Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal preparation.
- Simple Ingredients: Utilizes pantry staples you likely already have.
- Versatile: Enjoy as a dessert, snack, or breakfast treat.
- Kid-Friendly: Fun to make and eat, making it a hit with children.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable with various fillings and flavors.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- White bread (crusts removed)
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Powdered sugar
- Granulated sugar
- Ground cinnamon
- Butter (melted)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Mix Cinnamon-Sugar Coating: In a separate bowl, combine granulated sugar and ground cinnamon; set aside.
- Flatten the Bread: Remove crusts from the bread slices and use a rolling pin to flatten each slice.
- Assemble the Rolls: Spread about a tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture onto each flattened bread slice and roll it up tightly.
- Coat the Rolls: Dip each roll in melted butter, ensuring all sides are covered, then roll in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until well-coated.
- Bake: Place the coated rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve: Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 16 rolls
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Fruit-Filled: Add a thin layer of fruit preserves or fresh berries before rolling for a fruity twist.
- Nutella Delight: Substitute cream cheese with Nutella or another chocolate spread for a chocolaty version.
- Savory Option: Replace the sweet filling with shredded cheese and herbs, and omit the cinnamon-sugar coating for a savory snack.
- Pumpkin Spice: Mix pumpkin puree with cream cheese and pumpkin pie spice for an autumn-inspired treat.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Storage/Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days; reheat before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze in a single layer and transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months; thaw and reheat before serving.
- Reheating: Warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
FAQs
What type of bread works best for Crack Sticks?
Soft white sandwich bread is ideal due to its pliability and neutral flavor.
Can I prepare Crack Sticks ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them in advance and bake just before serving for optimal freshness.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking out during baking?
Ensure the bread is rolled tightly and placed seam-side down on the baking sheet.
Can I use a different type of sugar for the coating?
Brown sugar can be used for a deeper caramel flavor.
Are there dairy-free alternatives for this recipe?
Yes, use dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based butter substitutes.
Can I air-fry Crack Sticks instead of baking?
Yes, air-fry at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through.
What dipping sauces pair well with Crack Sticks?
Serve with caramel sauce, chocolate ganache, or fruit compote for added flavor.
How can I make them less sweet?
Reduce the amount of sugar in the filling and coating to suit your taste.
Can I add nuts to the filling?
Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can add a delightful crunch.
What’s the best way to serve Crack Sticks at a party?
Arrange them on a platter with various dipping sauces for an interactive dessert experience.
Conclusion
Crack Sticks are an irresistible treat that combines simplicity with indulgence. Their versatility allows for endless customization, making them a delightful addition to any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with different flavors, these crispy, creamy rolls are sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy them warm with your choice of dipping sauce or as a standalone sweet snack.
Crack Sticks
Crack Sticks are crispy, cinnamon-sugar-coated treats filled with a creamy, sweet center. Made with white bread, cream cheese, and butter, these easy-to-make rolls are baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a snack, dessert, or breakfast treat, they are a fun and irresistible addition to any meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 16 rolls
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- White bread (crusts removed)
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Powdered sugar
- Granulated sugar
- Ground cinnamon
- Butter (melted)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven – Set to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Filling – Beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar in a bowl until smooth.
- Mix Cinnamon-Sugar Coating – Combine granulated sugar and cinnamon in a separate bowl.
- Flatten the Bread – Remove crusts and roll each bread slice flat with a rolling pin.
- Assemble the Rolls – Spread 1 tbsp of the cream cheese mixture onto each flattened slice and roll tightly.
- Coat the Rolls – Dip in melted butter, then roll in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.
- Bake – Place seam-side down on the baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve – Enjoy warm or at room temperature
Notes
- Variations: Add fruit preserves, Nutella, or pumpkin puree for different flavors.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 2 days or refrigerate for 5 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or air-fry at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.
