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Easy Homemade Cinnamon Twists Recipe

4.6 from 85 reviews

These easy homemade cinnamon twists are flaky, buttery, and perfectly spiced pastries made with high-quality puff pastry, cinnamon sugar, and a hint of salt to enhance the flavor. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they bake to golden perfection and optionally finish with a sweet vanilla glaze for an irresistible treat perfect for breakfast or dessert.

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 (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
  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 to enhance and balance the sweetness.
  3. Prepare the Puff Pastry: Remove the thawed puff pastry from the refrigerator about 15 minutes before working with it, so it is cold but pliable. Unfold it on a lightly floured surface, then gently roll with a rolling pin to smooth creases and form a perfect rectangle.
  4. Apply Butter and Cinnamon Sugar: Use a pastry brush to evenly coat the entire surface of the puff pastry with melted butter. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the buttered surface, then press it gently into the butter with the back of a spoon to help it adhere and prevent shedding during baking.
  5. Cut and Twist the Pastry Strips: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the pastry into 1-inch wide strips (about 12 strips total). Hold each strip by both ends and twist 4-5 times, keeping the cinnamon sugar facing inward. Place the twisted strips on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
  6. Final Touches Before Baking: Brush any remaining melted butter on top of the twists and sprinkle with leftover cinnamon sugar for extra golden spots and flavor.
  7. Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake the twists in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until they are puffed, golden brown, and sound hollow when tapped gently on the bottom. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. Optionally, prepare and drizzle the vanilla glaze over the twists once cooled.

Notes

  • Use high-quality puff pastry for the best flaky texture.
  • Do not overheat puff pastry, keep it cold but pliable.
  • The pinch of salt enhances the cinnamon flavor and balances the sweetness.
  • Twists can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat briefly before serving.
  • Optional vanilla glaze adds sweetness and moisture, perfect for special occasions.
  • If the cinnamon sugar falls off, pressing it into the butter before twisting helps it stick better.

Keywords: cinnamon twists, puff pastry dessert, easy cinnamon pastry, homemade cinnamon twists, baked cinnamon sugar twists, sweet pastry snack