Perfect Homemade Cinnamon Twists Recipe

Cinnamon twists, a delightful treat cherished by many, offer a unique combination of sweet, spicy, and crunchy textures. Originating from the timeless appeal of cinnamon, these twists combine this warm spice with a light, airy dough, creating a snack that’s both irresistible and comforting. The process of making cinnamon twists involves twisting strips of dough that have been generously dusted with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar, ensuring each bite is infused with flavor.

As these twists bake, the cinnamon caramelizes slightly, producing a slightly crunchy exterior while the interior remains soft and chewy. This contrast not only enhances the eating experience but also fills the air with a tantalizing aroma, making them a popular choice in bakeries and kitchens alike. The allure of the cinnamon twist lies not just in its taste but also in its simplicity, making it a versatile snack for any occasion.

Whether served as a morning treat with coffee, a light dessert, or a snack to satisfy a sweet craving, cinnamon twists have carved out their niche in the world of baked goods. Their popularity continues to grow as more people discover the joy of pulling apart these sweet, cinnamony spirals, bite by bite.

Kitchen Tools Needed

Mixing Bowls: To mix dough and cinnamon sugar.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurement of ingredients.
Rolling Pin: To roll out the dough evenly.
Knife or Pizza Cutter: To cut the dough into strips.
Baking Sheet: To bake the cinnamon twists.
Parchment Paper: Helps prevent sticking and ensures easy cleanup.
Pastry Brush: To apply melted butter on the dough.
Wire Rack: For cooling the twists after baking to maintain crispiness.

Ingredients

Dough
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/3 cup milk
Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Topping
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

How To Make Cinnamon Twists?

Preparing the Dough

Start by combining the dry ingredients for the dough—flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt—in a large mixing bowl. Mix well to distribute the baking powder and salt evenly through the flour. Add the cold butter pieces, and using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Pour in the milk and stir until the dough starts to come together. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently until smooth.

Rolling and Cutting

Once your dough is ready, roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Make sure the surface and rolling pin are lightly floured to prevent sticking. Using a knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into long strips, about 1 inch wide.

Adding Cinnamon Sugar

In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon to create the cinnamon sugar mixture. Brush each strip of dough with melted butter, then generously sprinkle with the cinnamon sugar mixture. To form the twists, take each strip by the ends and twist several times.

Baking

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the twisted strips on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each twist as they will expand slightly while baking. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the twists are golden brown and crisp.

Cooling and Serving

Remove the cinnamon twists from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool. This helps to keep them crispy. Once cooled, the cinnamon twists are ready to be served. They can be enjoyed as a sweet snack or as a complement to your favorite hot beverage.

Good To Go With?

Warm Vanilla Custard: Drizzle or dip your cinnamon twists in creamy vanilla custard for a delightful dessert experience.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Serve a refreshing fruit salad on the side to balance the sweetness of the cinnamon twists with tart and juicy fruits like berries, kiwi, and oranges.
Coffee or Tea: Pair these sweet treats with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of the beverage complements the spicy sweetness of the cinnamon, enhancing both flavors.
Chocolate Sauce: For an indulgent twist, dip or drizzle your cinnamon twists in rich, warm chocolate sauce.
Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream next to warm cinnamon twists makes for a heavenly dessert.
Maple Syrup: For a breakfast twist, serve them with maple syrup for dipping.
Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream on the side for a soft, sweet contrast to the crunchy texture of the twists.
Nutella: Spread a little Nutella on your cinnamon twists for a nutty, chocolatey addition.
Apple Sauce: Serve with a side of apple sauce for a dip that adds a fruity, slightly tart flavor, complementing the cinnamon perfectly.

Tips and Tricks

Chill the Dough: If the dough becomes too soft or sticky while you’re working with it, chill it in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes. This will make it easier to handle and twist.
Even Coating: Ensure each strip of dough is evenly coated with the cinnamon sugar mixture to maximize flavor. Tap off any excess to prevent burning.
Avoid Overworking the Dough: Handle the dough gently and as little as possible to keep the twists light and airy. Overworking the dough can make it tough.
Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cinnamon twists from sticking and to make cleanup easier.
Twist Tightly: When twisting the dough strips, twist them tightly to ensure they hold their shape during baking.
Monitor Baking Closely: Keep a close eye on the oven as the cinnamon twists can go from perfectly golden to overly browned quickly. Remove them as soon as they’re done.
Serve Warm: Cinnamon twists taste best when served warm, as this enhances their texture and the flavors of the cinnamon and sugar.
Customize Your Sugar: Mix in a little nutmeg or cardamom with your cinnamon sugar for a unique twist on the traditional flavor.
Pre-Measure Ingredients: Having all your ingredients measured and ready to go can streamline the process and reduce stress, especially if you’re new to baking.
Use Fresh Cinnamon: For the best flavor, make sure your cinnamon is fresh. Older spices tend to lose their potency and will not provide the full flavor you’re looking for.

Variations

Chocolate Cinnamon Twists: Add cocoa powder to the cinnamon sugar mixture for a chocolatey twist.
Orange Zest Twists: Include some fresh orange zest into your dough mixture for a citrusy note.
Nutty Cinnamon Twists: Sprinkle finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts over the twists before baking for added texture and flavor.
Cardamom Twists: Replace some of the cinnamon with ground cardamom for a different spice profile.
Glazed Twists: After baking, brush the twists with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
Savory Twists: For a savory version, omit the sugar and cinnamon, and brush the twists with garlic butter, sprinkling grated Parmesan and herbs before baking.

