Homemade Cinnamon Twists with Cream Cheese Icing

These Homemade Cinnamon Twists with Cream Cheese Icing are the perfect treat for any occasion! With their soft, buttery texture and delightful burst of cinnamon sugar, they capture all the flavors you love about a cinnamon roll. The gooey cream cheese icing adds an irresistible finish. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday breakfast, enjoying them during a lazy weekend brunch, or simply indulging in a sweet snack with your coffee, these twists will surely impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and sugar creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can master this delightful treat.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert—these twists fit any occasion.
• Impressive Presentation: The braided design looks beautiful on any table, making them great for gatherings.
• Gooey Cream Cheese Icing: This luscious icing elevates the dish, adding richness and sweetness.

Tools and Preparation

To create these amazing cinnamon twists, having the right tools can make all the difference. Below are some essential items you will need to prepare this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Rolling pin
• Pizza wheel or sharp knife
• Parchment paper
• Small saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes kneading the dough effortless and ensures thorough mixing of ingredients.
• Rolling pin: Helps achieve an even thickness when rolling out the dough for perfect twists.
• Pizza wheel or sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts when slicing the dough into strips for twisting.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 1/3 cup + 1 tablespoon water
• 2 tablespoons bread flour
• 2 cups bread flour (See notes below for measuring)
• 2 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 3/4 teaspoon instant yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 2 tablespoons + 2 teaspoons heavy cream (room temperature)
• 2 tablespoons + 2 teaspoons whole milk (room temperature)
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
• Tangzhong, from recipe above
• 3 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)

For the Cinnamon Filling

• 1/2 cup dark brown sugar (packed)
• 1 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or extract
• 5 tablespoons salted butter (melted)

For the Cream Cheese Icing

• 2 ounces softened cream cheese
• 2/3 cup powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or extract

How to Make Homemade Cinnamon Twists with Cream Cheese Icing

Step 1: Make the Tangzhong

In a small saucepan, whisk together the water and bread flour. Cook over medium heat while whisking constantly for about 3–5 minutes until it thickens into a paste-like slurry. Once done, transfer it to a bowl and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a stand mixer bowl, combine the remaining flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add heavy cream, whole milk, egg, vanilla bean paste, and cooled tangzhong to this mixture. Knead on low speed using a dough hook for about 2–3 minutes until it forms a rough ball.

Step 3: Incorporate Butter

While kneading on low speed, add softened butter gradually—half a tablespoon at a time—allowing each addition to fully incorporate before adding more. Continue kneading for another 8–10 minutes until you achieve a smooth and elastic dough that feels tacky but not sticky.

Step 4: Let It Rest

Remove the dough from the bowl and shape it into a smooth ball by pulling its sides towards the bottom. Place it seam-side down back into the mixing bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rest for about 30 minutes.

Step 5: Roll Out Dough

After resting, roll out the dough into a square measuring approximately 12×12 inches. In another bowl, mix together dark brown sugar, ground cinnamon, melted butter, and vanilla until well combined.

Step 6: Apply Cinnamon Mixture

Brush half of this cinnamon-sugar mixture generously over the entire surface of your rolled-out dough.

Step 7: Cut Strips

Using a pizza wheel or sharp knife, cut twelve stripes of dough measuring about one inch wide each. Then slice each strip in half so that you have twenty-four strips total. Twist pairs of strips together gently pinching the ends to seal them before placing them on a parchment-lined baking tray.

Step 8: Final Touches Before Rising

Brush each twisted piece with the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture ensuring no bare dough is visible. If needed, reheat this mixture slightly to keep it liquidy.

Step 9: Allow to Rise

Cover your tray with plastic wrap and allow it to rise in a warm place for about one to two hours until they look puffed up.

Step 10: Preheat Oven

As your twists rise, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 11: Bake

When they feel light and airy to touch after rising, bake them in your preheated oven for approximately 9–12 minutes until lightly golden brown or until they reach an internal temperature of around 175°F.

Step 12: Prepare Cream Cheese Icing

While baking, mix softened cream cheese with powdered sugar using a spoon until smooth. Gradually whisk in whole milk and vanilla bean paste until you achieve your desired icing consistency.

Step 13: Glaze Twists

Once baked, immediately pour your cream cheese icing generously over warm cinnamon twists. Serve while warm for maximum enjoyment!

