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.