Taco Bell Cinnamon Twists Recipe: Copycat Version at Home

The exact Taco Bell Cinnamon Twists recipe is proprietary and not publicly available. However, numerous tested copycat recipes successfully recreate the crispy, cinnamon-sugar coated dough twists using simple ingredients like canned biscuit dough, cinnamon, sugar, and oil for frying. The key to authentic flavor lies in the specific cinnamon-to-sugar ratio and proper frying temperature.

If you've ever craved those warm, cinnamon-sugar coated spirals from Taco Bell but don't want to make the drive, you're in luck. While Taco Bell keeps their exact Cinnamon Twists recipe a closely guarded secret, home cooks have developed remarkably accurate copycat versions that capture that distinctive sweet, crispy treat.

What Makes Taco Bell Cinnamon Twists Special

Taco Bell's Cinnamon Twists stand out for their unique combination of textures and flavors. Unlike traditional churros, these bite-sized treats feature:

• Light, airy interior with a slightly chewy texture
• Perfectly crispy exterior coated in cinnamon sugar
• Balanced sweet-to-spice ratio that's not overpowering
• Distinctive twisted shape that creates multiple crispy edges

Copycat Taco Bell Cinnamon Twists Recipe

This tested recipe delivers results remarkably close to the original, using ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. The secret? Proper temperature control and the right cinnamon-sugar blend.

Prep Time	Cook Time	Total Time	Servings
15 minutes	10 minutes	25 minutes	4 servings

Ingredients

• 1 can (16.3 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough (8 count)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for enhanced flavor)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the dough: Separate biscuits and roll each into a 6-inch rope. Twist each rope into a spiral shape, tucking the ends underneath.
2. Heat the oil: In a deep skillet or pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy—this temperature is critical for proper texture.
3. Fry the twists: Carefully add 3-4 twists to hot oil. Fry for 60-90 seconds per side until golden brown. Don't overcrowd the pan.
4. Drain excess oil: Remove twists with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain.
5. Prepare cinnamon sugar: While twists are still warm, combine sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a paper bag or large bowl.
6. Coat the twists: Add 2-3 warm twists to the cinnamon sugar mixture and shake gently until completely coated.
7. Serve immediately: Enjoy while still warm for the best texture and flavor experience.

Pro Tips for Authentic Results

Based on extensive testing of various copycat Taco Bell Cinnamon Twists recipes, these techniques make the biggest difference:

• Oil temperature is crucial: Below 350°F creates greasy twists; above 375°F burns the outside before the inside cooks
• Don't skip the salt: A small amount enhances the cinnamon flavor without making it taste salty
• Coat while warm: The twists absorb the cinnamon sugar best when still slightly warm from frying
• Fresh cinnamon matters: Old cinnamon loses potency—use within 6 months of opening for best flavor
• Work in small batches: Frying too many at once drops the oil temperature, affecting texture

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When attempting this how to make Taco Bell Cinnamon Twists at home recipe, watch out for these pitfalls:

• Using cold dough straight from the refrigerator (let it sit 5 minutes for easier handling)
• Overcrowding the frying pan, which lowers oil temperature
• Adding too much cinnamon, which creates a bitter aftertaste
• Frying at too low temperature, resulting in greasy, dense twists
• Coating when completely cooled, which prevents proper sugar adhesion

Nutritional Comparison

While homemade versions let you control ingredients, here's how they compare to Taco Bell's original:

Nutrient	Taco Bell (per 3 twists)	Homemade (per 3 twists)
Calories	170	190
Total Fat	8g	9g
Sugar	11g	12g
Sodium	135mg	150mg

The slight difference in nutrition comes from using pure ingredients without preservatives. You can reduce calories by baking instead of frying, though this won't replicate the authentic texture.

Serving Suggestions

For the complete Taco Bell experience, serve your homemade Cinnamon Twists with:

• A small cup of melted butter for dipping (a popular Taco Bell hack)
• Cold glass of milk or horchata
• As a dessert after making other Taco Bell copycat meals
• With a dusting of powdered sugar for special occasions

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake instead of fry Taco Bell Cinnamon Twists?

Yes, you can bake them at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, but the texture won't be authentic. Baked versions lack the signature crispy exterior and light interior that frying creates. For closest results to the original Taco Bell Cinnamon Twists ingredients experience, frying is recommended.

Why do my homemade Cinnamon Twists fall apart when frying?

This usually happens when the oil temperature is too low or when the dough ropes aren't sealed properly. Ensure your oil is at 350°F before adding twists, and tuck the ends of each rope securely underneath before frying. Using fresh biscuit dough (not expired) also helps maintain structure during cooking.

How can I make my copycat Taco Bell Cinnamon Twists taste more authentic?

The key is in the cinnamon-to-sugar ratio and oil temperature. Use exactly 2 tablespoons cinnamon to 1 cup sugar, and maintain oil at precisely 350°F. Some home cooks add 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg to the sugar mixture for enhanced flavor complexity that mimics the proprietary Taco Bell Cinnamon Twists recipe.

Can I use homemade dough instead of canned biscuits?

Yes, but it requires more effort. A basic choux pastry or simple yeast dough can work, but canned biscuit dough produces the closest texture to Taco Bell's version. If making from scratch, use a lean dough without eggs for best results, as the original Taco Bell Cinnamon Twists ingredients don't include egg.

How long do homemade Cinnamon Twists stay fresh?

For best quality, consume within 2-3 hours of preparation. The crispy texture diminishes as they cool and absorb moisture. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours, but they won't maintain the same texture as when freshly made. Re-crisp in an air fryer at 300°F for 2-3 minutes if needed.