Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists Recipe
If you’re looking for a simple yet irresistibly delicious treat, Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists are exactly what you need. Imagine golden, buttery dough twisted with a warm cinnamon-sugar coating, delivering a perfect balance of sweet and spice in every bite. This easy-to-make recipe brings out the best in crescent roll dough, transforming it into a crowd-pleasing snack or dessert that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or anytime cravings. Once you try these Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists, they’ll quickly become a beloved go-to in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully straightforward but work together to create a flavor-packed, irresistible treat. Each one plays a vital role in building that perfect texture, sweetness, and cinnamon aroma that make Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists so addictive.
- 1 can refrigerated crescent roll dough: The easy base that gives you soft, flaky twists without fuss.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness that caramelizes lightly when baked.
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon: Brings that cozy warmth and classic cinnamon flavor that pairs beautifully with buttery dough.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Helps the cinnamon-sugar stick and adds richness to every bite.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (optional, for glaze): Perfect for a sweet finishing touch if you want to drizzle a shiny glaze over your twists.
- 2 tablespoons milk (optional, for glaze): Used to thin the glaze for easy drizzling and extra sweetness.
How to Make Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is just right to bake the twists evenly till golden brown and perfectly flaky without drying them out.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Next, unroll your crescent roll dough and carefully pinch all the seams together to form a neat rectangle. This step helps the dough stay intact for twisting and ensures an even bake.
Step 3: Mix the Sugar and Cinnamon
In a small bowl, combine your half cup of granulated sugar with the two tablespoons of ground cinnamon. This classic duo is what gives these twists their signature sweet and spicy flavor.
Step 4: Brush with Melted Butter
Generously brush the entire surface of your dough rectangle with the melted unsalted butter. The butter will help the cinnamon sugar adhere and infuse the twists with rich, buttery goodness.
Step 5: Sprinkle the Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture
Sprinkle your cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly all over the buttered dough, making sure each inch is covered. This ensures every bite bursts with cinnamon sweetness.
Step 6: Cut and Twist
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into 1-inch wide strips. Take each strip and gently twist it a couple of times before placing it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Twisting creates those delightful spirals that trap cinnamon sugar between layers.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the twists in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. You’re aiming for a gorgeous golden-brown color and a slightly crisp exterior that still feels soft inside.
Step 8: Prepare the Glaze (Optional)
If you want to take your Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists to another level of indulgence, whisk together powdered sugar and milk until smooth to create a simple glaze. This adds a glossy, sweet finish that perfectly complements the warm twists.
Step 9: Drizzle and Serve
Once the twists are out of the oven and still warm, drizzle the glaze over the top and serve immediately. The combination of warm dough, cinnamon sugar, and glaze is simply unbeatable.
How to Serve Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists

Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts adds a lovely texture contrast and visual appeal that makes these cinnamon twists even more tempting.
Side Dishes
These twists shine alongside a cup of hot coffee or chai tea for a cozy snack. They also pair beautifully with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for brunch spreads or dessert tables.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists in a festive circular pattern on a serving platter or pile them in a rustic basket lined with a colorful napkin. Their twists and golden color make them inherently beautiful and charming, perfect for sharing with friends or family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them soft and fresh, though they are best enjoyed the same day for that perfect flaky texture.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists by placing them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the twists in a warm oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes to restore that fresh-baked crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as that can make them a bit soggy.
FAQs
Can I use homemade dough for Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists?
Absolutely! While crescent roll dough is convenient, homemade dough adds a personalized touch. Just make sure it’s rolled out thin enough for easy twisting and bake time may need slight adjustment.
Are Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists gluten-free?
Traditional crescent roll dough contains wheat, so this recipe is not gluten-free. However, you can experiment with gluten-free crescent dough alternatives available in many grocery stores.
Can I add other spices or flavors?
Definitely! Adding nutmeg, cardamom, or even a pinch of ginger to the cinnamon-sugar mix can create delightful variations to suit your taste.
What’s the best way to make the glaze?
Keep it simple with powdered sugar and a splash of milk, whisked until smooth. Adjust the milk to get your preferred drizzle consistency, thinner for light drizzles or thicker for spreading.
How do I prevent the twists from sticking to the baking sheet?
Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper is key. It ensures easy removal and keeps the twists’ shape intact without any sticking or tearing.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so joyful about making Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists that’s both comforting and impressive in its simplicity. They’re a perfect treat to share, enjoy with loved ones, or whip up when you want a little homemade sweetness without hours in the kitchen. Give this recipe a try and watch how quickly these golden, cinnamon-spiced twists disappear. I promise, once you start, you won’t want to stop!
PrintCrescent Roll Cinnamon Twists Recipe
Crescent Roll Cinnamon Twists are quick and delicious treats featuring flaky crescent dough coated in a cinnamon-sugar mixture, twisted for a fun shape, and baked until golden. Optionally topped with a sweet glaze, these twists make a perfect sweet snack or breakfast pastry.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 twists 1x
- Category: Snack, Dessert, Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Cinnamon Twists
- 1 can refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Optional Glaze
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to allow it to reach the perfect temperature while you prepare the twists.
- Prepare the Dough: Unroll the refrigerated crescent roll dough on a clean surface and press the seams firmly together with your fingers to create one solid rectangle instead of individual triangles.
- Mix Sugar and Cinnamon: In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon thoroughly to create an even cinnamon-sugar blend.
- Brush with Butter: Using a pastry brush, evenly coat the entire surface of the dough rectangle with the melted unsalted butter to help the cinnamon-sugar stick and add richness.
- Sprinkle Mixture: Generously sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough, covering the surface completely for maximum flavor.
- Cut and Twist: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into 1-inch wide strips. Then, carefully hold each strip at both ends and twist several times before placing them spaced apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the twists for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are cooked through.
- Prepare Glaze (Optional): While the twists bake, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth to form a light glaze.
- Drizzle and Serve: Once baked, remove the cinnamon twists from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Drizzle the optional glaze over the warm twists for an extra sweet finish, and serve immediately for best taste and texture.
Notes
- Make sure to pinch seams well on the dough to prevent twisting strips from separating during baking.
- Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter for clean strips that twist easily without tearing.
- Adjust cinnamon and sugar quantity according to taste preference for a sweeter or milder cinnamon flavor.
- The glaze is optional but adds a lovely sweetness; you can omit or replace with a cream cheese frosting for variation.
- Serve warm for the best texture and flavor experience.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days; reheat gently before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 twist
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Crescent Roll, Cinnamon Twists, Quick Dessert, Sweet Snack, Holiday Treat, Cinnamon Sugar Pastry

