Picture this: you walk into your kitchen, and instantly, you're wrapped up in the cozy, mouthwatering aroma of warm cinnamon. That’s the magic of Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists — a bakery-style experience made right in your own home, without any complicated steps or mess.
As someone who's spent years chasing the perfect quick-and-easy sweet treat, I can tell you: these Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists are a total game-changer. They're crisp on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and coated with a sparkling layer of cinnamon sugar that tastes like pure happiness. Plus, thanks to the air fryer, you can whip up these golden beauties in just minutes — no deep-frying, no preheating the oven for an hour, no stress.
Whether you need a quick breakfast to jumpstart your morning, a cozy afternoon snack to enjoy with coffee, or an impressive last-minute dessert for unexpected guests, Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists always rise to the occasion. They’re deceptively simple to make, but the flavors? Next-level. Every bite feels like a little hug — sweet, warm, and just the right amount of indulgent.
Trust me: once you try making these Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them. They’re about to become a must-have favorite in your kitchen!
Why Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists Are a Total Game-Changer
Let me tell you — if you've never made Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists before, you are seriously missing out on one of life's little joys. I mean it! These aren't just any cinnamon treats — they're a lighter, faster, and way less messy upgrade to the old-fashioned deep-fried versions you might be used to.
Traditionally, whipping up cinnamon twists meant wrestling with a pot of hot oil, dealing with greasy splatters, and, let’s be honest, living with that deep-fried smell for hours. Not exactly the vibe, right? But Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists flip the script completely. Thanks to the magic of the air fryer, you get that perfectly crispy outside and that soft, tender inside — without the hassle, without the extra calories, and definitely without the mountain of dirty dishes afterward.
The best part? These Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists use just a tiny bit of oil (if any at all), yet they still come out with that irresistible golden-brown color and the satisfying crunch you crave. Plus, with how quickly an air fryer heats up and how evenly it cooks, you’re guaranteed beautiful, consistent twists every single time. No sad, half-burnt pastries here.
Honestly, Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists are the perfect match for just about any occasion. Need something sweet with your morning coffee? Done. Want a cozy treat for afternoon tea? You got it. Planning a brunch or a holiday get-together where you need something that's sweet but not heavy? These twists will steal the show.
Once you try making them, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them. Your kitchen — and your taste buds — will thank you.
Jump to:
Ingredients
Ingredients You'll Need
- Puff pastry, thawed (or crescent roll dough as an alternative)
- Unsalted butter, melted
- Granulated sugar
- Ground cinnamon
- Salt (enhances the sweet flavors)
- Vanilla extract (adds depth to the butter coating)
For the optional glaze:
- Vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar
- Milk
See recipe card for quantities.
Why These Ingredients Work
Puff pastry is the real hero here — it puffs up into those gorgeous, flaky layers that make Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists completely irresistible. Every twist has that light, buttery crunch you can’t get enough of!
Butter isn’t just there for richness (although it definitely brings that!); it also helps the cinnamon sugar mixture cling to every nook and cranny, making sure each bite is packed with sweet, buttery goodness.
Cinnamon and sugar? They’re the heart of the flavor story. That warm, cozy, sweet coating is what defines a great cinnamon twist, and trust me, you don’t want to skimp on it.
A little pinch of salt might seem small, but it’s mighty — it balances all that sweetness and really makes the cinnamon flavor pop.
And then there’s vanilla — adding just a splash brings warmth and depth, both to the buttery coating and to the optional glaze if you decide to drizzle it on top. It’s the kind of secret ingredient that makes people go, "Wow, what’s in these?"
Easy Ingredient Substitutions
- Going dairy-free? Swap the butter for plant-based butter, and use your favorite non-dairy milk to make the glaze.
- Need gluten-free? No problem — just grab gluten-free puff pastry or gluten-free crescent roll dough.
- Want to lower the sugar? You can cut the sugar in half and add a little stevia (about ¼ teaspoon) to keep that sweet kick without going overboard.
- Craving keto-friendly twists? Make it happen with fathead dough and a sugar-free sweetener — you’ll still get delicious Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists without the carbs crashing your party.
Instructions
Prep Your Ingredients
- Remove your puff pastry from the freezer and thaw according to package directions (usually 20-30 minutes at room temperature).
- While waiting, mix the cinnamon and sugar together in a shallow bowl.
- Melt the butter and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F for 3 minutes.
Create the Twists
- Unfold the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and gently roll it to smooth out creases.
- Brush the pastry with half of the melted butter mixture.
- Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the buttered pastry.
- Fold the pastry in half (like closing a book) and press gently to seal.
- Cut the folded pastry into ½-inch strips using a pizza cutter or sharp knife.
- Take each strip and twist it 3-4 times, stretching it slightly as you twist.
Air Fry to Perfection
- Brush the air fryer basket lightly with oil or use parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Place the twisted strips in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each twist for air circulation.
