Making Cinnamon Twists In An Air Fryer: A Quick Treat

Cinnamon twists are a popular snack, and they can be made in an air fryer. The process is simple: roll out the dough, brush with melted butter, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, twist, and then air fry. The result is a crunchy, sweet treat that can be served as a dessert or a snack.

Cinnamon toast in an air fryer vs. a traditional oven

Cinnamon twists are a popular snack that can be made in an air fryer or a traditional oven. While both cooking methods will give you a delicious treat, there are some differences to consider when choosing which approach to take.

Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists

Air fryer cinnamon twists are a convenient and quick option. They require minimal preparation and cooking time, making them an excellent choice when you're short on time or looking for a hassle-free dessert or snack. The air fryer's ability to circulate hot air efficiently means your twists will cook evenly and develop a desirable crispy texture.

The air fryer method is also relatively mess-free compared to deep frying, as you won't need to deal with large amounts of hot oil. Additionally, the air fryer's enclosed design helps contain splatters and minimizes the risk of making a mess in your kitchen.

When making cinnamon twists in an air fryer, you can use a variety of doughs, including crescent roll dough, puff pastry, pizza dough, or even homemade dough. The versatility of the air fryer allows you to experiment with different types of dough to find your preferred texture and flavor.

Traditional Oven Cinnamon Twists

Using a traditional oven to make cinnamon twists is a more conventional approach and is suitable if you're already baking other dishes or prefer a more classic baking method. The oven method can be advantageous if you're preparing a large batch, as most ovens offer more space than an air fryer.

One benefit of using an oven is that it can provide a more consistent heat source, allowing for even cooking and browning. This can be especially useful if you're making a large number of twists and need to bake them in multiple batches.

Comparison

Both the air fryer and the traditional oven have their advantages. If you're short on time or seeking a convenient and mess-free option, the air fryer is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more traditional baking method or are preparing a large batch, the oven may be more suitable. Ultimately, both methods will give you delicious cinnamon twists, so you can choose the approach that best fits your preferences and circumstances.

The best type of bread to use

The type of bread you use for your cinnamon twists can make a big difference in the final result. Here are some options to consider:

Crescent Roll Dough:

This is a convenient option as it is readily available in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores. It is also easy to work with and produces perfect results every time. This dough is commonly used for cinnamon twists and creates a flaky and crispy texture on the outside while maintaining a tender interior.

Puff Pastry:

Puff pastry is a versatile option that can be used to make cinnamon twists. It is important to ensure that the puff pastry is fully thawed before using it. This will help achieve the desired puffiness and flakiness. With its multiple layers, puff pastry creates a light and airy texture, making it a great choice for cinnamon twists.

Homemade Dough:

If you enjoy baking from scratch, you can make your own dough for the cinnamon twists. This allows you to customise the ingredients and create a unique flavour profile. Homemade dough can be more time-consuming but gives you the flexibility to make it to your preferred texture and taste.

Biscuit Dough:

Biscuit dough is a less common choice but can be a good alternative if you're looking for a denser and more bread-like texture. It may not puff up as much as other options but can still be a tasty base for your cinnamon twists.

Croissant Dough:

If you have access to croissant dough, either store-bought or homemade, it can be a delicious option for cinnamon twists. Croissant dough will give your treats a flaky and buttery texture, similar to crescent roll dough, but with a more distinct layered structure.

Tips for Choosing the Best Bread:

• Consider the desired texture: Do you want your cinnamon twists to be flaky and crispy, or softer and more bread-like? This will help narrow down your choices.
• Convenience: If you're short on time, opting for refrigerated doughs like crescent roll dough or puff pastry can save you preparation steps.
• Experimentation: Don't be afraid to experiment with different types of bread to find the one that suits your taste preferences. You might be surprised by the results!

How to prepare the butter

To prepare the butter for your cinnamon twists, you'll need to melt it. You can do this either in the microwave or on the stove in a small saucepan. You'll need 3 tablespoons of butter for this recipe, but you can adjust the amount depending on your preference. Once melted, you can brush the butter onto the dough using a pastry brush. This step will ensure that the cinnamon-sugar mixture adheres well to the dough and gives it a crispy, caramelized finish.

