Sweet Cinnamon Twists
There’s something timeless about the comforting aroma of cinnamon baking in the oven. Whether you’re starting your morning or winding down with tea, Sweet Cinnamon Twists are the perfect balance of fun, flavor, and warmth. These beautiful, spiral-shaped pastries offer all the joy of a cinnamon roll—but with a delightful twist (literally).
Soft, pillowy dough, buttery cinnamon-sugar filling, and a luscious glaze combine into a treat that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. Even better, these pastries are surprisingly easy to make at home, even if you’re new to yeast doughs.
If you’re curious about how yeast works in baking and want a deeper dive, check out this guide from King Arthur Baking on understanding yeast in baking. It’s a handy reference that helps explain how to master soft and fluffy pastries like these twists.
Once your twists are done, you’ll want to enjoy them fresh or keep them for later. Learn the best practices for preserving baked goods by reading Taste of Home’s freezer baking tips on how to freeze pastries the right way.
🥖 Why You’ll Love Sweet Cinnamon Twists
- All the flavor of cinnamon rolls, with a lighter and more playful shape
- Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy coffee break
- Ideal for kids to help shape and twist the dough
- Can be made ahead of time and frozen for future cravings
- Customize with fun flavor variations like orange zest or nuts
🛒 Ingredients Breakdown
Here’s what you’ll need to create your homemade cinnamon twists:
The Dough:
- Whole milk or 2% (¾ cup)
- Granulated sugar (½ cup)
- Butter, divided (⅓ cup total)
- Salt (½ tsp)
- Unbleached all-purpose flour (3½–4 cups)
- Dry active yeast (2¼ tsp)
- Eggs (2)
For the Filling:
- Brown sugar (¾ cup)
- Cinnamon (1½ tsp)
- Butter, melted (⅓ cup)
For the Glaze:
- Powdered sugar (1½ cups)
- Vanilla extract (½ tsp)
- Milk (2–3 Tbsp, as needed)
🧑🍳 Step-by-Step: How to Make Cinnamon Twists
- Prepare the milk mixture: Heat milk, sugar, butter, and salt over low heat until warm (not hot). Do not boil.
- Mix the dough: Combine 1½ cups flour and yeast in a mixer bowl. Add warm milk mixture and eggs. Mix for 3 minutes.
- Add remaining flour: Continue kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- First rise: Transfer to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.
- Roll out dough: After punching it down and resting, roll into a 20 x 16 inch rectangle.
- Spread the filling: Mix melted butter with cinnamon and brown sugar, then spread evenly on the dough.
- Shape the twists: Cut into 1-inch strips, fold each in half, and twist them.
- Second rise: Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let rise for another 45 minutes.
- Bake: Bake at 375°F for 12–15 minutes until golden.
- Glaze and serve: Mix powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk to drizzle on top.
💡 Tips for Success
- Use a thermometer to keep your milk between 105–110°F for best yeast activation.
- Don’t worry if your twists unwind a bit—they’ll still be delicious!
- Let the glaze cool slightly before drizzling so it doesn’t melt right off.
- If you prefer a crunchier edge, bake for 1–2 minutes longer.
🍊 Fun Variations You Can Try
Sweet Cinnamon Twists are endlessly customizable! Here are a few tasty ideas:
- Orange Zest Twists: Add zest to the dough and filling, swap brown sugar for granulated.
- Nutty Delight: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon filling.
- Chocolate Cinnamon Twists: Add chocolate chips or Nutella to the filling for a rich twist.
- Maple Glaze: Swap vanilla glaze for maple syrup and powdered sugar glaze.
🧬 Nutrition at a Glance
Each twist contains approximately:
- 298 calories
- 59g carbohydrates
- 6g protein
- 4g fat
- 22g sugar
You can reduce the sugar or use whole wheat flour for a slightly healthier version. For health-focused readers, check out this resource on cinnamon’s health benefits.
☕ How to Serve Sweet Cinnamon Twists
Serving Sweet Cinnamon Twists is just as fun as making them. These golden, sugar-dusted delights are incredibly versatile and fit right in whether you’re hosting brunch, enjoying a cozy breakfast, or setting out an irresistible dessert platter.
🥞 For Breakfast or Brunch
- Pair your warm twists with a hot cup of coffee, chai, or a frothy latte for a comforting morning treat.
- Serve alongside fresh fruit like berries, orange slices, or melon for balance and brightness.
- Include them on a brunch spread with scrambled eggs, quiches, and savory pastries.
- Consider serving with a side of yogurt or cream cheese dip for added indulgence.
🍽️ As a Dessert
- Plate them warm with a drizzle of extra vanilla glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or cinnamon gelato for a dessert that feels gourmet.
