These buttery puff pastry swirls feature a sweet cinnamon-sugar filling rolled into flaky layers and baked until golden. Ready in just over half an hour, they offer a delightful mix of crisp edges and soft centers. Perfect for a quick breakfast or treat, the swirls can be enhanced with nuts or a simple glaze for extra flavor and texture.
Discovering these cinnamon sugar puff pastry swirls was like finding a little treasure in my weekend mornings. The flaky, buttery layers with the sweet cinnamon aroma filling the kitchen instantly became my go-to comfort treat.
I remember the first time unexpected guests showed up right around breakfast time. Whipping up these swirls saved the day and turned an ordinary morning into an impromptu celebration.
Ingredients
- Ready-rolled puff pastry: I always reach for the thawed sheet that’s about 250 grams—it’s perfect for achieving flaky layers without the fuss.
- Melted unsalted butter: Using unsalted keeps control over salt levels, and melting it makes spreading effortless.
- Granulated sugar: I use it both in the filling and topping for that satisfying crunch and sweetness.
- Ground cinnamon: The warming spice that makes the swirls unforgettable, sprinkling just enough to balance.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the sweet notes.
Instructions
- Get Everything Ready:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper—you want a clean canvas for those golden swirls.
- Roll and Butter:
- Unroll the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface, keeping the long edge facing you. The soft, pliable dough should feel cool in your hands, ready to take on the butter.
- Sweet Cinnamon Spread:
- Brush the melted butter all over the surface until every inch glistens. Mix the sugar, cinnamon, and salt, then sprinkle evenly—the sweet-spicy aroma starts filling your kitchen here.
- Roll It Tight:
- Starting from the long edge, roll the pastry tightly into a log, feeling the satisfying resistance as it compacts into shape.
- Slice and Arrange:
- Cut the log into 12 even pieces and arrange them flat on your prepared sheet, leaving space to puff up into perfect swirls.
- Final Sprinkle:
- Combine sugar and cinnamon for the topping, then sprinkle over each swirl. This adds that irresistible sparkle and crunch after baking.
- Bake to Golden:
- Place in the oven for 18 to 20 minutes until golden brown and crisp. The kitchen will fill with the comforting, sweet scent that signals success.
- Cool and Enjoy:
- Let them cool slightly so the layers firm up but stay melt-in-your-mouth tender.
This recipe turned one simple breakfast into countless precious memories—comforting friends during chilly mornings and turning everyday moments festive.
Keeping It Fresh
These swirls are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, still warm and tender. If you need to save some, store them in an airtight container for up to two days and reheat gently to revive their crispness.
When You're Missing Something
If puff pastry isn’t handy, try substituting with phyllo layers brushed generously with butter for a different but delightful texture. Adding chopped nuts to the filling gives a wonderful crunch and depth.
Serving Ideas That Clicked
I love pairing these swirls with a hot latte or a glass of milk for a cozy snack. They also make fantastic party treats alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Don’t forget a sprinkle of powdered sugar if you want a touch of elegance before serving
- If you want a glaze, mix powdered sugar with a bit of milk and drizzle once cooled
- Keep an eye on baking times—the golden edges mean they’re perfectly baked
Thanks for sharing this little kitchen adventure with me—may your swirls always rise golden and your moments in the kitchen feel warm and cozy.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of pastry is best for these swirls?
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Ready-rolled puff pastry sheets work best due to their buttery, flaky layers that puff beautifully during baking.
- → How do I ensure the swirls stay intact while baking?
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Arrange the slices carefully on a parchment-lined sheet, allowing space between each for even baking and rising.
- → Can I add nuts to the filling?
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Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts added before rolling enhance texture and crunch without altering baking time.
- → What oven temperature is recommended for baking?
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Preheat to 400°F (200°C) for a perfectly baked, golden-brown swirl with crisp edges.
- → How can I make the swirls sweeter or glossier?
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Sprinkle additional cinnamon-sugar on top before baking or glaze with a mixture of powdered sugar and milk after cooling.