Bursting with creamy sweetness, buttery layers, and a cozy spiced aroma, Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twists are pure dessert magic. Imagine twirling golden pastry strands filled with silky cheesecake, finished with a sparkling dusting of cinnamon sugar—these treats are as dazzling to look at as they are melt-in-your-mouth delicious. They whip up so easily, you’ll want to make a batch whenever you crave something special, whether it’s brunch with friends or a well-deserved coffee break. If you’re hunting for a show-stopping yet effortlessly simple treat, this is the recipe you’ll dream about returning to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of easy-to-find ingredients, each one playing a starring role, you’ll create Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twists with layers of flavor and crunch. Here’s what each brings to your sweet celebration:
- Puff pastry: The foundation of our twists, offering ready-made buttery flakiness and magical lift with minimal effort.
- Cream cheese: Brings that signature cheesecake creaminess, adding tang and richness to the filling.
- Granulated sugar (for filling and coating): Sweetens both the silky filling and the crunchy cinnamon coating.
- Vanilla extract: A touch of vanilla rounds out the cream cheese with a warm, dreamy fragrance.
- Unsalted butter: Melted and brushed on for an indulgent, golden finish and extra flaky texture.
- Ground cinnamon: The soul of these twists, lending cozy spice and classic dessert vibes.
- Egg (for egg wash): A simple brush before baking gives each twist a bakery-style sheen and extra hold.
- Powdered sugar (optional): A light dusting makes each twist look festive and adds sweet finesse.
How to Make Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twists
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Tools
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), making sure it’s fully hot when your twists are ready to bake. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so nothing sticks and clean-up is a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Cheesecake Filling
In a small bowl, use a spoon or electric hand mixer to beat together the softened cream cheese, 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. The result should be lusciously smooth, without any lumps—this rich filling is the heart of each Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twist.
Step 3: Roll Out the Pastry
Unfold your thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Gently roll it out with a rolling pin, just enough to even the edges and make for even, tidy twists. Don’t over-roll—you want all the buttery layers to stay puffy in the oven!
Step 4: Spread and Fold
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over half of the puff pastry sheet, getting right up to the edges for full flavor in every bite. Fold the untopped half over the filling, creating a neat sandwich. Press down slightly to help everything stick together.
Step 5: Cut and Twist the Pastry
Grab a sharp knife or pizza cutter and slice the pastry into 1-inch wide strips. Take each strip, twist it gently several times, and place the twist onto your lined baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each one for puffing up.
Step 6: Butter, Sugar, and Cinnamon Topping
Brush every twist generously with melted butter—this will help the sugar-cinnamon topping cling and turns everything golden in the oven. In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup granulated sugar with the cinnamon, then sprinkle it over the buttered twists for that irresistible sparkle and warmth.
Step 7: Egg Wash for Shine
For an optional extra-glossy finish, brush the twists lightly with your beaten egg. This helps them bake up with a professional golden sheen that really catches the eye.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Slide your tray into the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes. You’ll know your Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twists are done when they’re puffed up and beautifully golden brown. Let them cool slightly on the baking sheet—they’ll continue to set and crisp up just a bit more.
Step 9: Dust with Powdered Sugar
If the mood strikes, finish your twists with a flourish of powdered sugar just before serving. This adds a lovely bakery touch and another sweet note everyone will love.
How to Serve Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twists
Garnishes
For an easy but impressive flourish, add a generous dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of cream cheese glaze, or even a few curls of white or milk chocolate. These simple toppings boost both the beauty and the decadence of every Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twist.
Side Dishes
These twists pair perfectly with fresh berries (like strawberries or raspberries) that cut through the richness, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for those who want to go all out. A cup of freshly brewed coffee, chai, or hot cocoa will cozy up alongside every sweet bite, making for an unforgettable treat break.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack your Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twists on a tiered cake stand for a brunch centerpiece, or pile them in a basket lined with a pretty napkin for casual gatherings. For individual servings, slide them into parchment sleeves or wrap with twine for a charming grab-and-go treat at parties or picnics.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your twists are cool, pop any extras into an airtight container. They’ll stay delightfully fresh and tender at room temperature for up to two days, though they’re so tasty you might not have leftovers for long!
Freezing
To enjoy Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twists weeks later, place completely cooled twists in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then move them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep up to two months and still taste fantastic after a gentle reheat.
Reheating
Warm up twists in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 minutes, or until they’ve regained their crispiness and creamy center. If you’re short on time, the microwave works for a few seconds—just be careful not to overheat or they’ll go soggy.
FAQs
Can I use homemade puff pastry instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! If you have the time and ambition to make your own puff pastry, you’ll end up with even flakier, richer twists. Store-bought is fantastic for convenience, but homemade takes this dessert to an artisan level.
What if I don’t have cream cheese?
If cream cheese is missing from your fridge, try substituting with mascarpone or ricotta for a different but still delicious creamy filling. The result won’t taste exactly like cheesecake but will offer its own decadent charm.
Can I prep Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twists ahead and bake later?
Yes, you can assemble the twists, place them on a baking sheet, cover, and refrigerate for up to 8 hours before baking. Just before baking, brush with butter, sprinkle on the cinnamon sugar, and you’re set—perfect for making your next brunch effortless!
How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?
Make sure you press the pastry edges together firmly after folding, and don’t overfill each strip. Some oozing is normal (and delicious!) but a good seal will keep most of the filling inside.
What can I add for extra flavor?
You can incorporate a little orange or lemon zest into the filling for a citrusy pop, or sprinkle chopped toasted nuts over the cream cheese before twisting for crunch and richness. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re excited to bring Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twists into your home! From their luscious filling to their impressive looks, these sweet treats are sure to bring smiles wherever they go. Give them a try, share them with your favorite people, and get ready for rave reviews at every bite!
Print
Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twists Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 twists 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cinnamon Cheesecake Puff Pastry Twists are a delightful dessert that combines the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the flaky goodness of puff pastry, all infused with warm cinnamon flavors. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy!
Ingredients
Puff Pastry:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Cream Cheese Filling:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Coating and Garnish:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a bowl, beat cream cheese, 3 tbsp sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Assemble the Pastry: Roll out puff pastry, spread filling, fold, and cut into strips. Twist the strips and place on the baking sheet.
- Coat and Bake: Brush twists with butter, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, and bake for 15–20 minutes until golden.
- Finish and Serve: Cool slightly, dust with powdered sugar, and serve warm.
Notes
- Serve warm for best taste.
- Drizzle with cream cheese glaze for added sweetness.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 twist
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