- Garnish with toasted nuts or a light caramel drizzle for a restaurant-style touch.
🧒 Kid-Friendly Fun
- Let kids dip the twists into sweet sauces like chocolate ganache, maple syrup, or fruit preserves.
- Serve mini versions for lunchboxes or snack time treats—they reheat well and stay soft.
🍹 With Beverages
- Enjoy them with a strawberry piña colada smoothie for a tropical twist.
- Pair with hot cocoa on chilly mornings or cold brew on summer afternoons.
Whether served simply or elevated with toppings and sides, Sweet Cinnamon Twists always deliver a warm, comforting bite of sweetness.
🧊 Storing and Reheating Tips
One of the best things about Sweet Cinnamon Twists is how well they keep—if you happen to have any leftovers! Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or saving a few for a midnight snack, proper storage and reheating will keep your twists tasting fresh and delicious.
🧺 How to Store Cinnamon Twists
- Room Temperature: Keep twists in an airtight container or zip-top bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. Line the container with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture and prevent sogginess.
- Refrigerator: If your kitchen is warm or humid, you can refrigerate them. Just be sure to warm them slightly before serving to bring back the soft texture.
- Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap each twist in foil or plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. This makes them perfect for making ahead!
🔁 How to Reheat Cinnamon Twists
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap twists in foil and bake for 8–10 minutes. This method best preserves the soft, flaky texture.
- Microwave Method: Wrap a twist in a damp paper towel and microwave for 15–20 seconds. It’s quick, but may slightly soften the exterior.
- Air Fryer (Optional): Set to 320°F and heat for 2–3 minutes for a crisp edge.
For frozen twists, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
With proper storage and reheating, your cinnamon twists will taste oven-fresh every time!
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Baking Fun
Sweet Cinnamon Twists are a great way to get kids involved in the kitchen:
- Let them shape and twist the dough
- Encourage fun designs—hearts, braids, or pretzel-style
- Let them drizzle or dip the glaze on top
🌍 Cinnamon Twists Around the World
Although this version is American-inspired, twisted sweet breads are found worldwide:
- Scandinavia: Kanelbullar, braided cinnamon buns
- France: Puff pastry twists with cinnamon sugar
- India: Cardamom- and cinnamon-spiced fried pastries
- Mexico: While not twisted, churros are often cinnamon-coated cousins
🍥 Cinnamon Twists vs. Cinnamon Rolls
| Feature | Sweet Cinnamon Twists | Cinnamon Rolls |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Twisted strips | Rolled spirals |
| Texture | Lighter, slightly crispier | Dense and gooey |
| Fun Factor | Great for kids | More traditional |
| Baking Time | Slightly quicker | Typically longer |
👩🍳 Pro Tips from Top Bloggers
Leigh Anne Wilkes from YourHomeBasedMom suggests letting your dough rest fully and not panicking if it untwists slightly during baking.
The Busy Baker recommends using a light egg wash if you want extra golden crusts.
Drizzle Me Skinny mentions that crescent dough can be a quick alternative if you’re short on time.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do you make cinnamon twists from scratch?
Using yeast dough, filled with cinnamon sugar, twisted into shape, and baked with a glaze.
Can you use puff pastry instead of homemade dough?
Yes, it will create a flakier texture and reduce prep time.
How do you keep the filling from leaking?
Spread evenly and avoid overstuffing. Press edges lightly to seal.
How long do cinnamon twists last?
2–3 days at room temp, 2 months frozen.
Are sweet cinnamon twists healthy?
They’re more of an indulgent treat, but can be modified with less sugar and whole grains.
Can I skip the glaze?
Yes, though the glaze adds a finishing touch and moisture.
🧁 Final Thoughts
There’s a special kind of magic in baking that brings comfort, joy, and a sense of home—and Sweet Cinnamon Twists capture all of that in every bite. With their tender, buttery layers, rich cinnamon-sugar filling, and simple vanilla glaze, they offer a satisfying twist (pun intended) on traditional cinnamon rolls. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting your kitchen adventures, this recipe is approachable, rewarding, and sure to impress.
The beauty of these twists lies not only in their taste but in their versatility. You can customize the flavors, get creative with shapes, or even make them ahead for brunch gatherings or special holiday mornings. Paired with coffee, fresh fruit, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream, they’re the perfect treat for any time of day.
So why wait? Warm up your oven, roll out that dough, and start twisting. Whether you’re making memories with your kids, treating yourself on a quiet morning, or preparing a sweet surprise for loved ones, these Sweet Cinnamon Twists are guaranteed to be a hit. One bake, and you’ll know exactly why they deserve a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.
