Cinnamon Twist

Prep: 30 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 24 Cuisine: American

Cinnamon Twists are flaky, sweet pastries infused with cinnamon and brown sugar, perfect for breakfast or a snack. Their golden-brown, twisted shape makes them visually appealing, while the tender, flavorful interior delights the palate. Ideal for sharing with family or friends at gatherings or cozy mornings.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 3 tbsp sugar
  • 1/8 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 dry yeast
  • 1/2 cup warm water
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp shortening

Instructions

  1. Mix sour cream, sugar, baking soda, salt, egg, shortening, and flour to form a dough.
  2. Put the dough on a board and roll into an oblong shape.
  3. Melt butter and spread over the dough.
  4. Sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon over half of the dough.
  5. Fold the other half over the filled side and pat it thin.
  6. Cut into 1/2 inch strips and twist.
  7. Let the twists rise for 1 hour.
  8. Bake in a 375°F (190°C) oven until light brown.
  9. Optional: Frost with powdered sugar frosting before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough mixture. If you don’t have sour cream, plain yogurt can be a suitable substitute. Ensure the water is warm but not hot, as overly hot water can kill the yeast. If you prefer a sweeter twist, feel free to increase the sugar in the filling or top with additional frosting.

Serving Suggestions

These cinnamon twists are delightful on their own but can be served alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast or snack. They pair beautifully with Fluffy Fruit Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a special touch, frost with powdered sugar frosting right before serving to enhance their sweetness.

Storage & Reheating

To store leftovers, place the cinnamon twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their flaky texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Cinnamon Twist contains roughly 44 calories, with 1g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.

44 kcal 2% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.2g 2% DV
Total Fat 0.6g 1% DV
Carbs 8.6g 3% DV
Fiber 0.2g 1% DV
Sugar 0.1g

Electrolytes

Sodium 326.8mg 14% DV
Potassium 38.7mg 1% DV
Cholesterol 6.5mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 10.5mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 0.1mg
Calcium 21.5mg 2% DV
Iron 0.3mg 2% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. After mixing, cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to use, allow it to come to room temperature and rise before shaping and baking.

What can I use instead of shortening?

If you prefer, you can substitute shortening with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil. Each option will give a slightly different flavor and texture, with butter providing a richer taste.

How do I know when the twists are done baking?

The cinnamon twists are done when they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped. You can also use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean from the center of the twists.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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