If you have a sweet tooth but want a quick treat that feels homemade and special, look no further than this Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists Recipe. These golden, flaky twists are bursting with cinnamon sugar goodness, thanks to simple ingredients combined in a clever way. The air fryer ensures they turn out crisp on the outside yet tender inside, making every bite a delight. Whether it’s a cozy afternoon snack or an easy dessert to impress friends, these cinnamon twists bring a perfect balance of buttery richness and sweet spice that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role, from the flaky puff pastry that gives structure and crunch, to the cinnamon sugar that provides warmth and sweetness. The few additions you need are easy to find and combine effortlessly to create a dessert that tastes much more involved than it really is.
- Puff pastry sheet (thawed): Provides the light, airy layers that puff up beautifully and create that irresistible flaky texture.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Adds rich flavor and helps the cinnamon sugar stick perfectly to the pastry surface.
- Granulated sugar: Gives sweetness and pairs perfectly with cinnamon to create that classic flavor combo.
- Ground cinnamon: The star spice that gives warmth, aroma, and a little kick to the twists.
- Vanilla extract (optional): Adds subtle depth and rounds out the cinnamon’s flavor with a mellow sweetness.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness for a more complex taste.
How to Make Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, lightly flour a clean surface to roll and unfold your puff pastry sheet—this prevents sticking and ensures easy handling when you’re spreading your cinnamon sugar mix.
Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This simple blend is what transforms plain pastry into irresistible cinnamon twists, so take a moment to enjoy the cozy aroma it creates.
Step 3: Butter and Sprinkle
Brush the melted butter evenly over the entire surface of the puff pastry. This step is crucial because it not only helps the cinnamon sugar adhere but also adds a buttery richness that enhances every bite. Then sprinkle your cinnamon sugar mixture liberally across the buttered pastry, making sure every corner is covered.
Step 4: Fold and Seal
Gently fold the puff pastry in half lengthwise, pressing lightly to seal the edges together. This folding keeps the cinnamon sugar tucked inside and creates layers that twist beautifully and hold their shape during cooking.
Step 5: Cut and Twist
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the folded pastry into 1-inch wide strips. Then, take each strip and twist it several times to create those charming spirals. These twists not only look delightful but allow for crispy edges and soft centers.
Step 6: Air Fry to Perfection
Place a few twists in your air fryer basket, making sure to leave space so hot air can circulate and crisp them evenly. Air fry for 6 to 8 minutes until the twists are a gorgeous golden brown and delightfully crisp. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to cook them in batches.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Let your cinnamon twists cool slightly before digging in. This resting time helps them firm up a bit, but they’re still best enjoyed warm, tasting fresh and flaky.
How to Serve Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists Recipe, consider a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of vanilla glaze or melted white chocolate. These little touches provide a lovely contrast to the cinnamon sugar and add a hint of sweetness that feels indulgent without being overwhelming.
Side Dishes
Pair these twists with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a cold glass of milk for a comforting snack. They also complement creamy desserts like vanilla ice cream or custard beautifully, creating a warm and cool contrast that’s simply divine.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your cinnamon twists on a pretty platter lined with parchment paper or arrange them in a spiral on a cake stand for a festive touch. If you’re treating guests, add small bowls of dipping sauces like caramel or Nutella to transform these simple twists into an interactive dessert experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any cinnamon twists left over, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep their crunch and avoid moisture buildup.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked twisted strips by placing them on a tray in a single layer and freezing until solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag and cook them from frozen in the air fryer, adding a minute or two to the cooking time for a fresh-baked treat anytime you crave.
Reheating
Reheat leftover twists in the air fryer for 2 to 3 minutes at 350°F to regain that fresh-baked crispiness. This method is much better than microwaving, which can make them soggy and less enjoyable.
FAQs
Can I use frozen puff pastry right from the freezer?
It’s best to thaw puff pastry fully before using to ensure it unfolds easily and cooks evenly. Trying to work with frozen pastry can lead to uneven layers and tearing.
Is it okay to skip the butter in this recipe?
The melted butter adds essential flavor and helps the cinnamon sugar stick to the pastry. Skipping it might lead to dry, less flavorful twists, so it’s definitely recommended.
Can I make these cinnamon twists without an air fryer?
Yes, these can be baked in a conventional oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 12 to 15 minutes or until golden. Just keep an eye on them as bake times can vary.
How spicy is the cinnamon flavor in these twists?
The cinnamon adds a warm, aromatic sweetness rather than heat, making these treats cozy and inviting without being overpowering.
Can I add other spices or flavors to the cinnamon sugar mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or even a little cocoa powder to customize your Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists Recipe to your liking.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists Recipe is a shining example of how a handful of simple ingredients and a clever cooking method come together to create something truly special. Whether you’re craving a quick sweet snack or a crowd-pleasing dessert, these twists deliver warm, buttery cinnamon goodness that’s impossible not to love. Do yourself a favor and try making these delightful treats soon—you’ll wonder why you didn’t discover them sooner!
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Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 twists
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these easy and crispy Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists made from flaky puff pastry, coated with a cinnamon-sugar mixture and perfectly golden-baked in your air fryer. An ideal quick dessert or sweet snack that’s both visually appealing and irresistibly tasty.
Ingredients
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Topping
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Begin by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) ensuring it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the twists evenly.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Lightly flour a clean surface and unfold the thawed sheet of puff pastry carefully to avoid tearing. This prepares the base for the cinnamon sugar topping.
- Mix Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
- Coat the Pastry: Using a brush, evenly coat the entire surface of the puff pastry with the melted butter. Then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture uniformly over the buttered surface. Optionally, brush with vanilla extract for enhanced flavor.
- Fold and Seal: Fold the pastry in half lengthwise and gently press down to seal the edges together, which helps hold the filling while twisting.
- Cut and Twist: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the folded pastry into 1-inch wide strips. Take each strip and twist it several times to create the signature twist shape.
- Arrange in Air Fryer Basket: Place a few twists into the air fryer basket, making sure to leave enough space between them for air circulation to achieve crispy results.
- Air Fry: Cook the twists for 6–8 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crisp. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
- Repeat: Air fry the remaining twists in batches following the same method.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cinnamon twists to cool slightly before serving for the best texture and flavor enjoyment.
Notes
- For extra indulgence, drizzle vanilla glaze or melted white chocolate over the twists after baking.
- Enjoy these cinnamon twists warm for optimal flavor and texture.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
