Flaky Homemade Dough Cinnamon Twists Recipe: Sweet Bliss!

Crispy golden cinnamon twists dance with sweet nostalgia in this delightful dough recipe that brings bakery magic right into your kitchen.

Memories of weekend mornings flood back with each sugary spiral.

Warm spices swirl through delicate pastry, creating an irresistible aroma that beckons everyone closer.

Pulling apart these perfectly twisted treats, revealing layers of buttery crunch and caramelized cinnamon.

Making these delectable twists requires minimal effort but promises maximum satisfaction.

Simple ingredients transform into a crowd-pleasing snack that sparks joy with every bite.

Grab a cup of coffee and let these cinnamon twists become your new weekend baking adventure.

Best Tips For Dough Cinnamon Twists

• Activate Yeast Perfectly: Ensure milk is warm (not hot) around 110°F to prevent killing yeast, creating a frothy, active mixture that helps dough rise beautifully.
• Knead for Soft Texture: Develop gluten by kneading thoroughly, which creates a tender, stretchy dough with a delightful, light consistency.
• Control Rising Environment: Place dough in a draft-free, warm spot like a turned-off oven with a pan of hot water to guarantee optimal rising conditions.
• Twist with Precision: Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife for clean, even strips, ensuring uniform twists that bake consistently and look professionally crafted.
• Glaze Variation Options: Experiment with different flavor additions like cream cheese, maple, or orange zest in the glaze to personalize your cinnamon twists and surprise taste buds.

How To Store Dough Cinnamon Twists Without Drying Out

• Refrigerate: Store leftover cinnamon twists in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep them at room temperature for maximum freshness and softness.
• Freeze: Wrap individual twists tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 1 month to preserve their delicious texture and flavor.
• Reheat Oven: Warm refrigerated or frozen twists at 300°F for 5-7 minutes. Wrap loosely in foil to prevent drying out and maintain their soft, tender quality.
• Microwave: Briefly heat for 10-15 seconds to restore warmth. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the twists tough or rubbery.

Perfect Pairings With Dough Cinnamon Twists

• Brew Bold Coffee Companions: Pair these warm, spicy cinnamon twists with a robust espresso or dark roast coffee. The rich, deep coffee flavors perfectly complement the sweet, buttery pastry, creating a delightful morning or afternoon treat.
• Steep Soothing Tea Pairings: Enjoy these twists alongside a chai latte or black tea with a hint of honey. The warm spices in the tea echo the cinnamon's warmth, while the subtle sweetness enhances the pastry's delicate texture.
• Create Dessert Wine Moments: Match these twists with a sweet dessert wine like Moscato or a late-harvest Riesling. The wine's fruity notes and light sweetness balance the cinnamon's warmth, turning your pastry into an elegant dessert experience.
• Mix Creamy Beverage Delights: Serve with a cold glass of vanilla almond milk or a creamy hot chocolate. The smooth, sweet beverages provide a cool contrast to the warm, spicy twists, creating a harmonious flavor combination.

Different Flavors To Try With Dough Cinnamon Twists

• Chocolate Swirl Delight: Incorporate cocoa powder into the dough and sprinkle chocolate chips before twisting for a rich, decadent variation that chocolate lovers will adore.
• Nutty Cinnamon Crunch: Blend chopped pecans or almonds into the cinnamon-sugar coating, adding a delightful crunch and nutty depth to the classic recipe.
• Citrus Zest Sensation: Mix orange or lemon zest into the dough and coating for a bright, refreshing twist that adds a tangy complexity to the sweet cinnamon treat.
• Savory Herb Transformation: Replace sugar with grated parmesan cheese and add dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for a sophisticated, savory version of the classic twist.

Your FAQs On Dough Cinnamon Twists

• Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast. Just reduce the rising time slightly and add it directly to the dry ingredients without proofing in warm milk.

• How do I know if my dough has risen properly?

The dough should roughly double in size and look puffy. When you gently press it with a finger, the indentation should slowly spring back but remain slightly visible.

• What if my dough isn't rising?

This could be due to old yeast, cold temperature, or improper activation. Ensure your milk is warm (not hot), and your yeast is fresh. Place the dough in a warm, draft-free spot like a turned-off oven with the light on.

• Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, let it rise, shape the twists, and refrigerate overnight. Just let them come to room temperature and rise before baking.

Why Dough Cinnamon Twists Are So Fun To Make

• Craft Irresistible Texture: Soft, pillowy dough meets crispy cinnamon-sugar coating, creating a delightful contrast that melts in your mouth with each delectable bite.
• Enjoy Hands-On Baking: Simple kneading and twisting techniques make this recipe perfect for baking enthusiasts of all skill levels, offering a fun and engaging cooking experience that brings joy to the kitchen.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: These cinnamon twists shine as a crowd-favorite breakfast treat, afternoon snack, or sweet dessert that pairs wonderfully with coffee, tea, or enjoyed on their own as a comforting indulgence.
• Quick Weekend Delight: With just over an hour of total preparation and baking time, these twists are an easy weekend project that delivers maximum flavor and minimal effort, making them a go-to recipe for spontaneous baking moments.