How to Serve Homemade Cinnamon Twists with Cream Cheese Icing

These delightful Homemade Cinnamon Twists with Cream Cheese Icing are perfect for many occasions. Their gooey texture and sweet flavor make them a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in various ways.

As a Breakfast Delight

• Pair with fresh fruit – Serve alongside seasonal fruits like strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing balance.
• Accompany with yogurt – A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang that complements the sweetness.

At a Brunch Gathering

• Serve warm from the oven – Freshly baked twists are best, offering delightful gooeyness.
• Create a coffee bar – Provide different coffee options to pair perfectly with these cinnamon treats.

As an Afternoon Snack

• Enjoy with tea – A warm cup of chai or herbal tea enhances the flavors of the twists.
• Add some nuts – A handful of toasted almonds or walnuts gives a satisfying crunch.

For Special Occasions

• Present on a dessert table – Arrange them on a beautiful platter for birthdays or holidays.
• Use as party favors – Wrap individual twists in clear bags tied with ribbons for guests to take home.

How to Perfect Homemade Cinnamon Twists with Cream Cheese Icing

Creating perfect Homemade Cinnamon Twists with Cream Cheese Icing requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your baking game.

• Use room temperature ingredients – Ensures better mixing and dough rise, leading to fluffier twists.
• Knead properly – Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, which affects the final texture.
• Don’t skip the tangzhong – This Japanese technique adds moisture and improves the dough’s softness.
• Check for proper rising – Allow the dough to double in size; this ensures light and airy twists.
• Brush generously – Coat each twist well with butter and sugar mixture for maximum flavor and sweetness.
• Serve warm – These cinnamon twists taste best when served right out of the oven, drizzled with icing.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Cinnamon Twists with Cream Cheese Icing

Pairing side dishes with your Homemade Cinnamon Twists can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of your favorite fruits provides a refreshing contrast.
2. Scrambled Eggs – Fluffy eggs add protein and balance out the sweetness of the twists.
3. Bacon Strips – The salty crunch of bacon complements the sweetness beautifully.
4. Hash Browns – Crispy hash browns offer texture and heartiness alongside sweet pastries.
5. Greek Yogurt Parfait – Layers of yogurt, granola, and berries create a delightful combination.
6. Smoothie Bowl – A vibrant smoothie bowl adds nutrition and color to your breakfast spread.
7. Coffee Cake – Another sweet option that pairs well while offering different flavors.
8. Chia Seed Pudding – This creamy treat brings a healthy touch and pairs well with cinnamon flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Homemade Cinnamon Twists with Cream Cheese Icing can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Incorrect dough texture: If your dough is sticky instead of tacky, you may need to add a little more flour while kneading. Ensure the dough feels smooth and elastic.
• Over-proofing the dough: Leaving the dough to rise for too long can result in dense twists. Keep an eye on it, aiming for about 1-2 hours until it feels light and airy.
• Skipping the tangzhong: This step adds moisture and tenderness to the twists. Don’t skip making this mixture; it’s crucial for that soft texture!
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking requires precision. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups to ensure your ingredients are correct.
• Uneven baking: If you overcrowd the baking tray, the twists won’t bake evenly. Arrange them with space in between for optimal puffiness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep them at room temperature if you plan on eating them within a day.

Freezing Homemade Cinnamon Twists with Cream Cheese Icing

• Freeze before baking for up to 2 months.
• Wrap each twist tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Homemade Cinnamon Twists with Cream Cheese Icing

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat twists for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one twist at a time for about 15-20 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Place a twist in a covered skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these Homemade Cinnamon Twists unique?

These twists combine the best features of cinnamon rolls with a fun, twisty shape and gooey cream cheese icing.

How do I customize my Homemade Cinnamon Twists with Cream Cheese Icing?

Feel free to add nuts like pecans or walnuts or experiment with different extracts such as almond or maple for unique flavors.

Can I make these cinnamon twists ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and shape the twists, then store them in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

What other toppings can I use besides cream cheese icing?

Try using vanilla glaze or even a simple powdered sugar sprinkle for a lighter option if you’re looking to mix things up!

Final Thoughts

These Homemade Cinnamon Twists with Cream Cheese Icing are not only delicious but also versatile! Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, they can be customized with various flavors and toppings. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how easy it is to create these delightful treats right at home!