flaky, Sweet Delights in Just 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt.
- Unfold thawed puff pastry on a floured surface, smoothing out creases.
- Roll out the pastry into a rectangle about 1/8 inch thick.
- Brush the pastry with melted butter.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the brushed pastry.
- Cut the pastry into 12 strips, each about 1 inch wide.
- Twist each strip 4-5 times and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the tops of the twists with remaining melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.