Substitutions

Gluten-Free Flour: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour for those with gluten sensitivities.
Dairy-Free Alternatives: Substitute the milk with a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and use vegan butter.
Sugar Alternatives: Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar-free alternative if desired.
Spice Variations: Instead of cinnamon, use other warming spices like allspice or pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
Butter Substitute: In case of dietary restrictions, you can use margarine or coconut oil instead of butter.
Egg Wash Finish: For an extra shiny and golden finish, brush the twists with an egg wash before baking instead of butter.

Can We Make Ahead Of Time?

You can prepare cinnamon twists ahead of time, which is especially useful when planning for breakfast, brunch, or a party. Here’s how to manage it effectively:

Prepare and Freeze the Dough: You can make the dough, cut it into strips, twist them, and then freeze them on a baking sheet. Once they are solid, transfer the twists to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored like this for up to a month. When you’re ready to bake, you can place them directly in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Refrigerate Overnight: If you prefer to bake your cinnamon twists fresh but want to do most of the work the day before, prepare the twists up to the point of baking and store them in the refrigerator covered with plastic wrap. The next morning, simply preheat your oven and bake. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together nicely.
Bake and Reheat: Bake the cinnamon twists completely and store them in an airtight container once cooled. They can last for a few days at room temperature or longer in the refrigerator. To revive them, simply reheat in the oven at a low temperature until they are warm and crispy again.

How To Store Leftover?

Cool Completely: Before storing, allow the cinnamon twists to cool completely on a wire rack. This prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container, which could make the twists soggy.
Room Temperature Storage: Place the cooled cinnamon twists in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb any excess moisture. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. Ensure the container is sealed well to keep out moisture and other contaminants.
Refrigerate for Longer Freshness: If you won’t be consuming the twists within a few days, refrigerating them can extend their freshness. Store them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can last in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezing for Long-Term Storage: For storing the twists longer than a week, freezing is the best option. Wrap each twist individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or gently reheat in the oven when ready to serve.
Reheating: To bring back the cinnamon twists’ original texture and enhance their flavor before serving, reheat them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes or until they are warm and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make them chewy and soft.

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Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ’s

The best way to twist cinnamon twists is to first cut the rolled-out dough into even strips. Then, hold each end of a strip and twist in opposite directions until the entire strip is spiraled. This method helps ensure that the cinnamon sugar is evenly distributed throughout each twist.

Yes, cinnamon twists can easily be made vegan by substituting the dairy ingredients. Use plant-based milk and vegan butter as direct replacements for regular milk and butter. Additionally, ensure that the sugar used is vegan (some sugars are processed with animal bone char).

To prevent cinnamon twists from unraveling in the oven, press the ends of each twist firmly onto the baking sheet after twisting. This helps to secure them in place. Additionally, chilling the twisted dough in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes before baking can also help maintain their shape.

Cinnamon twists are a fantastic choice for breakfast. Their sweet, spicy flavor pairs wonderfully with morning beverages like coffee or tea, making them a delightful start to the day. They’re also relatively light, which is perfect for those who prefer a sweeter breakfast option that isn’t too heavy.

To keep cinnamon twists moist and tender, avoid overbaking them. Bake just until they are golden and set. Additionally, brushing the twists with melted butter before baking not only adds flavor but also helps to lock in moisture. Make sure they are stored properly in an airtight container to keep them from drying out after baking.

Cinnamon Twists

Recipe by JesseCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

160

kcal

Ingredients

Dough
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
1/3 cup milk
Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Topping
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Directions

Start by combining the dry ingredients for the dough—flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt—in a large mixing bowl. Mix well to distribute the baking powder and salt evenly through the flour. Add the cold butter pieces, and using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Pour in the milk and stir until the dough starts to come together. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently until smooth.
Once your dough is ready, roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Make sure the surface and rolling pin are lightly floured to prevent sticking. Using a knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into long strips, about 1 inch wide.
In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon to create the cinnamon sugar mixture. Brush each strip of dough with melted butter, then generously sprinkle with the cinnamon sugar mixture. To form the twists, take each strip by the ends and twist several times.
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the twisted strips on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each twist as they will expand slightly while baking. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the twists are golden brown and crisp.
Remove the cinnamon twists from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool. This helps to keep them crispy. Once cooled, the cinnamon twists are ready to be served. They can be enjoyed as a sweet snack or as a complement to your favorite hot beverage.

Conclusion

Cinnamon twists are more than just a delightful treat; they embody a fusion of simplicity and decadence. These twists bring the warm, comforting essence of cinnamon wrapped in a light, crispy pastry. Whether they serve as a sweet start to your day, a companion to your afternoon coffee, or a simple dessert, cinnamon twists cater to various tastes and occasions.

Their versatility in preparation allows for numerous adaptations, making them a favorite among home bakers. By following a few basic tips on preparation and storage, you can ensure these treats retain their best qualities. Embrace the process of making cinnamon twists, and enjoy the delicious results of your efforts, one twist at a time.

Perfect Homemade Cinnamon Twists Recipe

Kitchen Tools Needed

Ingredients