There’s something irresistibly comforting about the scent of freshly baked cinnamon sticks wafting through the house. As soon as you take that first bite, it’s like a warm hug from the inside out—sweet, buttery, and oh-so-satisfying. The best part? Making these homemade delights is a breeze, perfect for when you’re craving something a little more special than your usual snack.
Whether it’s a cozy weekend morning or a last-minute treat for unexpected guests, these cinnamon sticks are sure to impress. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up soft, fluffy dough topped with a sweet cinnamon sugar blend and a luscious cream cheese frosting. And if you’re worried about time—don’t be! You’ll find that the rising and baking process is so easy, you’ll be rearranging your schedule to fit them into your day more often.
So, roll up your sleeves and let’s transform your kitchen into a haven of delightful aromas and deliciousness with these homemade cinnamon sticks.
Why are these Cinnamon Sticks a must-try?
Simplicity at its finest: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and simple steps, making it accessible for everyone.
Mouthwatering aroma: Baking these cinnamon sticks fills your home with a fragrant warmth that invites everyone to the kitchen.
Decadent topping: The creamy frosting takes these treats to the next level, adding a sweet, flavorful contrast that’s irresistible.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for parties or family gatherings, these sticks are a hit with both kids and adults.
Quick prep: With only 5 minutes of active time, you can enjoy freshly baked cinnamon sticks in about an hour.
Just imagine biting into that warm, gooey goodness—it’s pure bliss! For an extra option, consider pairing them with a cup of coffee for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Cinnamon Sticks Ingredients
• Everything you need for homemade joy!
For the Dough
- 1 1/2 cups warm water – Makes the dough soft and fluffy.
- 2 tsp sugar – Activates the yeast for the perfect rise.
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast – Essential for that light and airy texture.
- 3 1/2 cups flour – The base of your delicious cinnamon sticks.
- 2 tsp fine salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the dough.
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil – Keeps the dough moist and adds richness.
For the Topping
- 2 tbsp butter, melted – Creates a rich, buttery flavor on the surface.
- 2 tbsp sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create a caramelized crust.
- 1 tbsp cinnamon – Infuses that classic, warm taste everyone loves.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened – Provides a creamy and tangy frosting.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter – Adds richness to the frosting texture.
- 1 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting perfectly.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor with a hint of warmth.
- Additional cinnamon for topping – A sprinkle to make your cinnamon sticks shine!
Dive into these cinnamon sticks—your next favorite homemade treat awaits!
How to Make Cinnamon Sticks
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Combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Allow this mixture to sit for about five minutes until it becomes fizzy, signaling that your yeast is active and ready to work its magic.
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Whisk together the flour and fine salt in a separate bowl, ensuring a uniform blend. This step helps create a smooth, tasty dough that’s easy to work with.
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Mix the yeast mixture with the flour blend using a spoon. Then drizzle in the olive oil and mix it with your hand, forming a rough ball of dough that will soon rise into something wonderful.
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Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and place it in a warm spot for 30 minutes. While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F and place a pizza stone inside to heat up.
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Roll the dough onto a lightly floured piece of parchment paper after 30 minutes. If it’s sticky, feel free to add a bit of flour to your hands and knead until smooth, aiming for a soft texture.
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Shape the dough by rolling it out with a rolling pin into a circle or rectangle. Flour your rolling pin if it starts to stick, ensuring a nice, even thickness throughout.
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Brush the surface of the rolled dough with melted butter, then generously sprinkle it with the cinnamon and sugar mixture, creating that delightful topping.
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Transfer the parchment paper with the dough onto the preheated pizza stone in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the aroma envelops your kitchen.
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Mix the cream cheese, unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl while the cinnamon sticks bake. Blend it until smooth for a creamy frosting that pairs perfectly.
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Cool the cinnamon sticks for 5 minutes after baking. Top them off with the luscious cream cheese frosting, dust with additional cinnamon, then cut and serve warm for the best experience.
Optional: Drizzle some extra melted butter on top for an added layer of richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Sticks
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Knead Gently: Don’t over-knead the dough; too much action can make your cinnamon sticks tough rather than soft and fluffy.
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Watch the Yeast: Make sure your water isn’t too hot or too cold when activating yeast. It should feel pleasantly warm; otherwise, it may not rise effectively.
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Roll Evenly: When shaping the dough, aim for an even thickness to ensure uniform baking and that all parts are golden brown.
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Cooling Time: Allow the cinnamon sticks to cool slightly before frosting. This prevents the cream cheese frosting from melting into a puddle and keeps it creamy.
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Extra Cinnamon Delight: Don’t skimp on the topping! Generously sprinkle additional cinnamon on the frosting for an extra burst of flavor in every bite of your cinnamon sticks.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Cinnamon Sticks are perfect for meal prep! You can mix the dough and let it rise up to 24 hours in advance; just cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap to maintain its moisture. Additionally, the cream cheese frosting can be prepared up to 3 days ahead; store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for optimal freshness. When you’re ready to bake, simply take the dough out of the fridge, roll it out, and proceed with the topping and baking instructions. This prep method allows for busy weeknights to be hassle-free while delivering fresh, warm cinnamon sticks that are just as delicious as when made from scratch!
