Easiest Cinnamon Crunch Knots
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 - 3 cups white whole wheat or all-purpose flour
plus more as needed
- 1 packet instant yeast)
2 1/4 teaspoons
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup warm water or warm milk
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 7 tablespoons salted butter
at room temperature
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Directions
- 1
1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, combine 2 1/2 cups flour, the instant yeast, and salt. Add the milk or water, honey, and 1 tablespoon butter. Knead on medium speed until the dough comes together, 1-2 minutes, adding in additional flour, as needed, until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl and is smooth. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 30 minutes to 1 hour.2. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 3. In a bowl, combine the granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon.4. On a floured surface, roll the dough out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick, adding flour to the dough if it is sticky. Spread the dough with 4 tablespoons butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar. Fold the dough in half and cut into 12 strips. Twist each strip and then tie into a loose knot, it doesn't need to be perfect. Place on the prepared baking sheet. 5. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Stir the melted butter together with the remaining 2 teaspoons cinnamon and the brown sugar. Spoon clumps of the brown sugar mix over the knots (see above photo). This is going to be your "crunch" layer. 6. Transfer to the oven and bake 8-10 minutes. Remove from the oven and working quickly, carefully spoon any of the brown sugar that has melted off back over the rolls. It doesn't need to look perfect. Return to the oven and continue baking another 8-10 minutes, until golden. 7. Meanwhile, make the Glaze. In a medium bowl, beat together the powdered sugar, cream cheese, vanilla, and 2 tablespoons water until smooth and combined. If needed, thin the glaze by adding water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached. 8. Drizzle glaze over the knots, if desired. Enjoy!
Easiest Cinnamon Crunch Knots
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About this Recipe
Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of freshly baked cinnamon knots, complete with a delightful crunch and creamy glaze. This recipe for Easiest Cinnamon Crunch Knots promises a simple path to bakery-worthy treats right in your kitchen, making it perfect for both experienced bakers and those just starting out. This truly is the easiest way to achieve that bakery-style perfection at home.
The beauty of these cinnamon knots lies in the harmonious combination of a tender, yeasted dough and a generous "crunch" topping that provides a wonderful texture in every bite. The rich filling of brown sugar and cinnamon melds perfectly with the dough, while the finishing touch of a luscious cream cheese glaze elevates these knots, creating a truly irresistible treat that's balanced in sweetness and utterly satisfying.
Prepare for soft, pillowy knots, deeply infused with the comforting warmth of cinnamon and brown sugar. The journey of textures is a highlight, moving from the tender interior to a sugary, buttery crunch on top, all harmonized by a smooth, slightly tangy cream cheese glaze that truly makes each bite memorable. These Easiest Cinnamon Crunch Knots deliver a comforting, sweet experience, ideal for any morning or as a delightful dessert. You'll love how the dough provides a perfect canvas for the vibrant cinnamon-sugar flavors, all brought together by the rich, creamy topping.
You can easily tailor these Cinnamon Crunch Knots to your pantry and preferences. For the dough, opt for white whole wheat flour if you prefer a touch more fiber and a slightly nuttier flavor, or stick with all-purpose flour for a classic, soft texture. The recipe notes mention a no yeast option, offering great flexibility if you don't have instant yeast on hand. Don't have cream cheese? You could make a simple powdered sugar glaze with just milk and vanilla extract for a lighter touch.
These sweet, delightful knots are perfect for a special breakfast, a festive brunch spread with coffee or tea, or as a cozy afternoon treat. They also make a wonderful homemade gift or a comforting addition to any gathering.