Cinnamon Crunch Knots Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a simple yet irresistibly delightful treat, look no further than these Cinnamon Crunch Knots. Imagine tender, buttery dough swirled with a perfect cinnamon and sugar coating that bakes into a golden, crunchy delight with a soft, chewy center. These little knots bring together all the best parts of a classic cinnamon roll but in a fun, bite-sized twist that’s perfect for breakfast, snack time, or even dessert. Trust me, once you try Cinnamon Crunch Knots, they’ll quickly become one of your top favorite treats to make and share.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays an essential role in creating those perfect Cinnamon Crunch Knots. From the soft, easy-to-work dough to the sweet cinnamon sugar topping, every element contributes to the irresistible taste and texture of this recipe.

• Refrigerated pizza dough: This is the foundation, offering a soft and pliable base that bakes up light and fluffy with a charming chew.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and creates that satisfying crunch when combined with cinnamon.
• Ground cinnamon: Brings a warm, spicy aroma and flavor that’s essential to any cinnamon treat.
• Unsalted butter: Melted and brushed on the dough, it keeps the knots rich and moist while helping the cinnamon sugar stick beautifully.
• Powdered sugar: The secret behind a smooth, sweet icing that balances the crunch with creamy sweetness.
• Milk: Combined with powdered sugar for just the right consistency in the glaze.
• Vanilla extract: Adds depth and a lovely fragrant note to the icing.

How to Make Cinnamon Crunch Knots

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Getting your oven ready is the first step to success. Preheat it to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a cinch. Having your oven hot and ready ensures the knots bake evenly, developing a beautiful golden crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Open the package of refrigerated pizza dough and lightly flour your work surface to prevent sticking. Roll the dough out into a roughly 1/4-inch thick rectangle. This provides the perfect canvas for the buttery cinnamon sugar topping and ensures every knot bakes evenly without being too thick or thin.

Step 3: Mix Cinnamon Sugar

In a small bowl, blend together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until well combined. This mixture is key to creating that signature crunchy topping that gives Cinnamon Crunch Knots their name and addictive texture. Make sure the cinnamon is evenly distributed for consistent flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Brush with Butter

Melt the unsalted butter and generously brush it over the entire surface of the rolled-out dough. This step not only adds rich flavor but also helps the cinnamon sugar mixture stick perfectly, creating a luscious caramelized coating once baked.

Step 5: Sprinkle Cinnamon Sugar

Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough, covering every inch for a perfectly sweet and spicy crunch. Don’t be shy here—the full coverage ensures each knot bursts with flavor and crispiness.

Step 6: Cut and Twist

Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into about 1-inch wide strips. Take each strip and twist it several times, then bring the ends together to form a charming knot shape. Place each knot on your prepared baking sheet spaced slightly apart to allow them to puff and brown without sticking.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pop your knots into the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until they turn golden brown and the cinnamon sugar topping looks irresistibly caramelized and crunchy. The smell alone will have you eagerly waiting to try these Cinnamon Crunch Knots fresh from the oven.

How to Serve Cinnamon Crunch Knots

Garnishes

Enhance your Cinnamon Crunch Knots with a drizzle of vanilla glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract—that added touch of sweetness perfectly complements the cinnamon crunch. For extra flair, sprinkle some crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts on top, or dust with a little extra cinnamon to keep the flavor profile bold and inviting.

Side Dishes

Serve these fluffy knots alongside a steaming cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy morning treat. They also pair wonderfully with fresh fruit like berries or apple slices, balancing the richness with juicy brightness. A small bowl of Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey can add a refreshing and protein-packed contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Get creative by arranging your Cinnamon Crunch Knots on a beautiful platter with fresh mint leaves for color, adding edible flowers for a special occasion, or stacking them in a basket lined with a colorful napkin for a charming breakfast gift. You can also serve them warm in individual ramekins topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a quick dessert twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Cinnamon Crunch Knots left after your treat time, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh and soft for up to two days, making them perfect for a quick snack anytime. Avoid refrigerating as it can dry them out.

Freezing

To enjoy these knots later, freeze them after baking and cooling completely. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and they will keep well for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm them gently in the oven to bring back their fresh-baked goodness.

Reheating

Reheat your Cinnamon Crunch Knots in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until warmed through. This method revives their crispy edges and soft interiors. You can also pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, though they won’t retain as much crunch.

FAQs

Can I use homemade dough instead of refrigerated pizza dough?

Absolutely! Homemade dough can add a personal touch and make your Cinnamon Crunch Knots even more special. Just make sure your dough is similar in thickness and texture to ensure the knots bake evenly and achieve that perfect chew.

Do I have to make the vanilla icing? Can I skip it?

The vanilla icing adds a lovely sweetness that balances the cinnamon sugar crunch, but it’s completely optional. The knots are delicious on their own, especially right out of the oven with that crunchy topping.

How do I prevent the cinnamon sugar from falling off the dough?

Brushing the dough thoroughly with melted butter before sprinkling on the cinnamon sugar creates a sticky surface that helps the sugar adhere well during baking. Don’t be shy with the butter for best results.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Using a gluten-free pizza dough substitute is a great way to make Cinnamon Crunch Knots friendly for gluten-sensitive diets. Just be sure to follow the dough’s specific handling instructions as gluten-free dough can behave differently.

What is the best way to twist the dough strips? Should I twist tightly or loosely?

A gentle twist is best—just enough to create texture without overworking the dough, which can make the knots tough. Twist a few times and then tie or pinch the ends together securely to hold their shape while baking.

Final Thoughts

Cinnamon Crunch Knots are a delightful little treasure that brings warmth, sweetness, and a touch of crunch to any occasion. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones, enjoying a quiet moment with your morning coffee, or looking for a fun baking project, these knots are sure to please. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves and whip up a batch—you’ll be amazed at how such simple ingredients come together to make a treat that feels like a big hug in every bite.

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