Sweet Cinnamon Twists are golden, buttery pastries twisted with layers of cinnamon sugar and baked to soft, flaky perfection. These delightful twists are the perfect combination of crisp edges and a soft, sweet center. I love making them as a morning treat, an easy dessert, or even a beautiful brunch addition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s quick, impressive, and absolutely delicious. The twists are made with simple ingredients but come out looking like something straight from a bakery. The cinnamon sugar caramelizes slightly as they bake, giving every bite a warm, sweet crunch. Whether I enjoy them with coffee or serve them to guests, they always disappear fast.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Puff pastry sheets (thawed if frozen)

  • Butter (melted)

  • Granulated sugar

  • Brown sugar

  • Ground cinnamon

  • Egg (for egg wash)

  • Powdered sugar (optional, for glaze)

  • Milk or cream (optional, for glaze)

  • Vanilla extract (optional, for glaze)

Directions

  1. I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. I unroll or gently roll out the puff pastry into a rectangle, keeping it cold but pliable.

  3. I brush the surface with melted butter, then sprinkle an even layer of granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon over one half of the sheet.

  4. I fold the pastry over itself to sandwich the filling.

  5. I gently press it together, then use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the folded sheet into strips about 1 inch wide.

  6. I take each strip and twist it a few times before laying it on the prepared baking sheet.

  7. I brush the tops with egg wash for a golden finish.

  8. I bake for 15–18 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.

  9. While they cool slightly, I mix powdered sugar with a splash of milk and vanilla to make a glaze, and drizzle it over the warm twists if I want an extra sweet touch.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 10–12 twists. It takes 10 minutes to prepare and about 15–18 minutes to bake, so I usually have them ready in under 30 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar for a deeper spice profile. I’ve also used maple syrup or honey as a glaze instead of powdered sugar for something different. When I want something richer, I spread a thin layer of cream cheese on the pastry before sprinkling the cinnamon sugar. And for a dessert twist, I dip the baked pastries in melted chocolate.

Storage/reheating

I store leftover twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, I pop them in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes to re-crisp. I avoid microwaving them since it can make the pastry soggy.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, I often assemble the twists and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. That way, they’re fresh and warm when I’m ready to serve.

Can I use homemade dough?

Absolutely. If I have the time, I sometimes use homemade puff pastry or crescent dough for a more personalized version.

Do I need to use both granulated and brown sugar?

I like the mix because the brown sugar adds a caramel note, but I’ve made these with just one or the other and they’re still delicious.

Can I freeze them?

Yes, I freeze the baked twists in a single layer and reheat them in the oven when needed. I avoid freezing them unbaked since puff pastry can get sticky when thawed.

What if I don’t have puff pastry?

I’ve used crescent roll dough or pie crust in a pinch. The texture is different, but still tasty and golden once baked.

Conclusion

Sweet Cinnamon Twists are a quick, beautiful, and mouthwatering treat that’s perfect any time I want something special without much effort. The buttery pastry, warm cinnamon sugar, and optional glaze make them a crowd-pleaser every time. Whether I enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save a few for later, they never fail to satisfy.

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Sweet Cinnamon Twists

Sweet Cinnamon Twists

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Sweet Cinnamon Twists are buttery puff pastry strips layered with cinnamon sugar, twisted into beautiful shapes, and baked to golden, flaky perfection. A quick and delicious treat ideal for breakfast, dessert, or brunch.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Total Time: 28 minutes
  • Yield: 10–12 twists
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
  • 2 tbsp butter (melted)
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • Optional glaze:
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 12 tbsp milk or cream
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Roll out the puff pastry into a rectangle, keeping it cold but pliable.
  3. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle one half with granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
  4. Fold the pastry over itself to enclose the filling and gently press together.
  5. Cut into 1-inch strips using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
  6. Twist each strip a few times and lay on the baking sheet.
  7. Brush tops with egg wash for golden color.
  8. Bake for 15–18 minutes until puffed and golden.
  9. Cool slightly. Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to make glaze and drizzle over warm twists if desired.

Notes

  • Add nutmeg or cardamom for extra spice.
  • Try cream cheese spread or dip in chocolate for a richer variation.
  • Reheat in a 300°F oven to restore crispness.
  • Store at room temperature up to 2 days; avoid microwaving to maintain texture.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 twist
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 9g
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 4.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg

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