Irresistible Cinnamon and Sugar Breadstick Twists: A Heavenly Homemade Delight
Gooey cinnamon and sugar, perfectly intertwined within soft, tender homemade breadstick twists, finished with a simple, sweet drizzled glaze – these are the kind of treats that bring pure happiness to any kitchen. Forget complicated pastries; these Cinnamon and Sugar Breadstick Twists are the epitome of simple, sweet perfection, designed to become an instant family favorite.
The moment these golden, aromatic twists emerged from the oven, a wave of pure joy swept through our home. My husband, Brian, was so ecstatic he nearly attempted a cartwheel! (Though I quickly reminded him his 36-year-old hamstrings might not appreciate such youthful exuberance.)
The boys, however, had no such reservations. They happily performed cartwheels on Brian’s behalf, leading to an inevitable chain reaction: Jackson innocently catapulting into Ty, who then, unfortunately, rammed into Camryn. And as any parent of multiple children knows, when the lone girl among four boisterous boys starts screaming, the entire world comes to a halt. Amidst the chaos of bruised noggins and teary eyes, a swift solution emerged. We lovingly cuddled the little ones, then promptly shoved warm cinnamon and sugar breadstick twists into their waiting mouths. And within a mere three and a half minutes, peace, quiet, and sugary bliss were restored.
Inspired by a truly divine breadstick dough recipe, it was only a matter of time before the irresistible combination of gooey cinnamon and sugar found its rightful home within the tender twists of these soft, homemade breadsticks. The result is a truly remarkable treat that satisfies every craving for something sweet, comforting, and utterly delicious.
Drizzled generously with a super simple, yet incredibly flavorful glaze, these breadstick twists transform into a seriously good indulgence. Whether you consider them a snack, a delightful addition to lunch, a special breakfast treat, or even a casual dessert, I promise no judgment here! With only a couple of tablespoons of butter distributed across 18 breadsticks and the option to incorporate a bit of whole grain goodness, I wholeheartedly encourage you to indulge whenever the craving strikes.
Why You Need These Cinnamon and Sugar Breadstick Twists in Your Life
These aren’t just any sweet treats; they’re a beacon of culinary comfort, a simple pleasure that delivers immense satisfaction. Here’s why these Cinnamon and Sugar Breadstick Twists will quickly earn a permanent spot in your baking repertoire:
- Incredibly Easy to Make: Don’t let the idea of working with yeast intimidate you. This recipe uses a forgiving dough that’s straightforward to prepare, making it perfect for both seasoned bakers and eager beginners. The process is enjoyable, and the results are consistently rewarding.
- Unforgettable Flavor Combination: The classic pairing of warm cinnamon and sweet sugar creates an aroma that will fill your kitchen with coziness and a taste that delights the palate. The simple glaze adds just the right amount of extra sweetness without overpowering the star flavors.
- Versatility for Any Occasion: These twists are true chameleons of the culinary world. Serve them warm for breakfast with your morning coffee, pack them as an afternoon snack, offer them as a casual dessert after dinner, or bring them to a potluck for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. They truly fit any moment!
- The Joy of Homemade: There’s an unparalleled satisfaction that comes from baking something delicious from scratch. The soft texture, the sweet aroma, and the proud feeling of presenting homemade goodies to your loved ones make the effort entirely worthwhile.
- Family-Friendly Fun: The process of twisting the dough can even be a fun activity to involve children in, creating sweet memories along with sweet treats. Just be ready for a little flour dust and a lot of laughter!
Cinnamon and Sugar Breadstick Twists
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Ingredients
Breadstick Dough:
- 1 ½ cups warm water
- 1 tablespoon instant yeast
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 3 ½ cups (497 g) flour (see note)
- ½ teaspoon salt
Filling and Glaze:
- 2 tablespoons salted butter, melted
- ¼ cup (53 g) granulated sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
- ½ cup (57 g) powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk, more or less
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
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For the breadstick dough: In a large bowl or the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, combine the warm water, instant yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast is foamy, indicating it’s active. Add 1 cup of the flour and the salt to the yeast mixture. Mix thoroughly to combine, then gradually add the remaining flour, about ½ cup at a time, until a soft, smooth dough begins to form. The dough should pull away cleanly from the sides of the bowl. Knead the dough for 2-3 minutes until it’s elastic and smooth. Remember, the exact amount of flour can vary based on humidity and flour type; judge the dough by its texture. It should be soft and slightly tacky, but not overly sticky.
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Let the dough rest in the bowl for 10 minutes. While it rests, lightly grease a large 12×18-inch rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray and set it aside. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
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Lightly grease a clean countertop or a large piece of parchment paper with cooking spray. Transfer the dough to the prepared surface and gently press it out into an approximate 8×18-inch rectangle. Ensure the thickness is relatively even across the entire surface. Evenly spread the melted salted butter across the dough rectangle, getting close to the edges.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and cinnamon until well combined. Generously sprinkle this aromatic cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly across the buttered dough. Using your fingertips, lightly press the sugar mixture into the dough to help it adhere.
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Using a pizza cutter or a sharp knife, carefully cut the dough into strips about 1-inch wide. As you pick up each strip, gently twist it a few times to create the signature breadstick twist shape. Place the twisted breadsticks onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving about ½-inch of space between each one. All 15-18 breadsticks should fit comfortably on one large 12×18-inch baking sheet (refer to the image below for optimal spacing).
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Loosely cover the breadsticks on the baking sheet with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Allow them to rest at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes, or until they appear slightly puffy and have increased slightly in volume. This second rise (proofing) is crucial for a light and airy texture.
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Bake the breadstick twists in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown on top and cooked through. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time, as ovens can vary.
