If you’re searching for a sweet, nostalgic treat with minimal fuss, Cinnamon Twists might just be your new go-to recipe. Flaky, buttery pastry is twisted with a sparkling cinnamon-sugar blend, creating a snack that’s as welcome on a brunch platter as it is alongside your afternoon coffee. With just a handful of ingredients, these Cinnamon Twists pack crispy edges, tender layers, and a delightfully spiced aroma that will have everyone peeking into the oven. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just dipping your toes into pastry, this recipe will make your kitchen smell incredible and your friends come running.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Cinnamon Twists lies in their simplicity—each ingredient adds something special, from crunch to richness to that irresistible spicy-sweet kick. Don’t skip a single step, because every element here has a part to play in the final, utterly addictive result!
- Frozen puff pastry: The secret to effortless, crave-worthy layers—just thaw before use for easy rolling and shaping.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Adds a luscious richness and helps the cinnamon-sugar stick perfectly to the pastry’s surface.
- Granulated sugar: Gives that signature sparkly crunch and caramelized sweetness as the twists bake.
- Ground cinnamon: The real star! Choose a fresh, fragrant cinnamon for the boldest, coziest flavor in your Cinnamon Twists.
- Egg wash (1 egg + 1 tbsp water): Brushed over the top for gorgeous golden color and a glossy sheen in the oven.
How to Make Cinnamon Twists
Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Unfold your thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface, then roll it out into a neat rectangle. This gives you plenty of room to layer it up with all that cinnamon and sugar goodness!
Step 2: Brush with Butter
Melt your butter and use a pastry brush to cover every inch of the pastry’s surface. Don’t be shy—this buttery base is what turns each Cinnamon Twist delightfully rich with every flaky bite.
Step 3: Mix and Sprinkle Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, combine your sugar and ground cinnamon, stirring until the color is uniform and spice is evenly distributed. Sprinkle this heavenly mixture evenly over the whole pastry—go edge to edge for maximum flavor in every twist.
Step 4: Fold and Cut the Pastry
Carefully fold the pastry in half lengthwise, sandwiching the cinnamon-sugar layer in the middle, and press gently to seal. With a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the pastry into strips about an inch wide. Think about how thick you like your Cinnamon Twists—thicker for chewy centers, or thinner for extra crunch!
Step 5: Twist and Arrange
Now for the fun part: take each strip and twist it several times, letting the spirals form naturally. Lay the twists on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of room between each one to let them puff up beautifully while baking.
Step 6: Add Egg Wash and Bake
Whisk your egg with a splash of water, and gently brush each twist. This step gives each Cinnamon Twist that golden, inviting finish. Slide the tray into the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, watching as they puff up and turn irresistibly golden brown.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let your Cinnamon Twists cool for a few minutes on a wire rack. This gives the layers a chance to crisp and makes them much easier to handle. They’re absolute perfection enjoyed warm, but good luck waiting too long!
How to Serve Cinnamon Twists
Garnishes
If you want to make your Cinnamon Twists extra special, drizzle them with a quick glaze made from powdered sugar and a little milk once they’ve cooled. A sprinkle of extra cinnamon or a dusting of powdered sugar right before serving always makes them look bakery-worthy.
Side Dishes
Cinnamon Twists are dreamy alongside coffee, chai tea, or even a creamy hot chocolate. For brunch, pair them with a fruit salad, yogurt, or a platter of fresh berries for a simple yet stunning spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack your Cinnamon Twists on a pretty cake stand for a brunch buffet, or arrange them in a rustic basket lined with a linen napkin. For a party-ready treat, thread cooled twists onto wooden skewers for easy grab-and-go snacking—everyone will love the playful presentation!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Cinnamon Twists left (lucky you!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They’ll stay crisp and delicious, and you can even reheat them for that fresh-baked feel.
Freezing
Cinnamon Twists freeze beautifully! Once fully cooled, layer them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. They’ll keep well for up to a month—just thaw at room temperature when a craving strikes.
Reheating
Pop leftover or thawed twists into a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–8 minutes. This revives their crispiness and warms up those lovely layers without drying them out.
FAQs
Can I use homemade puff pastry instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade puff pastry will deliver next-level flakiness in your Cinnamon Twists, though store-bought keeps things quick and fuss-free.
How do I prevent my Cinnamon Twists from unraveling while baking?
Press down the ends of each twist a little more firmly on the baking sheet, and avoid overfilling with cinnamon sugar so the layers stick together as they puff up.
Can I make Cinnamon Twists ahead for a party?
Yes, you can prep the twisted pastries and refrigerate them on a tray (covered) for a few hours before baking, then bake fresh just before guests arrive.
What kind of cinnamon works best?
Freshly ground or high-quality ground cinnamon will give you the strongest, warmest flavor—Ceylon and Saigon cinnamons are both great options for this recipe.
Can I add nuts or other flavors?
Definitely! Chopped toasted pecans, walnuts, or a sprinkle of orange zest in the cinnamon-sugar mixture bring a fun twist (pun intended) to your Cinnamon Twists.
Final Thoughts
Once you make these Cinnamon Twists, you’ll see why they’re a beloved classic—the crisp pastry, the sweet, spicy aroma, and that melt-in-your-mouth bite simply never gets old. I can’t wait for you to experience the joy of sharing a batch with friends or family (or just yourself, no judgment)! Give this recipe a try and see how quickly these Cinnamon Twists disappear from the plate.
Print
Cinnamon Twists Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 twists
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cinnamon Twists are a delightful pastry treat that’s perfect for dessert or a sweet snack. Made with puff pastry, cinnamon sugar, and a touch of butter, these twists are easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry:
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
Cinnamon Sugar Mix:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Egg Wash:
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the pastry: Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface, brush with melted butter.
- Make the cinnamon sugar mix: Combine sugar and cinnamon, sprinkle over pastry.
- Shape the twists: Fold the pastry, cut into strips, twist, and place on the baking sheet.
- Bake: Brush with egg wash and bake for 12–15 minutes until golden.
- Cool and serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For added sweetness, drizzle with a simple powdered sugar and milk glaze.
- Best enjoyed fresh on the day they are baked.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 twist
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 80 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 11 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