- Cook at 350°F for 5-6 minutes, then flip each twist.
- Brush with remaining butter and sprinkle with more cinnamon sugar.
- Cook for another 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Work in batches if needed - don't overcrowd the basket.
Finishing Touches
- Remove the cinnamon twists from the air fryer and place on a cooling rack.
- While still warm, sprinkle any remaining cinnamon sugar over the twists.
- If using the glaze, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the twists once they've cooled slightly (about 5 minutes).
- Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.
- Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Thaw your puff pastry and get your butter, cinnamon sugar, and vanilla ready.
- Step 2: Create the Twists
Brush, sprinkle, fold, slice, and twist the dough into shape.
- Step 3: Air Fry to Perfection
Air fry the cinnamon twists until crispy, flipping once for even cooking.
- Step 4: Finishing Touches
Sprinkle with more cinnamon sugar and drizzle glaze if desired before serving.
Expert Cooking Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists
- Chill Out: If your twisted dough starts getting too soft and floppy, pop it in the fridge for 5–10 minutes. Chilling helps it hold its shape beautifully during air frying.
- Preheat Like a Pro: Don’t skip preheating your air fryer! It’s the secret to even cooking and getting that gorgeous, bakery-style rise on your Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists.
- Stay Alert at the Finish Line: Sugar can go from perfectly golden to sadly burnt in a heartbeat. Keep a close eye during the last minute or two of cooking.
- Know Your Air Fryer: Every model is a little different — some run hotter than others. You might need to tweak your cook time slightly for the best results.
- Crisp It Up: Want extra crunch? Lightly spritz your twists with a bit of cooking oil before air frying for that irresistible crispy finish.
- Small Batches, Big Rewards: Don’t overcrowd your air fryer basket! Giving the twists enough space ensures they crisp up properly instead of steaming into sad sogginess.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overworking the Dough: Handle your puff pastry gently — too much rolling or twisting can make it tough instead of deliciously flaky.
- Too Hot to Handle: Cranking the temperature too high will burn the sugar coating before the inside is even cooked. Low and steady wins this race!
- No Elbow Room: Make sure there’s space between each twist. Good air circulation = even crispiness and that dreamy golden color.
- Cold Butter Problems: Using cold butter? Big mistake. It won’t spread or stick properly, and you’ll miss out on that rich, buttery cinnamon coating that makes Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists truly shine.
Recipe Variations & Dietary Modifications
Sweet Variations
- Apple Cinnamon Twists: Add a ¼ teaspoon of apple pie spice and fold in finely diced apples for a cozy, fruity twist.
- Nutella Twists: Spread a thin layer of Nutella instead of butter before sprinkling the cinnamon sugar for an irresistibly rich flavor.
- Orange Cinnamon Twists: Mix 1 teaspoon of fresh orange zest into your cinnamon sugar mixture for a bright, citrusy note.
- Maple Pecan Twists: Sprinkle finely chopped pecans inside and swap regular sugar for maple sugar to add a warm, nutty sweetness.
Savory Twists
- Cheese Twists: Skip the cinnamon sugar and use grated Parmesan combined with herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory alternative.
- Pizza Twists: Spread a thin layer of tomato paste, sprinkle with Italian seasoning, and add shredded mozzarella for a fun pizza-inspired version.
- Everything Bagel Twists: Brush with melted butter and sprinkle everything bagel seasoning over the top for a bold, savory snack.
Dietary Modifications
- Gluten-Free Option: Opt for a ready-made gluten-free puff pastry or make your own using a gluten-free flour blend for a twist everyone can enjoy.
- Keto Cinnamon Twists: Use fathead dough made from mozzarella, cream cheese, and almond flour, along with a sugar-free sweetener for a low-carb option.
- Vegan Cinnamon Twists: Choose plant-based puff pastry and vegan butter to keep your twists dairy-free and fully vegan.
Equipment Recommendations
- Air Fryer: A 5-6 quart basket-style air fryer works best for even cooking
- Parchment Paper: Pre-cut air fryer parchment paper prevents sticking
- Pizza Cutter: Makes clean cuts through the pastry for even twists
- Pastry Brush: Silicone brushes apply butter evenly without absorbing too much
- Cooling Rack: Allows air to circulate and keeps twists crispy as they cool
If you're new to air frying, any standard model will work, though those with digital temperature controls provide more consistent results.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
Fridge Storage
- Once cooled, store your Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To prevent sticking, place parchment paper between each layer.
- When ready to enjoy, reheat in the air fryer at 300°F for 2 to 3 minutes to bring back that perfect crispness.
Freezing Instructions
- To freeze before cooking, arrange the twisted dough on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
- Once frozen, transfer the twists to freezer-safe bags and store for up to 3 months.
- Cook straight from frozen, just adding 2 to 3 extra minutes to the usual cooking time.
- For already cooked twists, freeze them in single layers separated by parchment paper to avoid sticking.
