Easy Homemade Cinnamon Twists Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish

• Uses store-bought puff pastry for convenience

• Delivers bakery-quality taste and texture

• Fun and simple enough for kids to help with

• Easily customizable with different glazes or spices

• Makes an elegant addition to brunch or dessert trays

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 package (17.3 oz) frozen puff pastry sheets, thawed

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar

• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

• Pinch of salt

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2–3 tablespoons whole milk

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Take the thawed puff pastry out of the refrigerator about 15 minutes before starting. It should be cold but pliable.

3. Unfold the pastry on a lightly floured surface and gently roll it with a rolling pin to smooth out creases and form an even rectangle.

4. In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.

5. Brush the rolled pastry with melted butter and sprinkle generously with the cinnamon sugar mixture.

6. Cut the pastry into 12 even strips, about 1 inch wide.

7. Twist each strip 4–5 times and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

8. Brush the tops with any remaining butter and sprinkle on extra cinnamon sugar.

9. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. They should sound hollow when tapped gently with a fork.

10. While the twists cool slightly, make the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.

11. Drizzle glaze over warm twists before serving, if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 12 twists

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add chopped nuts: Sprinkle finely chopped pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon sugar for extra crunch.

• Chocolate drizzle: Swap the vanilla glaze for melted chocolate or Nutella.

• Pumpkin spice twist: Replace cinnamon with pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal twist.

• Savory version: Omit sugar and cinnamon; instead, use cheese and herbs for a savory pastry snack.

• Vegan option: Use plant-based puff pastry, dairy-free butter, and non-dairy milk.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cinnamon twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, place twists in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes until warm and crisp. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

FAQs

1. How do I know when the cinnamon twists are done baking?

They should be puffed, golden brown, and sound hollow when tapped gently with a fork.

2. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the twists up to the baking step, refrigerate them, and bake just before serving.

3. Can I freeze cinnamon twists?

Yes. Freeze after baking and cooling completely. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes before serving.

4. What’s the best way to thaw puff pastry?

Thaw in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature, as it can become sticky and hard to work with.

5. Can I use a different type of sugar?

Yes, you can substitute brown sugar for a deeper molasses flavor.

6. What if my twists unravel during baking?

Make sure the twists are tight and the pastry is still slightly cold when they go into the oven to help them hold their shape.

7. Can I skip the glaze?

Absolutely. The twists are delicious on their own or can be dusted with powdered sugar instead.

8. How do I make these extra crispy?

Bake a minute or two longer, but watch carefully to prevent burning.

9. Is it okay to use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, though the flavor will be slightly different. Butter is recommended for the richest taste.

10. Can kids help make these?

Definitely! Kids love twisting the dough and sprinkling the cinnamon sugar—it’s a fun and easy baking activity.

Conclusion

These easy homemade cinnamon twists are a delicious, flaky treat that’s surprisingly simple to make at home. Whether you’re baking for a weekend brunch, a holiday platter, or just a sweet craving, this recipe delivers impressive results with minimal effort. Try them once, and they’ll become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.