Crack Sticks Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate sweet treat that will disappear in seconds—meet Crack Sticks! Soft, creamy, and impossibly cinnamon-sugary, these little golden wonders are as addictive as their name suggests. Think: crispy outsides, rich cream cheese centers, and a cinnamon sugar shell that’s pure joy in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Crack Sticks is in their simplicity—every ingredient plays its part, giving you that stretchy-soft texture, creamy sweetness, and irresistibly crispy finish. Here’s what you’ll need and why it truly matters:

• White Bread: Slices with the crusts removed create the perfect tender base for rolling—choose a soft loaf for that melt-in-your-mouth bite.
• Cream Cheese (softened): The creamy filling inside each stick, turning every bite into a dreamy cheesecake-esque treat. Make sure it’s softened for easy spreading.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling, creating that signature fluffy, luscious filling without any grittiness.
• Granulated Sugar: Paired with cinnamon, it delivers that iconic, sparkly-sweet crust we all crave.
• Cinnamon: Infuses the coating with warmth and spice, making each roll taste extra cozy and comforting.
• Butter (melted): The golden glue that helps the cinnamon sugar stick—and adds slightly crisp, buttery edges as these bake up.

Variations

Crack Sticks are endlessly customizable—think of them as the most delicious blank canvas. With just a few tweaks, you can fit any mood, taste preference, or pantry situation. Here are some creative ideas to try:

• Berry Bliss: Add a few sliced strawberries or blueberries on top of the cream cheese before rolling for a fresh, fruity center.
• Chocolate Dream: Swap half the cream cheese for chocolate-hazelnut spread, or tuck in a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips for serious dessert vibes.
• Nuts for Crunch: Roll the outside in finely chopped pecans or walnuts after the cinnamon sugar for a toasty, nutty finish.
• Gluten-Free Swap: Use your favorite gluten-free sandwich bread to make these crowd-friendly for anyone with dietary restrictions.

How to Make Crack Sticks

Step 1: Prep the Creamy Center

Start by blending your softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar until it’s super smooth and creamy. You’re looking for a silky, spreadable mixture—an electric mixer works wonders here, but a little elbow grease and a sturdy spatula will do the trick, too.

Step 2: Mix Cinnamon Sugar & Melt Butter

In two separate bowls, combine your granulated sugar and cinnamon in one, and pour the melted butter into another. Having these set up as “dipping stations” makes assembly a breeze—minimal mess, all the fun!

Step 3: Roll Out and Fill the Bread

With crusts sliced off, roll each slice of bread flat using a rolling pin. The extra surface makes for plenty of room to spread the luscious cream cheese filling evenly from edge to edge.

Step 4: Shape and Coat the Crack Sticks

Spread a generous swipe of the cream cheese mixture onto each flattened slice. Roll up each slice tightly (like a little jelly roll), dip each stick first in melted butter, then coat them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until every side sparkles.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Arrange your coated Crack Sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each one. Pop into a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes until they’re golden, crisp, and filling your kitchen with the most heavenly cinnamon smell.

How to Serve Crack Sticks

Garnishes

For that extra bit of wow, dust the finished Crack Sticks with more powdered sugar or a whisper of cinnamon before serving. A drizzle of melted chocolate or a tiny dollop of whipped cream makes them truly over-the-top for dessert platters.

Side Dishes

Pair these sweet, creamy sticks with a strong cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk—perfection! For brunch, serve alongside fresh berries, crispy bacon, or even with a fluffy scramble for a sweet-and-savory balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack Crack Sticks on a platter for a playful “breadstick tower,” tie a ribbon bundle around several for party favors, or skewer them to serve as dippable treats with berry sauce or chocolate fondue at gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Crack Sticks (if you’re lucky enough to have any!) should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a day, or pop them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and delicious.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze baked Crack Sticks in a zip-top bag. Just make sure they’re fully cooled first. When ready to enjoy again, simply let them thaw at room temperature and reheat gently to revive their texture.

Reheating

To bring Crack Sticks back to their “just-baked” glory, warm them for a few minutes in a 300°F oven or pop them in an air fryer until lightly crisped—just avoid microwaving, which can make them soggy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

It’s nearly impossible to eat just one Crack Stick—trust me, they’re that addictive! I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and watch them fly off the plate at your next gathering. Don’t forget to share the love, and let me know what sweet twists you come up with!

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