Save to Pins I grabbed a can of crescent dough one Saturday morning with zero plan and somehow ended up twisting strips of cinnamon-sugar heaven into my air fryer. The smell hit before the timer did. My neighbor texted asking what I was baking. These twists became my go-to whenever I need something warm and sweet without turning on the oven.
I made these for my sister when she visited last spring. She ate three before her coffee cooled and asked if I'd opened a bakery. I told her it was just dough, butter, and cinnamon. She didn't believe me until I made another batch right in front of her. Now she keeps crescent rolls in her fridge just in case.
Ingredients
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough: The shortcut that makes this recipe possible, it bakes up flaky and golden without any kneading or proofing required.
- Unsalted butter: Melted and brushed on generously, it helps the cinnamon sugar stick and adds richness to every bite.
- Brown sugar: Brings a deeper, molasses-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with cinnamon and caramelizes slightly in the air fryer.
- Ground cinnamon: The warm, spicy backbone of the filling, use fresh cinnamon if you have it for the best flavor.
- Powdered sugar: Whisked into a smooth glaze that drizzles beautifully and adds just the right amount of sweetness on top.
- Milk: Thins the glaze to a pourable consistency, adjust the amount based on how thick or thin you like it.
- Vanilla extract: A small splash that rounds out the glaze and makes everything taste homemade.
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer:
- Set it to 350°F and let it warm up for about 3 minutes. This ensures the twists start cooking immediately and develop that crisp, golden exterior.
- Prep the dough:
- Unroll it onto a lightly floured surface and press the seams together so it forms one smooth sheet. Brush melted butter all over, edge to edge.
- Add the filling:
- Combine brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl, then sprinkle it evenly across the buttered dough. Press it in gently with your fingers so it sticks.
- Fold and cut:
- Fold the dough in half lengthwise and press lightly to seal. Use a knife or pizza cutter to slice it into 8 even strips.
- Twist and shape:
- Hold each strip by the ends and twist it several times, then pinch the ends to keep it from unraveling. They don't have to be perfect, a little rustic charm is part of the appeal.
- Air-fry in batches:
- Arrange the twists in the basket with space between them so air circulates freely. Cook for 7 to 8 minutes until they're puffed and golden brown.
- Make the glaze:
- While the twists cool slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle it over the warm twists and serve right away.
Save to Pins The first time I served these at brunch, someone asked if they were from a fancy bakery downtown. I just smiled and said they took less time than brewing a pot of coffee. That's when I realized simple ingredients and a little heat can feel like magic when the timing is right.
Serving Suggestions
These twists are perfect on their own, but they're even better with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. I've also served them alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a more complete breakfast spread. The glaze hardens slightly as they cool, giving them a bakery-style finish that makes them feel special without any extra effort.
Storage and Reheating
They're best eaten warm and fresh, but leftovers can be stored 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 a minute or two. The glaze will soften and the edges will crisp up again, almost like they just came out the first time.
Customization Ideas
I've added chopped pecans and a pinch of nutmeg to the filling when I want something a little richer. You can also swap the brown sugar for coconut sugar or drizzle melted cream cheese over the top instead of the vanilla glaze. One friend even brushed them with maple syrup halfway through cooking and said it was the best decision she'd made all week.
- Try sprinkling coarse sugar on top before air-frying for extra crunch and sparkle.
- Add a pinch of cardamom to the cinnamon sugar for a warm, floral twist.
- Use pumpkin pie spice in the fall for a seasonal variation that tastes like autumn in every bite.
Save to Pins There's something quietly satisfying about pulling warm, golden twists from the air fryer and watching the glaze drip down the sides. They're proof that you don't need hours or fancy skills to make something that feels like a treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of dough works best for these twists?
Refrigerated crescent roll dough or pizza dough both yield tender, flaky twists with a buttery texture ideal for air frying.
- → How can I ensure the twists do not stick together while cooking?
Arrange the twisted strips spaced apart in the air fryer basket and cook in batches if needed to maintain airflow and prevent sticking.
- → Can I add nuts to the filling?
Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts can be mixed with the cinnamon sugar filling for added crunch and flavor.
- → What is the ideal air fryer temperature and time for these twists?
Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook the twists for 7-8 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- → How is the glaze prepared and applied?
A smooth glaze is made by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, then drizzled over warm twists to enhance sweetness.
- → Can these twists be reheated?
Yes, reheating them in the air fryer for 1-2 minutes refreshes their crispness and warmth effectively.