Easy Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists Recipe
If you’re craving a sweet, crispy treat that’s quick to prepare and effortlessly delicious, your search ends here with this easy Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists recipe. Combining warm cinnamon sugar and flaky, golden twists, this snack is perfect for breakfast or an anytime indulgence. Using the air fryer gives you irresistibly crunchy edges without deep-frying, making it lighter but equally satisfying. Let’s dive into this fantastic recipe that’s about to become your new go-to comfort snack!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast and fuss-free: Ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy mornings or last-minute cravings.
- Healthier indulgence: Air frying uses less oil yet delivers crispy, golden cinnamon goodness.
- Family-friendly fun: Simple steps mean kids can help or enjoy a tasty treat anytime.
- Versatile snack: Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a party appetizer.
- Minimal ingredients: Uses pantry staples that create rich, comforting flavors without hassle.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists recipe calls for just a handful of ingredients, each thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and irresistible aroma. The combination of cinnamon and sugar ensures the perfect balance of sweet and spice, while the dough provides a light, flaky base for that signature twist.
- Puff pastry sheets: Light and flaky, the perfect canvas for twisting and crisping beautifully in the air fryer.
- Cinnamon sugar: A warming blend of ground cinnamon and granulated sugar that coats each twist for ultimate flavor.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps the cinnamon sugar stick, creating a caramelized, golden crust.
- Optional glaze (powdered sugar and milk): For a sweet finishing touch that adds shine and extra indulgence.
Variations for Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists
One of the best parts about this Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists recipe is how easy it is to customize according to your flavor preferences or dietary needs. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make it your own with these simple tweaks.
- Nutty delight: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before air frying for extra crunch and flavor.
- Chocolate twist: Add mini chocolate chips inside the twists or drizzle melted chocolate after cooking.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free puff pastry sheets available in most grocery stores.
- Spiced sugar blend: Mix cinnamon with nutmeg or cardamom for a subtle twist on the classic flavor.
- Vegan swap: Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine to keep it dairy-free without losing richness.
How to Make Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists
Step 1: Prepare the puff pastry
Start by thawing your puff pastry sheets according to package instructions to ensure they’re pliable but still cold, which helps create those flaky layers during cooking.
Step 2: Mix cinnamon sugar
In a small bowl, combine ground cinnamon with granulated sugar. Stir well to evenly blend the spices, this mixture will generously coat your twists.
Step 3: Brush butter and sprinkle sugar
Lightly melt the butter and brush it over the surface of each pastry sheet. Immediately sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the butter for a sticky, flavorful coating.
Step 4: Cut and twist
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the pastry sheets into strips about 1 inch wide. Carefully twist each strip several times to create that signature spiral shape.
Step 5: Air fry the twists
Place the cinnamon twists in a single layer inside your air fryer basket without overlapping. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes or until the twists turn golden and crispy.
Step 6: Optional glaze and serve
If you like, whisk powdered sugar with a splash of milk to create a simple glaze. Drizzle over warm twists before serving for extra sweetness and a shiny finish.
Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists
- Keep pastry cold: Cold dough helps maintain flaky layers and prevents sticking during twisting.
- Don’t overcrowd: Arrange twists in a single layer with space so they crisp evenly.
- Adjust sweetness: Customize the cinnamon sugar quantity based on your taste preference.
- Use parchment paper: Cut parchment to fit your air fryer basket for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Watch cooking time closely: Air fryer models vary, so check early to avoid over-browning.
How to Serve Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists
Garnishes
Garnish your cinnamon twists with a dusting of powdered sugar, a light drizzle of glaze, or even a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture and eye appeal.
Side Dishes
Pair these twists with a cup of hot coffee, chai tea, or a creamy latte for a cozy breakfast. They also shine alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve cinnamon twists in a charming bread basket lined with a colorful napkin or stack them on a tiered dessert stand for a festive brunch spread that invites sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This preserves their crispiness and flavor for easy snacking later.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked, twisted pastries on a lined tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready, air fry straight from frozen but increase cooking time by a few minutes.
Reheating
Reheat cinnamon twists in the air fryer at 320°F (160°C) for 3-5 minutes to regain their crisp texture without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use homemade dough instead of puff pastry?
Absolutely! Homemade puff pastry or any flaky dough works well, though store-bought puff pastry saves time and guarantees consistent flakiness.
Is air frying better than baking for cinnamon twists?
Air frying cooks twists faster and creates a crispier exterior with less oil, making it a healthier and quicker alternative to conventional baking.
Can I make these twists vegan?
Yes, simply substitute butter with a plant-based spread or coconut oil and ensure your puff pastry does not contain animal products.
How do I prevent the twists from sticking in the air fryer?
Using parchment paper or lightly spraying the air fryer basket with oil helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
What if my air fryer is small? Can I cook in batches?
Definitely! Cook the twists in batches without overcrowding to ensure each piece crisps evenly and achieves that perfect golden texture.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you make these Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists, they’ll quickly become a favorite treat in your home. Their simple ingredients and speedy preparation make them an irresistible pick for breakfast or snack time. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy warm, crispy cinnamon-sugar goodness any day of the week!
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Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists
Easy and quick Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists combine flaky puff pastry with a warm cinnamon sugar coating for a crispy, golden treat. Perfect for breakfast or snack time, these twists are made healthier with air frying, delivering irresistible crunch without deep-frying. Minimal ingredients and simple steps make this recipe a family-friendly favorite that can be customized with nuts, chocolate, or vegan options.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
- Total Time: 18-20 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 cinnamon twists 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Cinnamon Twists
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
Optional Glaze
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
Optional Add-ins
- Chopped pecans or walnuts (to sprinkle)
- Mini chocolate chips (to add inside twists)
Instructions
- Prepare the puff pastry: Thaw puff pastry sheets according to package instructions until pliable but still cold to preserve flaky layers when cooked.
- Mix cinnamon sugar: In a small bowl, combine ground cinnamon and granulated sugar, stirring well to blend evenly.
- Brush butter and sprinkle sugar: Lightly melt the butter and brush it over the surface of the pastry sheet. Immediately sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the butter for a sticky, flavorful coating.
- Cut and twist: Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the pastry sheet into strips about 1 inch wide. Carefully twist each strip several times to create spirals.
- Air fry the twists: Place the cinnamon twists in a single layer inside the air fryer basket without overlapping. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes or until golden and crispy.
- Optional glaze and serve: Whisk powdered sugar with a splash of milk to make a simple glaze. Drizzle over warm twists before serving for extra sweetness and a shiny finish.
Notes
- Keep pastry cold before twisting to maintain flaky layers and prevent sticking.
- Arrange twists in a single layer with space to ensure even crisping; cook in batches if needed.
- Adjust the amount of cinnamon sugar to your preferred sweetness level.
- Use parchment paper cut to fit your air fryer basket to avoid sticking and ease cleanup.
- Air fryer models vary; monitor the twists closely near the end of cooking to avoid over-browning.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 twist
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Air fryer, cinnamon twists, puff pastry, cinnamon sugar, quick snack, breakfast treat, crispy twists, healthier dessert