If you’re searching for a quick and swoon-worthy treat that delivers all the flavors of your favorite bakery in a fuss-free format, these Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twists are about to become your go-to dessert. Imagine golden, flaky pastry enveloping a creamy, tangy cheesecake filling, all spiraled with a sweet cinnamon-sugar swirl—each bite is blissfully soft, crisp, and layered with comforting warmth. You’ll adore how simple yet impressive these twists are, perfect for brunches, coffee breaks, or as a sweet way to end any meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering ingredients for Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twists is refreshingly simple, with each component bringing its own delightful character to the table. From flaky pastry to cozy spice, the combination is pure magic in every bite.
- Frozen puff pastry sheet (thawed): This is your magic shortcut, giving you effortless flaky layers without the work.
- Cream cheese (softened): Adds rich, tangy creaminess for that classic cheesecake flavor.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese mixture and balances the cinnamon’s warmth.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses the filling with sweet, aromatic depth.
- Ground cinnamon: The cozy spice hero that makes every twist irresistibly fragrant.
- Brown sugar: Brings delightful caramel notes and extra depth to the cinnamon swirl.
- Melted butter: Helps the pastry brown to perfection and enhances buttery flavor.
- Egg (beaten, for egg wash): Gives your twists a glossy, golden finish when baked.
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting): Adds a cloud of sweetness and a beautiful bakery-style look.
How to Make Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twists
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so your twists won’t stick and clean-up stays a breeze.
Step 2: Make the Dreamy Cheesecake Filling
In a small bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar and vanilla until completely smooth and creamy. This will be your decadent filling, so mix until no lumps remain. The cream cheese mixture should spread easily over the pastry.
Step 3: Mix Your Cinnamon Sugar
In another small bowl, stir together ground cinnamon and brown sugar. This simple mixture will create those classic cinnamon roll flavors in every twist—you’ll want to sprinkle it on generously for maximum flavor impact.
Step 4: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out your thawed puff pastry into a rectangle. The pastry should be even, but don’t worry about perfection—a rustic look only adds to the charm of Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twists!
Step 5: Assemble with Love
Spread the cream cheese mixture over half of the puff pastry rectangle, using the back of a spoon or an offset spatula. Sprinkle the cinnamon-brown sugar mixture evenly on top of the cream cheese. Fold the untouched half of the pastry over the filling, creating a sandwich. Press down gently so everything holds together.
Step 6: Slice and Twist
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the folded pastry into strips about 1 inch wide. Gently twist each strip several times, holding each end—don’t worry if some filling peeks out, that’s what will give you those gorgeous, gooey swirls after baking.
Step 7: Brush and Bake
Transfer the twists to your lined baking sheet, spacing them apart to allow for puffing up. Brush each one with melted butter, then a light coating of egg wash for that irresistible golden sheen. Bake for 15–18 minutes, watching for the moment they turn fluffy, crisp, and beautifully golden.
Step 8: Cool, Dust, and Savor
Let the Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twists cool slightly on the pan so the filling sets. Finish with a snowy dusting of powdered sugar if you like, and enjoy warm or at room temperature—trust me, every bite is pure joy.
How to Serve Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twists
Garnishes
For that finishing bakery touch, a sprinkle of powdered sugar is classic. If you want extra decadence, a drizzle of simple vanilla glaze or even melted white chocolate amps up the sweetness and makes each twist look irresistible on a platter.
Side Dishes
These twists pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a tall glass of iced milk for kids. If you’re serving brunch, offer them alongside fresh fruit salad for a bright, juicy contrast to the warm pastry.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twists on a cake stand for a centerpiece-worthy display, or serve them in a napkin-lined basket for brunch. For parties, cut them into shorter finger-food portions and arrange on a platter with tiny dipping bowls of chocolate or caramel sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you somehow manage to have leftovers, let the twists cool completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps the pastry crisp and the filling just soft enough.
Freezing
Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twists freeze beautifully. Place the fully cooled twists in a freezer-safe bag or container, with parchment between layers. They’ll keep for up to 2 months—just thaw at room temperature or refresh in the oven when your craving strikes.
Reheating
Gently reheat twists in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes to revive their flaky texture and creamy filling. Avoid microwaving, as that can make the pastry soggy. Fresh-baked flavor is just minutes away!
FAQs
Can I make Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twists ahead?
Absolutely! Assemble and twist them ahead of time, then cover and refrigerate on the baking sheet for up to 12 hours before baking. They’re also freezer-friendly after baking for longer storage.
What’s the best way to get clean, even twists?
For sharp, even slices, use a pizza cutter or a very sharp knife, and keep your pastry cold but pliable—it helps prevent stickiness and gives neater edges.
Can I add extras like nuts or raisins to the filling?
Go for it! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or even mini chocolate chips make fun additions to the cinnamon sugar layer before folding and twisting.
Do I have to use an egg wash?
The egg wash ensures your Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twists get gorgeously golden and shiny, but if you prefer, you can simply use extra melted butter for browning—just keep in mind the finish won’t be as lustrous.
How should I store leftovers so they stay flaky?
Store completely cooled twists in an airtight container lined with paper towel at room temperature. If needed, pop them back in the oven briefly to bring back their crispy texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a recipe that’s equal parts impressive and exceptionally easy, these Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twists are the answer. Whether you share them with friends or savor them all to yourself, you’re in for unbeatable flaky, creamy, cinnamon-swirled goodness with every bite. Don’t wait—give them a try and let your kitchen fill with the cozy aroma of baking magic!
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Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twists Recipe
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 8 twists 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twists are a delightful treat that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the warm spice of cinnamon, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry. Perfect for a sweet snack or dessert!
Ingredients
Puff Pastry:
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry (thawed)
Cheesecake Filling:
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Cinnamon Sugar:
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp melted butter
Additional:
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Make Cinnamon Sugar Mixture: In another bowl, combine ground cinnamon and brown sugar.
- Prepare the Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over half of the pastry. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture on top.
- Form the Twists: Fold the pastry over to cover the filling and gently press down. Cut into 1-inch wide strips and twist each strip several times.
- Bake: Place the twists on the prepared baking sheet, brush with melted butter and egg wash, and bake for 15–18 minutes until golden and puffed.
- Finish and Serve: Cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar, if desired. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- You can prepare the twists ahead and store them in an airtight container.
- Best served fresh but can be lightly reheated in the oven.
- Add a drizzle of icing or melted white chocolate for extra sweetness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 twist
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 170 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
