Description
These easy homemade cinnamon twists are a deliciously flaky puff pastry treat coated in a buttery cinnamon sugar blend and optionally topped with a sweet vanilla glaze. Perfect for breakfast or a delightful snack, they combine simple ingredients and straightforward steps to create a bakery-worthy pastry that’s crispy on the outside and tender inside.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Twists:
- 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
For the Optional Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Your Workspace: Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. Proper preparation at this step will help avoid ruins later.
- Create the Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Blend: In a small bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until well combined. This mixture is the flavorful coating for your twists.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Remove the thawed puff pastry from the refrigerator roughly 15 minutes before starting to ensure it is cold but pliable. On a lightly floured surface, unfold the pastry sheet and gently roll it out with a rolling pin to smooth creases and create an even rectangle for consistent baking.
- Apply Butter and Cinnamon Sugar: Using a pastry brush, evenly coat the entire surface of the puff pastry with melted butter. Then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly on top. Use the back of a spoon to gently press the mixture into the butter ensuring it sticks well and doesn’t fall off during twisting and baking.
- Cut and Twist: Slice the pastry sheet into 12 strips approximately 1 inch wide using a sharp knife or pizza cutter. Hold both ends of each strip and twist 4-5 times while keeping the cinnamon sugar facing inward. Don’t aim for perfect twists; slight imperfections help them hold their shape better.
- Final Touch and Bake: Arrange the twisted strips on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them around 2 inches apart. Brush the tops with any remaining melted butter and sprinkle leftover cinnamon sugar for extra flavor and golden spots. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Optional Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, 2-3 tablespoons of whole milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cinnamon twists for a sweet finishing touch.
Notes
- Allow the puff pastry to thaw properly; if too cold, it will crack when unfolding, too warm, and it becomes sticky and hard to handle.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and enable easy removal from the baking sheet.
- Gently pressing cinnamon sugar into the butter prevents excessive falling out and mess during baking.
- Twists can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days; reheat briefly for best texture.
- The optional glaze adds sweetness but can be omitted for a less sugary snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cinnamon twists, puff pastry dessert, easy cinnamon pastry, homemade cinnamon sugar pastry, sweet breakfast twist
