Sweet Cinnamon Twists

This sweet cinnamon twist recipe transforms ordinary puff pastry into irresistible bakery-style treats in under 30 minutes. The buttery layers get caramelized with warm cinnamon sugar, creating that perfect balance of crispy exterior and soft interior that makes these twists absolutely addictive.

These cinnamon twists have become my signature bring along for weekend brunches with friends. I first made them when unexpected company arrived one Sunday morning and have been perfecting the twist technique ever since.

Ingredients

• Puff pastry: One sheet, thawed. The butter layers create that incredible flakiness. Look for all butter varieties for best flavor
• Granulated sugar: Regular white sugar works perfectly here. It caramelizes beautifully in the oven
• Ground cinnamon: Use fresh, high quality for best aroma. Ceylon cinnamon offers a more delicate flavor if available
• Unsalted butter: Creates a rich base for the cinnamon sugar to adhere to. European style with higher fat content elevates the recipe
• Vanilla extract: Adds depth to the sweetness. Pure extract rather than imitation makes a noticeable difference
• Egg: Creates that beautiful golden shine. Room temperature eggs wash more evenly

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the workspace:

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and preheat your oven to 400°F. The high temperature is crucial for creating those perfectly flaky layers. Allow at least 10 minutes for proper preheating.

Prepare the puff pastry:

Gently unfold your thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. If there are any cracks, press them together with your fingertips. Roll it slightly with a rolling pin just to smooth out creases and create an even rectangle.

Create the cinnamon filling:

In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until completely combined. Melt the butter and stir in the vanilla extract. The vanilla enhances the cinnamon flavor and adds wonderful aromatics.

Assemble the twists:

Brush the melted butter mixture generously over the entire surface of the pastry. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the butter, leaving just a tiny border at the edges. Press lightly to help it adhere.

Cut and twist:

Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the pastry into approximately 1 inch wide strips. Hold each strip at both ends, gently stretch it slightly, then twist several times while placing on the prepared baking sheet. Leave about an inch between twists.

Finalize for baking:

Brush each twist with beaten egg wash to ensure a glossy golden finish. Sprinkle any remaining cinnamon sugar over the tops for extra flavor and texture.

Bake to perfection:

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, watching carefully after 15 minutes. They should be puffed up significantly and golden brown with caramelized edges. The cinnamon sugar will be bubbling.

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The cinnamon is truly the star ingredient in this recipe. I discovered that grinding whole cinnamon sticks just before use creates an incredible aroma that fills the kitchen. My favorite memory with these twists was watching my nephew learn to twist the dough—we made it a competition to see who could create the most perfect spiral.

Make Ahead Options

These cinnamon twists work beautifully for meal prep or special occasions. You can prepare them through the twisting stage, then freeze them unbaked on a baking sheet until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, place the frozen twists on a baking sheet, brush with egg wash, and add a few minutes to the baking time. This method ensures fresh baked treats whenever the craving strikes.

Creative Variations

While the classic cinnamon sugar version is hard to beat, these twists welcome customization. Try adding finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon sugar mixture for delightful crunch. For chocolate lovers, sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the butter before adding cinnamon sugar—they will melt into pockets of richness. During fall, a pinch of pumpkin pie spice added to the cinnamon creates seasonal flair that pairs perfectly with coffee or hot apple cider.

Serving Suggestions

These cinnamon twists transition effortlessly from breakfast to dessert. For a special breakfast, serve them alongside fresh fruit and yogurt for balance. As an afternoon snack, they pair wonderfully with coffee or tea. For dessert, transform them into an impressive presentation by arranging warm twists on a plate with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce. They also make a lovely addition to holiday cookie platters or brunch buffets.

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These cinnamon twists will earn you rave reviews every time—they’re simple, versatile, and absolutely delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make these cinnamon twists ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the twists up to the twisting stage and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, bake them completely, cool thoroughly, and store in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes to restore crispness.

→ Can I freeze these cinnamon twists?

Absolutely! You can freeze them either before or after baking. For unbaked twists, freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 3-5 minutes to the baking time. For baked twists, freeze completely cooled twists and reheat from frozen in a 350°F oven for 7-10 minutes.

→ What can I serve with sweet cinnamon twists?

These twists pair wonderfully with coffee, hot chocolate, or tea. For a dessert presentation, serve with vanilla ice cream, caramel sauce, or a chocolate dipping sauce. They also complement a fruit platter for brunch.

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

The twists are done when they've puffed up significantly and turned a golden brown color. The edges should look crisp, and the centers should be cooked through but still tender. If you notice they're browning too quickly, reduce the oven temperature by 25°F.

→ Can I add other flavors to these twists?

Definitely! Try adding orange or lemon zest to the cinnamon-sugar mixture, or incorporate finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts. You could also drizzle them with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk after baking for extra sweetness.

→ Why did my twists unravel during baking?

This typically happens if the twists aren't tight enough or if the pastry was too warm when twisted. Make sure to twist each strip several times and press the ends gently to seal. Chilling the twisted pastry for 10-15 minutes before baking can also help maintain their shape.