Crispy Dough Cinnamon Twists Recipe

Fluffy Homemade Dough Cinnamon Twists Recipe: A Sweet Treat

Crunchy, golden dough cinnamon twists dance on the plate with irresistible sweetness and charm.

These delightful pastries capture the essence of comfort baking with their spiraling crisp texture.

Warm spices swirl through each delicate twist, creating an aroma that fills the kitchen with pure joy.

The recipe brings together simple ingredients that blend into a magical treat everyone loves.

Buttery layers crackle with cinnamon’s deep, rich flavor, promising a moment of pure indulgence.

Perfectly balanced between crisp and tender, these twists will become your new favorite dessert companion.

Dive into this delectable journey and let your taste buds celebrate!

How To Bake Dough Cinnamon Twists Without Fuss

  • Yeast Activation

Blend warm milk with yeast and a touch of sugar. Watch the mixture transform into a bubbly, frothy wonder that signals the start of your delicious adventure.

  • Dough Creation

Combine remaining ingredients to form a soft, supple dough. Knead with love until the texture becomes smooth and elastic, promising a tender twist that’ll make taste buds dance.

  • Rising Magic

Let the dough rest and grow in a cozy spot. During this transformation, the dough will double in size, developing rich flavor and incredible texture.

  • Twist Preparation

Roll out the dough into a beautiful rectangle. Slice into strips and twist each one into a playful spiral that’ll look stunning on your baking sheet.

  • Coating Technique

Bathe each twist in melted butter, then lavish it with a generous sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. This magical coating creates a crispy, sweet exterior that’ll make everyone swoon.

  • Baking Perfection

Place twists in a preheated oven. Watch them turn golden brown and fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that draws everyone to the kitchen.

  • Serving Suggestion

Serve these warm, heavenly twists alongside a steaming cup of coffee. Optional glaze adds an extra touch of sweetness for those with a serious sweet tooth.

Sweet Tricks For Dough Cinnamon Twists

  • Perfect Dough Texture Trick: Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic, which helps develop gluten and ensures a soft, tender texture for your cinnamon twists. Test the dough's readiness by gently stretching a small piece – it should stretch without tearing.
  • Rising Temperature Magic: Choose a warm, draft-free spot like near a preheated oven or inside a turned-off oven with the light on to help the dough rise consistently and quickly. Ideal rising temperature ranges between 75-85°F for optimal yeast activation.
  • Flavor Boost Variations: Experiment with different spice combinations by adding ground nutmeg, cardamom, or orange zest to the cinnamon-sugar mixture. These subtle additions can transform the classic recipe into a gourmet treat with complex flavor profiles.
  • Gluten-Free Adaptation: Replace wheat flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend and add xanthan gum to help bind the ingredients. Use room temperature alternative milk like almond or oat milk to maintain the recipe's moisture and texture for those with dietary restrictions.

How To Serve Dough Cinnamon Twists For Breakfast Or Snack

  • Cozy Breakfast Companion: Pair these warm, fragrant cinnamon twists with a steaming mug of rich coffee or smooth hot chocolate for a delightful morning treat.
  • Sweet Morning Surprise: Sprinkle extra cinnamon-sugar on top or drizzle with the vanilla glaze to elevate the twists and create a special weekend breakfast moment for family and friends.
  • Dessert Transformation: Serve these twists as a delectable after-dinner dessert, accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent end to your meal.
  • Brunch Party Centerpiece: Arrange the twists on a beautiful platter alongside fresh berries and a cheese selection to create an impressive brunch spread that will wow your guests.

Save Dough Cinnamon Twists For Later Snacking

Keep freshly baked cinnamon twists in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days, ensuring maximum flavor and softness.

  • Quick Refrigeration Tip: Wrap individual twists in plastic wrap or place in sealed containers to maintain moisture when storing in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing Friendly Method: Freeze unglazed twists in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to freezer bags. Reheat directly from frozen at 350F for 5-7 minutes to restore fresh-baked taste.
  • Revive and Refresh Strategy: Warm slightly stale twists in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or toast briefly in the oven to restore their delightful texture and bring back that just-baked warmth.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 2 hours

Calories: 245 kcal

Servings: 11

What’s Twisting In Dough Cinnamon Twists

For Dough Base:
  • All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and creates the soft, tender base for these delightful twists.
  • Active Dry Yeast: Magical ingredient that helps the dough rise and develop a light, airy texture.
  • Warm Milk: Activates the yeast and adds richness to the dough's flavor and texture.
  • Sugar: Feeds the yeast and brings a subtle sweetness to the entire pastry.
  • Egg: Adds richness, helps bind the ingredients, and contributes to a golden brown color.
  • Melted Butter: Introduces a rich, buttery flavor and keeps the dough tender and moist.
  • Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances the sweetness of the pastry.
For Coating and Flavor:
  • Granulated Sugar: Creates a crispy, sweet exterior that caramelizes during baking.
  • Ground Cinnamon: Delivers a warm, aromatic spice that defines the classic twist flavor.
  • Melted Butter: Helps the cinnamon-sugar coating stick to the twists and adds extra richness.
For Optional Glaze:
  • Powdered Sugar: Provides a smooth, sweet finishing touch to the cinnamon twists.
  • Milk: Thins the sugar to create a drizzle-able consistency.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a depth of flavor and aromatic sweetness to the glaze.

