Oh, these glorious mornings! As a mom of three, I live for those moments when the house slowly wakes up, and the aroma of something sweet and comforting fills the air. It’s like a warm hug, a promise of a good day to come.
For me, food is love, and nothing says love quite like a batch of freshly baked treats. That’s why I adore these Baked Cinnamon Twists with Crescent Rolls. They are pure magic!
I remember one Saturday morning, chaos reigned – spilled cereal, a missing shoe, the usual. Then, I pulled these golden, sugary twists out of the oven. Suddenly, little faces brightened, arguments ceased, and everyone gathered around the kitchen island, eyes wide with anticipation.
These simple cinnamon twists transformed a busy morning into a beautiful memory. It’s truly incredible how a few pantry staples, especially those versatile crescent rolls, can create such joy. These baked cinnamon crescent rolls are a staple in my kitchen for a reason, offering comfort and deliciousness without fuss. They’re a testament to how easy, simple ingredients can make the most heartwarming treats.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You need this recipe in your life, plain and simple! These Baked Cinnamon Twists with Crescent Rolls are incredibly easy to make, calling for just a handful of ingredients you likely already have on hand. First, they are unbelievably quick.
From prep to plate, you’re looking at less than 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy mornings or an impromptu sweet craving. Second, the flavor is phenomenal – a warm, gooey cinnamon-sugar filling encased in flaky, buttery crescent roll pastry, all finished with a sweet vanilla glaze. Each bite of these delightful cinnamon twists transports you to a cozy bakery.
Third, this recipe is a universal crowd-pleaser. Kids adore them, adults devour them, and they always disappear fast. They make any breakfast feel special, elevate a brunch spread, or provide a perfect afternoon pick-me-up.
If you love quick, satisfying, and utterly delicious treats, these cinnamon crescent rolls will become your new go-to. They truly deliver on comfort and flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for these easy Baked Cinnamon Twists with Crescent Rolls is a breeze. Most items are pantry staples, ready to transform into something truly delicious. Here’s what you need to create these fantastic crescent roll twists:
- 1 (8-ounce) can refrigerated crescent rolls (such as Pillsbury Original Crescent Rolls)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (any kind)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Substitutions & Variations
One of my favorite things about these Baked Cinnamon Twists with Crescent Rolls is their versatility! You can easily adapt them to suit your taste or what you have available. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make these cinnamon twists truly your own.
For instance, if you don’t have brown sugar, you can use granulated sugar, though brown sugar adds a lovely depth and chewiness. Instead of unsalted butter, salted butter works fine; just reduce any added salt in the recipe if you’re sensitive to it. Want to amp up the flavor?
Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar mixture for an extra layer of spice. For a nutty crunch, sprinkle some finely chopped pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon sugar before rolling up the crescent rolls. Chocolate lovers will adore adding mini chocolate chips before rolling – a delightful addition to these baked cinnamon crescent rolls.
You can also swap out the vanilla glaze for a cream cheese glaze (simply combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla) or a simple lemon glaze for a brighter flavor profile. For a fun seasonal twist, add a tiny bit of pumpkin pie spice to the cinnamon mixture in the fall. You can even try a savory version!
Skip the cinnamon and sugar. Instead, spread the crescent dough with pesto, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and bake. The possibilities for these amazing crescent roll twists are endless!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making these delightful Baked Cinnamon Twists with Crescent Rolls is wonderfully straightforward. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have warm, gooey twists in no time!
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This prevents sticking and ensures perfect cinnamon twists every time.
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Stir well until it forms a thick paste. This mixture is the heart of your cinnamon crescent rolls.
- Unroll the can of crescent rolls onto your prepared baking sheet or a clean work surface. Do not separate the individual triangles. You want to keep the dough in two rectangular sheets (or one large sheet if your crescent rolls are designed to be pressed together).
- Press the seams of the crescent dough together firmly to create a single, continuous rectangle. Use your fingers to ensure there are no gaps. This creates a solid base for your baked cinnamon twists with crescent rolls.
- Evenly spread the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the entire surface of the crescent dough. Make sure to get it all the way to the edges. This ensures every bite of your crescent roll twists is flavorful.
