We’ve always been fans of the warm, spicy allure of cinnamon twist cookies, those irresistible treats that blend buttery dough with a cinnamon-sugar swirl for a cozy twist on classic baking. Originating from simple European pastry traditions, they’re perfect for holiday gatherings or a quick afternoon delight, evoking memories of fresh-baked goodness straight from the oven.
In our kitchen experiments, we’ve perfected this recipe to deliver that ideal balance of crisp edges and soft centers, making it a go-to favorite. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, we’ll guide you through creating these delights that are sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
To craft our irresistible Cinnamon Twist Cookies, we start by gathering high-quality ingredients that deliver their signature warm, buttery dough and cinnamon-sugar swirl. We’ll organize them in the order we use them, with prep notes for clarity.
Dough Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Sifted to ensure a light texture, as we mix it first for the base.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Fresh and measured precisely to help the dough rise evenly.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Added next to balance flavors in the dry mix.
- 1 cup unsalted butter: Softened to room temperature for easy creaming, which we incorporate after the dry ingredients.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Whisked in with the butter for a sweet foundation.
- 1 large egg: Beaten lightly before adding to bind the dough.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Pure variety for enhanced aroma, stirred in last for the wet mix.
Filling and Topping Ingredients
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Combined with cinnamon for the swirl, sprinkled as we prepare to twist the dough.
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon: Freshly ground if possible, for that bold, spicy kick we fold into the dough.
This selection ensures our cookies achieve the perfect crisp edges and soft centers, making them a hit for any occasion.
Equipment Needed
Before we dive into preparing our cinnamon twist cookies, having the right equipment ensures a smooth baking process and helps achieve those perfect crisp edges and soft centers we’ve perfected in our recipe. We’ll focus on essential tools that complement the ingredients we discussed earlier, making the twisting and baking steps effortless and precise.
To get started, here’s a curated list of the key equipment you’ll need:
- Mixing Bowls: We recommend using a set of medium and large stainless steel or glass mixing bowls. These are ideal for combining our dough ingredients like flour and butter without any risk of reaction or staining.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for our cinnamon twist cookies’ texture, so opt for a standard set of dry and liquid measuring cups, along with precise spoons for items like sugar and vanilla extract.
- Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer: A hand-held electric mixer or a stand mixer with attachments will help us cream the butter and sugar efficiently, ensuring a fluffy dough base that’s key to the cookies’ signature swirl.
- Rolling Pin: This tool is essential for rolling out the dough evenly before applying the cinnamon-sugar filling, allowing us to create those beautiful twists with ease.
- Baking Sheets: Use one or two rimmed baking sheets lined with parchment paper; they’re perfect for baking multiple cookies at once and preventing any sticking or burning.
- Pastry Brush or Knife: A soft-bristled pastry brush works wonders for applying any egg wash if desired, while a sharp knife helps in precisely cutting and twisting the dough strips.
- Cooling Rack: After baking, a wire cooling rack allows our cookies to cool evenly, maintaining their warm, spicy flavor and preventing sogginess.
- Oven Thermometer: To guarantee even baking, an oven thermometer ensures your oven is at the exact temperature needed for these treats, avoiding any mishaps with over-baking.
With this equipment on hand, we’re all set to transition seamlessly into the preparation steps, turning our high-quality ingredients into irresistible cinnamon twist cookies.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our high-quality ingredients and essential equipment, let’s guide you through creating our irresistible Cinnamon Twist Cookies with confidence and ease. We’ll break down the process into simple, step-by-step actions to ensure perfect results every time.
Prepare the Dough
To start, we’ll mix the dough base that gives our Cinnamon Twist Cookies their buttery foundation. Begin by sifting 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt into a large mixing bowl to ensure even distribution and prevent lumps.
- In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to cream 1 cup of softened unsalted butter with 3/4 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—this takes about 2-3 minutes and creates a smooth, airy texture that enhances the cookie’s softness.
- Add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, then beat on medium speed until fully incorporated, resulting in a fragrant, cohesive batter with a subtle vanilla aroma.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula, stirring just until combined to avoid overworking the dough—this keeps the cookies tender with that signature soft center we love.
Shape the Twists
With the dough ready, we’ll shape our Cinnamon Twist Cookies to form those eye-catching swirls that lock in the spicy cinnamon flavor and create a delightful contrast of textures.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick, aiming for even edges to ensure uniform baking.
- In a small bowl, prepare the filling by mixing 1/2 cup of granulated sugar with 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon—this blend will release a warm, aromatic scent as you work.
- Spread the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the dough, then carefully roll it into a log and slice it into 1-inch pieces; gently twist each piece once or twice to form the classic spiral shape, which helps achieve those crisp edges and gooey centers.
- Place the shaped twists on parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for expansion during baking.
Bake the Cookies
We’ll bake our Cinnamon Twist Cookies to golden perfection, transforming the shaped dough into treats with a crispy exterior and irresistibly soft interior.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and use an oven thermometer for accuracy—consistent temperature is key to avoiding overly dark edges or underbaked centers.
- Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, rotating the baking sheets halfway through for even heat distribution; watch for a light golden color and the enticing aroma of cinnamon filling your kitchen, signaling they’re done.
- Remove from the oven when the edges are firm but the centers remain slightly soft—this timing ensures the ideal texture without drying them out.
Cool and Store
Finally, we’ll cool and store our freshly baked Cinnamon Twist Cookies to preserve their fresh taste and texture for maximum enjoyment.
- Transfer the hot cookies to a cooling rack immediately after baking, allowing them to cool completely for about 10-15 minutes—this step prevents sogginess and lets the flavors intensify.
- Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months; for best results, layer with parchment paper to maintain crispness and avoid sticking.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the joys of our cinnamon twist cookie recipe is its flexibility for busy schedules. We love how these treats can be prepared in advance, allowing us to enjoy fresh-baked goodness with minimal last-minute effort. Below, we break down the key make-ahead strategies to maintain that signature warm and spicy flavor with crisp edges and soft centers.
Preparing the Dough Ahead
To save time on baking day, we recommend making the dough up to 2 days in advance. Follow these steps for optimal results:
- Mix and chill the dough: After combining the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, and salt) with the creamed butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla, shape the dough into a disk. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it. This step enhances the butter-rich texture and prevents the dough from becoming too sticky.
- Thaw if needed: If you’re using the dough after refrigeration, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to soften before rolling. For longer storage, freeze the wrapped dough for up to 1 month—simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
Assembling and Freezing Unbaked Cookies
Shape your cinnamon twist cookies ahead and freeze them unbaked for effortless baking later. This method preserves the cinnamon-sugar swirl and ensures even twisting.
- Roll and fill: Once the dough is rolled out and sprinkled with the cinnamon-sugar mixture, cut and twist the cookies as per our step-by-step instructions.
- Freeze on a baking sheet: Arrange the shaped cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch. Freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours), then transfer to an airtight freezer bag or container. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months.
- Bake from frozen: When ready, place the frozen cookies on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for an additional 2-4 minutes beyond the standard time. Watch closely to achieve that perfect golden brown.
Storing Baked Cookies
If you’ve baked a batch in advance, proper storage keeps our cinnamon twist cookies fresh and flavorful.
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips for Best Results |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 3 days | Store in an airtight container at room temperature to retain crisp edges. Avoid humid areas to prevent softening. |
| Refrigerator | Up to 1 week | Place cookies in a sealed container; this is ideal if your kitchen is warm, but let them come to room temperature before serving for the full spicy aroma. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Wrap cookies individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes or warm in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes to refresh texture. |
By following these make-ahead tips, we ensure your cinnamon twist cookies remain a delightful, crowd-pleasing treat without the rush. Always use high-quality ingredients like fresh cinnamon for the best flavor profile.
Conclusion
We’ve crafted this cinnamon twist cookie recipe to bring joy and ease to your baking adventures
It’s a timeless treat that elevates any gathering with its irresistible charm
Try it out and make it part of your traditions—we’re confident it’ll become a staple in your kitchen
Frequently Asked Questions
What are cinnamon twist cookies?
Cinnamon twist cookies are delightful pastries with European origins, featuring a buttery dough swirled with cinnamon-sugar for a warm, spicy flavor. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings or everyday snacking, offering crisp edges and soft centers that make them a crowd favorite.
What ingredients are needed for cinnamon twist cookies?
For the dough, you’ll need sifted all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, a large egg, and vanilla extract. The filling and topping use granulated sugar mixed with ground cinnamon. These high-quality ingredients ensure the perfect texture and taste.
What equipment is required to make cinnamon twist cookies?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, an electric or stand mixer, a rolling pin, baking sheets with parchment paper, a pastry brush or knife, a cooling rack, and an oven thermometer. These help achieve the ideal crisp edges and soft centers.
How do I make cinnamon twist cookies?
Start by mixing dry ingredients and creaming butter with sugar, then add egg and vanilla to form the dough. Roll it out, spread with cinnamon-sugar, shape into twists, and bake until golden. Cool on a rack for the best results. This step-by-step process is easy for all skill levels.
Can I prepare cinnamon twist cookies in advance?
Yes, prepare the dough up to two days ahead and refrigerate, or freeze it for longer storage. You can also assemble and freeze unbaked cookies for convenient baking later. This makes them ideal for busy schedules without sacrificing freshness.
How should I store cinnamon twist cookies?
Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for up to three months. For the best flavor, let them cool completely before storing to maintain their crisp edges and soft centers.