Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists Recipe
If you have a soft spot for easy, sweet treats that come together in no time, you are going to absolutely love these Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists. They combine the flaky, buttery goodness of crescent roll dough with the warm, cozy flavors of cinnamon and sugar, creating a snack or dessert that’s as irresistible as it is simple. Whether you’re baking for a lazy Sunday morning or an impromptu gathering, these twists offer a delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth without much fuss. The balance of crispy edges and soft centers makes Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists a true crowd-pleaser that’s perfect any time of day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully straightforward but each one plays a crucial role in bringing your cinnamon twists to life. From the flaky texture of the crescent roll dough to the rich sweetness of the cinnamon sugar, every component adds something special.
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough: This is your flaky, buttery foundation, providing the perfect light and tender texture.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and combines beautifully with cinnamon for that classic flavor.
- Ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and spice that perfectly complements the sugar.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Ensures the cinnamon sugar sticks and adds a rich buttery flavor.
- Powdered sugar (optional): Used for the glaze, it adds an extra layer of sweetness and a pretty finish.
- Milk (optional): Mixed with powdered sugar to create a smooth glaze for drizzling.
How to Make Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start off by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). Getting the oven hot ahead of time ensures your twists bake evenly and come out perfectly golden and flaky.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Carefully unroll the crescent roll dough and pinch the seams together to form one large rectangle. This creates a consistent base that will hold all the cinnamon sugar goodness evenly.
Step 3: Mix Sugar and Cinnamon
In a small bowl, stir together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until well combined. This aromatic mixture is the heart of what makes these twists so flavorful and comforting.
Step 4: Brush with Butter
Using a pastry brush, spread the melted butter evenly over the surface of the dough. This step not only helps the cinnamon sugar stick but also adds delicious moisture and richness to every bite.
Step 5: Sprinkle the Sugar-Cinnamon Mixture
Generously sprinkle your cinnamon sugar mix over the butter-coated dough, making sure to cover it evenly. This guarantees that each twist will carry that signature sweet and spiced flavor.
Step 6: Cut and Twist
Carefully slice the dough into roughly 1-inch wide strips. Take each strip and give it a gentle twist a few times before placing it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This twisting action creates those charming spirals packed with cinnamon sugar inside.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake the twists in your preheated oven for about 12 to 15 minutes. They should turn a beautiful golden brown with crispy edges while remaining tender and flaky inside.
Step 8: Prepare the Glaze (Optional)
If you want to up the indulgence factor, whisk together powdered sugar and milk until smooth to make a simple glaze. Drizzle this over warm twists to add a glossy, sugary finish.
Step 9: Drizzle and Serve
Once the twists have cooled just slightly, drizzle your glaze on top if using, and serve these treats while they’re warm and inviting. They’re perfect fresh from the oven with that delightful melty sweetness.
How to Serve Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists
Garnishes
While the Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists are wonderful on their own, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts adds a lovely crunch and extra visual appeal. You can also add a splash of vanilla or cream cheese frosting for a decadent touch.
Side Dishes
These cinnamon twists pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making them a perfect breakfast companion. They also work as a cozy dessert alongside vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a comforting sweet finish to any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Cinnamon Twists on a decorative platter lined with fresh fruit like sliced apples or berries for color contrast and freshness. You can even thread them onto skewers for a playful brunch centerpiece everyone will love digging into.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists leftover (though that rarely happens!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep their flaky texture as fresh as possible.
Freezing
To enjoy these treats later, freeze the fully cooled twists in a sealed freezer bag for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm them gently in the oven to bring back that fresh-baked charm.
Reheating
Reheat your twists in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 5–7 minutes until warmed through. This method preserves the delicate flakiness and crispiness far better than microwaving, which can make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I make Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists without butter?
While butter adds essential richness and helps the cinnamon sugar stick, you can substitute with margarine or a neutral oil, though the flavor and texture might be slightly different.
What’s the best way to twist the dough strips?
Hold each end of the dough strip and gently twist in opposite directions a few times. Be careful not to tear the dough, and aim for even twists for uniform baking.
Can I add nuts or raisins to the twists?
Absolutely! Adding chopped nuts or raisins before sprinkling the cinnamon sugar adds extra texture and flavor that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon.
Are these twists suitable for serving at parties?
Yes, they make fantastic finger food that’s easy to share. Their appealing look and delicious taste always impress guests at brunches or casual gatherings.
Can I make these twists vegan?
To make Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists vegan, look for dairy-free crescent roll dough and substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative. Be sure to check all ingredient labels carefully.
Final Thoughts
Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists are one of those magical recipes that feels special but is wonderfully simple to prepare. They bring together classic flavors with a light, flaky texture that’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re making them for yourself or to share with friends and family, these twists are a delicious way to spread a little joy. Give them a try—you might just find your new go-to sweet treat!
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Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 twists 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists are a quick and delightful pastry treat featuring flaky crescent dough coated in a buttery cinnamon-sugar mixture, twisted into charming shapes, baked to golden perfection, and optionally finished with a sweet glaze. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack.
Ingredients
Dough and Coating
- 1 can refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Optional Glaze
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect baking temperature for crispy and golden twists.
- Prepare the Dough: Unroll the refrigerated crescent roll dough on a clean surface and pinch all the seams together to form one solid rectangular sheet for easy slicing.
- Mix Sugar and Cinnamon: In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup granulated sugar with 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon, mixing well to make the cinnamon-sugar coating.
- Brush with Butter: Evenly brush the melted butter over the entire surface of the dough to allow the sugar-cinnamon mixture to stick and add richness.
- Sprinkle Mixture: Generously spread the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough, covering the entire surface for maximum flavor.
- Cut and Twist: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into 1-inch wide strips. Hold each strip at both ends and twist several times, then place the twists spaced apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake the twists in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and the edges crisp up nicely.
- Prepare Glaze (Optional): While the twists bake, whisk together 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons milk until smooth and creamy to create a simple glaze.
- Drizzle and Serve: Once the twists are slightly cooled but still warm, drizzle the glaze over them for a sweet finishing touch, then serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
- Use fresh refrigerated crescent roll dough for the best flaky texture.
- The glaze is optional but adds a lovely sweetness and visual appeal.
- Twist the strips tightly for a more defined spiral appearance.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days; reheat briefly before serving.
- For a variation, sprinkle chopped nuts or drizzle melted chocolate on top.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack, Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 twist
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: crescent roll cinnamon twists, cinnamon twists, easy cinnamon pastry, cinnamon sugar bake, quick breakfast pastry
