If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, this Cinnamon Puff Pastry Twists Recipe is a dream come true. Flaky layers of buttery puff pastry wrapped around a luscious cinnamon sugar filling create an irresistible combination of crispness and warmth. Whether you’re serving these at brunch, for a quick afternoon pick-me-up, or as a delightful dessert, these twists are guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfied sighs with every bite. The ease of preparation combined with the heavenly aroma filling your kitchen makes this recipe an instant favorite to keep on repeat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple and straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in delivering that perfect texture and flavor balance. From the flaky puff pastry that provides the buttery crunch, to the aromatic cinnamon sugar filling that brings sweetness and spice, every element counts.
- Puff pastry sheet (375g/13¼oz): Make sure it’s thawed but still cold for the best puff and structure.
- Butter (42 g melted): Adds richness and helps bind the cinnamon sugar filling.
- Brown sugar (⅓ cup): Gives a deep molasses sweetness that contrasts with the spice.
- Ground cinnamon (3 teaspoons): The star spice, delivering warm and fragrant flavor.
- Egg yolk (whisked with a dash of milk or water): Creates a shiny, golden finish on your twists.
- Caster sugar (1 tablespoon): Sprinkled on top for an extra sweet crunch.
- Extra cinnamon (¼ teaspoon): Mixed with caster sugar for a perfect finishing dust.
How to Make Cinnamon Puff Pastry Twists Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your workspace and ingredients
Start by lining a large baking sheet with baking paper to prevent sticking. It’s also a good idea to have all your ingredients measured and ready to go, as the process moves quickly once the filling is mixed.
Step 2: Make the cinnamon sugar filling
Combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Mix until smooth and set aside. If the mixture becomes firm as it cools, a quick 15-20 second zap in the microwave will soften it perfectly for spreading.
Step 3: Roll out the puff pastry and spread the filling
Place the cold puff pastry sheet onto a clean surface with the longer edge facing you. Pour the cinnamon sugar filling across the bottom half of the pastry, spreading it evenly with an offset spatula. Leave a 1cm border and the top half of the pastry bare for folding and sealing.
Step 4: Fold and seal the pastry
Fold the top half of the puff pastry down over the filling, encasing it inside. Use the tines of a fork to press and seal the edge closest to you, ensuring the cinnamon sugar stays inside during baking.
Step 5: Cut and twist the pastry strips
Cut the folded pastry into 16 strips, about 1 ½ cm wide. For even strips, cut the pastry into halves and quarters before making the final 16 cuts. Take each strip by the ends and give it four twists before placing it onto the lined baking sheet or a freezer tray for chilling.
Step 6: Chill before baking
Pop the twisted pastries into the freezer for 15 minutes. This step helps the twists keep their shape and ensures even puffing in the oven.
Step 7: Brush with egg wash and bake
Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan forced) / 400°F. Transfer the chilled twists onto the lined baking sheet if needed, then brush them with the egg wash for that beautiful golden shine. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the twists are puffed up and golden brown, with some cinnamon filling caramelized on the sheet.
Step 8: Dust and serve
Let the pastries cool slightly, then toss them gently in the combined caster sugar and cinnamon mixture for an extra sparkly, sweet finish. Now, they’re ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Cinnamon Puff Pastry Twists Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your cinnamon puff pastry twists even more, try a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of vanilla glaze. Fresh fruit like raspberries or sliced apples can add a vibrant contrast that pairs well with the warm spices.
Side Dishes
These twists shine alongside a hot beverage like chai tea, coffee, or even a creamy latte—perfect for brunch or an afternoon treat. Serve alongside a bowl of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert vibe.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your twists on a rustic wooden board or a colorful platter to invite sharing. Wrap a few in parchment paper tied with twine for a charming gift, or stack them in a glass jar for a cute countertop snack display that’ll catch everyone’s eye.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover cinnamon puff pastry twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To keep them crisp, avoid refrigeration as it can make the pastry soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze the twisted pastries after shaping and before baking by placing them in a single layer on a tray, then transferring them to a freezer-safe container once firm. They’ll keep well for up to a month and can be baked directly from frozen with a few extra minutes.
