Crack Sticks Recipe

Let me just say, these crack sticks are dangerously delicious—and not just because of their cheeky name! Imagine warm, buttery rolls with a creamy, slightly tangy filling, all wrapped up in a crispy cinnamon-sugar coating. They’re the kind of treat that disappears the moment you set them out, leaving only happy crumbs behind. Whether you’re serving these at a brunch, a cozy family gathering, or just treating yourself on a rainy afternoon, they bring a bit of indulgence to any moment.

this RECIPE

My first time making these (and how they won me over)

The first time I made crack sticks, I was hosting a last-minute brunch for a few friends. I wanted something quick, easy, and guaranteed to please—and that’s when I stumbled upon this recipe. I still remember the aroma filling the kitchen as they baked: warm cinnamon, buttery goodness, and just a hint of sweetness from the cream cheese filling. My friends practically devoured them before I even had a chance to set out coffee. One friend jokingly asked if I had made a backup batch because she wasn’t sure she could stop at just one!

Now, they’re my go-to treat for so many occasions. I love how they’re easy to make but still feel like a special indulgence. Plus, they’re super fun to customize, which I’ll get to later!

The sweet history of cinnamon-sugar treats

Cinnamon-sugar combinations have been a beloved staple in desserts and snacks for centuries. From classic cinnamon rolls in Sweden to churros in Spain, this duo is a match made in culinary heaven. What makes crack sticks special, though, is how they simplify all those classic flavors into an easy-to-make treat. They’re a bit like a modern riff on stuffed French toast but without all the hassle. While I don’t know who first came up with this recipe, I do know one thing: it’s pure genius.

Let’s talk ingredients: the stars of the show

White bread

The soft, pillowy texture of white bread is perfect here. It’s easy to roll, and its mild flavor lets the cream cheese and cinnamon-sugar shine. If you’re out of white bread, try using brioche or even soft wheat bread. Just avoid anything too dense or crusty—it won’t roll as nicely.

Cream cheese

Ah, the heart of the filling! Cream cheese adds that tangy richness that balances all the sweetness. Make sure it’s softened so it spreads easily. You can swap it out for mascarpone if you want something a bit sweeter and creamier.

Powdered sugar

This blends beautifully with the cream cheese for a perfectly smooth filling. If you don’t have powdered sugar, you can blitz granulated sugar in a blender until it’s fine and powdery.

Granulated sugar and cinnamon

This is where the magic happens! The granulated sugar gives the crack sticks their crunch, while cinnamon adds that warm, cozy flavor we all love. Feel free to adjust the cinnamon-to-sugar ratio to your taste.

Butter

Melted butter ensures every roll is deliciously crisp and golden in the oven. Unsalted is best, but if you only have salted butter on hand, just reduce the added sugar slightly.

Kitchen gear: What you’ll need (and what you can skip)

Here’s the great thing about crack sticks: they don’t require any fancy equipment. A few basic tools will get the job done.

• Rolling pin: This is essential for flattening the bread.
• Mixing bowls: You’ll need three—one for the cream cheese mixture, one for the cinnamon-sugar coating, and one for the melted butter.
• Baking sheet and parchment paper: Parchment makes cleanup so much easier and prevents the rolls from sticking. If you’re out of parchment, a well-greased baking sheet works too.
• Hand mixer or spatula: A hand mixer speeds up the cream cheese mixing, but a good old-fashioned spatula and some elbow grease will do the trick.

Step-by-step: My foolproof method

1. Prep your ingredients

Start by removing the crusts from your bread slices. It might feel a little tedious, but it’s worth it—trust me. Then, use a rolling pin to flatten each slice into a thin rectangle.

2. Make the cream cheese filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until it’s smooth and creamy. If you taste-test a little (or a lot), I won’t judge—it’s irresistible!

3. Create your dipping stations

Set up three bowls: one with melted butter, one with the cinnamon-sugar mixture, and the third for your cream cheese filling. Having everything ready to go makes the assembly line smooth and mess-free.

4. Assemble the rolls

Spread a thin layer of cream cheese filling onto each slice of flattened bread, roll it up tightly, and dip it into the melted butter. Once it’s coated in butter, roll it generously in the cinnamon-sugar mix.

5. Bake to golden perfection

Place the rolled-up sticks seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until the rolls are golden and crispy. Your kitchen will smell like a bakery—absolute heaven!

Mix it up: Fun variations to try

• Healthier swaps: Use whole wheat bread and reduce the sugar slightly for a lighter version.
• Seasonal flavors: Add a pinch of pumpkin pie spice in the fall or a touch of nutmeg for the holidays.
• Vegan-friendly: Substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based version, butter with vegan margarine, and use coconut sugar for coating.
• Chocolate lover’s twist: Mix cocoa powder into the cinnamon-sugar blend or spread a layer of Nutella on the bread before adding cream cheese.
• Tropical vibe: Add a smear of pineapple jam with the cream cheese for a fruity twist.

How to serve them (and make them look amazing)

Serve these warm for the ultimate experience. I love piling them onto a pretty platter with a dusting of powdered sugar for a little extra flair. You can also drizzle them with caramel or chocolate sauce if you’re feeling fancy. Want to go all out? Pair them with a bowl of whipped cream or a fruit compote for dipping.

Beverages that pair perfectly

• Hot cocoa: The richness of cocoa balances the sweetness of the crack sticks beautifully.
• Chai latte: The warm spices in chai echo the cinnamon in the sticks for a cozy pairing.
• Iced coffee: If you’re serving these for brunch, an iced coffee or cold brew works wonders.
• Fresh fruit smoothie: A light, fruity smoothie offers a nice contrast to the buttery rolls.
• Milk (classic but perfect): A cold glass of milk never fails with cinnamon-sugar treats.

Storing leftovers (if there are any!)

If you somehow manage to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, pop them in the fridge, but be aware that they’ll lose a bit of their crispiness. To reheat, place them in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes or until warm and slightly crispy again. Avoid microwaving—they’ll turn soggy.

Scaling the recipe for more (or fewer) servings

This recipe makes 16 crack sticks, but it’s super easy to scale. For smaller batches, just halve the ingredients. For a crowd, double or even triple the recipe, but you may need multiple baking sheets. Just be sure not to overcrowd the rolls on the pan—they need space to crisp up!

Potential hiccups and how to avoid them

• Filling leaks out: Roll the bread tightly to prevent this.
• Cinnamon-sugar doesn’t stick well: Make sure the bread is fully coated in butter before dipping.
• Overbrowning: Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes of baking—they can go from golden to too dark quickly.

Give these a try—your taste buds will thank you!

These crack sticks are the kind of treat that’ll have everyone asking for the recipe. They’re easy, customizable, and downright addictive in the best way possible. So grab some bread, roll up your sleeves, and give them a go! Whether you stick to the classic version or get creative with a variation, I’d love to hear how they turn out.

FAQs

1. Can I use gluten-free bread?
Absolutely! Just be sure it’s a soft variety that’s easy to roll without breaking.

2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble them and store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking.

3. Can I air fry them instead of baking?
Yes, air fry at 350°F for 8-10 minutes. They’ll come out just as crispy!

4. How do I make them less sweet?
Reduce the sugar in the cinnamon-sugar mix or skip rolling them in it entirely.

5. Can I freeze them?
Yes! Freeze after baking and reheat in the oven. They’ll still be delicious.

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