Sweet Cinnamon Twists (Print Version)
Soft golden pastry swirled with cinnamon-sugar and topped with vanilla glaze
# What You Need:
→ Dough
01 - 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
03 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
04 - 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
05 - 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F)
06 - 1 large egg
07 - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
→ Cinnamon Filling
08 - 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
09 - 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
10 - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
→ Vanilla Glaze
11 - 1/2 cup powdered sugar
12 - 1 tablespoon milk
13 - 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
# Preparation Steps:
01 - Combine warm milk and yeast in a large bowl. Let stand for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
02 - Add sugar, melted butter, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture. Whisk until well combined. Gradually incorporate flour, mixing until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
03 - Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky. The dough should spring back when lightly pressed.
04 - Place dough in a greased bowl, turning once to coat all sides. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean towel. Let rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1 hour or until doubled in bulk.
05 - While dough rises, combine brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Mix until evenly blended.
06 - Punch down risen dough and roll into a 12 by 16-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter evenly over the surface, then sprinkle cinnamon-sugar mixture across the dough.
07 - Fold the dough in half lengthwise to encase the filling. Cut crosswise into 12 equal strips. Twist each strip 4 to 5 times and transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart.
08 - Cover twists loosely and let rise for 15 minutes while preheating oven to 375°F.
09 - Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until twists are puffed and golden brown. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even browning.
10 - While twists cool slightly, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth and drizzling consistency.
11 - Drizzle vanilla glaze over warm twists. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- They come together faster than you think, no complicated techniques or special equipment needed
- The aroma alone will make everyone think you spent hours at the stove
02 -
- Don't rush the rise time, or your twists will be dense instead of light and fluffy
- If your kitchen is cold, let dough rise in the oven with just the light on for warmth
03 -
- Use room temperature ingredients for the dough, especially the egg, for the best texture
- Let the glaze cool for a minute before drizzling so it sets beautifully on the twists