Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists Recipe
If you are searching for a sweet, buttery treat that is effortlessly delicious, look no further than Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists. These delightful pastries combine the flaky richness of crescent roll dough with the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar. Perfect for breakfast, snack time, or even dessert, Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists are an absolute crowd-pleaser that come together quickly with just a handful of simple ingredients. Once you try them, you’ll find they are hard to resist!

Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might be pantry staples for many, but each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture in your Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists. From the buttery dough to the cinnamon-spiced sweetness, every component adds something special.
- Crescent roll dough: This refrigerated dough gives the twists their signature flaky, buttery texture and golden color.
- Granulated sugar: Used to sweeten the cinnamon filling and provide a slight crunch on top.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds the warm, spicy note that pairs perfectly with sugar and butter.
- Unsalted butter: Melted brushed onto the dough to keep it moist and help the sugar-cinnamon stick beautifully.
- Powdered sugar (optional): For making a smooth glaze that can add an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
- Milk (optional): Mixed with powdered sugar to create a luscious glaze to drizzle over the twists.
How to Make Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures your Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists bake evenly and turn that perfect golden brown in just the right amount of time.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Carefully unroll the crescent roll dough onto a clean surface. Pinch the seams together to form one large rectangle. This step is key to prevent any cinnamon sugar filling from leaking out during baking, making your twists neat and tidy.
Step 3: Mix Sugar and Cinnamon
In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until well blended. This mixture provides that classic cinnamon sugar flavor that makes Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists so irresistible.
Step 4: Brush with Butter
Use a pastry brush to spread the melted unsalted butter evenly over the entire surface of your dough rectangle. The butter not only keeps the twists moist but also helps the cinnamon sugar mixture stick perfectly.
Step 5: Sprinkle the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
Generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the buttered dough, making sure every inch is covered with that sweet, spicy goodness. This is what transforms simple dough into mouthwatering twists.
Step 6: Cut and Twist
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into 1-inch-wide strips. Then, take each strip and twist it several times to create that lovely spiral shape. Place the twists onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving them a bit of space to puff as they bake.
Step 7: Bake
Bake the twists in your preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on them near the end to avoid overbaking, so they stay soft and tender inside.
Step 8: Prepare the Glaze (Optional)
If you want to add a sweet finishing touch, whisk together powdered sugar and milk until smooth to make a simple glaze. Drizzle this over the warm twists right after baking for extra sweetness and shine.
Step 9: Drizzle and Serve
Once your Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists come out of the oven, allow them to cool just enough to handle, then drizzle your glaze over the top. Serve these warm and watch everyone’s faces light up with delight.
How to Serve Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists

Garnishes
While the glaze adds a lovely sweetness, you can also garnish your Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a few chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and extra flavor dimension.
Side Dishes
These cinnamon twists pair wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee, a glass of cold milk, or a warm mug of hot chocolate. For a more substantial breakfast, try serving them alongside scrambled eggs or fresh fruit.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress at brunch or a party? Arrange your Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists on a decorative platter or a rustic wooden board. You can also stack them in a pyramid or place them in a basket lined with a colorful napkin to make the presentation feel cozy and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft and ready to enjoy later without losing that fresh-baked feel.
Freezing
To freeze, place baked and cooled twists on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag and keep them frozen for up to two months. This way, you always have a sweet treat waiting for you.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy frozen or stored twists, simply warm them up in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 8 minutes. This will bring back the flaky, melty goodness just like when they were freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use frozen crescent roll dough for this recipe?
It’s best to use refrigerated crescent roll dough as the recipe calls for, since frozen dough needs to thaw fully before use, and its texture can be different. If you use frozen dough, make sure to thaw it completely to achieve proper layering and browning.
Is it necessary to pinch the seams of the dough?
Yes, pinching the seams helps prevent the cinnamon sugar filling from leaking out while baking, keeping your twists neat, flavorful, and easier to handle.
Can I make these twists gluten-free?
If you want gluten-free Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists, look for a gluten-free crescent roll dough alternative at your grocery store. Make sure all additional ingredients you use are gluten-free as well.
What if I don’t want to make the glaze?
The glaze is completely optional. The twists are already delicious on their own with the cinnamon sugar coating and buttery dough. The glaze simply adds an extra touch of sweetness and a polished appearance.
How can I make these twists more festive for holidays?
To make Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists festive, try adding a little nutmeg or cardamom to your cinnamon sugar mix, or top the glaze with colored sprinkles. Twisting in a bit of finely chopped dried fruit or chocolate chips can also add a holiday twist.
Final Thoughts
These Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists are a fantastic way to bring joy and comfort to your table with minimal effort. They’re quick to make, irresistibly tasty, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you enjoy them as a morning treat or a sweet snack anytime, they’re sure to become one of your favorite go-to recipes. Give them a try and watch how quickly they disappear!
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Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 twists 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists are a quick and easy treat made with refrigerated crescent roll dough, coated in a cinnamon sugar mixture, twisted into shape, baked to golden perfection, and optionally drizzled with a sweet glaze. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or an indulgent snack.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 can refrigerated crescent roll dough
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Optional Glaze
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the twists evenly.
- Prepare the Dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough onto a clean surface and pinch all the seams together so it forms one large rectangle; this prevents the twists from separating while baking.
- Mix Sugar and Cinnamon: In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of granulated sugar with 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon, mixing thoroughly for an even cinnamon sugar blend.
- Brush with Butter: Evenly apply the 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter over the entire surface of the dough using a pastry brush or spoon, which helps the cinnamon sugar stick and adds rich flavor.
- Sprinkle Mixture: Generously and evenly sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the buttered dough, making sure every part is covered for consistent taste.
- Cut and Twist: Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the dough into 1-inch wide strips. Take each strip and twist it several times before placing it onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them apart to allow expansion while baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the twists have puffed up and turned golden brown, watching closely to avoid overbaking.
- Prepare Glaze (Optional): While the twists bake, prepare the glaze by whisking together 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons milk until smooth and pourable.
- Drizzle and Serve: Once baked, remove the twists from the oven and let them cool slightly. Drizzle the glaze over the warm cinnamon twists and serve immediately for the best gooey, sweet experience.
Notes
- Seal the Seams: Pinching the seams of the crescent roll dough is essential to keep the cinnamon sugar mixture inside during baking and prevent ooze.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye while baking; twists should be golden brown yet soft and fluffy inside to avoid dryness.
- Serve Warm: These twists are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while warm and gooey for optimal taste and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 twist
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
Keywords: crescent roll cinnamon twists, cinnamon sugar twists, quick cinnamon pastry, easy cinnamon roll alternative, snack, dessert