There’s something heartwarming about the sight of fresh pastries puffing up in the oven, filling the air with a sweet, cinnamon-kissed aroma that wraps around you like a warm hug. I stumbled upon the idea for these Warm Cinnamon Crescent Twists on a cozy Sunday morning, while searching for a way to brighten up a lazy brunch. Combining the flaky tenderness of refrigerated crescent dough with a gooey cinnamon-sugar filling, these twists are not only delightfully easy to make but also provide that comforting flavor we all crave.
As the first bites melt in your mouth, you’ll find yourself in a state of bliss, making them the perfect treat for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert. The best part? With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a batch of these delightful pastries in a flash, impressing family and friends with barely any fuss. So, let’s dive into this scrumptious journey and transform a simple dough into a cozy delight you’ll want to enjoy every day!
Why You’ll Love Warm Cinnamon Crescent Twists
Comforting Indulgence: Each bite of these twists delivers a warm sensation that envelops your senses, perfect for cozy mornings.
Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy freshly baked pastries in under 30 minutes, making weekday breakfasts a breeze!
Flaky Goodness: The store-bought crescent dough yields a perfectly flaky texture that pairs beautifully with the gooey cinnamon filling.
Versatile Option: Feel free to customize the filling – swap in nuts or chocolate for a delightful twist!
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family brunch or a gathering with friends, these pastries will have everyone coming back for more. For more pantry-staple inspiration, check out my collection of simple recipes.
Warm Cinnamon Crescent Twists Ingredients
For the Pastry
• Crescent Roll Dough – This pre-made dough is the star, providing the flaky base that takes center stage.
• Unsalted Butter – Melted for brushing, it adds a rich moisture that enhances the pastry experience.
For the Filling
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the filling; feel free to swap with brown sugar for a richer flavor.
• Ground Cinnamon – Essential for that warm, inviting spice; there’s no substitute for that classic taste!
For the Glaze (Optional)
• Powdered Sugar – This powdered sweetness adds that perfect finishing touch. Omit if you prefer a less sweet treat.
• Milk or Cream – Helps achieve the desired glaze consistency; adjust to your preference.
• Vanilla Extract – A splash enhances the overall sweetness and depth of flavor for your Warm Cinnamon Crescent Twists.
How to Make Warm Cinnamon Crescent Twists
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
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Prepare the Dough: Gently unroll the crescent dough. Pinch the perforations in the dough to create four solid rectangles, ensuring a good seal for your delightful pastries.
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Add Butter and Cinnamon Sugar: Brush melted butter generously over each rectangle. Sprinkle cinnamon-sugar on two of the rectangles, then place the remaining two rectangles on top to create tasty sandwiches.
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Slice and Twist: With a sharp knife, cut each sandwich into 4 long strips. Give each strip a twist to create that iconic spiral shape, then arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
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Bake: Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they’re golden brown and puffed to perfection!
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Glaze (Optional): While the twists are baking, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla in a bowl. Once the twists are out of the oven, drizzle this luscious glaze over them for that extra touch of sweetness.
Optional: Serve warm with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon sugar for an extra dash of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Warm Cinnamon Crescent Twists
- Room Temperature: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
- Fridge: If you wish to keep them longer, they can be refrigerated for up to 4 days, but the texture may slightly change.
- Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the unglazed twists in a single layer; they will last up to 2 months. Wrap each twist tightly to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheating: To enjoy their flakiness again, reheat the twists in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, bringing them back to their warm, gooey goodness.
What to Serve with Warm Cinnamon Crescent Twists?
There’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting aroma of fresh pastries filling your kitchen; let’s complement that cozy feeling with perfect pairings.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: The bright, juicy flavors of a fruit salad provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet, gooey twists, creating a balanced breakfast.
- Rich Coffee: A steaming cup of coffee enhances the cinnamon flavor, grounding the sweetness while adding a delightful bitterness.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: For an indulgent dessert, serve a warm twist alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, allowing the gooey filling to melt into creamy bliss.
- Herbal Tea: The soothing notes of chamomile or mint tea make for a gentle pairing, perfect for an afternoon treat with a cultural touch.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries pairs beautifully, providing a delicious crunch alongside the delicate twists.
- Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent twist, drizzle a bit of melted dark chocolate over the warm pastries for a rich finish that excites the palate.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: Pair your twists with a sweet cream cheese frosting dip for an extra boost of creamy sweetness and a touch of luxurious decadence.
- Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel sauce adds a rich, buttery flavor that complements the cinnamon while offering a lovely contrast in textures.
- Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing glass of bubbly lemonade provides a zesty kick, brightening the sweetness and making brunch feel festive.
Expert Tips for Warm Cinnamon Crescent Twists
- Perfect Sealing: Seal the edges tightly by pinching them together; this prevents the twists from separating and leaking during baking.
- Generous Cinnamon Sugar: Use a good amount of cinnamon sugar for enhanced flavor, but avoid overfilling to keep the twists intact.
- Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the oven; bake until just golden brown to ensure your twists are perfectly cooked, not burnt.
- Cool Dough Caution: If the dough becomes too warm while prepping, refrigerate it briefly before twisting to maintain its structure for the best Warm Cinnamon Crescent Twists.
- Glazing Tip: Drizzle the glaze while the twists are still warm; this helps it stick better and adds a beautiful finish to your pastries.
Warm Cinnamon Crescent Twists Variations
Feel free to mix things up and create your own dreamy take on these delightful pastries!
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Savory Twists: Omit cinnamon and sugar; fill the dough with cheese and herbs for a delicious cheesy treat. Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite combination!
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Nutty Flavor: Add finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon-sugar filling for a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the dough.
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Chocolate Indulgence: Swap cinnamon for cocoa powder and fill with chocolate chips for a rich, dessert-like twist. This option is guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth!
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Fruit-Filled: Layer in sliced apples or pears with your cinnamon-sugar for a fruity variation that brings a burst of freshness to each bite. The fruit caramelizes nicely while baking, adding a lovely flavor.
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Maple Glaze: Substitute powdered sugar with maple syrup in the glaze for a warm, sweet finish that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
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Orange Zest: Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the cinnamon-sugar filling for a refreshing citrus kick. This twist brightens up the flavor profile while keeping it cozy.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crescent dough for a version everyone can enjoy, preserving that desired flaky goodness without sacrificing taste.
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Add Spice: For a little heat, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeño with the cinnamon-sugar. The warmth is unexpectedly delightful!
Make Ahead Options
These Warm Cinnamon Crescent Twists are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can assemble the twists up to 24 hours in advance by following the first four steps of the recipe, then cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This not only allows the flavors to meld but also ensures they maintain their flakiness when baked. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply preheat your oven and bake the chilled twists as directed. For an extra touch, whip up the glaze while they bake, drizzling it over the warm pastries just before serving. Enjoy fresh, cozy treats with minimal last-minute effort!
Warm Cinnamon Crescent Twists Recipe FAQs
What type of crescent roll dough should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using refrigerated store-bought crescent roll dough for the best results. It provides that signature flaky texture and is convenient for a quick baking option. You can often find it near the biscuits in the grocery store.
How long can I store Warm Cinnamon Crescent Twists?
You can store your twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, place them in the refrigerator where they will stay fresh for up to 4 days, but expect some texture changes.
Can I freeze these pastries?
Yes, you can freeze the unglazed Warm Cinnamon Crescent Twists! I suggest laying them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then wrapping each twist tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
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What should I do if my twists are leaking filling while baking?
Very! If you find that your twists are leaking, it’s likely because they were overfilled or the edges weren’t sealed well enough. Next time, use less filling and ensure you pinch the edges tightly to create a good seal. If they do leak, just place a sheet of parchment paper under them in the oven to catch any drippings.
Are Warm Cinnamon Crescent Twists safe for people with nut allergies?
Great question! The original recipe is nut-free, but if you’re considering add-ins like nuts, it’s wise to skip those if serving someone with a nut allergy. Always read ingredient labels to ensure there are no hidden allergens, especially when it comes to pre-made dough.
How can I make these twists vegan-friendly?
You can absolutely make a vegan version! Substitute the crescent roll dough with a plant-based version and use vegan butter instead of unsalted butter. Replace the milk in the glaze with your favorite plant-based milk and you’ll have a delightful vegan treat everyone can enjoy!
Warm Cinnamon Crescent Twists: Your Daily Cozy Indulgence
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Gently unroll the crescent dough and pinch together the perforations to create solid rectangles.
- Brush melted butter over each rectangle and sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar on two of the rectangles.
- Place the remaining rectangles on top to create sandwiches, slice them into strips, and twist.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
- Optional: Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for the glaze and drizzle over the twists after baking.