There’s a moment in the kitchen that stops me in my tracks—the enchanting scent of cinnamon wafting through the air, mingling with the warmth of freshly baked dough. That’s exactly what happens when I whip up these Baked Crescent Churros, a simple twist on a classic treat that elevates my dessert game to another level.
One day, I found myself yearning for something special but didn’t want to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. That’s when I unearthed a can of Pillsbury™ Crescent Rolls lurking in my pantry, and inspiration struck. Just a few pantry staples later, I transformed these easy crescent rolls into delightful twists that deliver an irresistible crunch and a sugary finish in less than 15 minutes.
Perfect for impressing guests or satisfying late-night cravings, this quick recipe offers a delightful escape from the ordinary. So, let’s dive in and bring a bit of warmth and sweetness to your home kitchen!
Why are Baked Crescent Churros a Must-Try?
Indulge in these delightful Baked Crescent Churros that offer a quick and easy solution to your sweet cravings. Irresistibly Crunchy on the outside yet soft on the inside, they’re the perfect contrast that will leave everyone wanting more! Quick Prep Time: You can whip these up in under 15 minutes, making them perfect for spontaneous gatherings. Crowd-Pleaser: They satisfy both kids and adults, making your kitchen the go-to spot for a tasty treat. And if you love exploring similar easy desserts, check out our delicious Churro-inspired recipes for more sweet inspiration!
Baked Crescent Churros Ingredients
Get ready to create something magical in your kitchen with these easy ingredients!
For the Cinnamon Sugar
- Sugar – A touch of sweetness that balances the spice beautifully.
- Ground Cinnamon – This aromatic spice gives your churros that classic flavor profile.
For the Crescents
- Pillsbury™ Original Crescent Rolls – These make for a quick and flaky base; you can also use the dough sheet for a seamless experience.
- Butter or Margarine – Melted, this adds richness and helps the sugar topping stick!
With these simple yet essential ingredients, you’re on your way to crafting the tastiest Baked Crescent Churros that will delight every palate!
How to Make Baked Crescent Churros
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Preheat your oven to 375°F, filling the kitchen with anticipation of deliciousness. In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and ground cinnamon; this magical blend will give your churros that signature flavor.
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Prepare the crescent rolls by unrolling the dough. If you have the original rolls, separate them into 4 rectangles; for the dough sheet, simply cut it into 4 rectangles. Press each piece to form a 6×4-inch rectangle, sealing those edges for a perfectly flaky treat.
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Brush the tops of 2 rectangles with the melted butter. Then, generously sprinkle half of your delightful sugar mixture over them. Stack the remaining rectangles on top and gently press the edges together, sealing in all that goodness. Don’t forget to brush the tops with more melted butter!
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Slice each rectangle stack lengthwise into 6 strips using a sharp knife or pizza cutter. Now, here’s where the magic happens: twist each strip about 3 times to create those beautiful spirals. Place them on an ungreased cookie sheet, ready to bake!
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Bake in the preheated oven for 9 to 11 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crisp. In the final moments, brush the tops with any leftover melted butter and sprinkle with the remaining sugar mixture for an extra touch of sweetness.
Optional: Serve warm, dusted with extra cinnamon sugar for a delightful garnish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Baked Crescent Churros are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts who want to save time in the kitchen! You can prepare the dough sheets by twisting the strips and placing them on a baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. This allows you to savor the lovely cinnamon aroma without all the last-minute work! When you’re ready to enjoy your treat, simply preheat your oven and bake directly from the fridge—no need to let them sit out! To maintain that signature crispiness, make sure to store them in an airtight container and brush with melted butter just before baking. Enjoy the ease of whipping up these delightful Baked Crescent Churros whenever the craving strikes!
Expert Tips for Baked Crescent Churros
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Seal Edges Well: Ensure you press the edges of the crescent dough together firmly to prevent the churros from unrolling during baking. This helps maintain their shape.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cinnamon and sugar create a more vibrant flavor. Avoid using old spices that may lack the aromatic punch needed for your baked crescent churros.
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Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your churros in the oven. Ovens may vary, so pull them out once they are golden brown to avoid overbaking and losing that delightful crunch.
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Brush Generously: Don’t skimp on the melted butter before adding the sugar mixture. This not only enhances flavor but also helps create that irresistible caramelized topping on your churros.
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Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve your Baked Crescent Churros warm. They taste best right out of the oven, making them an instant hit with family and friends!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Twists?
