Baked Cinnamon Twists with Crescent Rolls

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There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of cinnamon and sugar wafting through the kitchen. I’ve always been drawn to simple, satisfying recipes that don’t take hours in the kitchen but still feel special—and these Baked Cinnamon Twists with Crescent Rolls are exactly that. Warm, buttery, flaky, and covered in cinnamon sugar with a drizzle of sweet glaze, they check every box for a cozy treat. Whether I’m making them for a weekend brunch, a quick dessert, or just a midweek snack, they always hit the spot.

What I love most about this recipe is how deceptively easy it is. Using store-bought crescent roll dough makes it approachable even on the busiest mornings, and the result is something that tastes bakery-quality with none of the fuss. Plus, the twists are fun to make and even more fun to eat—especially when they’re still warm from the oven.

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Why You’ll Love This Baked Cinnamon Twists with Crescent Rolls Recipe

This recipe is the perfect mix of quick and indulgent. It’s ideal for busy mornings, last-minute guests, or a spontaneous sweet tooth. The crescent dough bakes up golden and flaky, while the cinnamon sugar caramelizes slightly for a delicious crunch. The glaze adds that extra touch of sweetness to make each bite feel complete. You only need a handful of ingredients, and the process is simple enough for beginners to master on the first try.

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What Kind of Crescent Rolls Should I Use?

I always reach for the classic refrigerated crescent roll dough in the canisters—nothing fancy, just the regular kind you find in the dairy aisle. Make sure you go for the version that allows you to press the seams together to create one large sheet. If you can find the crescent roll dough sheets (without perforations), even better—it makes the whole process quicker and cleaner. Avoid using flaky layer biscuits or puff pastry for this specific recipe, as they behave differently in the oven.

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Options for Substitutions

If you’re out of powdered sugar for the glaze, a quick mix of milk and honey or maple syrup makes a great drizzle too. You can swap brown sugar for granulated sugar for a deeper molasses flavor. Want to make it dairy-free? Use vegan butter and a plant-based milk in the glaze. For a nutty twist, sprinkle some finely chopped pecans or walnuts with the cinnamon sugar. You can even add a dash of cardamom or nutmeg to spice things up.

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Ingredients for This Baked Cinnamon Twists with Crescent Rolls Recipe

Crescent Roll Dough: The buttery, flaky base of the recipe—easy to handle and bakes beautifully into golden layers.

Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps to create a caramelized, crunchy coating.

Ground Cinnamon: The star spice that delivers warmth and depth to every bite.

Unsalted Butter: Melted butter adds richness and helps the cinnamon sugar adhere to the dough.

Powdered Sugar: Used for making the glaze, it gives a smooth, sweet finish.

Milk or Cream: Just a splash is needed to make the glaze silky and drizzle-ready.

Vanilla Extract (optional): Adds an extra layer of flavor to the glaze.

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Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Surface

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Lightly flour your work surface for rolling out the dough.

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Step 2: Roll Out the Crescent Dough

Unroll the crescent roll dough onto your floured surface. If using perforated crescent rolls, press the seams together to form one large sheet. If using crescent dough sheets, you can skip this step. Roll it out slightly with a rolling pin to make an even rectangle.

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Step 3: Spread the Butter and Cinnamon Sugar

Brush the entire surface of the dough with melted butter. In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar and ground cinnamon, then sprinkle the mixture generously over the buttered dough, making sure to cover all corners.

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Step 4: Fold and Cut

Fold the dough in half lengthwise to sandwich the cinnamon sugar inside. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the dough into strips, about 1 inch wide.

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Step 5: Twist and Arrange

Take each strip and gently twist it a few times to create a spiral. Place the twists on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one to allow for puffing.

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Step 6: Bake

Bake the twists in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crisp on the edges. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overbake.

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Step 7: Prepare the Glaze

While the twists are baking, whisk together powdered sugar with a little milk (and vanilla extract, if using) until smooth and slightly thick but pourable.

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Step 8: Glaze and Serve

Once baked, let the twists cool for a few minutes, then drizzle the glaze over them while still slightly warm. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

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How Long to Prepare the Baked Cinnamon Twists with Crescent Rolls

Prep Time: Most of your time will go into rolling, buttering, and twisting the dough. This takes about 10–15 minutes depending on how quick you are with your hands. Having all ingredients ready beforehand helps speed things up.

Bake Time: The cinnamon twists bake fast—typically 10 to 12 minutes in a 375°F oven. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn a beautiful golden brown and smell absolutely irresistible.

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Tips for Perfect Baked Cinnamon Twists

• Use crescent dough sheets if possible—they save time and create a more uniform base.
• Chill the dough slightly after assembling and before baking if your kitchen is warm. This helps them hold their shape better.
• Twist each strip gently but firmly—over-twisting can cause tearing.
• Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and help with even browning.
• Drizzle glaze while the twists are still warm, so it melts slightly into all the folds.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using too much filling: Overloading with cinnamon sugar can cause the twists to unravel or leak.
• Skipping the seam pressing: If you don’t seal the perforations, the dough may split while twisting.
• Underbaking: Pulling them out too soon leaves the centers doughy. Make sure they’re golden.
• Not spacing them out: These puff while baking—give them room.
• Over-glazing: A light drizzle is all you need; too much can overpower the pastry.

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What to Serve With Baked Cinnamon Twists with Crescent Rolls?

1. Hot Coffee or Espresso

The richness of coffee pairs perfectly with the buttery sweetness of the twists.

2. Fresh Fruit Salad

A bright, juicy mix of berries or citrus cuts the sweetness and adds a fresh touch.

3. Vanilla Yogurt

Mild and creamy, it’s a great contrast to the warm spices of the cinnamon.

4. Whipped Cream or Mascarpone

Serve a small dollop on the side for extra indulgence.

5. Maple or Caramel Dipping Sauce

Turn these into a shareable snack by serving with a dipping sauce on the side.

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Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store the twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They’re best enjoyed the same day but still delicious the next.

Refrigerator: If you want to keep them longer, store them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat briefly in the oven or toaster oven to bring back their crispiness.

Freezer: You can freeze unglazed twists for up to 2 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven straight from frozen for 8–10 minutes, then glaze just before serving.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Twist)

• Calories: ~180 kcal
• Sugar: ~10g
• Sodium: ~200mg
• Fat: ~9g
• Saturated Fat: ~4g
• Carbohydrates: ~22g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: ~2g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble and refrigerate them overnight, then bake fresh in the morning.

Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent dough?

You can, but the texture will be flakier and more delicate. Baking time may vary slightly.

How do I make these twists crispier?

Bake on the middle rack and avoid overcrowding the pan. You can also bake a minute longer for extra crisp.

Can I add nuts or raisins?

Absolutely! Sprinkle chopped pecans, walnuts, or even raisins before folding the dough.

Is the glaze necessary?

Not at all—it’s optional. The twists are still delicious with just the cinnamon sugar coating.

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Conclusion

Baked Cinnamon Twists with Crescent Rolls are everything you want in a homemade treat: easy, quick, buttery, and loaded with cinnamon-sugar goodness. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, they’re perfect for brunch spreads, holiday mornings, or anytime you crave something warm and sweet from the oven. Once you make these, you’ll find yourself reaching for that crescent dough more often than ever!

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