Reheating
Reheat twists in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 5-7 minutes to revive that flaky texture and warm the cinnamon filling. Avoid microwaving if you want to retain crispness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen puff pastry straight from the freezer?
It’s best to thaw the puff pastry sheet but keep it cold before working with it. This makes it easier to roll and prevents the butter layers from melting prematurely, ensuring a flakier twist.
What can I substitute for brown sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar handy, white granulated sugar can be used, but mixing in a bit of molasses or honey will help mimic that rich flavor brown sugar provides.
Can I make these twists gluten-free?
Using gluten-free puff pastry is an option, but results may vary as they often have a different texture. Check packaging for baking instructions and keep an eye on them while in the oven.
Why do some of my fillings leak out during baking?
Leaking can happen if the pastry isn’t tightly sealed or if the filling is too runny. Make sure to press the edges firmly with a fork and avoid over-filling to keep most of the cinnamon sugar inside.
Can these twists be savory instead of sweet?
Absolutely! You can skip the cinnamon sugar and try twisting the puff pastry with cheese and herbs or pesto for a delicious savory variation.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Puff Pastry Twists Recipe is a delightful, crowd-pleasing snack that combines ease and deliciousness in every bite. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just looking for a quick homemade treat, these twists offer that magical mix of flaky, sweet, and spicy. Give this recipe a try—you’ll wonder why you haven’t made it sooner and will definitely be planning to make it again soon!
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Cinnamon Puff Pastry Twists Recipe
- Total Time: 38-40 minutes
- Yield: 16 cinnamon puff pastry twists
Description
Cinnamon Puff Pastry Twists are delightful, flaky treats with a sweet cinnamon sugar filling, perfect for a snack or dessert. Made with simple ingredients like puff pastry, cinnamon, and brown sugar, these twists are easy to prepare and bake to a golden brown with a crunchy, cinnamon-sugar coating.
Ingredients
Pastry and Filling
- 1 rectangular sheet puff pastry (thawed but cold, 375g / 13¼ oz)
- 42 g butter (melted, 1 ½ oz / 3 tablespoons)
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Topping
- 1 egg yolk (whisked with a dash of milk or water for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon caster sugar
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare baking sheet: Line a large baking sheet with baking paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Make cinnamon sugar filling: In a bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined. If the mixture firms up, microwave for 15-20 seconds to loosen.
- Lay out pastry: Place the cold puff pastry sheet on a clean, flat surface with the long side closest to you.
- Spread filling: Pour the cinnamon sugar filling evenly over the bottom half of the pastry from left to right, spreading with an offset spatula. Leave the top half and a 1cm border closest to you free of filling.
- Fold pastry: Fold the top half of the pastry down towards you, enclosing the filling inside.
- Seal edge: Use a fork to press and seal the long edge closest to you to prevent filling leakage during baking.
- Cut strips: Cut the pastry into 16 strips about 1½ cm (½ inch) wide. For even strips, first cut pastry in half lengthwise, then into quarters, eighths, and finally sixteenths.
- Twist strips: Hold both ends of each strip and twist it 4 times. Arrange twisted strips on the prepared baking sheet or a tray that fits in the freezer.
- Chill dough: Place the arranged pastries in the freezer for 15 minutes to firm up before baking.
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan forced) / 400°F.
- Transfer pastries: Move the chilled pastries to a lined baking sheet if not already on one.
- Apply egg wash: Brush the exposed pastry areas with the whisked egg yolk mixture to create a shiny, golden finish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the twists are golden brown. Note that some filling may leak but most stays inside.
- Cool down: Allow the pastries to cool on a wire rack or baking sheet.
- Prepare dusting: In a small bowl, combine caster sugar and cinnamon.
- Coat pastries: Gently toss cooled cinnamon twists in the cinnamon sugar mixture for extra sweetness and crunch.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve the delicious cinnamon puff pastry twists warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use cold but thawed puff pastry for easier handling and better layering.
- If the cinnamon sugar mixture firms during preparation, briefly warm to soften.
- Freezing the twisted strips before baking helps retain their shape and improves flakiness.
- The twists can be stored in an airtight container for 2-3 days and reheated in the oven to refresh.
- You can substitute caster sugar for granulated sugar if unavailable.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: International
