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These air fryer cinnamon twists deliver that perfect combination of crispy exterior and tender inside that typically requires professional baking skills. The genius of using frozen dinner roll dough transforms a simple ingredient into something truly special with minimal effort. Each golden twist gets bathed in melted butter then rolled in cinnamon sugar for that classic sweet coating that makes your fingers deliciously sticky. The accompanying cream cheese dip adds a tangy richness that perfectly complements the warm spiced twists. This impressive treat comes together in under 30 minutes but tastes like you spent hours creating bakery quality pastries.
I first discovered this recipe when searching for quick desserts during a snowstorm when we couldn't reach our favorite bakery. My seven year old daughter declared them better than anything we buy at the donut shop, and they've become our Sunday morning tradition while still in pajamas. The simplicity belies how impressive they look when plated, making them perfect for both casual family treats and elegant entertaining.
Essential Elements
- Frozen dinner roll dough: Provides the perfect base with its already developed gluten and slight sweetness
- Canola oil: Helps achieve golden exterior without competing flavors
- Real butter: Creates rich mouthfeel and helps cinnamon sugar adhere
- Ground cinnamon: Use fresh for brightest flavor or grind whole sticks
- Full fat cream cheese: Yields silky dipping sauce with perfect tang
Using quality ingredients makes a noticeable difference. Low fat cream cheese caused separation, while real butter elevates adherence and flavor compared to substitutes.
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Crafting Perfection
- Prepare The Dough:
- Thaw rolls until pliable. Cut into halves and roll into pencil thick ropes
- Create The Twists:
- Fold and twist ropes tightly. Brush with oil for browning
- Rest And Rise:
- Let twists puff under towel for 10 minutes while preheating air fryer
- Air Fry To Perfection:
- Cook at 375°F in single layers until golden crisp
- Apply The Finishing Touch:
- Brush hot twists with butter and roll in cinnamon sugar immediately
My family debates plain twists versus cream cheese dipping. The contrast between crispy cinnamon crust and tangy dip keeps us alternating preferences.
Sweet Sensations
Pair with hot chocolate or cold brew coffee. Create dessert boards with berries and apples, or use as sundae bases for warm spiced crunch.
Flavorful Adaptations
Add pecans to cinnamon sugar or press chocolate chips into dough. Use pumpkin spice blend with maple cream cheese dip for autumn variations.
Freshness Strategies
Serve immediately for ideal texture. Refresh undercooked twists with 2 minute air fry before serving. Transport cooled twists with parchment layers and separate dip.
These twists converted me from air fryer skeptic to enthusiast. They rival bakery goods and remain my most requested recipe for gatherings.
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Morning Magic
Transform mornings with cinnamon aroma. Balance indulgence by pairing with fruit and yogurt. Small batches ensure freshness without leftovers.
Entertainment Essential
Impress brunch guests with twisted elegance. Serve on tiered platters for social snacking. Two bite size eliminates need for utensils.
Family Tradition
Weekend twists became our cherished ritual. Children recognize the air fryer beep as treat time. A simple recipe fostering generational connections.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these cinnamon twists without an air fryer?
- Yes, you can bake these in a conventional oven at 350°F for about 15-18 minutes or until golden brown. They won't be quite as crispy on the outside, but they'll still be delicious. Alternatively, you could deep fry them in oil at 350°F for 2-3 minutes per side.
- → What can I use instead of frozen dinner roll dough?
- You can substitute refrigerated crescent roll dough, pizza dough, or even puff pastry. The texture and cooking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on them while cooking. For homemade dough, any enriched bread dough recipe would work well.
- → Can I make the cream cheese dip ahead of time?
- Absolutely! The cream cheese dip can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before serving, and give it a quick stir if it seems too thick.
- → How do I store leftover cinnamon twists?
- These twists are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. To refresh them, warm in the air fryer at 300°F for 1-2 minutes. The cinnamon sugar coating may absorb some moisture during storage.
- → Can I freeze these cinnamon twists?
- Yes, you can freeze them either before or after cooking. To freeze before cooking, prepare the twists up to the twisting stage, freeze on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw completely before cooking. To freeze after cooking, allow them to cool completely, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in the air fryer at 300°F for 3-4 minutes.
- → What other flavors can I add to these twists?
- You can add variety by mixing cardamom or nutmeg into the cinnamon sugar. For a different flavor profile, try using a mixture of brown sugar and cinnamon, or add orange or lemon zest to the sugar mixture. You could also drizzle them with chocolate or caramel sauce instead of serving with cream cheese dip.