Cinnamon Crunch Knots: Soft, Sweet, and Irresistibly Cozy

Few things bring as much joy as the smell of cinnamon sugar wafting through the kitchen. Freshly baked, warm from the oven, and coated in buttery cinnamon sugar, these Cinnamon Crunch Knots are the kind of treat that makes you want to gather around the table and savor every bite. They’re soft and pillowy on the inside with a crunchy, golden cinnamon coating on the outside, making them the perfect balance of comfort and indulgence. Whether you serve them at breakfast, for brunch, or as an afternoon snack with coffee, these knots are guaranteed to disappear fast.

What Is Cinnamon Crunch Knots

Cinnamon Crunch Knots are twisted sweet rolls made from soft yeast dough, tied into knots, brushed with butter, and rolled in cinnamon sugar before baking. They’re similar to cinnamon rolls but with a rustic, knotted twist and a slightly crisp, sugary exterior. They’re fun to make, beautiful to serve, and utterly delicious.

this Recipe

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe

These knots are a baker’s dream—soft, chewy, golden, and coated with that irresistible cinnamon crunch. You’ll love how versatile they are: perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even gifting in a basket lined with parchment paper. They also freeze well, meaning you can bake a big batch and enjoy them anytime.

How Does It Taste?

Biting into a Cinnamon Crunch Knot gives you layers of buttery sweetness, a warm cinnamon kick, and just the right amount of crunch from the sugar coating. The dough is light and fluffy, the outside caramelizes slightly, and the aroma of cinnamon makes every bite cozy and comforting.

Health & Ingredient Benefits

Though these are definitely a sweet indulgence, they do offer some simple ingredient benefits:

• Cinnamon: Known for its antioxidants and potential blood-sugar regulating properties.
• Yeast dough: Provides a slow release of energy with complex carbs.
• Butter: Adds richness and satiety when enjoyed in moderation.
• Sugar: Gives that satisfying crunch and sweetness (best in balance).

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg

For the coating:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl or stand mixer with dough hook
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Knife or bench scraper
• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
• Pastry brush

Optional Substitutions & Additions

• Glaze option: Drizzle with cream cheese icing for extra sweetness.
• Flavor twist: Add nutmeg, cardamom, or pumpkin spice with the cinnamon.
• Whole wheat flour: Substitute part of the flour for a nuttier taste.
• Nut topping: Sprinkle crushed pecans or walnuts over the knots before baking.
• Stuffed version: Fill with a little cream cheese or Nutella before knotting.

How to Make

1. In a bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let sit 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Stir in melted butter, egg, and salt. Gradually add flour until dough comes together.
3. Knead 8–10 minutes (or use stand mixer) until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1 hour or until doubled.
4. Punch down dough, roll out into a rectangle about ½-inch thick.
5. Cut into strips, twist each strip, and tie into a knot. Place on baking sheet.
6. Cover and let rise another 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 375°F.
7. Bake 15–18 minutes until golden brown.
8. While still warm, brush with melted butter and roll in cinnamon sugar mixture.
9. Serve fresh and enjoy!

What to Serve With

• A hot cup of coffee, cappuccino, or spiced chai.
• A glass of cold milk for dunking.
• Fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced breakfast spread.
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.

Tips for Success

• Make sure milk is warm (not hot) to activate yeast properly.
• Knead dough until smooth for the best texture.
• Don’t skip the second rise—it makes them fluffy.
• Coat while still warm so the cinnamon sugar sticks perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using hot milk: Too hot will kill the yeast.
• Skipping the rise time: Leads to dense knots.
• Overbaking: Watch closely—they should be golden, not dry.
• Not coating immediately: Sugar won’t stick as well if knots cool too much.

How to Store & Reheat

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container up to 2 days.
• Freezer: Freeze cooled knots for up to 2 months. Reheat in oven before serving.
• Reheating: Warm in oven at 325°F for 5–7 minutes or microwave briefly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the dough ahead?
Yes! Prepare dough, let it rise once, then refrigerate overnight. Shape and bake the next day.

Can I use instant yeast instead?
Yes—skip the proofing step and mix directly with flour.

Can I make these without eggs?
Yes, substitute ¼ cup applesauce or yogurt.

Do they need icing?
Not at all—the cinnamon sugar crunch is delicious on its own, but icing adds extra sweetness.

Nutritional Info (approximate per knot – 12 knots)

• Calories: 230
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 190mg

Conclusion

Cinnamon Crunch Knots are everything you want in a sweet treat—soft, pillowy dough wrapped in a golden cinnamon sugar crust. They’re comforting, cozy, and just the right amount of indulgent. Perfect for holidays, weekend baking, or simply making your kitchen smell heavenly, these knots will quickly become a family favorite. Bake a batch, serve them warm, and watch how fast they disappear!

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September 29, 2025 by Melissa