Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists

Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists

Introduction
There’s something instantly comforting about the smell of warming cinnamon and butter — it wraps around you like a cozy blanket. These Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists emerge from the basket golden, crisp on the outside with delicate, flaky layers inside that melt on the tongue. The sugar caramelizes just enough to give a crackly edge, while the cinnamon adds an aromatic warmth that lingers. Serve one hot and you’ll feel an effortless smile spread: sweet, simple, and exactly what your morning (or mid-afternoon) needs.

This recipe is perfect for lazy weekend breakfasts, last-minute brunches, and holiday gatherings where you want a bakery-style treat without the fuss. They’re fast enough for weekday indulgence and impressive enough for guests. If you like experimenting with air-fried snacks, you might also enjoy the texture play in this air-fryer banana chips, which makes crisping fruit a breeze.

At a Glance

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8–10 minutes (per batch)
• Total Time: ~20 minutes (including preheat and brief cooling)
• Servings: 6 twists (adjustable)
• Difficulty Level: Easy — great for beginners

Nutrition Highlights
Estimated nutrition per serving (1 twist). Values are approximate and were calculated using USDA FoodData Central values for puff pastry, granulated sugar, and egg, and standard portion sizes. For general dietary guidance, consult sources like the CDC or Mayo Clinic.

• Calories: ~245 kcal
• Protein: ~3.3 g
• Carbohydrates: ~21 g
• Fat: ~16.5 g
• Saturated Fat: ~7 g
• Fiber: ~0.5 g
• Sugar: ~10 g
  Note: These values assume one standard sheet of puff pastry (approx. 227 g), 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp cinnamon, and 1 large egg for wash, divided into six servings. Actual values depend on the brand of puff pastry and exact portion sizes.

Why You’ll Love It
The strongest reason to make these cinnamon twists is the sensory payoff: the aroma of cinnamon and buttery pastry makes any kitchen feel like a bakery. They’re also delightfully easy — assembling and air-frying takes minutes, so you get a fresh-baked experience without an all-day commitment. Serve them for cozy family breakfasts, as a sweet snack for a game night, or plate them at holiday brunch alongside other warm flavors. The simple ingredient list also makes them an approachable recipe to customize for dietary preferences.

How to Make Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists
Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed, about 227 g)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (50 g)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 large egg (for egg wash)
• Cooking spray (for air fryer basket)

Optional ingredients and substitutions:

• Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar (1:1) for a slightly deeper flavor.
• Use a plant-based egg wash alternative (aquafaba) for a vegan-friendly sheen — note this changes nutrition slightly.
• Add 1 tablespoon melted butter brushed on after air-frying for extra richness.
• For a lower-sugar version, reduce sugar to 2–3 tablespoons and dust lightly after baking.

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. On a lightly floured surface, unroll the puff pastry and roll gently to remove fold lines, if any. Cut the sheet into 6 equal strips (or 12 thinner strips for more twists).
3. In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon until evenly combined.
4. Lightly brush each strip with a bit of water or melted butter so the cinnamon sugar adheres, then sprinkle or press the cinnamon-sugar mixture onto each strip until coated.
5. Take each coated strip and twist it several times (holding both ends) to form a spiral, then place the twists in the air fryer basket with a little space between them.
6. Beat the egg and brush a light egg wash over each twist for shine and color.
7. Lightly spray the twists with cooking spray to help achieve a golden exterior, then air fry for about 8–10 minutes until puffed and golden brown. Check at 7 minutes — air fryer models vary.
8. Remove carefully and let cool slightly (2–3 minutes) before serving so the sugar sets and you avoid burning.

Practical tips:

• Avoid overfilling the basket; cook in batches if necessary to keep the twists crisp.
• If your puff pastry is very cold, let it warm for a few minutes so it’s easier to twist without cracking.
• Rotate the basket or flip halfway through cooking if your air fryer has hot spots.
• Watch closely the last 2 minutes — sugar can darken quickly.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm, plain, as a portable sweet treat.
• Brush lightly with melted butter and dust with extra cinnamon sugar for an extra glossy finish.
• Offer a side of cream cheese glaze or vanilla icing for dipping.
• Pair with coffee, chai, or hot chocolate for a cozy breakfast or afternoon pick-me-up.
• For a spirited brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit and yogurt.

Looking for another simple air-fryer fruit pairing? Try these crisp apple bites in this air-fryer apple chips recipe for a complementary texture contrast.

How to Store

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1–2 days; texture is best when eaten the same day.
• Refrigeration: Up to 4 days in an airtight container; re-crisp in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes at 300°F.
• Freezer: Freeze unglazed twists on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the air fryer at 320°F for 4–6 minutes.

Pro Tips & Tricks

• Use high-quality puff pastry (all-butter if possible) for the best flavor and flakiness. Brands can vary dramatically in texture and fat content.
• Light egg wash promotes an even mahogany color; if skipping egg, try a light milk or plant-based milk wash.
• To ensure even caramelization, press the cinnamon-sugar firmly on the strips rather than sprinkling lightly.
• If twists are puffing too much and not browning, brush a touch more egg wash and increase heat by 10–15°F for the final 1–2 minutes.

Delicious Variations

• Cream Cheese Dip Twist: Serve with a simple dip of cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla for a tangy contrast.
• Maple-Pecan Twist: Mix 2 tbsp maple sugar (or brown sugar) into the cinnamon blend and sprinkle chopped toasted pecans on top before air-frying.
• Vegan Twist: Use vegan puff pastry and swap the egg wash for aquafaba (chickpea water) or plant-based milk; use coconut sugar if preferred.
• Chocolate-Dusted Twist: After air-frying, drizzle melted dark chocolate or dust with cocoa powder for a decadent finish.

Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen puff pastry straight from the freezer?
A: It’s best to thaw puff pastry in the refrigerator per package directions so it’s pliable for cutting and twisting. Partially frozen pastry may crack when twisted.

Q: My twists are soggy on the bottom — how can I fix that?
A: Avoid overcrowding the basket, and ensure your air fryer is preheated. Re-crisp soggy twists at 300–320°F for 2–4 minutes.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Assemble the twists and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before air-frying, or freeze raw twists and bake from frozen (add a minute or two to cooking time).

Q: How do I make them lower in sugar?
A: Reduce the sugar amount in the cinnamon mix to 2–3 tablespoons or use a sugar substitute suitable for baking, keeping in mind some substitutes affect browning.

Conclusion

These Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists are a fast, comforting treat that deliver bakery-style flavor with minimal effort — perfect for cozy mornings or serving to guests. If you want some inspiration for a cream-cheese dipping option, check out this Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists with Cream Cheese Dip – Simply Stacie. For another take on cinnamon-sugar air-fryer pastries and a slightly different technique, see the helpful guide at Cinnamon Sugar Twists in the Air-Fryer — Helping of Happiness.

Give this recipe a try, snap a photo, and share your version — I’d love to see how you customize your twists. Happy twisting and happy tasting!