- Starting from one of the long sides, carefully roll the dough up tightly into a log. Once rolled, gently press along the seam to seal it.
- Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, slice the log into 12 equal pieces. Each piece will become a beautiful cinnamon twist.
- Place each sliced twist flat on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the twists are golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. They will smell absolutely incredible as they bake!
- While the twists are baking, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the milk consistency as needed; you want it pourable but not too thin.
- Once the Baked Cinnamon Twists with Crescent Rolls are out of the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, drizzle generously with the prepared glaze.
- Serve warm and enjoy your homemade cinnamon twists! These baked cinnamon crescent rolls are truly a treat.
Pro Tips for Success
Achieving bakery-quality Baked Cinnamon Twists with Crescent Rolls is easier than you think with a few simple tricks. First, really press those crescent roll seams together. A well-sealed base prevents your delicious cinnamon-sugar filling from oozing out during baking, ensuring perfectly gooey cinnamon twists.
Second, don’t be shy with the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Spread it evenly to the edges to guarantee every bite offers that wonderful spiced sweetness. A generous, even layer makes all the difference in these crescent roll twists.
Third, when rolling the dough, roll it as tightly as you can without tearing. A tight roll helps create those beautiful swirls and keeps the twists from unraveling. Fourth, a sharp knife or pizza cutter is your best friend for slicing.
Clean cuts prevent squishing the dough and maintain the shape of your baked cinnamon crescent rolls. If your knife gets sticky, wipe it clean between cuts. Finally, when glazing, drizzle the glaze while the twists are still warm but not piping hot.
This allows the glaze to melt slightly and coat the twists beautifully, absorbing just enough to create a delightful finish without making them soggy. These baked cinnamon twists with crescent rolls are incredibly forgiving, but these tips will elevate them to perfection every time.
If you’re looking to elevate your baking game and ensure perfect twists, remember to master those essential sealing techniques. To complement your flavors further, consider pairing these with our Cinnamon Swirl Protein Cake for a delicious meal.
Storage & Reheating Tips
These Baked Cinnamon Twists with Crescent Rolls are best enjoyed fresh and warm from the oven. However, if you happen to have any leftovers (which is a rare occurrence in my house!), you can certainly store them for later. To keep your cinnamon twists fresh, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days. The texture of the crescent rolls might change slightly, becoming a bit firmer, but the flavor will still be fantastic. To reheat your baked cinnamon crescent rolls, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a single twist, or warm them in a preheated oven (around 300°F/150°C) for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
This brings back some of that wonderful warmth and softness. Avoid reheating them too much in the microwave, as it can make the dough tough. You want that soft, tender bite from your crescent roll twists.
These Baked Cinnamon Twists with Crescent Rolls freeze well too! Arrange unglazed twists on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month.
Thaw at room temperature, then warm and glaze. This is perfect for meal prepping a quick breakfast.
What to Serve With This Recipe
These glorious Baked Cinnamon Twists with Crescent Rolls are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with so many things! For a simple breakfast, serve these warm cinnamon twists alongside a steaming mug of coffee or a glass of cold milk. The sweetness of the twists complements the bitterness of coffee perfectly.
If you’re building a brunch spread, they’re a fantastic addition. Picture a platter of these golden baked cinnamon crescent rolls next to fresh fruit salad, scrambled eggs, and some crispy turkey bacon or sausage. The combination offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory.
For a lighter touch, serve them with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of berries – a quick, nourishing, and satisfying meal. My kids love them with hot cocoa on a chilly morning, making these crescent roll twists an extra special treat.
You can also offer a variety of dipping sauces beyond the glaze, like a simple fruit compote or even a warm caramel sauce for an extra indulgent dessert experience. Whether it’s a casual morning or a festive gathering, these Baked Cinnamon Twists with Crescent Rolls fit right in, bringing joy to any table.
These Baked Cinnamon Twists are an exceptional addition to any breakfast or brunch spread, effortlessly winning over your guests. For an exciting savory option to serve alongside, try our Croissant Breakfast Sandwiches!
