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Homemade Cinnamon Twists with Cinnamon Sugar and Optional Glaze Recipe


  • Author: Simon
  • Total Time: 27-30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 cinnamon twists 1x

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
  • 23 tablespoons whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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