Name: Cinnamon Puff Pastry Twists
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 48 min
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 1 rectangular sheet puff pastry (375 g), thawed but cold; 42 g butter (3 tbsp), melted; ⅓ cup brown sugar; 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1 egg yolk, whisked with a splash of milk or water (for egg wash); For dusting:; 1 tablespoon caster sugar; ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

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Cinnamon Puff Pastry Twists are a simple yet irresistible treat made with flaky pastry, buttery cinnamon sugar filling, and a light dusting of spiced sugar. Golden, crisp, and sweet, these twists are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an anytime snack. With just 6 ingredients and under an hour from start to finish, this recipe delivers bakery-style results with minimal effort.

Cinnamon Puff Pastry Twists

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy—only 6 ingredients
Flaky puff pastry with buttery cinnamon sugar filling
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert
Fun to make and twist into shape
Kid-friendly and great for holiday baking
Can be prepared ahead and baked fresh
Elegant presentation with little effort
Works with store-bought puff pastry
Customizable with different fillings
Light, crisp, and absolutely addictive

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 rectangular sheet puff pastry (375 g), thawed but cold
42 g butter, melted (3 tablespoons)
⅓ cup brown sugar
3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 egg yolk, whisked with a splash of milk or water (egg wash)

For dusting:
1 tablespoon caster sugar
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

directions

Prepare pan: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Make filling: In a bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until combined. If mixture hardens, microwave briefly to loosen.
Fill pastry: Lay puff pastry sheet flat. Spread cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the bottom half, leaving a 1 cm border. Fold top half over to cover filling. Seal edge with fork tines.
Cut strips: Slice pastry into 16 strips, about 1.5 cm wide. (Tip: Cut pastry in halves, then quarters, then eighths for even strips.)
Twist: Hold both ends of each strip and twist about 4 times. Place on lined baking sheet.
Chill: Freeze for 15 minutes to help hold shape.
Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush twists with egg wash. Bake 15–20 minutes, until puffed and golden.
Finish: Cool slightly. Mix caster sugar and cinnamon for dusting, then gently toss twists in mixture before serving.

Servings and timing

Yield: 16 pastries
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 48 minutes

Variations

Glazed Twists: Drizzle with vanilla or cream cheese glaze.
Chocolate Cinnamon: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips inside before twisting.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling.
Maple Sugar: Replace brown sugar with maple sugar for a different sweetness.
Apple Cinnamon: Spread a thin layer of apple butter before adding filling.
Savory Version: Skip sugar and cinnamon, and use cheese and herbs instead.
Festive Touch: Add pumpkin spice or gingerbread spice for the holidays.
Iced Twists: Dip cooled twists halfway in melted white or dark chocolate.
Mini Twists: Cut pastry into smaller strips for bite-sized treats.
Extra Crispy: Sprinkle sanding sugar on top before baking.

storage/reheating

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: Keeps up to 4 days, though best eaten fresh.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked twists for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
Reheat: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes to crisp up again.

FAQs

Can I use homemade puff pastry?

Yes, though store-bought puff pastry makes this recipe much quicker.

Do I need to chill the twists before baking?

Yes, chilling helps them hold their shape and puff up properly.

Can I use white sugar instead of brown sugar?

Yes, but brown sugar adds a richer, caramel-like flavor.

Why is my filling leaking out?

Some filling may leak, which is normal. Be sure edges are sealed well and twists are chilled before baking.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and freeze the twists, then bake directly from frozen when ready.

Do these need to be tossed in cinnamon sugar after baking?

It’s optional, but it adds extra flavor and texture.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free puff pastry available at specialty stores.

Are they best served warm or cold?

They’re best warm, but still delicious at room temperature.

Can I add a glaze instead of dusting sugar?

Absolutely. Powdered sugar glaze or cream cheese frosting works well.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use more puff pastry sheets and bake in batches.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Puff Pastry Twists are flaky, golden, and packed with warm cinnamon sugar flavor. They’re quick to prepare, fun to make, and perfect for both casual snacking and special occasions. With endless variations and make-ahead potential, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves simple yet irresistible pastries. Serve them warm, dusted with cinnamon sugar, and watch them disappear fast.