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Cinnamon Twists Recipe

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4.7 from 54 reviews

These Flaky Sweet Cinnamon Twists are a delightful pastry featuring layers of buttery, flaky dough coated with a fragrant cinnamon-sugar filling. Perfectly twisted and baked to golden perfection, they are finished with a smooth vanilla glaze that adds a luscious sweetness. A wonderful treat for breakfast, tea time, or any occasion craving a sweet, comforting snack.

Ingredients

Dough

  • 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) cold water

Filling

  • 1 tablespoon (15g) ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar

Glaze

  • 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
  • 1 teaspoon (5g) vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup (50g) powdered sugar for dusting and glaze

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and granulated sugar. Cut in the cold cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step ensures the dough will be flaky.
  2. Form the dough: Gradually add cold water while mixing until the dough just comes together. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to enhance flakiness and make it easier to roll out.
  3. Preheat the oven: Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a non-stick liner to prepare for baking.
  4. Make the filling: In a small bowl, combine the ground cinnamon and brown sugar thoroughly. This will be sprinkled over the dough for flavor.
  5. Roll out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough into a 1/4 inch thick rectangle. Ensure the dough is even to bake uniformly.
  6. Add the filling: Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the rolled-out dough, covering the entire surface.
  7. Fold and cut strips: Fold the dough lengthwise, pressing gently to seal the edges to prevent the filling from spilling out. Cut the folded dough into 1-inch wide strips.
  8. Create twists: Take each strip and twist it several times to create the signature twisted shape. Place each twist on the prepared baking sheet spaced adequately.
  9. Bake the twists: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and appear flaky. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
  10. Prepare the glaze: While the twists bake, whisk together the milk, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until smooth to make a sweet glaze.
  11. Glaze and serve: Remove the twists from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Drizzle the warm glaze generously over the twists before serving to add moisture and sweetness.

Notes

  • Ensure the butter is very cold to create the flakiest texture in the dough.
  • Chilling the dough before rolling helps prevent it from becoming tough.
  • You can substitute milk with any plant-based milk for a dairy-free option.
  • For a crunchier texture, sprinkle some coarse sugar on top before baking.
  • Twists can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat gently before serving.