If you don't have butter readily available, you can also use margarine or a butter substitute. These alternatives may alter the flavour slightly, but they can still be effective for brushing the pastry.

How long to air fry the cinnamon twist for

The length of time you air fry your cinnamon twists for will depend on the type of dough you are using and the effect you are trying to achieve.

If you are making the twists with wheat pellets, or duros, which are uncooked pasta that puffs up when fried, you should air fry them for 3-5 minutes at 400 degrees F (200°C). This will give them a light and puffy texture.

If you are using a different type of dough, such as crescent roll dough, puff pastry, biscuit dough, or croissant dough, you will need to air fry the twists for a slightly longer period. Most recipes recommend air frying at 350-375 degrees F for 5-8 minutes, or until the twists are golden brown.

It is important to note that cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model, so it is a good idea to keep an eye on your cinnamon twists as they cook to prevent overcooking. You may also need to cook the twists in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket and ensure even cooking.

Additionally, some recipes suggest flipping the twists halfway through the cooking process to ensure they are crispy on all sides.

Serving suggestions

Cinnamon twists are a versatile treat that can be served in a variety of ways. They are perfect for breakfast, as an after-school snack, a decadent dessert, or even as a side dish. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cinnamon twist experience:

• Sweet Accompaniments: Cinnamon twists are a delightful pairing with a variety of sweet treats. Serve them with whipped cream, chocolate buttercream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. They also go well with sweet dips such as caramel sauce, chocolate sauce, cream cheese fruit dip, or raspberry sauce. For a simple yet tasty addition, dust them with powdered sugar or a pinch of sea salt to enhance their flavour.
• Savory Combinations: If you're looking for a savoury twist, serve these treats alongside a savoury air fryer breakfast pizza or an air fryer breakfast bowl. This combination of sweet and savoury flavours will tantalize your taste buds.
• Beverages: Cinnamon twists pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. They also complement warm beverages like hot cocoa, making them an ideal snack for chilly days.
• Dips and Sauces: For an extra indulgent treat, serve cinnamon twists with a yummy dipping sauce. Some mouth-watering options include caramel sauce, chocolate sauce, cream cheese fruit dip, or a sweet glaze. You can even get creative and make your own dipping sauces with a touch of spice or citrus.
• Customizable Toppings: Cinnamon twists are a blank canvas for your creativity. Experiment with different toppings to suit your taste. You can add chopped nuts, mini chocolate chips, or a drizzle of icing. For a festive twist, consider adding seasonal ingredients like pumpkin puree or cranberry sauce.
• Fruit Combinations: Cinnamon twists go well with fresh or cooked fruit. Try serving them with apple or pear slices, or even a fruit compote or preserves such as raspberry or apricot. The combination of sweet fruit and cinnamon sugar is a match made in heaven.
• Creative Glazes: For a glossy and elegant finish, glaze your cinnamon twists with a mixture of powdered sugar and a small amount of milk or lemon juice. This simple addition takes your treats to the next level, making them perfect for special occasions or holiday gatherings.
• Mini Treats: For bite-sized portions, create mini cinnamon twists. These are perfect for serving at parties or as a snack. You can also experiment with different shapes, such as braiding the dough or forming smaller spirals.
• Platter and Display Ideas: Cinnamon twists are excellent for sharing platters or dessert exchanges. Arrange them on a platter with other sweet treats, such as cinnamon sugar tortilla chips, cinnamon sugar donuts, or cinnamon rolls. They are sure to be a crowd-pleaser and will impress your family and friends.
• Leftover Makeovers: Don't let leftover cinnamon twists go to waste! Get creative and repurpose them into new treats. Crumble them over ice cream, use them as a topping for yogurt, or even blend them into milkshakes for a unique flavour.

Remember, cinnamon twists are versatile, so feel free to experiment with different serving suggestions and combinations to find your favourite ways to enjoy them. They are a delightful treat that can be customized to suit any occasion, whether it's a cosy night in, a festive gathering, or a fun snack for the whole family.

Frequently asked questions