Easy Homemade Cinnamon Twists

This buttery, flaky cinnamon twist recipe transforms simple puff pastry into an impressive breakfast treat or afternoon indulgence in just 30 minutes. The combination of warm cinnamon and sweet glaze creates that perfect bakery-quality pastry you'd swear took hours to make.

I first made these twists for a last minute brunch gathering and they disappeared faster than anything else on the table. Now they're my secret weapon whenever I need something quick but want guests to think I spent all morning baking.

Ingredients

• Frozen puff pastry sheets: provides all the flaky layers without any of the work. Look for all butter varieties for the best flavor
• Unsalted butter: adds richness and helps the cinnamon sugar mixture adhere to the pastry
• Granulated sugar: creates the perfect sweet coating and helps caramelize the exterior
• Ground cinnamon: brings warm spice flavor. Fresh cinnamon makes a noticeable difference here
• Salt: balances the sweetness and enhances the buttery flavor
• Powdered sugar: creates a smooth glaze without any grittiness
• Whole milk: adds creaminess to the glaze. Full fat works best for richness
• Vanilla extract: brings depth to the simple glaze. Use pure rather than imitation for best flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Workspace:

Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This temperature creates the perfect environment for puff pastry to rise dramatically while the parchment prevents sticking.

Prepare The Pastry:

Remove thawed but still cold puff pastry and unfold it on a lightly floured surface. The key is working with cold but pliable dough. Roll it gently to smooth any creases creating an even rectangle.

Create The Strips:

Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the pastry into 1 inch wide strips. Aim for 12 uniform pieces. Clean cuts with minimal dragging will help the pastry rise evenly.

Twist The Strips:

Hold both ends of each strip and twist 4 to 5 times keeping the cinnamon sugar facing inward. Embrace slight imperfections as they actually help maintain the shape during baking and add character.

Arrange And Finish:

Place the twisted strips on your prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Brush the tops with any remaining melted butter and sprinkle with leftover cinnamon sugar for extra flavor and texture.

Bake To Perfection:

Bake in your preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown and puffed. The twists are done when they sound hollow when gently tapped with a fork and have visible layers.

Save

The cinnamon is truly the star ingredient here. I discovered that freshly grating whole cinnamon sticks takes these to an entirely new level of flavor. My daughter now helps me prepare these on weekend mornings and the kitchen fills with that incredible spicy sweet aroma that signals the official start to our family weekend.

Storage Tips

These cinnamon twists are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. The glaze will soften slightly but the flavor remains delicious. For longer storage freeze the unglazed twists then warm in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes before glazing fresh. This method preserves that wonderful crisp exterior and tender interior.

Flavor Variations

While the classic cinnamon sugar version is a crowd pleaser there are several delicious variations worth trying. Add orange or lemon zest to the sugar mixture for a citrus twist. Replace cinnamon with cardamom or pumpkin pie spice for seasonal versions. For chocolate lovers sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the butter before twisting or drizzle melted chocolate instead of glaze. Each variation maintains the ease of the original while creating entirely new flavor profiles.

Make Ahead Instructions

You can prepare these twists up to the twisting stage then freeze them uncooked on a baking sheet. Once frozen transfer to a freezer bag where they'll keep for up to 3 months. When ready to bake place the frozen twists directly on a parchment lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F adding about 3 to 5 minutes to the original baking time. This method is perfect for unexpected guests or satisfying sudden pastry cravings.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make these cinnamon twists ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the twists up to the twisting stage and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, bake them completely and store in an airtight container for 2-3 days, though they're best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I freeze unbaked cinnamon twists?

Absolutely! Prepare the twists up to the twisting stage, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen, adding 3-5 minutes to the baking time.

→ What if my puff pastry gets too warm while working with it?

If your puff pastry becomes too soft or warm while working with it, simply place it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to firm up. Cold puff pastry is essential for achieving those flaky, distinct layers.

→ Can I add other flavors to these cinnamon twists?

Definitely! Try adding orange zest, cardamom, nutmeg, or pumpkin pie spice to the cinnamon-sugar mixture. You can also sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts before twisting for added texture.

→ Why did my twists unravel during baking?

This usually happens if the twists aren't tight enough or if the puff pastry is too warm. Make sure to twist them firmly 4-5 times and place them in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before baking if your kitchen is warm.

→ Can I use homemade puff pastry instead of store-bought?

Yes! Homemade puff pastry works beautifully in this recipe. Just roll it to the same thickness as store-bought (about 1/8 inch) before cutting into strips and proceeding with the recipe.