What You’ll Need For Dough Cinnamon Twists

Dough Ingredients:

• Active Dry Yeast: Helps the dough rise and creates a soft, fluffy texture. Look for fresh, unexpired yeast.
• Warm Milk: Activates the yeast and adds moisture to the dough. Use whole milk for richer flavor.

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and creates the base of the dough. Choose a high-quality, unbleached flour.
• Egg: Binds ingredients and adds richness to the dough. Use a fresh, room temperature egg.
• Salt: Enhances flavor and controls yeast growth. Use fine sea salt or kosher salt.

• Granulated Sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds sweetness. White sugar works best for this recipe.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds flavor and creates a tender texture. Use high-quality, fresh butter.

Coating Ingredients:

• Granulated Sugar, Ground Cinnamon: Creates a sweet and aromatic exterior for the twists. Use freshly ground cinnamon for the best flavor.

Optional Glaze Ingredients:

• Powdered Sugar, Milk, Vanilla Extract: Adds a sweet finishing touch to the cinnamon twists. Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.

How To Shape And Bake Dough Cinnamon Twists

Step 1: Awaken the Yeast

Pour warm milk into a spacious mixing bowl. Sprinkle yeast and a touch of sugar. Let the mixture sit quietly for several minutes until bubbles dance across the surface, signaling the yeast’s awakening.

Step 2: Create Magical Dough

• Remaining sugar
• Egg
• Melted butter
• Flour
• Salt

Blend everything into the yeast mixture. Knead the dough on a flour-dusted surface until it transforms into a smooth, elastic wonder. If a stand mixer is nearby, let its dough hook do the hard work for 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Allow Dough to Rest and Rise

Transfer the dough to a greased bowl. Drape a soft kitchen towel over it. Find a cozy, warm spot where the dough can relax and expand. Wait 1-1.5 hours while the dough doubles in size.

Step 4: Craft Cinnamon Magic Coating

In a small bowl, blend granulated sugar and fragrant ground cinnamon. Set aside another bowl with melted butter for dipping.

Step 5: Shape Delightful Twists

Gently press down the risen dough. Roll it into a rectangular canvas about 12×10 inches. Slice the dough into slender strips. Fold each strip in half, then twist dramatically to create beautiful spirals.

Step 6: Transform and Bake

Dunk each twist first into melted butter, then roll generously in cinnamon-sugar mixture. Arrange on a prepared baking sheet. Let the twists rise for another 20-30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake until they turn a gorgeous golden brown, about 12-15 minutes.

Step 7: Final Touches

For an extra indulgence, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to create a silky glaze. Drizzle over warm twists. Serve alongside a steaming mug of coffee or tea for pure comfort.

Dough Cinnamon Twists Recipe

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4.7 from 10 reviews

• Total Time: 2 hours
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Cinnamon twists dance with sweet, buttery charm in this irresistible Mexican-inspired pastry. Crisp golden spirals promise pure comfort, inviting you to savor each delightful, sugar-dusted bite.

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Ingredients

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For the Dough (Dry and Liquid Ingredients):

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

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted

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Instructions

1. Awaken the yeast by dissolving it in tepid dairy liquid, blending with a touch of sweetener. Allow the mixture to transform and become foamy, indicating active fermentation.
2. Consolidate remaining ingredients into the yeast mixture, forming a cohesive dough. Massage and manipulate the dough on a flour-dusted surface, developing its elasticity and smooth texture. Use rhythmic kneading motions to create a supple consistency.
3. Transfer the dough into a lightly oiled vessel, draping with a soft cloth. Position in a draft-free, warm environment to encourage expansion. Wait patiently until the dough doubles in volume, signaling proper proofing.
4. Craft a fragrant coating by blending granulated crystals with aromatic cinnamon. Melt butter to create a glossy dipping medium for the upcoming twists.
5. Deflate the risen dough and stretch into a rectangular canvas. Slice into slender strips, then fold and twist each piece into elegant spiral formations. Each twist should showcase intricate, intertwined layers.
6. Immerse each delicate twist first into liquid butter, then generously roll through the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Arrange on a prepared baking surface, allowing slight spacing between each piece. Let the twists undergo a final gentle rise before transforming in a preheated oven.
7. Bake until the twists achieve a golden, caramelized exterior. For an indulgent finishing touch, drizzle with a silky glaze composed of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla essence. Serve while warmth and fragrance are at their peak.

Notes

• Choose room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth dough consistency and optimal yeast activation.
• Knead the dough thoroughly to develop gluten, creating a soft and stretchy texture that helps the twists rise evenly.
• Rest the dough in a draft-free, warm area like near a preheating oven to help it rise faster and more consistently.
• Twist strips gently but firmly to create beautiful spirals that hold their shape during baking and provide maximum cinnamon-sugar coverage.
• Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially when measuring flour, to guarantee perfectly balanced dough texture.
• Experiment with alternative spices like cardamom or nutmeg for unique flavor variations that complement the classic cinnamon profile.
• For gluten-free options, substitute all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free blend and add xanthan gum for better structure.
• Store leftover twists in an airtight container and reheat briefly in the oven to restore their crispy exterior and soft interior.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 17 g
• Sodium: 120 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 20 mg