Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I settled down one crisp morning, the tantalizing aroma of Cinnamon Crunch Knots wafted through my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits. These easy breakfast treats, with their golden, fluffy twists, take just 20 minutes to prepare, making them a lifesaver for busy mornings or a charming addition to leisurely brunches. Imagine wrapping your hands around a warm, buttery knot, sprinkled generously with a sweet cinnamon-sugar blend—now that’s the kind of indulgence we all deserve! These delightful pastries are not only simple to whip up but also feel like a hug in every bite. Whether you’re sharing them with family or savoring them solo with a cup of coffee, you’ll want to keep this recipe close. Ready to dive into the cozy sweetness of homemade Cinnamon Crunch Knots? Let’s get started! Why are Cinnamon Crunch Knots a must-try? Irresistibly easy: With just seven simple steps, you can whip up these delicious knots in no time. Warm and comforting: The combination of buttery dough and sweet cinnamon-sugar is the ultimate breakfast indulgence that feels like a warm hug. Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a busy weekday morning or a leisurely weekend brunch, these knots are the ideal treat. Customizable delight: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins—like nuts or chocolate drizzle—to create a version that’s uniquely you! If you’re in the mood for another sweet treat, check out our Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake for a delicious dessert option. Cinnamon Crunch Knots Ingredients • Prepare to indulge in these delightful Cinnamon Crunch Knots with a simple list of ingredients. For the Knots Refrigerated Pizza Dough – Provides a quick and easy base; feel free to switch it with homemade dough or buttery crescent rolls if desired. Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; substituting with brown sugar brings a deeper, caramel-like flavor. Ground Cinnamon – Infuses your knots with aromatic warmth; try different spice blends if you’re looking to mix things up. Unsalted Butter – Used for brushing; coconut oil is a great dairy-free alternative if needed. For the Icing Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the icing to perfection; opt for a sugar substitute for a lower-calorie option. Milk – Helps achieve the right consistency for your icing; almond or oat milk can be substituted for a delightful dairy-free version. Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor; omit for simplicity or switch it up with almond extract for a twist. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Crunch Knots Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a hot and even baking environment for your Cinnamon Crunch Knots. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients and ensure your baking sheet is ready, preferably lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Step 2: Prepare the Dough On a lightly floured surface, roll out the refrigerated pizza dough into a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick. Using a rolling pin, gently stretch the dough to prevent tearing, ensuring an even thickness. This will create a perfect base for your delicious knots, ready to be transformed. Step 3: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar with ground cinnamon, mixing well to create a fragrant cinnamon-sugar blend. The aroma is irresistible! Set this mixture aside, as it will infuse your knots with delightful flavor and a sweet crunch that everyone will love. Step 4: Brush with Butter Melt some unsalted butter and evenly brush it over the surface of the rolled-out dough. This adds richness and helps the cinnamon-sugar mixture stick beautifully. Make sure every inch of the dough is coated to maximize flavor in your upcoming Cinnamon Crunch Knots. Step 5: Sprinkle Cinnamon Sugar Generously sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered dough, ensuring even coverage. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect sweetness and spice in each bite of your knots. Don’t hold back! Let those warm spices create an aromatic experience. Step 6: Cut and Twist the Dough With a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into 1-inch wide strips. Take each strip, twist it gently, and then form it into a knot shape. As you place the knots on your prepared baking sheet, make sure they have a little space between them to allow for rising during baking. Step 7: Bake the Knots Carefully place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the Cinnamon Crunch Knots for 15-20 minutes. Keep a close eye on them, looking for a golden brown color and a deliciously fragrant smell. Once perfectly baked, remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving warm. Expert Tips for Cinnamon Crunch Knots Even Distribution: Ensure the cinnamon sugar blend is spread evenly to achieve a delicious, sweet flavor in every knot. Mind the Time: Keep an eye on the knots during the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning or burning. Parchment Paper: Always line your baking sheet with parchment paper; it prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup. Watch the Dough: If using homemade dough, be mindful of the thickness to ensure your knots bake evenly for the perfect texture. Storage Savvy: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness for up to two days. Make Ahead Options These Cinnamon Crunch Knots are ideal for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy mornings! You can prepare the knots up to the twisting stage and cover them with plastic wrap, refrigerating them for up to 24 hours before baking. This way, you can enjoy the delightful flavors without the hassle of immediate preparation. To maintain their quality, make sure to tightly seal the knots to prevent any drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove them from the fridge, let them rise for about 30 minutes, and then pop them in the oven. You’ll have warm, fresh Cinnamon Crunch Knots ready to delight your family with minimal effort! Storage Tips for Cinnamon Crunch Knots Room Temperature: Store Cinnamon Crunch Knots in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them soft and fresh. Fridge: For longer storage, place the knots in the fridge in an airtight container, where they will last for up to 5 days, though they may lose some moisture. Freezer: Freeze Cinnamon Crunch Knots in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be kept for up to 2 months. Reheating: To enjoy, reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and slightly crisped. Cinnamon Crunch Knots Variations Get ready to enhance your Cinnamon Crunch Knots with some delightful twists that will take your breakfast to the next level! Nutty Bliss: Add chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the cinnamon-sugar blend for a satisfying crunch. The nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the sweetness, adding a deliciously rustic element to each knot. Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the warm knots for an indulgent touch. This chocolatey addition will elevate your breakfast or brunch to a dessert-like experience! Caramel Swirl: For extra decadence, swirl a bit of caramel sauce into the knots before baking. The sweet caramel not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful sticky texture, making every bite delightful. Spice it Up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom in the cinnamon-sugar mix for unexpected flavor profiles. Each spice brings its charm, adding warmth and complexity to your beloved knots. Dairy-Free Delight: Swap the unsalted butter for coconut oil and use almond or oat milk in the icing for a delicious dairy-free version. This way, everyone can enjoy the cozy flavors of these knots without compromise! Fruit Infusion: Toss in some dried fruit, like raisins or cranberries, into the dough before twisting for a fruity burst. The sweet, chewy pieces add a lovely contrast to the soft knots. Zest It Up: Grate some orange or lemon zest into the icing for a bright, citrusy flavor. This lightens the sweetness and offers a refreshing twist that pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon. For more delicious ideas, you might also want to try our Crunchy French Toast or enjoy a colorful twist with our Taco Salad Crunchy for a creative meal! What to Serve with Cinnamon Crunch Knots? Pair your delicious knots with these delightful accompaniments for a wholesome breakfast experience. Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright and juicy fruits enhance the sweetness of the knots, adding a refreshing contrast. A colorful medley of berries, melon, and citrus brings a nutritious and vibrant touch to your plate. Greek Yogurt Parfait: A creamy yogurt layered with granola and berries offers a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the soft, fluffy knots. This makes for a well-rounded breakfast that satisfies both texture and flavor cravings. Savory Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide a savory balance to the sweet knots. A sprinkle of cheese or chives can elevate this dish, creating a satisfying contrast that’s perfect for brunch. Maple Syrup Drizzle: For an extra sweet touch, drizzle pure maple syrup over the knots. Its rich sweetness elevates the cinnamon flavor while adding a touch of indulgence. Hot Coffee or Spiced Tea: The warmth of a fragrant cup of coffee or chai complements the knots perfectly. The rich aromas of cinnamon and spices will enhance your breakfast experience with comforting notes. Cream Cheese Icing: Elevate your Cinnamon Crunch Knots even further with a light and airy cream cheese icing on top. The tangy creaminess beautifully counterbalances the sweet cinnamon topping, making each bite a delicious indulgence. Cinnamon Apples: Sautéed apples with cinnamon and a touch of brown sugar bring a warm, spiced flavor that connects beautifully with the knots. Adding this as a side creates a delightful fall-inspired treat, fantastic all year round. Milk or Dairy-Free Alternative: For a classic pairing, serve your knots with a cold glass of milk or an equally delicious plant-based milk. This refreshing drink rounds out the meal while keeping it comforting. Cinnamon Crunch Knots Recipe FAQs How do I know if my pizza dough is fresh enough? Absolutely! When selecting refrigerated pizza dough, look for packages that are well within the expiration date and free from any dark spots or signs of spoilage. Fresh dough should be soft and pliable, not dry or crumbly. If it’s on sale but nearing the date, it’s best to use it up quickly! What is the best way to store leftover Cinnamon Crunch Knots? The more the merrier! Store your Cinnamon Crunch Knots in an airtight container at room temperature for about 2 days to keep them soft. If you want to preserve them for a bit longer, pop them in the fridge where they’ll last up to 5 days, but be warned they may lose some moisture. Can I freeze my Cinnamon Crunch Knots? Absolutely! To freeze, place the knots in a single layer on a baking sheet until they’re firm, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be kept for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through, or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. What should I do if my knots don’t rise well? If your Cinnamon Crunch Knots aren’t rising as expected, check your dough’s freshness. Older dough may not rise properly due to yeast inactivity. Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking, and remember that a warm, moist environment can help them rise. If needed, also try letting the dough sit out for a quick 10-15 minute warm-up before baking. Are these Cinnamon Crunch Knots suitable for individuals with dairy allergies? Very! You can substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or vegan butter to make this a delicious dairy-free treat. Additionally, use plant-based milk, like almond or oat milk, in the icing for a delightful touch without the dairy. Just check for any other allergies with the substitutes, and you’re good to go! Delicious Cinnamon Crunch Knots for an Irresistible Breakfast These Cinnamon Crunch Knots are easy, comforting breakfast treats that combine buttery dough with sweet cinnamon-sugar, perfect for any occasion. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 8 knotsCourse: BreakfastCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Knots1 package Refrigerated Pizza Dough Feel free to switch it with homemade dough or buttery crescent rolls if desired.1/4 cup Granulated Sugar Substituting with brown sugar brings a deeper, caramel-like flavor.2 tablespoons Ground Cinnamon Try different spice blends if you're looking to mix things up.2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Coconut oil is a great dairy-free alternative if needed.For the Icing1 cup Powdered Sugar Opt for a sugar substitute for a lower-calorie option.2 tablespoons Milk Almond or oat milk can be substituted for a delightful dairy-free version.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Omit for simplicity or switch it up with almond extract for a twist. Equipment OvenBaking sheetParchment paperRolling PinSharp knife or pizza cutterMixing bowl Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).On a lightly floured surface, roll out the refrigerated pizza dough into a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick.In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar with ground cinnamon, mixing well to create a fragrant cinnamon-sugar blend.Melt some unsalted butter and evenly brush it over the surface of the rolled-out dough.Generously sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered dough.Slice the dough into 1-inch wide strips, twist each strip, and form it into a knot shape.Bake the knots for 15-20 minutes, until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving warm. Nutrition Serving: 1knotsCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 40mgSugar: 8gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.4mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in a single layer and transfer to an airtight container for up to 2 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
