Why I Love This Recipe
I love how this recipe combines the comforting flavors of caramel and apple with the soft, pillowy texture of freshly baked dough. The process of making the twists is both fun and rewarding, and the end result is a pastry that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. The maple glaze adds a sweet finishing touch that perfectly complements the rich filling.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
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3/4 cup warm water
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2 tsp sugar
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1/4 cup vegetable or canola oil
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1 tsp maple extract (optional)
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1 tsp ground cinnamon
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1/2 tsp salt
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2 1/4 to 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
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2 apples, peeled and finely diced (Gala or Granny Smith recommended)
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1 1/2 cups brown sugar
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1/4 cup water
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1/3 cup heavy cream
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1 tsp ground cinnamon
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1 1/4 cups powdered sugar
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1/4 cup plus 1 tbsp milk
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1 tsp maple extract (optional)
Directions
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In a stand mixer bowl, combine yeast, warm water, and sugar. Let sit for about 10 minutes until foamy.
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Add oil, maple extract (if using), cinnamon, and salt. Mix briefly.
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Gradually add flour until the dough is no longer sticky. Knead with the mixer on high for 5 minutes or by hand for 10 minutes.
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Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes.
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While the dough rises, prepare the filling: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar and water. Let sit undisturbed for 5 minutes.
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Add diced apples, stir, and let sit for another 5 minutes.
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Stir in heavy cream and cinnamon. Let simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and let cool.
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Roll out the dough into a large rectangle. Spread the apple filling over the center third of the dough.
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Fold the sides over the filling, overlapping slightly. Trim the ends for neatness.
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Cut into 8 equal sections. For each section, cut down the middle, leaving about 1/2 inch uncut at the top.
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Twist the two strands together and tie into a loose knot. Tuck the ends underneath.
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Place the twists on a greased baking sheet. Cover and let rest for 10 minutes.
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the twists for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden.
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While baking, prepare the glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, maple extract (if using), and milk until smooth.
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Drizzle the glaze over the warm twists before serving.
Servings and Timing
This recipe yields 8 servings. Preparation takes about 1 hour, and baking requires 12 minutes, totaling approximately 1 hour and 12 minutes from start to finish.
Variations
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Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the filling for added crunch.
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Incorporate raisins or dried cranberries for a fruity twist.
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Use a cream cheese glaze instead of maple for a tangy contrast.
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Sprinkle coarse sugar on top before baking for extra sweetness and texture.
Storage/Reheating
Store the twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 20–30 seconds until heated through.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, I can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before proceeding with rolling and filling.
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
While homemade caramel provides the best flavor, I can use store-bought caramel sauce in a pinch. Just ensure it’s thick enough to hold up during baking.
What type of apples work best?
I recommend using firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet varieties like Gala for a balanced flavor.
Can I freeze the twists?
Yes, I can freeze the baked twists. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?
Some leakage is normal and adds to the caramelized bottom. To minimize excessive leakage, ensure the dough is sealed well and not overfilled.
Conclusion
These Caramel Apple Twists are a delightful treat that combines the comforting flavors of fall with the joy of baking. The soft dough, rich filling, and sweet glaze come together to create a pastry that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or reheated the next day, they’re sure to bring warmth and satisfaction.
Print
Caramel Apple Twists
- Total Time: 1 hour 12 minutes
- Yield: 8 twists
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Fluffy, cinnamon-kissed dough wrapped around gooey apple caramel filling, topped with maple glaze. These bakery-style twists are easier than they look—and totally irresistible.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
2¼ tsp active dry yeast
¾ cup warm water
2 tsp sugar
¼ cup vegetable or canola oil
1 tsp maple extract (optional)
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp salt
2¼ to 2½ cups all-purpose flour
For the Caramel Apple Filling:
2 apples, peeled and finely diced (Gala or Granny Smith recommended)
1½ cups brown sugar
¼ cup water
⅓ cup heavy cream
1 tsp ground cinnamon
For the Maple Glaze:
1¼ cups powdered sugar
¼ cup + 1 tbsp milk
1 tsp maple extract (optional)
Instructions
In a stand mixer bowl, combine yeast, warm water, and sugar. Let sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
Add oil, maple extract (if using), cinnamon, and salt. Mix briefly.
Gradually mix in flour until dough is no longer sticky. Knead for 5 minutes with mixer or 10 minutes by hand.
Cover and let dough rise in a warm place for 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, make the filling: in a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar and water. Let sit 5 minutes.
Stir in apples and cook another 5 minutes. Add heavy cream and cinnamon. Simmer 5–7 minutes until thickened. Let cool.
Roll dough into a large rectangle. Spread filling over center third. Fold sides over, overlapping slightly.
Trim edges, cut into 8 sections. Slice each down the middle (leave top intact), twist strands and knot loosely. Tuck ends underneath.
Place on greased baking sheet, cover and rest 10 minutes.
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake 10–12 minutes until golden.
Whisk glaze ingredients and drizzle over warm twists before serving.
Notes
Add chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) for crunch.
Substitute raisins or dried cranberries for fruity variation.
Try a cream cheese glaze instead of maple for a tangy topping.
Sprinkle coarse sugar on top before baking for extra texture.
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
