Easy Homemade Cinnamon Twists Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that effortlessly combines flaky layers with sweet cinnamon goodness, you’ve come to the right place! Easy Homemade Cinnamon Twists are an absolute crowd-pleaser with their crisp exterior and soft, buttery interior, making them perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or anytime you crave a warm, comforting pastry. With just a handful of simple ingredients, these twists bring a charming swirl of cinnamon-sugar magic to your kitchen that everyone will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but crucial for creating the perfect balance of crispness, flavor, and that irresistible golden hue. Each component plays a key role, from the flaky puff pastry base to the rich melted butter that helps hold that cinnamon-sugar coating in place.

• Puff pastry sheets: The flaky foundation that creates those airy, delicate layers synonymous with a perfect twist.
• Granulated sugar: Adds that essential sweetness and caramelizes beautifully during baking.
• Ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and spice, the hallmark of this classic flavor pairing.
• Unsalted butter, melted: Provides richness and helps the cinnamon-sugar mixture adhere to the pastry.
• Egg: Used for an egg wash that gives the twists a gorgeous golden shine and a slight crunch.

How to Make Easy Homemade Cinnamon Twists

Step 1: Prepare your workspace and preheat the oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Lightly flour your work surface to ensure the puff pastry rolls out without tearing, setting the stage for beautifully formed twists.

Step 2: Roll out the puff pastry sheets

Gently roll out your thawed puff pastry sheets until they are smooth and evenly flat. This step ensures the layers bake up crisp and light, creating the perfect texture every bite will love.

Step 3: Mix the cinnamon-sugar coating

In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon, adjusting the cinnamon amount if you prefer a milder or stronger spice flavor. This sweet, fragrant mixture is what transforms simple pastry into irresistible Easy Homemade Cinnamon Twists.

Step 4: Brush with melted butter and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar

Brush a generous layer of melted butter evenly over the puff pastry sheets. This not only adds richness but also acts as a glue for the cinnamon-sugar to stick firmly to every inch of the dough, ensuring maximum flavor in each twist.

Step 5: Cut and twist the strips

Carefully cut each pastry sheet into 1-inch-wide strips. Take each strip and twist it several times to create those lovely spiraled shapes that bake into gorgeous, crispy spirals packed with cinnamon and sugar on every edge.

Step 6: Bake until golden brown

Place your cinnamon twists on the lined baking sheet, leaving enough space for them to expand slightly as they bake. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown and perfectly flaky. Let them cool just a little before serving to enjoy their full buttery crunch.

How to Serve Easy Homemade Cinnamon Twists

Garnishes

For an extra pop of flavor and presentation, dust your cinnamon twists with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. Fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or a handful of blueberries also pairs wonderfully to brighten up the plate.

Side Dishes

These twists are fantastic on their own but also pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or a creamy latte for a cozy morning or afternoon boost. They also complement a bowl of vanilla yogurt or a creamy custard for a more indulgent snack experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange Easy Homemade Cinnamon Twists in a festive wreath shape or bundle them up in small bundles tied with a ribbon for gifting. Serving them in a rustic basket lined with a colorful napkin adds a charming touch whether it’s for a brunch party or a family treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cinnamon twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them crisp while maintaining that soft, tender center, though they are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked twists by assembling them on a parchment-lined tray and freezing until solid, then transferring to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to bake time for a quick anytime treat.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-baked feel, warm the twists in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes. This reheating method revives the crispness without drying them out.

FAQs

Can I use homemade puff pastry for this recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade puff pastry adds a personal touch and is delicious, though the store-bought kind is already perfectly flaky and saves preparation time.

What can I use instead of butter?

While butter is best for flavor and texture, you can substitute with a light oil like coconut or vegetable oil, but expect a slight difference in richness.

Are the cinnamon twists sweet enough without icing?

Yes, the cinnamon-sugar coating is plenty sweet and flavorful on its own, though a drizzle of icing adds extra indulgence if you like more sweetness.

Can I make these gluten-free?

For a gluten-free version, look for puff pastry specifically labeled gluten-free, as traditional puff pastry contains wheat flour.

How long do these cinnamon twists keep fresh?

They are best eaten within 1 to 2 days for optimal freshness but can be stored properly up to 3 days with slight loss in crispness.

Final Thoughts

Easy Homemade Cinnamon Twists are truly one of those simple pleasures that bring instant warmth and joy to any day. Whether you’re serving them up for breakfast or delighting guests at a gathering, these twists offer a perfect combination of buttery flakiness and cinnamon-sugar sweetness that’s hard to resist. Give them a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to pastry!