As the warm aroma of cinnamon fills the air, I can’t help but feel a little spark of joy. These Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Twists with Cream Cheese Dip combine the comforting taste of home-baked goodness with the convenience of modern cooking. In just 23 minutes, you can create crispy, golden twists that are soft and fluffy on the inside—perfect for satisfying that sweet tooth or impressing guests at a gathering. This quick and easy dessert not only offers a delightful twist on traditional treats but also pairs wonderfully with a creamy dip that elevates every bite. So, are you ready to indulge in these irresistible, air-fried delights? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why will you crave these twists?

Irresistible Texture: The golden, crispy exterior complements the soft, fluffy inside, creating a delightful bite every time.

Quick Preparation: Ready in just 23 minutes, you can easily whip up a batch to satisfy last-minute cravings!

Versatile Serving: Enjoy these twists as a sweet snack, a dessert at parties, or even as a delightful breakfast treat. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat or serve with friends during game night.

Dippable Delight: The smooth cream cheese dip not only enhances the flavors but also adds a luxurious touch that transforms every twist into a gourmet experience.

Crowd-Pleasing Favorite: Perfect for gatherings, these Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Twists will have everyone coming back for more! Plus, if you love versatile treats, don’t miss out on our Spinach Feta Twists that offer a savory option.

Indulge away!

Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Twists Ingredients

For the Twists

Puff Pastry – This flaky dough serves as the delicious base; if using fresh dough, skip thawing for ease!
Cinnamon – It infuses the twists with warmth and provides that signature flavor you’ll crave.
Sugar – Sweetens the coating; consider reducing the amount for a lighter version that still delivers sweetness.
Butter – Adds richness and helps the sugar adhere beautifully; light butter is a great substitute for fewer calories.

For the Cream Cheese Dip

Cream Cheese – This rich ingredient offers creamy goodness that perfectly complements the twists; Greek yogurt is a lighter option to consider.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the dip to balance the creaminess; feel free to swap some out for a splash of vanilla extract for an extra flavor kick.

Let your kitchen come alive with the enticing aroma of these Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Twists!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Twists

Step 1: Prepare Dough
Start by rolling out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/8-inch thick. Once rolled, cut the pastry into strips, approximately 1-inch wide and 6 inches long. Make sure your dough is fully thawed to prevent tearing during the twisting process. Keep the strips ready for the next steps to create your Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Twists.

Step 2: Coat Twists
Melt around 2 tablespoons of butter in a small bowl, then brush a thin layer of melted butter over one side of each pastry strip. In a separate bowl, combine equal parts cinnamon and sugar. Generously sprinkle this cinnamon sugar mixture over the buttered side, ensuring an even coating that adds warmth and sweetness to your Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Twists.

Step 3: Shape Twists
Take each coated pastry strip and gently twist it several times, creating a spiraled shape. The more twists you add, the more visually appealing and crispy they’ll be once cooked. Place the twisted strips on a plate, ensuring they don’t touch each other, allowing for even air circulation when they fry.

Step 4: Air Fry
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes before adding your twists. Arrange the Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Twists in a single layer in the basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. Air fry the twists for 8 to 10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly.

Step 5: Make Dip
While the twists are air frying, prepare the cream cheese dip. In a mixing bowl, add 4 ounces of softened cream cheese along with 1/2 cup of powdered sugar. Using a whisk or hand mixer, blend the mixture until it is smooth and creamy, achieving a consistency that should complement the warm twists perfectly. You can also add a splash of vanilla extract for added flavor.

Step 6: Serve
Once the Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Twists are golden and fragrant, remove them from the fryer and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. This will keep them crispy. Serve the warm twists on a platter alongside the creamy dip for an inviting presentation. Enjoy this delightful treat while they’re still warm for the best experience!

What to Serve with Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Twists?

Delight in creating a complete meal experience that perfectly complements your sweet treat, enhancing your culinary adventure.

Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright and refreshing, a medley of seasonal fruits provides a vibrant contrast to the rich flavors of cinnamon sugar twists.
Spiced Hot Chocolate: Creamy and warming, this drink adds an extra layer of indulgence, making it a delightful pairing for those chilly evenings.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool texture of vanilla ice cream serves as a perfect counterpart to the warm twists, creating a delightful contrast.
Nutty Granola: Add some crunch with a sprinkle of granola on top of the twists or serve it on the side for a fun texture contrast.
Coffee or Espresso: A classic pairing, the robust flavors of coffee cut through the sweetness and complement the cinnamon beautifully.
Chai Tea: The spiced notes in chai tea enhance the flavors of the twists, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for an afternoon treat.
Maple Syrup Dip: Drizzle or dip your twists in maple syrup for a rich flavor enhancement that takes them to the next level of deliciousness.
Caramel Sauce: The gooey sweetness of caramel creates a decadent dipping option, appealing to those with a serious sweet tooth.
Cheese Platter: Pair with a mild cheese selection for a savory counterbalance to the sweetness of the cinnamon twists, inviting fun new flavor combinations.

