If you’ve ever found yourself craving a sweet, flaky treat that feels both indulgent and effortless, this Cinnamon Sugar Twists Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Imagine golden, crispy puff pastry laced with the perfect blend of cinnamon and sugar, warming your kitchen with enchanting aromas and delighting your taste buds with every bite. Whether baking for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a cozy dessert, these twists bring together simple ingredients and a bit of love to create a bakery-style treat that’s as charming as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cinnamon Sugar Twists Recipe requires just a few pantry staples, but each one plays a vital role in making these twists irresistibly flaky, flavorful, and sweet. From the buttery richness to the cinnamon’s warmth, every ingredient works in harmony to deliver a mouthwatering treat.
- 1 sheet puff pastry thawed: The base of the twists, providing a light, flaky texture that practically melts in your mouth.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted: Adds richness and helps the cinnamon sugar adhere perfectly to the pastry.
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the twists and caramelizes beautifully during baking.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: The star spice of the dish, infusing warmth and depth.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional): Adds a subtle, aromatic sweetness that elevates the flavor.
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional): For that final touch of elegance and extra sweetness.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Twists Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Work Surface
Start by preheating your oven to a toasty 400°F, which ensures your twists will puff up and golden beautifully. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Lightly flour your surface before unfolding the puff pastry—this helps keep it smooth and easy to work with.
Step 2: Butter the Puff Pastry
Brush the entire sheet of puff pastry evenly with the melted unsalted butter. This step is crucial; the butter not only introduces luscious flavor but also helps the cinnamon sugar mixture cling tightly to the dough, creating that perfect sugary crust.
Step 3: Mix and Sprinkle the Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon, and if you’re using vanilla extract, mix it in here for an extra flavor boost. Then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the buttered pastry. Take a moment to gently press the sugar onto the surface—this ensures it stays in place while baking and caramelizes just right.
Step 4: Cut and Twist the Pastry
Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the pastry into 1-inch wide strips. This size makes for a perfect bite-sized twist. Grab each strip with your hands and twist it several times, creating elegant spirals. Space the twists slightly apart on the parchment-lined baking sheet to give them room to puff up beautifully in the oven.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Puffy
Pop the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye out—the twists will puff impressively and turn a gorgeous golden brown. When they look crisp and inviting, they’re ready to come out.
Step 6: Cool and Finish
Allow the twists to cool slightly on the baking sheet, just enough so they hold their shape without being too hot to handle. If you love a touch of extra sweetness, dust them lightly with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze.
How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Twists Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a petite garnish transforms your Cinnamon Sugar Twists Recipe into a showstopper. A light dusting of powdered sugar mimics the charm of a bakery presentation, and if you want to get fancy, a drizzle of vanilla or cream cheese glaze makes each twist feel even more decadent and inviting.
Side Dishes
These twists pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, offering a sweet and crunchy contrast to your favorite morning or afternoon beverage. For a more substantial treat, serve them alongside warm fruit compote, vanilla yogurt, or even a dollop of whipped cream to balance the sweetness and add a creamy texture.
Creative Ways to Present
Think outside the box and serve these beautiful twists on a tiered dessert stand for a brunch or party setting. For a festive touch, place them in decorative jars or wrap them with colorful ribbons to share as delightful homemade gifts. Their elegant shape means they don’t need much adornment to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though that’s rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about 2 to 3 days, though they’re definitely best enjoyed the day you make them when they’re at their peak flakiness and crispness.
Freezing
To keep these treats on hand for longer, you can freeze the twists before baking. Twist the strips, lay them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready, bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. This makes for a fantastic last-minute dessert or snack option.
Reheating
To bring stale or leftover twists back to life, a quick reheat in a warm oven (about 300°F for 5 to 7 minutes) will revive their crispy texture. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy. This way, each bite tastes almost as good as fresh out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use homemade puff pastry for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade puff pastry works wonderfully and adds an extra special touch, though the store-bought variety is a great shortcut that’s just as delicious and saves time.
Is there a gluten-free option for the puff pastry?
Yes, there are several gluten-free puff pastry brands available, or you could make your own gluten-free version. Just be aware the texture may differ slightly, but the flavor will still shine.
Can I add nuts or other toppings?
Great idea! Chopped pecans or sliced almonds sprinkled over the cinnamon sugar before baking add wonderful crunch and flavor, making the twists even more delightful.
How long can I store the twists after baking?
Best eaten fresh, but stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they stay good for about 2 to 3 days. Beyond that, they might lose their crispness.
What’s the best way to make a vanilla glaze for drizzling?
A simple vanilla glaze is made by mixing powdered sugar with a splash of milk and a few drops of vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle it over cooled twists for an irresistible finish.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Sugar Twists Recipe is the perfect example of how a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps can come together to create something truly magical. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or treating yourself, these twisted pastries offer warmth, sweetness, and a little sparkle to any day. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how easy and rewarding baking these little delights can be!
Print
Cinnamon Sugar Twists Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 twists
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these easy-to-make Cinnamon Sugar Twists featuring flaky puff pastry coated with a buttery cinnamon-sugar mixture. Perfect as a sweet breakfast treat or an indulgent dessert, these twists bake up golden and crisp with a tender, flavorful interior.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry and Butter
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Optional Toppings
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (205°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Lightly flour your work surface and unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet. Brush it evenly with the melted butter to ensure a rich flavor and help the sugar mixture adhere.
- Mix Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. If using, stir in the vanilla extract for added aroma and depth.
- Apply Sugar Mixture: Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar evenly over the buttered pastry, then gently press it into the dough to help it stick during baking.
- Cut and Twist: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the pastry into 1-inch wide strips. Twist each strip multiple times to create a spiral effect and place them spaced slightly apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the Twists: Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes until the twists are puffed up and golden brown, indicating they are cooked through and crisp.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the twists from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving for extra sweetness and a pretty presentation.
Notes
- For added sweetness, drizzle warm twists with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container and reheat briefly in the oven to restore crispness.
- Ensure the puff pastry is thoroughly thawed to make twisting easier and to achieve the best texture.
