If you love the sweet, flaky goodness of cinnamon twists but want a quick and healthier alternative, this air fryer cinnamon twists recipe is exactly what you need. The air fryer gives these treats a perfectly crispy texture without the mess of deep frying, making them a guilt-free indulgence you can whip up any time.
You’ll find that making air fryer cinnamon twists is surprisingly simple and fast. Once you try this recipe, it will become your go-to sweet snack or breakfast treat, perfect for sharing or enjoying solo with a cup of coffee.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make in under 20 minutes from start to finish.
- Healthier than traditional fried cinnamon twists with less oil.
- Perfectly crispy on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside.
- Uses simple pantry ingredients you probably already have.
- Great for breakfast, dessert, or an anytime sweet snack.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to make your air fryer cinnamon twists. Most are common pantry staples, making it easy to prepare this delicious treat anytime.
- 1 sheet refrigerated puff pastry (thawed)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Servings: 4 (about 8 twists)
- Calories: Approximately 190 per serving
How to Make Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists – Recipe You Have to Try
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F while you prepare the cinnamon twists.
- In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt together; set aside.
- Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet on a flat surface and brush it evenly with melted butter.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the buttered pastry, pressing lightly to help it stick.
- Cut the pastry into 1-inch wide strips. Take each strip and twist it several times to create the cinnamon twists.
- Place the twists in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each to allow even cooking.
- Air fry at 350°F for 7 to 8 minutes or until the twists are golden brown and puffed.
- While the twists cook, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl to make a smooth glaze.
- Remove twists from the air fryer and let cool slightly before drizzling with the glaze. Serve warm for the best flavor.
Tips for the Best Results
- Make sure your puff pastry is fully thawed but still cold for easier handling and better puff.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary for crispiness.
- Brush the pastry with melted butter before adding cinnamon sugar for a richer flavor and crisp texture.
- Adjust the cinnamon amount to your taste if you prefer it spicier or milder.
- Serve the twists warm for the best texture and flavor; they crisp up again slightly if reheated.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover air fryer cinnamon twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed bag for up to 1 month.
To reheat, simply pop the twists back into the air fryer at 320°F for 2 to 3 minutes until warm and crisp again. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade dough instead of puff pastry?
Yes, you can use homemade dough, but puff pastry provides the signature flaky layers and crisp texture. If using homemade dough, choose a recipe that yields a flaky, buttery dough for similar results.
Is it necessary to glaze the cinnamon twists?
The glaze adds a nice sweet finish, but you can skip it or substitute with a light dusting of powdered sugar if you prefer. The twists are delicious even without glaze.
Can I make these twists vegan?
To make them vegan, use a dairy-free puff pastry and substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative. For the glaze, use a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk.
How do I prevent the twists from sticking to the air fryer basket?
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray or place a piece of perforated parchment paper under the twists. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
