If you have a sweet tooth and love all things flaky and creamy, then the Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twists Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Imagine delicate puff pastry strips twisted around a luscious cinnamon-spiced cream cheese filling, baked to golden perfection with a sparkling sugar crust. This treat is the ideal balance of rich, sweet, and warmly spiced, making every bite a delightful experience that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an indulgent snack. Trust me, once you try this Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twists Recipe, it will be your go-to for impressing friends and family without breaking a sweat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, with just a handful of basic ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Each ingredient plays an essential role, whether it’s the flaky texture from the puff pastry, the creamy tang from the cream cheese, or the warm sweetness from cinnamon and sugar.
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed: Provides the light, flaky structure that’s the hallmark of this recipe.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Adds creamy richness that contrasts perfectly with the crisp pastry.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling without any graininess.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings depth and a sweet fragrance to the filling.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses the filling with warm spice that complements the cream cheese beautifully.
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash): Creates a shiny, golden finish on the twists.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for sprinkling): Adds a subtle crunch and sparkle on top.
How to Make Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twists Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lining a baking sheet with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze, so don’t skip it.
Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Roll out your thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface to avoid any sticking. Then cut the dough into strips about 1 inch wide. This sizing helps the twists bake evenly and hold the filling perfectly.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Mix these together until you get a perfectly smooth, aromatic mixture that’s ready to spread onto your pastry strips.
Step 4: Assemble the Twists
Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese filling along each puff pastry strip. Then carefully twist each strip a few times to create that signature spiral shape. Place the twists on your prepared baking sheet, making sure they don’t touch so they bake evenly.
Step 5: Brush and Sprinkle
Brush the beaten egg gently over each twist, which will give them a stunning golden color. Then sprinkle a bit of granulated sugar on top for a light crunch and beautiful shimmer as they bake.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Bake the twists in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and flaky. Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly—warm is best for savoring the creamy cinnamon filling oozing from the flaky pastry.
How to Serve Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twists Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey enhances the look and flavor of these twists without overpowering their natural charm. Fresh berries or a sprinkle of chopped nuts can also add a nice texture contrast and a pop of color.
Side Dishes
These twists pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making them a perfect morning treat or afternoon pick-me-up. They’re also great alongside fresh fruit salad or a dollop of whipped cream for a more indulgent dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive occasion, arrange your Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twists Recipe in a circular pattern on a decorative serving plate, maybe with a small bowl of fruit preserves in the center for dipping. You could also skewer them on sticks for a fun, handheld dessert at parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This helps maintain the puff pastry’s flaky texture and keeps the cream cheese filling fresh and delicious.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked twists by assembling them on a baking sheet and chilling until firm, then transferring to a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they come out perfectly fluffy and golden.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispness. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that signature flaky texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use frozen puff pastry straight from the freezer?
It’s best to thaw puff pastry before using because it’s easier to handle and cuts more cleanly. Thaw in the refrigerator or on the countertop until it’s pliable but still cold.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can try substituting cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative, and make sure your puff pastry is also free from butter if you want a fully dairy-free version. The flavor will be slightly different but still enjoyable.
Can I prepare these twists the night before baking?
Yes! You can assemble the twists and keep them covered in the refrigerator overnight. Just bring them to room temperature before baking for the best rise and flakiness.
How do I prevent the twists from getting soggy?
Using a thin layer of cream cheese filling helps, as does ensuring the oven is fully preheated so the pastry can crisp up quickly. Also, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet to allow proper air circulation.
What can I use if I don’t have powdered sugar?
If you don’t have powdered sugar, you can blend granulated sugar with a little cornstarch in a food processor to make your own. It’s important for smooth sweetness in the filling.
Final Thoughts
The Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twists Recipe is a total crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity with decadent flavor. It’s the kind of recipe that brings joy to your kitchen and smiles to everyone who tastes it. Easy to make, filled with comforting spices and creamy cheese, these twists are a fantastic way to treat yourself or impress guests. I highly encourage you to give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!
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Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twists Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twists are a delightful and easy-to-make dessert combining flaky puff pastry with a creamy, cinnamon-spiced cheesecake filling. Perfectly golden and sprinkled with sugar, these twists make a wonderful treat for breakfast or dessert in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Topping
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for sprinkling)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking. Cut the pastry into 1-inch wide strips for easy twisting.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Mix together thoroughly until the filling is smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Twists: Spread a thin, even layer of the cream cheese mixture over each puff pastry strip. Carefully twist each strip several times to create a spiral effect, then place the twists on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush and Sprinkle: Brush each twisted pastry with the beaten egg wash to help them develop a golden, shiny crust. Sprinkle granulated sugar evenly over the twists for added sweetness and a slight crunch.
- Bake: Bake the twists in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they are puffed up, golden brown, and flaky.
- Serve: Allow the cinnamon cheesecake puff pastry twists to cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and smooth filling.
- Cut pastry strips evenly to ensure uniform baking and appearance.
- If puff pastry isn’t thawed enough, it can tear easily; thaw completely but keep cool.
- Use parchment paper to avoid sticking and make cleanup easier.
- For a stronger cinnamon flavor, sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top before baking.
- These twists are best eaten the same day they are baked but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