FAQs
Can I make Baked Cinnamon Twists with Crescent Rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you absolutely can! You have a couple of options for making these Baked Cinnamon Twists with Crescent Rolls in advance. You can prepare the twists, slice them, and then place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Cover the baking sheet tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply pop them into the preheated oven and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are very cold. Alternatively, you can bake them completely, let them cool, and then store them as described in the “Storage & Reheating Tips” section. Just reheat and glaze before serving for fresh-tasting cinnamon twists.
What kind of crescent rolls work best?
Standard refrigerated crescent rolls work wonderfully for these Baked Cinnamon Twists with Crescent Rolls. Brands like Pillsbury Original Crescent Rolls are perfect. You want the kind that comes in a perforated sheet, allowing you to press the seams together to form a rectangle.
Avoid using the “seamless dough sheet” varieties if you can, as the perforations actually help create those flaky layers when pressed together. The classic dough provides the best texture for these soft and buttery cinnamon crescent rolls.
How do I prevent the cinnamon sugar from leaking out?
To prevent the delicious cinnamon sugar mixture from leaking out of your Baked Cinnamon Twists with Crescent Rolls, focus on two key steps. First, ensure you firmly press together the seams of the crescent dough to create a solid, sealed rectangle. Any gaps can allow the filling to escape.
Second, roll the dough log up as tightly as possible. A snug roll keeps the filling securely encased within the dough. A sharp knife also helps make clean cuts, reducing the chance of squeezing out the filling. Following these steps ensures your crescent roll twists stay intact.
Are these Baked Cinnamon Twists suitable for breakfast or dessert?
These versatile Baked Cinnamon Twists with Crescent Rolls are absolutely perfect for both breakfast and dessert! Their warm, sweet, and comforting flavor profile makes them ideal for a special breakfast or brunch item. They pair wonderfully with coffee or fresh fruit.
However, with their delightful sweetness and glaze, they also make a fantastic simple dessert. Serve them warm after dinner with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat. They are truly an all-occasion sweet, beloved as cinnamon twists anytime.
Can I make these Baked Cinnamon Twists with Crescent Rolls gluten-free?
Yes, you can adapt these Baked Cinnamon Twists with Crescent Rolls to be gluten-free! Many brands now offer gluten-free refrigerated crescent roll dough. Simply substitute the regular crescent rolls with a gluten-free version.
Ensure all other ingredients, like butter, sugar, and cinnamon, are naturally gluten-free. The preparation steps remain exactly the same. You’ll still achieve delicious, flaky cinnamon twists that everyone can enjoy. Always double-check ingredient labels to confirm suitability for any dietary restrictions when making these crescent roll twists.
Baked Cinnamon Twists made from crescent rolls are a quick and delightful treat, often enjoyed during breakfast or as a snack. These pastries showcase how simple ingredients can come together to create a warm comfort food experience, reminiscent of homemade baking. Learn more about baking techniques and fun recipes like these through this informative Baking guide.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Here is an approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving of these Baked Cinnamon Twists with Crescent Rolls (approximately 1 twist), including the glaze. Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and exact measurements used.
| Nutrient | Amount (Estimate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Total Fat | 9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 15 mg |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Total Sugars | 20 g |
| Protein | 2 g |
Baked Cinnamon Twists with Crescent Rolls
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Baked Cinnamon Twists with Crescent Rolls are simple and delightful pastries that use crescent roll dough, cinnamon sugar filling, and a sweet vanilla glaze. They are perfect for busy mornings or as a comforting treat anytime.
Ingredients
1 (8-ounce) can Refrigerated Crescent Rolls
1/4 cup Unsalted Butter, melted
1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar, packed
1 tablespoon Ground Cinnamo
1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
1 cup Powdered Sugar
2 tablespoons Milk
1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until it forms a thick paste
- Unroll the crescent rolls into two rectangular sheets, pressing the seams together to create a single rectangle
- Spread the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the surface of the crescent dough
- Starting from one of the long sides, roll the dough up tightly into a log and seal the seam
- Slice the log into 12 equal pieces
- Place the sliced twists flat on the baking sheet, leaving space between each one
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brow
- While baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract for the glaze
- Once baked, cool slightly and drizzle with the glaze before serving
Notes
For variations, you can add chocolate chips, nuts, or different glazes.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 twist
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: unknown
- Trans Fat: unknown
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg