Cinnamon Twists Better Than Donuts: Flaky, Irresistible Delight

There’s something irresistible about warm pastry that cracks into flaky layers and fills the kitchen with the spice-sweet perfume of cinnamon. These Cinnamon Twists Better Than Donuts deliver that exact moment: the first steam-scented bite that’s crispy on the outside, buttery and airy inside, dusted in cinnamon-sugar that snaps with a little crunch and melts into a tender ribbon of pastry. Picture a cozy morning with light filtering in, a steaming mug of coffee in hand, and a plate piled high — that’s the mood this recipe creates.

These twists are perfect for weekend breakfasts, last-minute brunches, festive brunch spreads, or an elevated snack to take to gatherings. They come together quickly with store-bought puff pastry yet taste indulgent enough for guests. If you want a bright, fruity counterpoint, try pairing one of your batches with the classic Better-Than-Sex Fruit Salad recipe for a balanced breakfast plate.

Dish Snapshot

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (active)
• Cook Time: 12–16 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes (including brief chilling/warming)
• Servings: 8 twists (serves 4–8 depending on appetite)
• Difficulty Level: Easy — perfect for beginners

Nutrition Highlights

Estimated nutrition per serving (1 twist, recipe makes 8):

• Calories: ~230 kcal
• Protein: ~2.8 g
• Carbohydrates: ~19 g
• Fat: ~14.5 g
• Fiber: ~0.5–1 g
• Sodium: ~120–180 mg

Notes on these numbers: this is an estimate calculated using government nutrient profiles (USDA FoodData Central) for puff pastry, butter, granulated sugar, and egg. Values will vary slightly depending on the brand and whether you add a glaze. If you omit the optional egg wash and powdered sugar, calories and sugar will be marginally lower. For authoritative dietary guidance, see resources from the USDA and Mayo Clinic on portion sizes and balanced indulgence.

Why You’ll Love It

• Aroma-first comfort: The smell of butter and toasted cinnamon baking in the oven is a mood lifter—comfort food that feels nostalgic and luxurious at once.
• Quick-to-impress: With a single sheet of ready-made puff pastry, you’ll transform pantry staples into something that tastes bakery-made, without long dough-resting times.
• Social and shareable: These twists are great for morning gatherings, school events, and potlucks; they’re easy to transport and disappear fast.
• Flexible indulgence: Light enough for breakfast, decadent enough alongside a dessert spread—adaptable for many occasions and seasons.

How to Make Cinnamon Twists Better Than Donuts: Flaky, Irresistible Delight

Ingredients

• 1 sheet Puff Pastry (Opt for pre-made puff pastry from the frozen section. Thaw according to package directions.)
• 2 tablespoons Butter (Melted; can substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.)
• 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (Can use coconut sugar for a less refined alternative.)
• 1 tablespoon Ground Cinnamon (Use freshly ground for better aroma.)
• 1 Egg (Optional; for egg wash to deepen color and shine.)
• 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Optional; for a glaze; can omit for less sweetness.)

Optional ingredients & substitutions:

• Use coconut oil or vegan butter in place of butter for a dairy-free twist.
• Swap granulated sugar for brown sugar for a deeper molasses note.
• Add a pinch of ground cardamom or nutmeg to the cinnamon-sugar for extra warmth.
• For gluten-free, use a specialty puff pastry alternative (bake times and texture will vary).

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. If using frozen puff pastry, work with it cold but pliable (briefly thawed on the counter).
2. In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until evenly combined. Set aside.
3. Lightly brush a clean work surface with a dusting of flour and unroll the puff pastry sheet into a roughly rectangular shape. If it’s too stiff, let it sit for 5 minutes at room temperature — still cool but workable.
4. Brush the entire surface of the pastry with the melted butter (reserve about 1 teaspoon for brushing after twisting).
5. Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered surface. Gently press the sugar into the pastry with the palm of your hand or a rolling pin — don’t roll aggressively.
6. Fold the pastry in half lengthwise (bringing the long edges together) so the sugar is sandwiched inside. Press seam lightly to seal.
7. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, trim the edges for a clean rectangle, then cut the pastry into 8 long strips (for 8 twists). If you prefer smaller twists, cut into 12.
8. Take each strip: hold each end, twist in opposite directions 4–6 times to make a spiral. Place each twist on the prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart. Brush the tops with the reserved melted butter. If using egg wash, beat the egg and brush lightly for a glossy finish.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 12–16 minutes or until golden brown and puffed. Rotate the tray once halfway through baking for even color.
10. Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes. If you want a glaze, mix powdered sugar with 1–2 tablespoons of milk (or water) until smooth and drizzle over warm twists. Allow glaze to set for about 10 minutes before serving.

Practical tips:

• Keep the pastry cool until baking — warm pastry spreads and won’t puff as much.
• Don’t overload the cinnamon-sugar; a thin even layer gives the best texture without sogginess.
• Watch the final minutes of baking closely; puff pastry browns quickly.

Best Pairings

• Simple pairings: Serve warm, plain or with a light dusting of powdered sugar. A pat of butter on a warm twist is decadently simple.
• Beverages: Excellent with black coffee, cappuccino, chai, or a robust black tea. For a festive touch, serve alongside hot apple cider.
• Sweet-savory pairing: Add a small plate of sliced cheeses and seasonal fruit to contrast the sweetness. For a fruity complement, try serving with a bright fruit salad such as the classic Better-Than-Sex Fruit Salad.
• Dessert board: Include alongside donuts, muffins, or scones for a brunch buffet.

Storing Leftovers

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Re-crisp in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes before serving.
• Refrigeration: Not recommended for long-term storage—puff pastry can soften in the fridge. If necessary, store in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven to revive flakiness.
• Freezer: Freeze unglazed twists in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Freeze up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen in a 375°F oven for 10–12 minutes until heated through and crisp.

Chef’s Advice

• Temperature control is everything: Cold butter in the pastry creates steam pockets that give lift. If the butter in your pastry softens before baking, pop the tray in the fridge for 10–15 minutes.
• Uniform strips = even baking: Cut strips as evenly as possible so each twist bakes at the same rate.
• Don’t smother in sugar: Too much sugar inside can melt and make the center soggy; aim for a thin, even layer.
• Egg wash optional: It gives shine and color, but skipping it keeps the twist dairy-free (if you used plant-based butter).
• Use a sharp cutter: A clean cut makes neater twists that rise more evenly.

Creative Twists

• Maple Pecan Twists: Substitute half the sugar with brown sugar and sprinkle chopped toasted pecans on top before baking. Finish with a thin maple glaze.
• Apple-Cinnamon Fold: Thinly slice one tart apple and layer a single line of slices along the pastry before folding and cutting — bake slightly longer and dust with powdered sugar.
• Chocolate Hazelnut: Spread 1–2 tablespoons of chocolate-hazelnut spread over the pastry before sprinkling the cinnamon-sugar. Twist as directed for a decadent treat.
• Vegan option: Use vegan puff pastry and melted coconut oil or vegan margarine; skip egg wash and use a simple syrup (1 tsp sugar + 1 tsp water) to add shine if desired.
• Savory herb twist: For an unconventional savory take, replace the cinnamon-sugar with grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped rosemary and coarse black pepper.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: You can assemble the twists and freeze them unbaked for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the time.

Q: My twists came out soggy in the middle—what happened?
A: Likely too much filling or the pastry was too warm before baking. Keep pastry cold and use a light dusting of cinnamon-sugar.

Q: Can I use croissant dough instead of puff pastry?
A: Yes — croissant dough will work and produce a slightly different, flakier texture, but baking times may vary.

Q: How do I make them less sweet?
A: Omit the powdered sugar glaze and reduce the sugar in the filling (try 2–3 tablespoons instead of 1/4 cup).

Q: Are these suitable for kids’ lunches?
A: Yes—cut into smaller twists and wrap securely. Consider keeping glaze separate for a cooler day.

Conclusion

These Cinnamon Twists Better Than Donuts are proof that a few thoughtful pantry staples can create magic: flaky layers, buttery warmth, and a cozy spice that wins people over. Try the base recipe, then have fun experimenting with the variations—share your photos and notes with friends and family, and watch these disappear at every gathering. If you ever want a quick bakery alternative, you can also order fresh donuts online from Crown Donuts for comparison. For more ideas to expand your brunch repertoire, browse the recipe index at Simply Savored Recipes.