Cinnamon Twist Pastries are buttery, flaky delights twisted with a sweet cinnamon-sugar filling. Baked to golden perfection, these pastries make a perfect addition to breakfast spreads, coffee breaks, or dessert trays. Their elegant appearance and rich aroma make them a favorite for holidays and weekend treats.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make with store-bought puff pastry
- Sweet, spiced aroma fills your kitchen as they bake
- Impressive presentation with minimal effort
- Ideal for brunch, tea time, or holiday gatherings
- Can be served plain or topped with a simple glaze
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Frozen puff pastry sheet, thawed
- Unsalted butter, melted
- Brown sugar or granulated sugar
- Ground cinnamon
- Optional: ground cardamom or a pinch of salt
- Optional: egg (for egg wash)
- Optional: powdered sugar and milk for glaze
Directions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to smooth out creases.
- Brush melted butter over the surface of the pastry.
- Mix sugar and cinnamon (plus optional spices) and sprinkle evenly over the buttered pastry.
- Fold the pastry in half lengthwise and gently press to seal.
- Cut into strips about ½ inch wide.
- Twist each strip several times and place on the baking sheet. Pinch the ends to help them hold their shape.
- Brush with egg wash if desired for a glossy finish.
- Bake for 14–15 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
- Cool slightly and drizzle with glaze if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 twists
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Bake time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Add a touch of cardamom or nutmeg to the cinnamon-sugar mix
- Make a simple glaze with powdered sugar and milk for drizzling
- Use a yeasted dough for a softer, more bread-like texture
- Try savory versions with cheese and herbs instead of sugar
- Freeze raw twists and bake as needed
Storage/Reheating
Store pastries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 3–5 minutes to refresh crispness. Fully baked twists can also be frozen and reheated directly from the freezer.
FAQs
What kind of pastry should I use?
Puff pastry is ideal for a quick, flaky result. You can also use a sweet yeasted dough for a softer texture.
Can I skip the egg wash?
Yes, it’s optional. Egg wash gives a glossy, bakery-style finish but doesn’t affect flavor.
How do I keep them from unraveling?
Pinch and press the ends of each twist firmly before baking.
Can I make these ahead?
Yes, shape the twists and freeze before baking. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
Can I add nuts or raisins?
Absolutely—just sprinkle them over the cinnamon-sugar layer before folding the pastry.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes—just ensure your puff pastry is made without animal fats.
Can I use gluten-free puff pastry?
Yes, just be careful when handling and adjust baking time slightly.
How should I serve them?
Serve warm or at room temperature, plain or glazed, with coffee or tea.
Can I halve the recipe?
Yes—just cut the ingredients and puff pastry in half.
Can I use store-bought glaze?
Yes, or make a simple one with powdered sugar and a splash of milk.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Twist Pastries are a delightful way to enjoy the cozy flavors of cinnamon and sugar in a light, crisp pastry. Whether served plain, glazed, or customized with spices or nuts, these twists are a charming addition to any table. Quick to make and beautiful to present, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Print
Cinnamon Twist Pastries
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 twists 1x
- Category: Breakfast / Dessert
- Method: Baking / Puff pastry
- Cuisine: European‑inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Flaky, sweet cinnamon twist pastries with a golden crust and tender, cinnamon‑sugar center—perfect for breakfast or a treat.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry (≈8 × 8 inches), thawed
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- Optional glaze: 1/2 cup powdered sugar + 1-2 tsp milk or vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 200 °C (400 °F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar and ground cinnamon; set aside.
- Unfold puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and brush with melted butter.
- Sprinkle cinnamon‑sugar mixture evenly over the pastry.
- Fold pastry in half lengthwise (short‑side to short‑side) and lightly press edges to seal.
- Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the folded pastry into 1‑inch strips.
- Twist each strip several times and place on the prepared sheet, spacing evenly.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, until puffed and golden brown.
- If using glaze: whisk powdered sugar with milk or vanilla until smooth; drizzle over warm pastries.
- Allow twists to cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Ensure the puff pastry is fully thawed but still cold for optimal flakiness.
- Cut strips evenly so they bake at the same rate.
- Brush edges with extra butter before baking for a richer finish.
- Glaze can be omitted for a lighter treat or sweetened with honey drizzle.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days; reheat in oven to refresh crispiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 twist
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 60 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg