Easiest Cinnamon Crunch Knots

These Easiest Cinnamon Crunch Knots are a delightful treat that combines the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon with a fun, twisted shape. Perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to cozy brunches, these knots are quick to prepare and sure to impress. With simple pantry ingredients, you can whip up a batch in under an hour. Their irresistible crunch and sweet glaze make them a standout snack for everyone to enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: These knots are ready in just 60 minutes, making them ideal for last-minute snacks or desserts.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with easy-to-find pantry staples, there’s no need for complicated shopping lists.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or even breakfast – they fit any occasion perfectly!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and sugar creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone loves.
• Fun to Make: Twisting and tying the dough into knots is a fun activity for all ages.

Tools and Preparation

Before getting started on your knots, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer with dough hook
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer with dough hook: This tool saves time and effort by kneading the dough quickly and efficiently.
• Rolling pin: A rolling pin helps achieve an even thickness when rolling out the dough, ensuring uniform baking.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet provides an even baking surface for your knots, resulting in perfect texture.

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Ingredients

These knots require only pantry staple ingredients and can be made and ready to go in under an hour.

For the Dough

• 2 1/2 – 3 cups white whole wheat or all-purpose flour, plus more as needed
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup warm water or warm milk
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 7 tablespoons salted butter, at room temperature

For the Cinnamon Crunch Topping

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1/2 cup brown sugar

For the Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

How to Make Easiest Cinnamon Crunch Knots

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, combine 2 1/2 cups flour, instant yeast, and salt.
2. Add warm water or milk, honey, and 1 tablespoon of butter.
3. Knead on medium speed until the dough forms a ball (about 1-2 minutes), adding additional flour if needed until it pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
4. Cover the bowl and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 3: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

In a separate bowl, mix together granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon.

Step 4: Shape the Knots

1. On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. If sticky, add more flour as needed.
2. Spread 4 tablespoons of butter over the dough and sprinkle generously with cinnamon sugar.
3. Fold the rolled-out dough in half lengthwise and cut into 12 strips.
4. Twist each strip into knots; they don’t have to be perfect! Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 5: Add Crunch Topping

Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Mix it with cinnamon and brown sugar. Spoon this mixture over each knot for that delicious crunch layer.

Step 6: Bake

Transfer to your preheated oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes until golden brown. Remove from oven briefly to spoon melted brown sugar back over rolls before returning to bake for another 8-10 minutes.

Step 7: Make Glaze

In a medium bowl, beat together powdered sugar, cream cheese, vanilla extract, and water until smooth. Adjust consistency by adding more water if necessary.

Step 8: Drizzle & Enjoy!

Drizzle your glaze over the knots while they are still warm. Enjoy your Easiest Cinnamon Crunch Knots fresh out of the oven!

How to Serve Easiest Cinnamon Crunch Knots

Easiest Cinnamon Crunch Knots are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, these knots can add a sweet touch to your meal.

With Coffee or Tea

• Pairing with coffee enhances the cinnamon flavor and makes for a perfect breakfast or afternoon treat.
• A cup of herbal tea can balance the sweetness, making it a soothing option for a cozy evening.

As a Dessert

• Serve warm with a drizzle of glaze for an indulgent dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth.
• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an extra creamy finish.

For Breakfast

• Enjoy them alongside fresh fruit like sliced bananas or berries to add freshness and balance.
• Spread some cream cheese frosting or nut butter on top for added richness.

At Parties or Gatherings

• Present them on a platter as a shareable snack that everyone will love.
• Offer different dipping sauces like chocolate or caramel for variety and fun.

How to Perfect Easiest Cinnamon Crunch Knots

Achieving the perfect Easiest Cinnamon Crunch Knots is easy with some helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to make your knots even more delicious.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your yeast is active and fresh for better rise and texture.
• Knead Properly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth to create tender knots; this helps develop gluten.
• Let It Rise: Allow the dough to rise in a warm place until doubled in size; this adds fluffiness.
• Don’t Skip the Toppings: The brown sugar crunch layer is essential for that delightful texture; sprinkle generously!
• Adjust Glaze Consistency: If your glaze is too thick, thin it out with water gradually until desired consistency is achieved.

Best Side Dishes for Easiest Cinnamon Crunch Knots

Easiest Cinnamon Crunch Knots pair well with various side dishes. Here are some great options to complement your sweet treat.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the knots.
2. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries to create a wholesome side that enhances breakfast time.
3. Oven-Baked Eggs – Fluffy eggs seasoned with herbs make for a savory contrast alongside your sweet knots.
4. Savory Cheese Platter – Include assorted cheeses and nuts to provide guests with diverse flavor combinations.
5. Smoothie Bowl – A nutritious smoothie topped with seeds and nuts can be refreshing next to the warm, sweet knots.
6. Green Salad – A light salad dressed with vinaigrette offers a crisp counterpart to the soft cinnamon rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easiest Cinnamon Crunch Knots, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using too much flour – Adding excess flour can make the dough dry. Start with the recommended amount and add only as needed to keep it soft and pliable.
• Not letting the dough rise – Skipping the rising step will result in dense knots. Allow the dough to rise in a warm place until it doubles in size for light and fluffy knots.
• Skipping the glaze – The glaze adds a delicious finish. Don’t skip this step; it enhances flavor and presentation!
• Overbaking the knots – Baking them too long can lead to dryness. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to achieve a golden-brown color without overdoing it.
• Ignoring ingredient temperatures – Using cold butter or water can hinder the yeast’s activation. Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Easiest Cinnamon Crunch Knots in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Easiest Cinnamon Crunch Knots

• Wrap each knot individually with plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Easiest Cinnamon Crunch Knots

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place knots on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat each knot for about 15-20 seconds until warm, but avoid overheating which can make them tough.
• Stovetop – Heat on low in a non-stick skillet covered with a lid for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easiest Cinnamon Crunch Knots.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes! You can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but it may slightly alter the texture.

What if I don’t have instant yeast?

You can use active dry yeast instead. Just proof it in warm water with honey before adding it to the flour mix.

How do I customize the flavor of my knots?

Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits into your dough or sprinkle some chocolate chips before rolling up your knots for an extra treat!

Can I leave out the glaze?

Absolutely! While the glaze adds sweetness, you can enjoy these knots plain or simply dusted with powdered sugar.

How do I store leftover Easiest Cinnamon Crunch Knots?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Easiest Cinnamon Crunch Knots are not just simple to make; they’re also incredibly versatile. Whether served as a snack or dessert, they offer delightful flavors that everyone will love. Feel free to customize them with your favorite toppings or fillings. Try making these delicious knots today!