Cinnamon Swirls: A Delightful Treat

Introduction

There’s something truly special about baking that fills the kitchen with warmth and delicious aromas. When I first made these Cinnamon Swirls, the excitement was palpable. My family couldn’t resist the scent wafting through our home, and the moment the first batch came out of the oven, they were instantly a hit. With a buttery, cinnamon-infused dough and a sweet icing drizzled on top, these treats have become a staple in our household. They’re perfect for gatherings, breakfast, or a simple afternoon snack. The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make!

Ingredients

• 1 package Cinnamon Muffin Melt Mix™
• ½ cup butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• All-purpose flour (for dusting)
• 1½ cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons milk

Instructions

1. Prepare Dough

In a large bowl, combine the Cinnamon Muffin Melt Mix packet, softened butter, and egg. Knead the dough until it forms a smooth ball.

2. Roll Out Dough

Lightly flour a silicone pastry mat or a large piece of parchment paper, plastic wrap, or wax paper with taped-down corners to your work surface. Place the dough on the floured surface and roll it out to a 14×11-inch rectangle. Sprinkle with the contents of the second Cinnamon Muffin Melt Mix packet.

3. Form Log

Starting from the long end, use the pastry mat or paper to help roll the dough into a log shape. Press and smooth the dough together as you roll, pulling the mat or paper away as you go.

4. Chill

Cut the log in half and wrap each half in plastic wrap, tightening the plastic and pressing the dough into a tight log. Refrigerate for 2 hours.

5. Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F.

6. Slice and Bake

Remove the plastic wrap from the dough logs and carefully slice them into ¼-inch slices, pressing together any breaks. Place the slices on a large baking sheet. Bake for 14-16 minutes.

7. Cool

Remove from the oven and let cool on the pan for 1 minute before transferring to a cooling rack.

8. Make Icing

Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar and vanilla. Whisk in the milk to create a drizzle.

9. Drizzle Icing

Once the cookies are cooled, drizzle the icing over them.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 120
• Total Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 2.5g
• Cholesterol: 16mg
• Sodium: 126mg
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 15g
• Protein: 1g

Preparation Time

• Active Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including chilling)

How to Serve

• Serve warm or at room temperature.
• Drizzle additional icing on top for extra sweetness.
• Pair with a cup of coffee or tea.
• Offer them at brunch or as an after-school snack.
• Store in an airtight container for a sweet treat anytime.

Additional Tips

1. Chilling the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! It helps maintain the shape of the swirls while baking.
2. Use Parchment Paper: If you don’t have a silicone mat, parchment paper works perfectly for rolling out the dough.
3. Experiment with Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon for a flavor twist.
4. Store Properly: Keep the swirls in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
5. Double the Batch: These swirls disappear quickly, so consider making a double batch for larger gatherings!

Recipe Variations

• Nutty Addition: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for a delightful crunch.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Replace the vanilla icing with melted chocolate for a rich twist.
• Fruit Flavor: Incorporate finely chopped apples or pears into the dough for added sweetness and texture.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free baking mix in place of the Cinnamon Muffin Melt Mix™.
• Vegan Alternative: Substitute the butter and egg with vegan options to make this treat plant-based.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with whipped cream or ice cream for a dessert.
• Pair with yogurt for a delicious breakfast option.
• Offer alongside fresh fruit for a balanced snack.
• Create a dessert platter with coffee and tea for guests.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: These cinnamon swirls can be frozen before baking. Just slice them and place them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different flavor muffin mix?

• Yes! Feel free to experiment with other muffin mixes for different flavors.

1. How do I know when they are done baking?

• They should be lightly golden around the edges and firm to the touch.

1. What can I use instead of powdered sugar for the icing?

• You can use a sugar substitute, but the consistency may vary.

1. Can I make these ahead of time?

• Absolutely! You can make the dough ahead and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

1. Is there a nut-free version?

• Yes, simply omit any nuts if you prefer a nut-free treat.

1. How can I make them more festive?

• Add colored sprinkles to the icing for a fun, festive touch.

1. What can I substitute for milk in the icing?

• Use any non-dairy milk alternative or water.

1. Can I use less sugar?

• You can reduce the sugar in the icing to taste, but it may affect the sweetness of the swirls.

1. How do I prevent them from sticking to the pan?

• Make sure to use parchment paper or grease the pan well before placing the swirls.

1. What’s the best way to serve them?
   • Serve them warm for the best texture and flavor!

Conclusion

Cinnamon Swirls are more than just a delicious treat; they are a delightful addition to any occasion, from casual family gatherings to elegant brunches. With their tender texture, sweet cinnamon flavor, and lovely drizzle of icing, these swirls are sure to please everyone. Plus, with a little planning, you can make them ahead of time and enjoy them whenever the craving strikes. Whether you’re baking for friends or just treating yourself, these Cinnamon Swirls will bring joy to your kitchen and home. Enjoy the process of baking, and savor every sweet bite!

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