Cinnamon Breadsticks: The Ultimate Guide to Baking Delicious Treats

Cinnamon breadsticks: just the name conjures up images of warm, comforting goodness, doesn’t it? Imagine pulling apart a soft, fragrant stick, the sweet cinnamon sugar clinging to your fingers, and that first blissful bite melting in your mouth. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a memory waiting to be made!

While the exact origins of cinnamon breadsticks are a bit hazy, the combination of cinnamon and bread has a long and delicious history. Cinnamon, a spice prized for centuries, found its way into European baking traditions, eventually leading to the delightful treats we know and love today. Think of it as a sweeter, more indulgent cousin to classic breadsticks, perfect for satisfying that sweet tooth.

But what is it about cinnamon breadsticks that makes them so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures – a soft, chewy interior with a slightly crisp exterior. Then there’s the flavor: the warm, spicy notes of cinnamon mingling with the sweetness of sugar, creating a symphony of taste that’s simply divine. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile! Enjoy them as a snack, a dessert, or even as a sweet side dish with your favorite meal. Get ready to experience the joy of baking (and eating!) these delightful treats.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
• 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• For the Optional Glaze:
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparing the Dough:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined so the yeast is evenly distributed. This helps ensure a consistent rise.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Whisk until well combined. The milk temperature is crucial; too hot, and you’ll kill the yeast; too cold, and it won’t activate properly. Aim for that sweet spot between 105 and 115°F.
3. Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms. It will be sticky at this point, and that’s perfectly normal.
4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 6-8 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it becomes manageable. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for this step. Knead on medium speed for about 5 minutes. The dough should be smooth and pull away from the sides of the bowl.
5. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. The rising time will depend on the temperature of your kitchen. A warmer environment will result in a faster rise. You can also proof the dough in your oven by setting it to the lowest temperature for a few minutes, then turning it off and placing the dough inside.

Shaping the Breadsticks:

1. Punch Down the Dough: Once the dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down to release the air. This helps to redistribute the yeast and create a more even texture.
2. Divide the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough in half. Then, divide each half into approximately 12-16 equal pieces. The number of pieces will determine the size of your breadsticks.
3. Roll into Ropes: Roll each piece of dough into a rope about 8-10 inches long. Try to keep the thickness consistent for even baking.
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the dough ropes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each one. This prevents them from sticking together during baking.
5. Second Rise: Cover the breadsticks with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let rise for another 20-30 minutes. This second rise helps to create a lighter, more airy texture.

Preparing the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

1. Melt the Butter: Melt the butter in a small bowl. You can do this in the microwave or on the stovetop.
2. Combine Sugar and Cinnamon: In a separate bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Mix well until evenly distributed.

Baking the Breadsticks:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Make sure your oven is properly preheated for even baking.
2. Brush with Butter: Brush each breadstick generously with melted butter. This helps the cinnamon sugar adhere and creates a golden-brown crust.
3. Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the buttered breadsticks. Make sure to coat them well for maximum flavor.
4. Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven. The breadsticks should be lightly browned and cooked through.
5. Cool Slightly: Remove the breadsticks from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from becoming soggy.

Preparing the Optional Glaze:

1. Cream Cheese and Butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Make sure the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for easy mixing.
2. Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low speed until combined. Be careful not to add the powdered sugar too quickly, as it can create a cloud of dust.
3. Add Milk and Vanilla: Add the milk and vanilla extract and beat until smooth and creamy. Add more milk, one tablespoon at a time, if needed to reach your desired consistency.

Assembling and Serving:

1. Drizzle with Glaze (Optional): Once the breadsticks have cooled slightly, drizzle them with the glaze. You can use a spoon or a piping bag for this step.
2. Serve: Serve the cinnamon breadsticks warm or at room temperature. They are best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Tips for Success:

• Yeast Activation: Always check the expiration date of your yeast. To ensure your yeast is active, you can proof it by adding it to the warm milk with a teaspoon of sugar. If it foams up after 5-10 minutes, it’s good to go.
• Dough Consistency: The dough should be soft and slightly sticky. Avoid adding too much flour, as this can result in dry, tough breadsticks.
• Warm Environment: A warm environment is crucial for the dough to rise properly. If your kitchen is cold, you can place the dough in a slightly warmed oven or near a warm appliance.
• Even Baking: To ensure even baking, rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking time.
• Storage: Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature. They are best enjoyed within 2 days. To reheat, you can microwave them for a few seconds or warm them in the oven at a low temperature.

Variations:

• Nutella Breadsticks: Spread Nutella on the dough before rolling it up.
• Apple Cinnamon Breadsticks: Add diced apples to the cinnamon sugar mixture.
• Savory Breadsticks: Omit the sugar and cinnamon and add herbs and spices like garlic powder, oregano, and Parmesan cheese.

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! This cinnamon breadsticks recipe is more than just a sweet treat; it’s an experience. From the comforting aroma that fills your kitchen to the satisfyingly soft and chewy texture, every bite is a little piece of heaven. I truly believe this is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves baking, enjoys a touch of sweetness, or simply wants to create something special for their loved ones.

Why is it a must-try? Well, beyond the deliciousness, it’s surprisingly simple to make. The ingredients are likely already in your pantry, and the steps are straightforward, making it perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros. Plus, the versatility of these breadsticks is unmatched. They’re fantastic as a breakfast treat alongside a cup of coffee, a delightful afternoon snack with a glass of milk, or even a unique dessert after dinner.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to get creative with your serving suggestions and variations. For a truly decadent experience, try dipping them in a warm cream cheese frosting or a rich chocolate ganache. A sprinkle of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, adds a delightful crunch. You could even drizzle them with a salted caramel sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider experimenting with different spices. A pinch of nutmeg or cardamom can add a warm and exotic twist. For a more savory option, try brushing them with garlic butter and sprinkling them with Parmesan cheese before baking. The possibilities are endless!

These cinnamon breadsticks are also perfect for sharing. Bring them to a potluck, bake them for a bake sale, or simply surprise your neighbors with a warm batch. They’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Serving Suggestions:

* Warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
* Dipped in cream cheese frosting.
* Alongside a cup of hot chocolate on a cold day.
* As a sweet addition to a brunch spread.
* Served with a side of fresh fruit.

Variations:

* Add a swirl of apple pie filling before baking.
* Use a different type of sugar, like brown sugar or coconut sugar.
* Incorporate chocolate chips into the dough.
* Top with a streusel topping for added sweetness and texture.
* Make mini breadsticks for a bite-sized treat.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! I know you’ll love the process of making them as much as you’ll love eating them. Don’t be afraid to experiment and put your own spin on it. Baking is all about having fun and creating something delicious.

Once you’ve made your own batch of these irresistible cinnamon breadsticks, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your photos and comments on social media using [Your Hashtag Here] or leave a review on the recipe page. Let me know what variations you tried and what your family and friends thought. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create recipes that you’ll love. Happy baking! I can’t wait to see what you create!