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While the breadsticks are baking or cooling, prepare the simple glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon of milk, and vanilla extract until a smooth, pourable mixture forms. If the glaze is too thick, add a tiny bit more milk, a half-teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar.
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Once baked, remove the breadsticks from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes. This allows them to set slightly before glazing. Drizzle the prepared glaze generously over the warm breadsticks. Serve them warm for the best experience! These twists also reheat magically in the microwave for a few seconds if you have leftovers.
Notes
Flour: I typically use a combination of white whole wheat flour and all-purpose flour, usually about half of each, for a balance of flavor and texture. However, you can certainly use 100% all-purpose flour for a classic soft breadstick, or for a heartier option, use 100% whole wheat flour. If using all whole wheat flour, you might need to add a little extra kneading time to develop the gluten and be careful not to overflour the dough, as whole wheat absorbs more liquid and can result in a drier dough if not managed properly. Adjust flour quantities as needed to achieve a soft, pliable dough.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Serving: 1 Breadstick,
Calories: 156kcal,
Carbohydrates: 32g,
Protein: 3g,
Fat: 2g,
Saturated Fat: 1g,
Cholesterol: 4mg,
Sodium: 93mg,
Fiber: 1g,
Sugar: 9g
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Expert Tips for the Best Homemade Breadstick Twists
Achieving bakery-quality breadstick twists at home is simpler than you think. Here are a few expert tips to ensure your homemade treats turn out perfectly every time:
- Don’t Over-Flour the Dough: This is arguably the most crucial tip for soft bread. Resist the urge to add too much flour. A soft, slightly tacky dough is ideal. If it’s too stiff, your breadsticks will be dry and dense. The dough should just barely pull away from the sides of the bowl.
- Ensure Active Yeast: Always check that your instant yeast is active by letting it proof in warm water with a pinch of sugar for 5-10 minutes. If it becomes foamy, it’s good to go! If not, your yeast might be old, and it’s best to start with a fresh packet.
- Proper Proofing is Key: The 30-minute rest after twisting allows the dough to rise slightly and develop a light, airy texture. Don’t rush this step. Look for visual cues: the breadsticks should look slightly puffy. Room temperature is important for optimal rising.
- Evenly Spread Butter and Cinnamon Sugar: Take your time to spread the melted butter and then the cinnamon sugar evenly over the dough. This ensures every bite of your breadstick twist is coated in that delicious flavor. Lightly pressing the cinnamon sugar into the dough also helps it adhere better during twisting and baking.
- Consistent Twist Size: While a perfect twist isn’t necessary for taste, consistency in size helps them bake evenly. Aim for roughly 1-inch wide strips. When twisting, a few gentle turns are enough to create a nice spiral without stretching the dough too thin.
- Achieving the Perfect Glaze Consistency: The glaze should be pourable but thick enough to cling to the warm breadsticks. If it’s too runny, add more powdered sugar; if it’s too thick, add milk a half-teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired drizzling consistency.
- Serve Warm for Optimal Enjoyment: While delicious at room temperature, these breadstick twists are truly magical when served warm. The warmth enhances the gooey texture of the cinnamon sugar and the softness of the dough.
Delicious Variations & Serving Suggestions
These Cinnamon and Sugar Breadstick Twists are fantastic as is, but don’t hesitate to get creative! Here are some ideas to customize them and elevate your serving experience:
Flavor Variations:
- Nutmeg or Allspice: Add a pinch of ground nutmeg or allspice to your cinnamon-sugar mixture for an extra layer of warm, complex spice.
- Orange or Lemon Zest: Grate a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest into the cinnamon-sugar or the glaze for a bright, citrusy note that beautifully complements the cinnamon.
- Almond Extract: Substitute vanilla extract in the glaze with almond extract for a delicate, nutty flavor profile.
- Chocolate Chips: Before twisting, sprinkle a handful of mini chocolate chips over the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a delightful chocolatey surprise in every bite.
Serving Suggestions:
- Brunch Star: Serve a platter of warm twists alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, and scrambled eggs for a delightful brunch spread.
- Coffee or Tea Companion: These twists are the perfect partner for your morning coffee or an afternoon tea break.
- Dessert Upgrade: Pair them with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an indulgent dessert, or serve them with a dollop of whipped cream.
- After-School Snack: A comforting and energy-boosting treat that kids (and adults!) will adore after a long day.
- Party Favorite: Cut them into smaller portions for easy grabbing at parties or gatherings. They disappear quickly!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I make the dough ahead of time?
- Yes, you can! After kneading, you can place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature for about 30-60 minutes before proceeding with step 2 of the instructions.
- Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?
- While this recipe hasn’t been specifically tested with gluten-free flour, you might be able to adapt it using a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum. Be aware that the texture may differ, and you might need to adjust the liquid slightly.
- How do I store leftover Cinnamon and Sugar Breadstick Twists?
- Store any leftover breadstick twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For best results, warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
- Can I freeze these breadstick twists?
- Yes, you can! Once baked and glazed, let them cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 1-2 months. Reheat from frozen in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave until warm.
Conclusion: Your New Favorite Sweet Treat Awaits!
There’s something truly magical about homemade bread, and when you combine that with the comforting embrace of cinnamon and sugar, you get a recipe for instant happiness. These Cinnamon and Sugar Breadstick Twists are more than just a treat; they’re an experience – a simple joy to bake, a delight to share, and an absolute pleasure to devour. Whether it’s to soothe a crying child, gather the family for a sweet moment, or simply indulge in a moment of pure bliss, these twists are ready to answer the call. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and prepare to fill your home with the most heavenly aromas and create a new beloved tradition. Happy baking!
Recipe Source: from Mel’s Kitchen Cafe
