Oh wow, let me tell you about cinnamon crunch knots! These little gems are the perfect combination of sweet and doughy, and they fill your kitchen with the most heavenly aroma while baking. I remember the first time I made them; the excitement of watching the dough rise and twist into those adorable knots was just magical! Each bite is a delightful blend of fluffy dough and crunchy cinnamon sugar that just makes your taste buds dance. Trust me, once you start making these cinnamon crunch knots, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your home too!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up your own batch of cinnamon crunch knots. Trust me, these ingredients come together beautifully to create the most scrumptious treats!
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 1 packet active dry yeast
Make sure to measure everything accurately for the best results. I like to prep all my ingredients beforehand so I can dive right into making these delightful knots!
How to Prepare Cinnamon Crunch Knots
Now, let’s get to the fun part—making those irresistible cinnamon crunch knots! Follow along with these easy steps, and you’ll be enjoying warm, gooey goodness in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because we want those knots to bake evenly and become golden brown.
- In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup of warm milk and your packet of active dry yeast. Give it a little stir and let it sit for about 5 minutes. You’ll see it start to bubble, which means your yeast is happy and ready to work its magic!
- Once your yeast is frothy, add in the melted butter, sugar, and salt. Mix it all together until well combined. It’s okay if it looks a bit lumpy; that’s just part of the process!
- Now, gradually mix in the 2 cups of all-purpose flour. I like to start with a wooden spoon and then switch to my hands once it gets doughy. Keep mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Time to knead! Dust your countertop with a bit of flour and knead the dough for about 5 minutes. You want it smooth and elastic—don’t be shy; get in there and show it some love!
- After kneading, place your dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour. You want it to double in size, which is always so satisfying to see!
- Once it’s risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Then, divide the dough into small pieces—about 12 should do. Roll each piece into a long rope and then twist them into cute knot shapes.
- In a separate bowl, mix together 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and the remaining sugar. Roll each knot in this delicious cinnamon sugar mixture to coat them nicely.
- Place your coated knots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them in your preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and your kitchen smells incredible!
- Once they’re done, remove them from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before diving in. You’ll want to enjoy them warm for the best experience!
And there you have it! Enjoy each bite of your homemade cinnamon crunch knots, and don’t forget to share (or not)! You can also try other delicious recipes like carrot cake!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s chat about the nutritional side of these cinnamon crunch knots! Each knot is a delightful treat, but it’s always nice to know what you’re indulging in. Here are the estimated nutritional values per serving (that’s one knot):
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 2g
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes. But hey, it’s all about enjoying these sweet, doughy knots in moderation, right? You’re going to love every bite of them!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare—perfect for a last-minute treat!
- Deliciously sweet with a delightful cinnamon crunch.
- Perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself—no judgment here!).
- Great for breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert—anytime is a good time!
- Customizable with your favorite mix-ins like nuts or chocolate.
- Kids and adults alike can’t resist these little knots of joy!
- They fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma while baking.
- Best enjoyed warm, fresh out of the oven—heavenly!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your cinnamon crunch knots turn out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite tips that I’ve gathered from my own baking adventures.
- Kneading is Key: When kneading the dough, aim for that smooth and elastic texture. If it feels too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour on your countertop. Don’t rush—take your time; it’s worth it!
- Watch the Rising Time: The dough should double in size during its rise. If your kitchen is a bit chilly, consider placing it near a warm oven or covering it with a cozy blanket to keep it warm and happy!
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on those knots while they’re baking! They should be golden brown, but every oven is different. A few minutes can make a huge difference between soft and crunchy.
- Let Them Cool: I know it’s tempting to dive right in, but letting the knots cool for a few minutes will enhance their texture. Plus, they’ll be easier to handle!
- Experiment with Coating: While cinnamon sugar is classic, feel free to get creative! A drizzle of icing or a sprinkle of chopped nuts can take these knots to the next level.
- Storing for Freshness: If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container. They’re best enjoyed warm, but you can pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to revive that fresh-baked goodness!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to make the most scrumptious cinnamon crunch knots! Happy baking!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix things up with your cinnamon crunch knots! Here are some delicious variations to try that will keep your taste buds excited every time you bake them.
- Nuts Galore: Add some chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for a delightful crunch! They add a nice texture and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness.
- Spice it Up: Why not experiment with different spices? Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the cinnamon sugar mixture for an extra kick of warmth and flavor.
- Chocolate Bliss: Who doesn’t love chocolate? Fold in some chocolate chips into the dough or drizzle melted chocolate on top of the baked knots for a decadent treat!
