If you’re searching for a ridiculously easy, crowd-pleasing treat that’ll make your kitchen smell like a cozy bakery, these Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists are about to become your new obsession. Flaky, buttery layers of puff pastry get a generous dusting of cinnamon sugar, then they’re twisted, air fried to golden perfection, and finished with a sweet dusting of powdered sugar. Whether it’s breakfast, dessert, or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, this recipe delivers maximum deliciousness with minimal fuss—no one will ever guess how simple they are to make!
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Puff Pastry:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
For Dusting:
- powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists
Step 1: Prepare Your Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
Grab a small bowl and mix together the granulated sugar, cinnamon, and brown sugar if you’re using it. Stir until there aren’t any streaks—the more blended, the better this magical coating will cling to the pastry.
Step 2: Roll and Butter the Puff Pastry
On a lightly floured surface, unroll your thawed puff pastry sheet. Don’t worry if the edges look a little rough—once it’s puffed in the air fryer, it’ll look perfect. Brush the entire surface with that melted butter, making sure to cover every corner for a golden finish and irresistible flavor.
Step 3: Sprinkle and Fold
Evenly sprinkle your cinnamon sugar mixture over the buttered pastry, letting the sweet scent fill your kitchen. Don’t skimp—this is where the flavor happens! Once it’s covered edge to edge, carefully fold the pastry in half lengthwise and press gently so everything sticks together.
Step 4: Cut and Shape the Twists
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice your folded pastry into strips about one inch wide. Grab each strip and twist a few times—just enough to see pretty spirals of cinnamon sugar peeking through. It’s okay if they look rustic, that’s part of homemade charm.
Step 5: Air Fry to Golden Perfection
Place your twists in the air fryer basket in a single layer—give them some space so the air can crisp up every twist. Set your air fryer to 375°F and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until puffed and deeply golden. It’s a good idea to check them after 6 minutes, since each air fryer is a little different. Let cool for a few minutes, then dust generously with powdered sugar if you like!
How to Serve Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists
Garnishes
For a truly bakery-inspired finish, dust your twists with powdered sugar just before serving. If you want to get a little fancy, drizzle with a quick cream cheese glaze or vanilla icing. Even a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a hint of extra cinnamon on top can bring a personalized touch.
Side Dishes
Pairing Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists with fresh fruit or a dollop of Greek yogurt creates a lighter breakfast or brunch plate. They’re also dreamy alongside a mug of coffee, chai, or hot chocolate for a cozy treat no one can resist.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the twists on a cake stand for an eye-catching centerpiece, or arrange them in a basket lined with colorful napkins. For parties, serve with a trio of dipping sauces—think berry jam, chocolate sauce, or even caramel for a dipped-and-devoured dessert experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any twists left (which is rare in my home!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To help keep them crisp, let them cool completely before storing.
Freezing
You can freeze Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists once they’re baked and cooled. Simply lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a zip-top bag or container. They’ll keep for up to one month, ready for snacking whenever the craving hits.
Reheating
For best results, pop chilled or frozen twists back in the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes. This brings back that just-baked texture without drying them out. You can also warm them in a regular oven if you don’t have access to your air fryer.
FAQs
Can I make these with homemade pastry?
Absolutely! If you have a go-to homemade puff pastry, use it in place of store-bought. Just remember that homemade dough can be a bit more delicate, so handle with care when twisting.
Do I need to flip the twists during air frying?
It’s not strictly necessary, but if you want evenly browned twists on all sides, you can gently flip them halfway through the air fry time. Just be careful—they’ll be hot and a bit fragile.
Can I prepare Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists in advance?
Yes! Prepare the twists up to the point of air frying, then cover and refrigerate for up to a day. Just pop them in the air fryer whenever you’re ready for fresh pastries.
What’s the best way to serve these for a crowd?
Arrange the twists on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar and a selection of dipping sauces. Set out small plates and napkins, then watch them disappear—these are total party pleasers!
Can I add other spices or flavors?
Definitely try a dash of nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist. You could also add a bit of orange zest to the sugar mix for a citrusy hit, or swap in vanilla sugar for an extra layer of flavor.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to wow family and friends with minimal effort, put these Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists at the top of your list. They’re quick, customizable, and always a hit, so go ahead—grab some puff pastry and treat yourself to the perfect blend of flaky, cinnamon-sweet magic!
Print
Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists Recipe
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 10 twists 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these delicious Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists made with puff pastry, cinnamon sugar, and a hint of butter for a quick and easy dessert treat.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
For Dusting:
- powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: Mix granulated sugar, cinnamon, and brown sugar (if using) in a small bowl.
- Prep Puff Pastry: Unroll puff pastry on a floured surface, brush with melted butter, and sprinkle cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Form Twists: Fold pastry in half, cut into strips, twist into spirals.
- Air Fry: Place twists in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 6–8 minutes until golden.
- Finish: Cool slightly and dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
- Serve with cream cheese glaze or vanilla icing for extra indulgence.
- Enhance with a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a spiced variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 twist
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
