Air Fryer Cinnamon Twists

These air fryer cinnamon twists transform a handful of pantry staples into a sweet breakfast or snack that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Ready in under 20 minutes, they are golden crispy outside and soft and fluffy inside—all without turning on the oven or dealing with messy deep frying.

These cinnamon twists were my go-to when craving something cozy without heating up the house. After making them for a Sunday treat, my family started asking for them every week.

Ingredients

• All purpose flour: brings structure to the dough and creates that light fluffy texture. Look for unbleached flour for the best flavor
• Baking powder: helps the twists puff up and stay tender. Check that your baking powder is fresh for best results
• Salt: balances out the sweetness and enhances overall flavor. Fine sea salt mixes in evenly
• Granulated sugar: adds sweetness throughout the dough and the coating. Organic cane sugar gives a deeper flavor
• Greek yogurt: brings moisture and a slight tang along with extra protein. Choose whole milk Greek yogurt for richness
• Vanilla extract: rounds out the dough and makes the twists taste like a bakery treat. Pure vanilla gives the most flavor
• Butter: melts into the coating, helping the cinnamon sugar stick and giving the twists a decadent finish. Use good quality butter for the best aroma
• Ground cinnamon: infuses each bite with warmth. Fresh spice gives the strongest flavor

Instructions

Make the dough:

Whisk the flour baking powder salt and sugar together in a large mixing bowl ensuring there are no lumps. Add the Greek yogurt and vanilla extract then stir until a soft slightly sticky dough begins to form. Gently use your hands to bring the dough together without overmixing

Knead the dough:

Lightly flour your counter and turn out the dough. Knead by pressing with the heels of your hands and folding it over itself for about two to three minutes or until it feels smooth and pliable

Shape the twists:

Divide the dough into eight or ten equal portions for even twisting. Take each piece and gently roll it into a rope about twelve inches long using your palms. For a classic bakery look twist each rope by gently rotating both ends in opposite directions

Mix the cinnamon sugar:

In a shallow bowl stir together the melted butter sugar and ground cinnamon until well combined. This creates the sweet fragrant coating that will stick to the twists

Prep the air fryer:

Set your air fryer to three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit or one hundred ninety degrees Celsius. Lightly coat the basket with nonstick spray or line it with parchment for easy removal

Air fry the twists:

Arrange the twists in a single layer inside the basket leaving some space so air can circulate. Cook for five to seven minutes until golden brown and crisp turning halfway through for even color

Coat the twists:

As soon as they finish cooking brush the twists with melted butter then toss them into the cinnamon sugar mixture ensuring every side is well coated while they are still warm

Serve:

Place the twists on a plate and serve right away. Enjoy them on their own or with a dip such as cream cheese frosting or vanilla icing

Save

For me the scent of cinnamon swirling through the kitchen is pure comfort. My daughter loves helping twist the dough and we always sneak the first bite while they are still hot and steaming

Storage Tips

Store leftover cinnamon twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness keep them in the refrigerator. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispy texture

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have Greek yogurt try thick plain yogurt or even sour cream. For a dairy free version use coconut yogurt and plant based butter. Maple sugar can be swapped for granulated sugar to add another flavor note

Save

Serving Suggestions

Cinnamon twists pair beautifully with coffee or tea at breakfast and are a big hit for after school snacks. For an extra treat drizzle with honey or serve alongside a bowl of fresh fruit

Cultural Context

These twists are inspired by classic churros and bakery style pastries but made easy and quick for home kitchens thanks to the air fryer. The warm aroma of cinnamon and sugar evokes memories of street fairs and family brunches

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Greek yogurt gives the dough extra structure and tenderness, but plain regular yogurt can be substituted for a slightly softer texture.

→ What type of flour works best for the dough?

All-purpose flour yields the best texture, providing a balance of softness and bite for perfect twists.

→ How do I prevent the twists from sticking to the air fryer?

Lightly spray the basket with non-stick spray or use parchment paper to ensure the twists lift out easily after cooking.

→ Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

The dough can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for a few hours. Roll and twist just before air-frying for freshest results.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with cinnamon twists?

Cream cheese frosting, vanilla glaze, or chocolate sauce all complement the sweet spiced flavor of the twists.

→ How do I make the cinnamon sugar stick better?

Brush the twists with melted butter while hot, then toss them in the cinnamon sugar so the coating adheres perfectly.