Cinnamon Twists

The Story & Intro

I first made cinnamon twists on a cool Saturday morning when I was a kid. My mom set out puff pastry, cinnamon, and sugar and we laughed as we rolled strips and twisted them. The smell filled our small kitchen and woke up the whole house. I learned to twist just so so the sugar stayed on top. Now I make them in my air fryer when friends drop by or when I want a fast warm treat. They come out crisp, flaky, and lightly spiced. My kids call them little pastries and eat them with milk or coffee. These twists remind me of simple days and small joys. If you like quick sweet snacks, you might also enjoy this baked cinnamon sugar donuts recipe for another easy treat that brings back warm memories. I share them with neighbors and always save one for a quiet late afternoon bite today.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe works because it uses ready puff pastry, a simple cinnamon sugar mix, and fast air fryer heat. Puff pastry brings many thin layers that puff and crisp in minutes. The cinnamon and sugar give a warm sweet crust that sticks when you press it lightly. The egg wash helps the twists turn deep golden and keeps sugar in place. The air fryer cooks from all sides so the twists get crisp without deep frying. You get a flaky inside and a crunchy outside in little time. The method cuts steps and cleans up fast, so you can make these any morning or snack time. If you enjoy quick air fryer sweets, check out this fun air fryer cinnamon sugar banana chips for another simple idea to try. They are great to share at a small party or to tuck into a lunch box as a treat today.

Why you should try this recipe

You should try this recipe because it is fast, easy, and very rewarding. It takes little skill but looks like a bakery treat. In under fifteen minutes you can have warm, flaky twists that smell like cinnamon and sugar. The recipe uses only a few common pantry items so it is cheap to make. Kids can help cut and twist the strips and feel proud when they see the finished pastry. The air fryer makes them crisp without lots of oil, so they feel lighter than fried snacks. You can serve them as a quick breakfast, a simple dessert, or a treat with coffee. They travel well for picnics and they reheat nicely for a second day. If you want a showy snack with little work, these twists fit the bill and give a big taste with little fuss. Try them warm, and you will smile and want more today.

How to make Cinnamon Twists

To make Cinnamon Twists start with thawed puff pastry and a small bowl of cinnamon sugar. Work on a clean surface and roll the pastry just a little to smooth seams. Cut the sheet into long even strips and spread cinnamon sugar on each strip. Press the sugar gently so it sticks to the pastry. Hold each strip at both ends and twist several times to make a spiral shape. Brush each twist with beaten egg so they brown well. Place the twists in the air fryer basket in a single layer and give them space to puff. Air fry until golden and crisp, watching the last minutes so they do not burn. This hands-on method is quick and neat. If you want a loaf idea with similar flavors, try this homemade cinnamon sugar bread for more cinnamon ideas. Check early to prevent overbrowning and enjoy warm twists every time.

Ingredients :

• 1 package of puff pastry
• 2 tablespoons cinnamon
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Cooking spray

Equipments Needed

• Air fryer
• Rolling pin or clean bottle
• Sharp knife or pizza cutter
• Small bowl
• Pastry brush
• Measuring spoons
• Plate or tray

Step-by-Step Instructions :

1. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into strips.
3. Mix the cinnamon and sugar in a bowl.
4. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the pastry strips.
5. Twist the strips and place them in the air fryer basket lined with cooking spray.
6. Brush the twists with egg wash.
7. Air fry for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Serve warm.

How to serve Cinnamon Twists

Serve the twists warm for the best texture. They taste great with a cup of coffee, tea, or milk. You can dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle a light glaze of powdered sugar mixed with a little milk. For a fancier touch, serve with whipped cream or a side of jam for dipping. They also pair well with fresh fruit for a simple dessert plate.

How to store Cinnamon Twists

Store cooled twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer at low heat for a few minutes to bring back crispness. You can freeze cooled twists for up to one month; thaw and reheat in the air fryer or oven until warm.

Tips & Tricks

Thaw the puff pastry in the fridge overnight or on the counter until just soft, not soggy. Work fast so the pastry stays cold and gives better puff. Cut even strips so they bake at the same speed. Use a light hand with sugar so it caramelizes but does not burn. Brush egg wash thinly to help color without making the surface too wet. Give space between twists in the air fryer so air can move around each piece. Check at eight minutes and add time in short bursts to avoid burning. For a richer twist, add a little melted butter before the sugar. If you like cinnamon desserts, try these cinnamon roll bliss bars for another sweet idea to enjoy with friends. Freeze unbaked twists on a tray, then store in a bag for up to one month to bake later. Warm from frozen and add a glaze quickly.

Variations & Substitutions

You can change these twists many ways to fit taste or what you have on hand. Swap white sugar for brown sugar to get a deeper, molasses note. Mix a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom with the cinnamon for warm spice. Brush melted butter instead of egg wash for a richer, softer finish. Add a thin spread of jam, Nutella, or cream cheese before you sprinkle sugar for a filled twist. For a nutty crunch, press chopped pecans or almonds onto the sugar. Make a lemon twist by adding a little grated lemon zest to the sugar and dusting with powdered sugar after baking. Use ready-made gluten-free puff pastry if you need a gluten-free option. If you like savory, skip sugar and add grated cheese and herbs for a quick snack. These swaps keep the method but change the flavor to suit any meal or mood and make it yours.

FAQs

Q: Can I bake these in the oven instead of using an air fryer?
A: Yes. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes or until golden, watching the last minutes.

Q: Can I use frozen puff pastry straight from the freezer?
A: No. Thaw the puff pastry first so you can roll and cut it easily. Thaw in the fridge or on the counter.

Q: How do I stop the sugar from falling off?
A: Press the sugar lightly onto the pastry and use a thin egg wash to help it stick and brown.

Q: Can I make these ahead for a party?
A: Yes. You can freeze unbaked twists on a tray and bake from frozen, or bake ahead and reheat before serving.

Conclusion

These Cinnamon Twists make a quick, tasty treat you can make any day. They use simple ingredients and an air fryer to give flaky layers and a sweet crust. The steps are short, and the work is fun for kids and adults. If you want ideas to change the recipe or try a different take, check out Easy Cinnamon Twists | Leigh Anne Wilkes – Your Homebased Mom for another simple approach. For a richer, bakery style version with a soft center, see Fluffy Buttery Cinnamon Sugar Twists – Mel’s Kitchen Cafe to compare techniques. Make a batch warm and share them with friends or keep them for a sweet snack at home. These twists are a small comfort you can make fast, and they brighten any morning or tea time with little effort.

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