If you’re longing for a dessert that’s not only quick and easy but also guaranteed to fill your kitchen with an irresistible warm aroma, look no further than these Sweet Cinnamon Twists. Flaky, buttery puff pastry gets blanketed in cinnamon sugar, twisted to perfection, and baked until golden and crisp. Every bite is a mix of crunchy, pillowy layers and sweet-spiced flavor—the kind of treat that’s ready in under half an hour yet feels worthy of a special occasion. Whether you bake them for brunch, an afternoon pick-me-up, or to wow someone at the last minute, Sweet Cinnamon Twists are a small effort with truly delightful results.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Sweet Cinnamon Twists is in their simplicity: just a handful of kitchen staples transforms into a bakery-style treat. Each ingredient works its magic, from the delicate puff pastry to the warming cinnamon, creating those signature spirals you can’t resist.
- Puff Pastry Sheet: Store-bought, frozen puff pastry is wonderfully flaky and puffs beautifully—just make sure it’s fully thawed for easy handling.
- Granulated Sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness; white sugar gives the twists their classic “bakery” sparkle.
- Ground Cinnamon: The spice that makes these twists so comforting—choose fresh cinnamon for the warmest flavor.
- Unsalted Butter (melted): Brushed on the pastry to help the cinnamon sugar stick and add extra richness.
- Egg (beaten): This simple egg wash gives the twists a gorgeous golden finish as they bake.
- Powdered Sugar (optional): A light dusting at the end adds a snowy, elegant touch if you’re feeling fancy.
How to Make Sweet Cinnamon Twists
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet and Oven
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready for a quick bake. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; this little step ensures your Sweet Cinnamon Twists come off the tray effortlessly with all their flaky layers intact.
Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, stir together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until evenly blended. This aromatic mix is the heart of your twists, adding both sweetness and that signature warm spice to every layer.
Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Unfold your thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface to prevent it from sticking. Gently brush the surface all over with the melted butter—don’t skip those corners! The butter not only amps up the flavor, but helps the cinnamon sugar stick to every inch.
Step 4: Sprinkle and Fold
Evenly scatter the cinnamon sugar mixture over the buttered surface of the pastry. For maximum flavor in every bite, make sure you get right up to the edges. Fold the pastry sheet in half lengthwise and gently press down all over so the filling stays put and the layers begin to fuse.
Step 5: Cut and Twist
Take a sharp knife or pizza cutter and slice the folded pastry into 1-inch wide strips. This is where the magic happens: pick each strip up, twist it several times, and lay it out on your prepared baking sheet. The more you twist, the prettier and flakier the results will be!
Step 6: Brush with Egg Wash
Lightly brush the tops of each twist with the beaten egg. This quick step gives your Sweet Cinnamon Twists that bakery-worthy glossy, golden finish you see in pastry shop windows.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Pop the tray into the oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the twists are puffed up and deeply golden brown. Your kitchen will smell like a dream! Let your twists cool on the pan for a few minutes, then, if you like, dust them with powdered sugar for a final festive flourish.
How to Serve Sweet Cinnamon Twists
Garnishes
A simple flutter of powdered sugar is timeless and beautiful, making every twist look like it’s been kissed by the first winter snow. Feeling creative? Try a drizzle of sweet glaze made with powdered sugar and milk for a bakery-style finish. A sprinkle of extra cinnamon just before serving can also kick up that cozy aroma even more.
Side Dishes
Sweet Cinnamon Twists are incredible with a hot cup of freshly brewed coffee or chai. For brunch, pair them with a fruit salad—think juicy berries or citrus to balance the richness. If you’re serving these at dessert, a little scoop of vanilla ice cream or a spoonful of whipped cream brings pure bliss.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Sweet Cinnamon Twists into a showstopper by stacking them high on a cake stand with fresh berries tucked in between. For parties, tie bunches with a pretty ribbon or pop each twist into a parchment paper cone for easy snacking. They even make a charming edible gift wrapped in bakery paper and twine!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you somehow have Sweet Cinnamon Twists left, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Lined with paper towels, the container will help absorb any moisture and keep the twists as crisp as possible. Avoid refrigerating as that can make the pastry soggy.
Freezing
To make Sweet Cinnamon Twists ahead or save a batch for later, freeze them in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag once frozen. They’ll keep their flavor and texture best if enjoyed within a month. Just thaw at room temperature before reheating or eating.
Reheating
Pop leftover twists in a preheated 350°F oven for 5 minutes to revive their flaky, fresh-baked character. If you’re in a rush, a quick 15-second zap in the microwave works, but for best results, the oven method will restore that just-baked crispness.
FAQs
Can I make Sweet Cinnamon Twists with homemade puff pastry?
Absolutely! If you’re up for it, homemade puff pastry brings extra buttery flakiness. Just roll it out to about the size of a store-bought sheet and follow the same steps.
Do I need to thaw the puff pastry completely?
Yes, make sure the puff pastry is fully thawed but still cold. This way, it’s flexible enough to fold and twist, yet keeps the best layers for a flaky finish. If it gets too warm, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes.
What other spices could I add?
Sweet Cinnamon Twists shine with cinnamon, but you can add a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or even pumpkin pie spice for an autumnal twist. Just blend your chosen spice right into the sugar mixture.
Can I use brown sugar instead of white?
Definitely! Brown sugar will give the twists a more caramel-like flavor and a slightly deeper color. It’s a lovely variation if you want a hint of molasses richness.
How do I prevent the twists from unraveling in the oven?
Be sure to squeeze and gently press the ends of each twist onto the parchment paper before baking. This little detail helps them keep their twisted shape as they puff and rise in the oven.
Final Thoughts
There’s something joyful about making and sharing a batch of Sweet Cinnamon Twists—each golden spiral is a celebration of comfort and warmth. Whether you’re baking with family, surprising a friend, or just treating yourself, these twists always bring a smile. Go ahead, whip up a batch, and let the sweet, spiced aroma work its magic in your kitchen!
Print
Sweet Cinnamon Twists Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 twists
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these irresistible Sweet Cinnamon Twists made with puff pastry, cinnamon sugar, and a buttery glaze. These easy-to-make treats are perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Frozen Puff Pastry:
1 sheet, thawed
Granulated Sugar:
1/4 cup
Ground Cinnamon:
1 tablespoon
Unsalted Butter:
2 tablespoons, melted
Egg Wash:
1 egg
Optional:
Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix sugar and cinnamon: Combine sugar and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Prepare pastry: Roll out pastry, brush with butter, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
- Shape twists: Fold pastry, cut into strips, twist, place on sheet.
- Brush with egg wash: Brush twists with beaten egg.
- Bake: Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Let cool, dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar.
- Consider adding a powdered sugar and milk glaze once twists are cool.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 twist
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 105mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