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Sticks
Room Temperature: Enjoy your cinnamon sticks fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. They will be soft and delicious!
Fridge: If you want them to last a bit longer, refrigerate your cinnamon sticks in an airtight container for up to 7 days. Simply reheat gently before serving!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cinnamon sticks wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To refresh your cinnamon sticks, place them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This will make them taste freshly baked and delightful!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Sticks?
Indulge in a delightful experience by crafting a cozy spread that complements the warm sweetness of freshly baked cinnamon sticks.
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Coffee: The rich, earthy flavors of coffee enhance the sweetness, making each bite of cinnamon sticks even more satisfying.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a cool contrast to the warm, spicy cinnamon, creating a delightful temperature play.
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Apple Slices with Caramel Dip: Crisp apple slices with caramel elevate the theme of warm spices and sweetness, adding freshness to your treat.
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Chai Latte: With its spiced notes, a chai latte echoes the flavors of cinnamon, turning your snack into a warming experience.
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Hot Chocolate: A rich, velvety cup of hot chocolate brings cozy vibes that are perfect for savoring alongside gooey cinnamon sticks.
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Cream Cheese Icing Details: Serve with extra cream cheese icing on the side. Dipping the sticks creates a rich, indulgent experience that keeps guests coming back for more!
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Milk: This classic pairing is perfect for softening the cinnamon sticks even more, making them irresistibly chewy and comforting.
Let your taste buds dance and complement those cinnamon sticks with these delightful options.
Cinnamon Sticks Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to personalize these cinnamon sticks to match your taste or dietary needs. The possibilities are as warm and inviting as the dish itself!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious, inclusive treat.
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Dairy-Free: Use vegan cream cheese and plant-based butter in the frosting, ensuring everyone can indulge!
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Nutty Twist: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for a crunchy surprise in every bite.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of nutmeg or ginger along with the cinnamon to elevate the flavor profile with added warmth.
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Maple Drizzle: Swap powdered sugar for maple syrup in the frosting for a uniquely sweet and earthy twist.
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Cinnamon Sugar Ribbons: Before rolling out the dough, spread a layer of cinnamon-sugar mixture right on the crust for extra sweetness throughout.
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Chocolate Lovers’ Delight: Fold in mini chocolate chips into the dough before cutting it into sticks for a decadent chocolate-infused treat.
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Stuffed Cinnamon Sticks: Create a pocket in the rolled dough and fill it with your favorite jam or Nutella for a gooey, delicious core.
Now, the only challenge is choosing which variation to enjoy first!
Cinnamon Sticks Recipe FAQs
What type of yeast should I use for cinnamon sticks?
Absolutely! Active dry yeast is the best option for this recipe. It helps the dough rise perfectly, resulting in soft and fluffy cinnamon sticks. Make sure to proof the yeast with warm water and sugar before combining it with the flour to ensure it’s active.
How long can I store homemade cinnamon sticks?
You can store your cinnamon sticks at room temperature in an airtight container for about 3 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, they can be refrigerated for up to 7 days. Just remember to reheat them gently before serving for the best taste!
Can I freeze cinnamon sticks?
Very much! To freeze your cinnamon sticks, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight, and then reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If you find your dough a bit too sticky, don’t worry! Simply sprinkle a little extra flour on your hands and the work surface while kneading. Adding just a bit of flour at a time will help you achieve a smoother dough without overworking it.
Can I make cinnamon sticks gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or add a small amount of it to help mimic the elastic properties of gluten. You might need to adjust the water slightly, so add it gradually until you reach the right dough consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations for cream cheese?
Yes! If you’re making these cinnamon sticks for someone with dietary restrictions, you can use dairy-free cream cheese alternatives for the frosting. This way, everyone can enjoy the deliciousness without any worries.
Irresistible Homemade Cinnamon Sticks with Creamy Frosting
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Allow this mixture to sit for about five minutes until it becomes fizzy, signaling that your yeast is active and ready to work its magic.
- Whisk together the flour and fine salt in a separate bowl, ensuring a uniform blend.
- Mix the yeast mixture with the flour blend using a spoon. Then drizzle in the olive oil and mix it with your hand, forming a rough ball of dough.
- Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and place it in a warm spot for 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F and place a pizza stone inside to heat up.
- Roll the dough onto a lightly floured piece of parchment paper after 30 minutes.
- Shape the dough by rolling it out with a rolling pin into a circle or rectangle.
- Brush the surface of the rolled dough with melted butter, then generously sprinkle it with the cinnamon and sugar mixture.
- Transfer the parchment paper with the dough onto the preheated pizza stone in the oven and bake for 20 minutes.
- Mix the cream cheese, unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl while the cinnamon sticks bake. Blend it until smooth.
- Cool the cinnamon sticks for 5 minutes after baking. Top them off with the cream cheese frosting, dust with additional cinnamon, then cut and serve warm.
