Cinnamon Sugar Sourdough Twists

Name: Cinnamon Sugar Sourdough Twists
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 twists
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup active sourdough starter; 1/2 cup warm water; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 cup sugar; 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon; 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Highlighted under: Cozy Meal Favorites

I’ve always loved the sweet aroma of cinnamon wafting through my kitchen, and these Cinnamon Sugar Sourdough Twists have become a delightful favorite. The combination of soft, chewy sourdough bread and a sugary cinnamon coating is simply irresistible. Making these twists allows me to play with my sourdough starter, and the result is a fun treat that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. Trust me, once you try them, you'll want to share these delicious indulgences with everyone you know!

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2026-01-25T17:25:27.822Z

When I first experimented with the idea of Cinnamon Sugar Sourdough Twists, I didn’t expect them to turn out quite as delicious as they did. As I rolled out the dough and coated it in the sweet cinnamon mixture, I felt a wave of excitement. Each twist I formed was a work of art, and the anticipation of baking them was palpable.

The key to their unique flavor lies in the sourdough starter's tanginess, which complements the sweetness perfectly. I discovered that brushing the twists with melted butter before adding the topping creates a perfectly caramelized crust. Trust me, this step truly elevates the experience.

Why You'll Love These Twists
A delightful twist on traditional cinnamon rolls
Perfectly chewy and subtly tangy from the sourdough
An irresistible cinnamon-sugar crust that’s hard to resist

The Role of Sourdough

Sourdough starter isn't just a leavening agent; it contributes to the unique flavor and texture of these twists. The natural fermentation process develops a tangy profile that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cinnamon sugar. If your starter is more than a week old, give it a feeding 24 hours before using it to ensure it’s active and bubbly, which will help achieve the best rise in the dough.

Pay attention to the hydration level of your sourdough starter. If it is very thick, you may need to adjust the amount of warm water in the dough to maintain the consistency. A smoother dough will help with the twisting process, allowing for nice, tight spirals that hold their shape better during baking.

Perfecting the Twist Technique

Twisting the strips of dough is where the magic happens. After cutting the strips, ensure you twist them tightly but not too tightly that they tear. A gentle, even motion creates beautiful spirals that will bake evenly. If you find difficulty in twisting, lightly flouring your hands can help prevent sticking.

To enhance the visual appeal, consider adding a second twist or a decorative braid. This not only improves the presentation but also creates more surface area for that delicious cinnamon-sugar coating to cling to, making each bite an even tastier experience.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Cinnamon Sugar Sourdough Twists can be enjoyed fresh, but they also store well. If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, they can be frozen. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag, where they’ll keep for up to a month.

Reheat the twists by placing them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will help regain some of that delicious chewiness. Serve them warm with a side of cream cheese frosting for dipping, or simply enjoy them as they are with a cup of coffee or tea.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make the perfect Cinnamon Sugar Sourdough Twists:

Dough Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup active sourdough starter
1/2 cup warm water
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil

Cinnamon Sugar Coating

1/4 cup sugar
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons butter, melted

Ensure you have these ingredients on hand for a delightful treat!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Cinnamon Sugar Sourdough Twists:

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter, warm water, and sugar. Gradually add the flour and salt and knead until a smooth dough forms. Allow it to rise for about 2 hours or until doubled in size.

Shape the Twists

Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle. Brush the surface with melted butter, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly across. Cut the dough into strips and twist each strip before placing it on a lined baking sheet.

Bake the Twists

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the twists for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your warm and delicious Cinnamon Sugar Sourdough Twists!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavorful twist, try adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon-sugar mixture. You can also drizzle some icing on top for a sweeter indulgence.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can swap out all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour. Just keep in mind that whole wheat flour may yield a denser texture, so adjusting the hydration with a little extra water might be necessary. Start by adding just a couple of tablespoons and increase as needed until the dough comes together smoothly.

For a dairy-free option, replace the butter in the cinnamon sugar coating with coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute. This will maintain the richness while accommodating those with dietary restrictions. The flavor will slightly differ, but it remains delicious!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your dough isn't rising as expected, ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly. A starter that hasn't been fed recently may lack the necessary lift, resulting in denser twists. If you're uncertain, do a quick float test by dropping a tablespoon of starter in water; if it floats, it's ready to use.

In the event that your twists are over-browning before they're fully cooked, you can cover them loosely with aluminum foil. This shields them from direct heat while allowing the inside to continue cooking until they reach that perfect golden-brown hue, ensuring a soft and chewy texture on the inside.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought sourdough?

Yes, store-bought sourdough works well, but the flavor will differ slightly from using your own starter.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these twists?

Yes, you can freeze the baked twists. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.

→ What can I serve with these twists?

These twists are perfect on their own, but you can also serve them with coffee, vanilla icing, or cream cheese frosting for a delightful treat.