- Reheat frozen, cooked twists in the air fryer at 300°F for about 3 to 4 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Make-Ahead Option
They can be kept in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking, making it easy to enjoy fresh-baked Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists whenever you’re ready.
If you want to prep ahead, assemble the cinnamon twists all the way through the twisting step, then refrigerate them.
The 10-Minute Secret for Bakery-Style Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists
Here’s a little secret I wish someone had told me sooner. If you want your Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists to look and taste like they came straight out of a fancy bakery, all you need is a simple 10-minute trick.
Right after you twist the dough, pop those beauties into the freezer for exactly 10 minutes. Not a minute more, not a minute less. This quick chill isn’t just to make handling easier — it’s the magic step that firms up the butter in the puff pastry.
When you toss the chilled twists into the hot air fryer, that cold butter rapidly melts and creates tiny bursts of steam inside the dough. The result? Airy pockets, incredible lift, and the flakiest, most delicate layers you can imagine.
It’s a small move that makes a huge difference. Once you try it, you’ll never skip this step again. Your Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists will have that irresistible, golden, puffed-up texture that practically begs to be devoured.
FAQ
How long to cook cinnamon swirls in the air fryer?
When making Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists or cinnamon swirls, you’ll typically want to cook them at 320°F to 330°F for about 6 to 8 minutes. Keep an eye on them toward the end of the cooking time, as air fryer models can vary. You’re looking for that beautiful golden brown color and a crisp, flaky finish.
Are cinnamon rolls in the air fryer good?
Yes, cinnamon rolls — and especially Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists — turn out fantastic in the air fryer! You get a lightly crisp outer layer while the inside stays soft, warm, and gooey. Plus, air frying is faster and cleaner than traditional baking, meaning you can enjoy homemade treats in a fraction of the time.
Can you put Pillsbury cinnamon rolls in the air fryer?
Absolutely! Pillsbury cinnamon rolls are great candidates for the air fryer, just like Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists. Simply place them in the basket with a little space between each roll, set the air fryer to 320°F, and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes until they’re golden and delicious. It's a fast, easy way to satisfy a cinnamon craving.
What kind of pasta does Taco Bell use for cinnamon twists?
Taco Bell doesn’t actually use traditional pasta for their cinnamon twists — they use a special wheat-based dough called duros. It puffs dramatically when fried, giving those airy, crunchy results. While it’s a different process than making homemade Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists, both deliver that sweet cinnamon-sugar satisfaction, just with different textures.
Sweet, Simple, and Seriously Addictive: Why You’ll Love These Twists
If you're looking for a new favorite treat, these Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists might just be it. They capture that classic, nostalgic flavor of cinnamon sugar we all love — but with a modern, hassle-free twist. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have warm, golden, flaky pastries that feel straight out of a bakery. Thanks to the air fryer, you get that perfect balance of a crispy exterior and a soft, tender center — and no messy deep frying required.
Whether you're serving them for a quick breakfast, a cozy afternoon snack, or an easy dessert, these Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists never disappoint. Plus, the recipe is super versatile: you can easily adapt it for different dietary needs or get creative with fun flavor variations. It’s the kind of go-to recipe you’ll keep coming back to, trust me.
And hey, if you're already in the mood for air fryer magic, why stop at twists? Try whipping up a batch of Homemade Donut Bites for a classic, poppable treat, or give 2-Ingredient Banana Donut Holes a go if you're after something insanely simple and a little fruity. They’re the perfect companions to your cinnamon twists — and they’re just as easy and delicious.
Go ahead and give these cinnamon twists a try this week — your family (and honestly, your taste buds) will thank you. Once you see how easy and delicious homemade can be, you’ll wonder why you ever bothered with store-bought versions.
Have you tried making Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists yet? I’d love to hear how yours turned out — share your tips, twists, and air fryer adventures in the comments below!
Related
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with this Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists recipe:
Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists
Equipment
- Air fryer (5-6 quart basket style)
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Pizza cutter or sharp knife
- Pastry Brush
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 1 package puff pastry thawed or use crescent roll dough as an alternative
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 0.25 teaspoon salt enhances sweet flavors
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract mixed into the melted butter
Optional Glaze
- 0.5 cup powdered sugar for glaze
- 1-2 tablespoons milk adjust based on desired glaze thickness
- 0.25 teaspoon vanilla extract for glaze flavor
Instructions
- Thaw puff pastry, prepare melted butter and cinnamon sugar mixture. Preheat air fryer to 350°F.
- Roll out pastry, brush with butter, sprinkle cinnamon sugar, fold, slice into strips, twist.
- Arrange twists in air fryer basket with space, cook for 5-6 minutes, flip, brush with butter, sprinkle more sugar, cook 3-4 more minutes.
- Cool on a wire rack, optionally drizzle glaze after cooling slightly.
Leave a Reply