Expert Tips for Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Twists

Thaw Dough Completely: Ensure the puff pastry is fully thawed before use to prevent tearing during twisting.
Avoid Overcrowding: Arrange twists in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Fry in batches if necessary for even cooking.
Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the twists while frying to avoid over-browning; they should be golden and crispy but not burnt.
Customize Your Dip: Try adding flavors like vanilla or almond extract to the cream cheese dip for a personalized twist on your Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Twists.
Serve Warm: For the best texture and taste, serve the twists warm from the air fryer—this enhances the delightful combination of flavors and textures.

How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Twists

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent them from becoming soggy.

Freezer: Freeze the twists for up to 2 months by layering them with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container to avoid sticking together.

Reheating: To re-crisp, place the frozen twists in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Alternatively, microwave them carefully to maintain their softness.

Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Twists Variations

Feel free to make these delightful twists your own with a sprinkle of creativity!

Nut-Free: Substitute almond butter for the butter in your cinnamon sugar mix to enjoy the same delightful taste without nuts.
Vegan: Use plant-based butter and cream cheese to create a delicious dairy-free option that everyone can enjoy.
Choco-Cinnamon: Add cocoa powder to your cinnamon-sugar blend for an irresistible chocolatey twist that will tickle your taste buds!
Savory Spin: Try a mix of parmesan and Italian herbs instead of cinnamon sugar for a deliciously savory version that’s perfect as an appetizer.
Fruity Dips: Pair these twists with a refreshing mango puree instead of cream cheese dip for a tropical burst of flavor.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or a drizzle of honey to your sugar mixture for a sweet-heat sensation.
Flavor Boost: Experiment with flavored cream cheese like strawberry or pumpkin spice to enhance your dips further—great for seasonal treats!
Gluten-Free: Swap puff pastry for a gluten-free dough alternative to enjoy the same crispy, fluffy goodness without gluten.

For more yummy variations, check out our delicious Air Fryer Lemon Bites for a refreshing twist, or indulge in our sweet Peach Cake with Brown Sugar Frosting for dessert inspiration!

Make Ahead Options

These Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Twists are a fantastic treat to prep in advance, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings! You can prepare the puff pastry strips up to 24 hours ahead by cutting and twisting them, then storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain their delightful texture, brush them with melted butter and coat them with the cinnamon sugar just before air frying. On the day of serving, simply pop them in your preheated air fryer for about 8-10 minutes, and you’ll enjoy warm, crispy twists paired with the rich cream cheese dip—just as delicious as if they were freshly made!

Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Twists Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting puff pastry?
Absolutely! When selecting puff pastry, ensure it is well-packaged and not damaged. Look for a product that feels pliable and has no dark spots; this indicates freshness. If you have the option, I recommend choosing a brand that uses high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture.

How can I store leftover Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Twists?
To keep your twists fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Placing them in the fridge can help retain their texture. If you notice they’re becoming a bit soft, simply reheat them in the air fryer or oven for a few minutes to restore their crispness!

Can I freeze Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Twists?
Yes, you can freeze these delightful treats! To do so, let the twists cool completely, then layer them with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until crispy.

What should I do if my twists are not cooking evenly in the air fryer?
Very! If you’re experiencing uneven cooking, it might be due to overcrowding in the air fryer basket. To fix this, make sure that the twists are arranged in a single layer and not touching. Cooking them in smaller batches ensures that hot air circulates properly around each twist, allowing for even browning.

Are there any dietary considerations for these Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Twists?
Of course! If you’re concerned about allergies, be aware that these twists contain gluten (from the puff pastry) and dairy (in the cream cheese dip). For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the cream cheese with a nut-based cream or Greek yogurt. Just be sure to check label ingredients to cater to any specific dietary needs.

Can I make these twists ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the twists ahead of time by shaping them and placing them in the air fryer basket. Cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 hours. When you’re ready to cook them, simply air fry as directed, adding an extra minute or two if they’re cold from the fridge. Enjoy making these sweet treats at your convenience!