Dessert doesn’t have to stand alone; let’s create a feast of delightful flavors and textures to enhance your indulgence!
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of berries and melons adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cinnamon twists.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Rich and creamy, it melts beautifully over warm cinnamon twists, creating an irresistible combination that you won’t be able to resist.
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Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of coffee provide a perfect balance, enhancing the delightful sweetness and warming the soul in every bite.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over your twisted treats can take them to a whole new level of indulgence, making every bite a delightful surprise.
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Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream adds an airy touch to the cinnamon twists, softening the crunch while amplifying the sweetness.
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Spiced Chai Latte: This warming drink complements the cinnamon flavor beautifully, creating a cozy experience that’s perfect for lazy afternoons or chilly evenings.
Enjoy mixing and matching these tasty pairings to create the ultimate dessert spread that will delight everyone at your table!
How to Store and Freeze Baked Crescent Churros
Room Temperature: Store your churros in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them crispy and delicious.
Fridge: If you prefer extra freshness, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days; however, they may lose some crunchiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your baked crescent churros in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy them again, reheat in an oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until warm and crispy; no one will know they’re not fresh!
Baked Crescent Churros Variations
Customize your Baked Crescent Churros with these delightful twists for a truly unique experience!
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, between layers for an added texture and rich flavor. Just sprinkle them with cinnamon sugar for extra yum!
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Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over your churros after baking for a decadent touch. This sweet addition complements the cinnamon beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper into your cinnamon sugar for a surprising heat that balances the sweetness. It’s a bold choice that will excite your taste buds!
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Fruit Stuffing: Add a layer of fruit preserves or fresh slices of bananas before stacking the dough. This fruity filling provides a delicious surprise inside each churro.
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Maple Syrup Glaze: Replace melted butter with maple syrup for brushing before the sugar mixture. The unique flavor adds a sweet, cozy note that’s hard to resist. It’s like breakfast in a churro!
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Coconut Flakes: Toss some unsweetened coconut flakes into the cinnamon sugar mix for an exotic twist. The chewy texture and aroma of coconut elevate your churros to new heights.
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Matcha Dust: For a trendy take, sprinkle matcha powder over the sugar blend for a fresh, earthy taste. It gives a beautiful green hue and a unique flavor that’s both tasty and pretty!
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Pumpkin Spice: Swap out cinnamon for pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist. This warm blend brings cozy autumn vibes to your churros any time of year. Pair them with hot cider for an amazing treat!
Baked Crescent Churros Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right dough for Baked Crescent Churros?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using Pillsbury™ Original Crescent Rolls for that flaky texture, but you can also opt for the Crescent Dough Sheet for a seamless option. Just ensure the dough is fresh and not expired for maximum flavor!
How should I store Baked Crescent Churros?
To maintain their delicious crunch, store your churros in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days, though they may lose some of their signature crispness.
Can I freeze Baked Crescent Churros?
Certainly! To freeze your churros, first let them cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag—this will allow them to last for up to 2 months. You can enjoy them any time by reheating!
What if my Baked Crescent Churros aren’t crispy enough?
If your churros come out softer than expected, it could be due to a lack of baking time or insufficient sealing of edges. Make sure to press the edges together firmly and keep an eye on them while baking. If they look golden brown, that’s your cue to take them out!
Are Baked Crescent Churros safe for pets?
It’s best to keep these sweet treats away from pets! The sugar and butter content isn’t ideal for them, and the cinnamon can cause stomach upset in certain animals. Always enjoy your treats safely!
Can I modify the recipe for dietary restrictions?
Very! To make these churros dairy-free or vegan, use a vegan butter substitute and check for dairy-free crescent roll options. For a lower sugar version, you can experiment with sugar alternatives; just keep in mind that the flavor and texture might vary somewhat.
Feel free to ask more questions, because every bit of curiosity adds to the joy of cooking!
Baked Crescent Churros: Easy Treats for Sweet Cravings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and ground cinnamon.
- Prepare the crescent rolls by unrolling the dough and separating it into 4 rectangles. Press each piece to form a 6x4-inch rectangle.
- Brush the tops of 2 rectangles with melted butter and sprinkle half of your sugar mixture over them. Stack the remaining rectangles on top and seal the edges. Brush with more melted butter.
- Slice each rectangle stack lengthwise into 6 strips and twist each strip about 3 times. Place them on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake in the oven for 9 to 11 minutes or until golden brown. Brush with any leftover melted butter and sprinkle with remaining sugar mixture before serving.