Save I pulled out my air fryer on a rainy Saturday morning with nothing but a can of dough in the fridge and a serious craving. What started as an experiment turned into a weekly ritual. The kitchen filled with cinnamon warmth while I twisted each strip, and by the time the glaze was drizzled, I had something that tasted like a bakery splurge but took less time than my coffee to brew. These twists became my answer to lazy mornings that still deserved something special.
The first time I made these for my neighbor, she showed up at my door an hour later asking for the recipe. I had to laugh because there was no secret, just a can of dough and a little twisting. But watching her kids devour them warm from the basket, glaze still glistening, I realized it wasn't about complexity. It was about that moment when something simple becomes a small celebration.
Ingredients
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough: The foundation of these twists, crescent dough gives you flaky layers without any rolling or resting, and it browns beautifully in the air fryer.
- Unsalted butter: Melted butter helps the cinnamon sugar cling to every fold and adds richness that makes each bite feel bakery-worthy.
- Brown sugar: It melts into a caramel-like sweetness and pairs perfectly with cinnamon for that classic roll flavor.
- Ground cinnamon: The heart of the filling, use fresh cinnamon if you can because the aroma alone is worth it.
- Powdered sugar: Whisked with milk and vanilla, it becomes a smooth glaze that sets softly and adds just enough sweetness.
- Milk: Thins the glaze to a drizzle-friendly consistency, adjust the amount based on how thick you like it.
- Vanilla extract: A small splash that rounds out the glaze and makes everything smell like a hug.
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer:
- Set it to 350°F (175°C) and let it warm for 3 minutes. This step ensures even cooking and helps the dough puff up right from the start.
- Prepare the dough:
- Unroll it onto a lightly floured surface and press any perforations together so you have one smooth rectangle. This keeps the filling from leaking out.
- Brush with butter:
- Use a pastry brush to coat the entire surface with melted butter, getting into every corner. The butter is what makes the cinnamon sugar stick and adds that golden richness.
- Add the filling:
- Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl, then sprinkle it evenly over the buttered dough. Don't skimp, every bit counts.
- Fold and seal:
- Fold the dough in half lengthwise and press gently to seal the edges. This traps the filling inside and creates those beautiful swirls when you twist.
- Cut and twist:
- Slice the folded dough into 8 equal strips using a sharp knife or pizza cutter. Twist each strip several times and pinch the ends so they hold their shape.
- Arrange in the basket:
- Place the twists in the air fryer basket with space between them so air can circulate. If they're crowded, work in batches.
- Air-fry:
- Cook for 7 to 8 minutes, checking halfway through, until the twists are golden and cooked through. The smell will tell you when they're ready.
- Make the glaze:
- While the twists cool slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Adjust the milk to get the consistency you want.
- Glaze and serve:
- Drizzle the glaze over the warm twists using a spoon or squeeze bottle. Serve them while they're still warm and the glaze is glossy.
Save One Sunday morning, I made a double batch and brought half to a friend who'd just had a baby. She texted me later saying it was the first thing that felt like a treat in weeks. I realized then that these little twists weren't just about cinnamon and sugar. They were about showing up, even in small ways, with something warm and homemade that said I care.
Storing and Reheating
These twists are best enjoyed fresh from the air fryer when they're still warm and the glaze is just set. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To bring back that just-made texture, pop them in the air fryer at 300°F for 1 to 2 minutes. The edges will crisp up again and the centers will soften like they're fresh out of the basket.
Flavor Variations
Once you've mastered the classic version, try adding a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for crunch. Swap brown sugar with coconut sugar for a slightly deeper caramel note, or mix in a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom with the cinnamon for warmth. I've even drizzled maple syrup over the top instead of glaze on mornings when I wanted something less sweet but still indulgent.
What to Serve With
These twists are perfect with a mug of strong coffee or a latte that balances the sweetness. I love pairing them with scrambled eggs and fresh berries for a balanced breakfast that feels a little fancy. They also make a great afternoon snack with a cup of chai or even a glass of cold milk if you're keeping it simple.
- Serve them warm for the best texture and flavor.
- Double the glaze if you like things extra sweet and glossy.
- Make the dough twists the night before and refrigerate them, then air-fry fresh in the morning.
Save These cinnamon roll twists taught me that mornings don't need to be complicated to feel special. Sometimes all it takes is a little butter, sugar, and a few twists to turn an ordinary day into something worth savoring.
Kitchen Help
- → What dough works best for the twists?
Refrigerated crescent roll or pizza dough both work well, offering a flaky and tender texture when baked.
- → Can I add nuts to the filling?
Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts can be mixed with the cinnamon sugar for added crunch and flavor.
- → How do I ensure twists cook evenly in the air fryer?
Space twists apart in the basket and cook in batches if needed to allow proper air circulation and even browning.
- → Is it possible to substitute ingredients in the filling?
You can swap brown sugar with coconut sugar for a slight variation in sweetness and flavor.
- → How should I store leftover twists?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature and reheat in the air fryer for 1-2 minutes to restore crispness.
- → What is the recommended air fryer temperature and time?
Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook the twists for 7-8 minutes until golden and cooked through.