- Fruity Twist: Incorporate some dried fruits like raisins or cranberries into the dough before shaping the knots. They add a lovely sweetness and chewy texture that’s just delightful.
- Coconut Delight: Mix in some shredded coconut with the cinnamon sugar for a tropical twist! The coconut adds another layer of flavor and a bit of chewiness.
- Maple Glaze: Instead of the classic cinnamon sugar coating, try drizzling a maple glaze over the knots once they’re baked. Just mix powdered sugar with a bit of maple syrup and milk until smooth!
- Cheesy Goodness: For a savory take, add some shredded cheese, like cheddar, to the dough. The combination of cinnamon and cheese might sound unusual, but it’s surprisingly tasty!
With these variations, you can create a whole new experience with each batch of cinnamon crunch knots! So go ahead, get creative, and make them your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made a batch of these delicious cinnamon crunch knots and now you’re wondering how to keep them fresh? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! To store any leftovers (if there are any—let’s be real!), simply place them in an airtight container. This will help maintain their soft, doughy texture and keep that cinnamon sweetness from fading away.
If you want to enjoy them later, I recommend storing them at room temperature for up to 2 days. They’re best fresh, but if you need to keep them longer, you can pop them in the fridge for about a week. Just remember, they might lose a bit of that fluffy texture over time.
When you’re ready to savor those knots again, reheating is key! For the best taste, I suggest microwaving them for about 10-15 seconds to warm them up—this will bring back that fresh-baked goodness. If you want that delightful crunch, you can also place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This way, they’ll be warm and toasty, just like when they first came out of the oven!
Enjoy every bite, and trust me, they’ll taste just as good the second time around!
FAQ Section
Let’s tackle some common questions I get about these delightful cinnamon crunch knots! If you’re curious about ingredient swaps or how to enjoy these treats, read on!
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! Whole wheat flour will give your cinnamon crunch knots a nuttier flavor and a bit more density. Just keep in mind that they might be slightly less fluffy, so you may need to adjust the liquid a bit.
What can I use if I don’t have active dry yeast?
If you have instant yeast on hand, you can use that instead! You won’t need to let it sit in warm milk first; just mix it directly with the dry ingredients. Your knots will still rise beautifully!
How should I serve these cinnamon crunch knots?
These knots are perfect on their own, but I love serving them warm with a side of cream cheese icing or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence. They also make a fantastic addition to brunch spreads!
Can I make these knots ahead of time?
For sure! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and let it rise in the fridge overnight. Just bring it back to room temperature before shaping and baking. They’ll still taste fresh and delightful!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep any leftover knots in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for about a week—just remember they’ll lose a bit of their fluffiness.
Can I freeze cinnamon crunch knots?
Yes, you can! Just freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once they’re solid. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature and reheat!
What’s the secret to getting them perfectly golden brown?
The key is to keep an eye on them while they bake! Each oven is different, but you’ll know they’re done when they’re beautifully golden and smell heavenly. A light touch should leave them slightly firm; if they’re too soft, they need a bit more time!
Hopefully, these answers help you make the best cinnamon crunch knots ever! Don’t hesitate to experiment and make this recipe your own—happy baking!
Z nadrukami
Cinnamon Crunch Knots: 7 Magical Steps to Joyful Bites
- Całkowity Czas: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Ustępować: 12 knots 1x
- Dieta: Wegańskie
Opis
Cinnamon crunch knots are sweet, doughy treats coated in cinnamon sugar and baked until golden.
Składniki
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 packet active dry yeast
Instrukcje
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Add melted butter, sugar, and salt to the yeast mixture.
- Gradually mix in flour until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
- Punch down the dough and divide it into small pieces.
- Roll each piece into a knot shape.
- Mix cinnamon and sugar in a bowl.
- Coat each knot in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Place knots on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes.
- Remove from oven and let cool before serving.
Uwagi
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- These knots are best served warm.
- You can add icing for extra sweetness.
- Czas Przygotowania: 15 minutes
- Czas gotowania: 20 minutes
- Kategoria: Dessert
- Sposób: Baking
- Kuchnia: American
Zasilanie
- Wielkość porcji: 1 knot
- Kalorie: 150
- Cukier: 10g
- Sód: 150mg
- Kwasy: 7g
- Nasycony tłuszcz: 4g
- Tłuszcze Nienasycone: 3g
- Tłuszcze trans: 0g
- Węglowodany: 20g
- Włókno: 1g
- Białko: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Słowa kluczowe: cinnamon crunch knots