Everything You’ll Need For Dough Cinnamon Twists

  • Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining ingredients and kneading dough.
  • Stand Mixer or Dough Hook: Perfect for easily mixing and kneading dough if you prefer less manual work.
  • Rolling Pin: Crucial for rolling out the dough into a thin, even rectangle.
  • Baking Sheet: Needed to bake the cinnamon twists until golden brown.
  • Parchment Paper or Cooking Spray: Prevents twists from sticking to the baking sheet.
  • Small Bowls: Two separate dishes for melted butter and cinnamon-sugar mixture.
  • Clean Kitchen Towel: Used to cover dough during rising process.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements.
  • Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter: Helps cut dough into even strips.
Print
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Crispy Dough Cinnamon Twists Recipe

Crispy Dough Cinnamon Twists Recipe


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4.8 from 34 reviews

  • Total Time: 2 hours
  • Yield: 11 1x

Description

Homemade cinnamon twists elevate classic dessert traditions with rich Mexican bakery inspiration. Sweet pastry spirals deliver delightful cinnamon warmth and crisp texture sure to satisfy your baking cravings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 2 ½ cups (315 g) all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup (180 ml) warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
  • ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar (for coating)
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted (for coating)

Instructions

  1. Activate Yeast: Dissolve yeast in warm milk with a hint of sugar. Allow mixture to bloom and become frothy, indicating live cultures are ready.
  2. Develop Dough: Incorporate all dry and wet ingredients into the yeast mixture. Knead vigorously on a floured surface, transforming the mass into a smooth, elastic texture. Work the dough consistently until it becomes soft and pliable.
  3. First Proofing: Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, covered with a towel. Rest in a warm, undisturbed location until volume doubles, approximately 1 hour. This crucial stage develops flavor and structure.
  4. Prepare Coating: Combine cinnamon and sugar in a shallow dish. Melt butter in a separate container for dipping the twists.
  5. Shape and Coat: Punch down risen dough and roll into a rectangular shape. Cut into long strips, twisting each into elegant spirals. Dunk each twist first in melted butter, then thoroughly coat with cinnamon-sugar mixture. Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet with minimal spacing.
  6. Final Proofing and Baking: Allow twists to rise slightly for 15 minutes. Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake until golden brown and crisp, approximately 12-15 minutes.
  7. Finishing Touch: Drizzle warm twists with a smooth glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Serve immediately while warm and fragrant.

Notes

  • Yeast Activation Precision: Ensure water temperature stays between 100-110°F to activate yeast without killing it, creating perfect foamy texture.
  • Dough Elasticity Technique: Knead dough for 8-10 minutes to develop gluten, resulting in lighter, more tender cinnamon twists with consistent texture.
  • Temperature Control: Proof dough in a consistently warm spot around 80-85°F, covering with damp cloth to prevent surface drying and maintain moisture.
  • Coating Enhancement: Roll twists generously in cinnamon-sugar mixture, ensuring complete coverage for maximum flavor and caramelized exterior during baking.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 11
  • Calories: 245
  • Sugar: 20 g
  • Sodium: 100 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 34 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
Liam O’Sullivan

Liam O’Sullivan

Founder & Culinary Content Creator

Expertise

Recipe Development​, Traditional Irish and European Cuisines, Food Styling and Photography, Culinary Education​

Education

Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT) – School of Culinary Arts and Food Technology

  • Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and modern cooking techniques, kitchen management, and menu development.​

Ballymaloe Cookery School

  • Program: 12-Week Certificate Course
  • Focus: Intensive, hands-on experience emphasizing farm-to-table cooking and sustainable practices.​

Isabella brings a global spark to the Craft Meats table. Born in Florence and trained at the Apicius International School of Hospitality, she blends classic Italian flavor with modern writing that’s easy to follow and hard to forget. 

Her additional training at the Italian Chef Academy fueled her love for well-crafted dishes, especially ones that spotlight beautiful cuts of meat.

She’s a food writer with heart, and a deep love for storytelling through single recipes. Her goal? To help you cook with more confidence and a little more joy, no matter where you start.

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