Introduction
Keto Cinnamon Twists are the perfect low-carb, high-fat indulgence for those on a ketogenic diet. These twists combine the rich flavor of cinnamon with a dough that’s soft, slightly chewy, and sweetened with natural low-carb sweeteners. Whether you’re craving a sweet breakfast or a dessert to enjoy with your afternoon coffee, this recipe will satisfy your cravings without knocking you out of ketosis. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making Keto Cinnamon Twists—from the ingredients and preparation steps to the nutritional breakdown and even Weight Watchers SmartPoints.
By using almond flour, a popular keto-friendly flour substitute, and sweeteners like erythritol, these twists keep the carbs at bay. Additionally, the recipe is versatile and can be customized with different toppings or fillings, making it a great base for other flavor variations.
This recipe is not only keto-friendly but is also great for those with gluten sensitivity. It can be enjoyed as a breakfast treat, a snack, or a dessert.
Ingredients
To make your Keto Cinnamon Twists, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 2 cups almond flour (finely ground, blanched for the best texture)
- 1/4 cup coconut flour
- 1/4 cup erythritol or monk fruit sweetener (or any keto-friendly sweetener of choice)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum (optional, for added dough elasticity)
- 3 large eggs (beaten)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup warm water
For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 tablespoons erythritol or monk fruit sweetener
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
For the Glaze (optional but recommended):
- 1/4 cup powdered erythritol or sweetener of choice
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened almond milk (or heavy cream for a richer flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent your twists from sticking and ensure an even baking process.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, coconut flour, erythritol, baking powder, salt, and xanthan gum (if using). Stir the dry ingredients together to ensure everything is well incorporated. Coconut flour helps absorb the moisture and gives the dough a slightly more bread-like consistency, which is crucial for this recipe.
2. Mixing Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and warm water. Make sure the butter has cooled slightly to avoid cooking the eggs. Add this wet mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms. It should be soft, slightly sticky but manageable. If the dough is too dry, add more water a tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
3. Rolling Out the Dough
Lightly flour your work surface with almond flour to prevent sticking. Turn the dough onto the surface and gently roll it out using a rolling pin. Aim for a rectangular shape that’s about 12 inches long and 8 inches wide. The dough should be about 1/4-inch thick.
4. Adding the Cinnamon Filling
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, cinnamon, erythritol (or sweetener of your choice), and a pinch of salt. Spread this cinnamon mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, ensuring all areas are covered.
5. Forming the Twists
Carefully slice the dough into 1-inch strips. Once you have the strips, take each one and twist it into a spiral shape, then place it on the prepared baking sheet. If desired, you can form the dough into a knot shape or other designs. Be sure to leave a bit of space between each twist as they will expand slightly as they bake.
6. Baking the Twists
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the twists are golden brown and firm to the touch. Keep an eye on the twists toward the end of the baking time to ensure they don’t burn, especially if your oven runs hot.
7. Preparing the Glaze (Optional)
While the twists are baking, you can prepare the optional glaze. In a small bowl, combine powdered erythritol, almond milk, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth. Once the twists are done baking and have cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over them for an added touch of sweetness.
8. Serving and Storing
Allow the twists to cool on a wire rack before serving. These Keto Cinnamon Twists are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx. 1 Twist)
- Calories: 160 kcal
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 14 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Net Carbs: 3 g
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
Weight Watchers SmartPoints
- SmartPoints (Blue/Green/Purple): 3 SmartPoints per twist (without glaze)
- SmartPoints (Blue/Green/Purple): 4 SmartPoints per twist (with glaze)
Additional Tips and Tricks
1. Sweetener Substitutes
You can substitute erythritol with other keto-friendly sweeteners like stevia, monk fruit, or allulose. However, remember that some sweeteners can be sweeter than others, so adjust the amount accordingly. For example, stevia is much sweeter than erythritol, so a smaller quantity may be needed.
2. Make Them Dairy-Free
If you prefer to keep this recipe dairy-free, swap out the butter for coconut oil or avocado oil. These oils work well in keto baking and will not compromise the texture of the dough.
3. Fluffier Twists
If you prefer a slightly fluffier texture for your twists, consider adding a bit of cream cheese to the dough mixture. Cream cheese will help the dough rise and give it a richer flavor.
4. Spice Variations
While cinnamon is the star of this recipe, you can get creative with other spices. Try adding pumpkin pie spice, ginger, or nutmeg for a different flavor twist. You can even add a splash of almond extract for a nutty undertone.
5. Keto Glaze Alternatives
If you don’t want to use powdered erythritol, you can substitute it with powdered monk fruit or another keto sweetener of your choice. You can also skip the glaze if you prefer to keep the twists less sweet and just enjoy the cinnamon flavor.
6. Make Mini Twists
If you prefer smaller portions, you can cut the dough into smaller strips or rolls and form mini twists. This will reduce the overall calorie and carb content per serving, making it easier to control portion sizes.
Why These Keto Cinnamon Twists are a Great Option
These Keto Cinnamon Twists are a perfect choice for those following a ketogenic or low-carb lifestyle. They are made without any gluten, grains, or refined sugars, making them suitable for those with gluten sensitivity or anyone looking to cut down on their sugar intake. Additionally, the recipe is highly customizable, so you can adjust the flavors, sweetness, and toppings to suit your preferences. With only 3 grams of net carbs per serving, this treat won’t interfere with your weight loss or ketosis goals.
Not only are they delicious, but they are also a great alternative to traditional cinnamon rolls, which are often packed with sugar, carbs, and empty calories. Whether you are baking for yourself or your family, these twists offer a guilt-free indulgence that’s sure to impress.
Final Thoughts
Keto Cinnamon Twists are a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth while staying within your macronutrient goals. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, a breakfast option, or a special treat, this recipe provides a low-carb, gluten-free alternative to traditional pastries. By following the instructions and using the right ingredients, you can indulge without the carb overload. Make them today and enjoy the sweet, cinnamon goodness with every bite!