Heavenly Cinnamon Roll Breadtwists: Buttery, Swirled, and Glazed to Perfection

Flaky crescent dough twisted with cinnamon sugar, drizzled with brown sugar glaze and vanilla icing—these breadtwists are a shortcut to cinnamon roll bliss

Introduction: Cinnamon Rolls, Reimagined

There’s something undeniably comforting about the smell of cinnamon rolls baking in the oven. But what if you could enjoy all that warm, gooey, cinnamon-sugar goodness—without the long rise times or complicated dough? Enter these Heavenly Cinnamon Roll Breadtwists.

Made with refrigerated crescent dough, these twists are buttery, flaky, and filled with a sweet cinnamon swirl. A drizzle of brown sugar glaze adds richness, while a final touch of vanilla icing makes them truly irresistible. Whether you’re baking for brunch, dessert, or a cozy weekend treat, these breadtwists are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes these breadtwists so heavenly:

Dough Base:

• Refrigerated crescent dough (1 can)
  A convenient shortcut that bakes up flaky and golden. Press the seams together to form rectangles for twisting.

Tip: Use crescent dough sheets if available to skip sealing the perforations.

Cinnamon-Sugar Filling:

• Granulated sugar (¼ cup)
  Adds sweetness and texture.
• Ground cinnamon (1 tbsp)
  The star spice—warm, aromatic, and comforting.
• Unsalted butter (2 tbsp, melted)
  Helps the cinnamon sugar stick and adds richness.

Optional: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for extra depth.

Brown Sugar Glaze:

• Brown sugar (½ cup, packed)
  Adds molasses richness and caramel flavor.
• Unsalted butter (1 tbsp)
  Melts with the sugar to create a smooth glaze.
• Chopped pecans (¼ cup, optional)
  Add crunch and nutty contrast—toast them for extra flavor.

Tip: You can also use walnuts or skip the nuts for a smoother glaze.

Vanilla Icing:

• Powdered sugar (½ cup)
  Creates a smooth, sweet glaze.
• Milk (2 tbsp)
  Thins the icing to drizzle consistency.
• Vanilla extract (¼ tsp)
  Adds warmth and aroma.

Optional: Use cream instead of milk for a richer glaze.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Set oven to 375°F (190°C).

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Tip: This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Unroll the crescent dough onto a lightly floured surface.

Separate into rectangles by pressing the perforated edges together to seal.

You should have 4 rectangles.

Optional: Use a rolling pin to gently flatten and even out the dough.

Step 3: Add Cinnamon-Sugar Filling

In a small bowl:

• Mix granulated sugar and cinnamon.

Brush melted butter over each dough rectangle.

Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough.

Tip: Press the sugar mixture lightly into the dough to help it stick.

Step 4: Fold and Twist

Fold each rectangle in half lengthwise (like a hot dog bun).

Press the edges together to seal.

Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice each folded rectangle into 2 strips.

Gently twist each strip into a spiral and place on the prepared baking sheet.

Optional: Tuck the ends under slightly to prevent unraveling.

Step 5: Make the Brown Sugar Glaze

In a small saucepan over low heat:

• Melt brown sugar with 1 tablespoon of butter.

Stir until smooth and glossy.

Add chopped pecans if using.

Drizzle the glaze over the twisted dough strips.

Tip: Use a spoon or pastry brush to distribute glaze evenly.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 12–15 minutes, until:

• Twists are puffed
• Edges are golden brown
• Glaze is bubbling

Optional: Rotate the pan halfway through for even browning.

Step 7: Make the Vanilla Icing

While the breadtwists bake:

• Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth.

Adjust consistency by adding more milk (for thinner) or sugar (for thicker).

Tip: Pour icing into a zip-top bag and snip the corner for easy drizzling.

Step 8: Glaze and Serve

Remove breadtwists from oven and let cool for 5 minutes.

Drizzle with vanilla icing while still warm.

Serve immediately and enjoy!

Presentation Tip: Sprinkle with extra cinnamon or chopped nuts for a bakery-style finish.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

• Weekend brunch
• Holiday breakfasts
• Afternoon coffee breaks
• Dessert platters
• Bake sales and potlucks

Pair with:

• Hot coffee or chai
• Vanilla latte
• Cold milk
• Spiced apple cider

Tip: Serve on a wooden board with fresh fruit and extra glaze for a brunch centerpiece.

Variation to Try

Want to make them your own? Try these delicious twists:

Chocolate Swirl

Add mini chocolate chips or a drizzle of Nutella before folding.

Apple Pie

Add finely chopped apples and a pinch of nutmeg to the filling.

Maple Pecan

Use maple syrup in the glaze and top with toasted pecans.

Vegan Version

Use plant-based crescent dough, vegan butter, and dairy-free milk.

Berry Bliss

Add a layer of raspberry or strawberry jam before twisting.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Make-Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate unbaked twists for up to 1 day.
• Refrigerate: Store baked twists in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in oven at 300°F for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 10–15 seconds.
• Freeze: Freeze baked twists (without glaze) for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat before glazing.

Tip: Store glaze separately and drizzle fresh before serving.

Nutrition Notes (Per Twist, ~1 of 8)

• Calories: ~220
• Protein: ~3g
• Carbohydrates: ~26g
• Fat: ~11g
• Sugar: ~14g
• Sodium: ~210mg
• Fiber: ~1g

These breadtwists are:

• Comfort food approved
• Kid-friendly
• Quick and easy
• Perfect for sharing

Final Thoughts

These Heavenly Cinnamon Roll Breadtwists are more than just a treat—they’re a celebration of everything we love about cinnamon rolls, made faster and easier. Whether you’re baking them for a special brunch or a cozy night in, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast.