Crispy, sweet, and totally addictive, this Crack Sticks Recipe makes the perfect last-minute dessert or snack with buttery cinnamon-sugar flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Just a few familiar kitchen ingredients come together here, but each plays a truly important role in making Crack Sticks so special. The cream cheese filling makes every bite rich and velvety, while the classic duo of cinnamon and sugar delivers that signature sweet crunch.
- White sandwich bread: Choose soft, fluffy white bread for the classic texture; removing the crusts helps the rolls stay seamless and tender.
- Cream cheese (8 oz block): Make sure it’s softened to blend smoothly; this creates the creamy, decadent core.
- Powdered sugar (¼ cup): Adds smooth sweetness and doesn’t leave a gritty texture in the filling.
- Vanilla extract (½ tsp): Just a splash brings warmth and depth to the cream cheese mixture.
- Granulated sugar (½ cup): For that beautiful, crisp-coated exterior when blended with the cinnamon.
- Ground cinnamon (1½ tsp): Classic cinnamon flavor gives these treats their cozy, nostalgic aroma.
- Melted butter (½ cup): Makes the rolls golden and crispy in the oven, helping the cinnamon sugar cling for a perfect finish.
How to Make Crack Sticks
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step is key to ensuring your Crack Sticks won’t stick, and the parchment makes cleanup a total breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling
In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Use a spoon or a handheld mixer to whip this into a silky smooth, cloud-like consistency. It should be thick, sweet, and spreadable—this filling will soon become the heart of your Crack Sticks!
Step 3: Flatten the Bread
Take each slice of white sandwich bread and use a rolling pin to flatten it gently. This little trick turns plain bread into the perfect canvas for rolling, and helps everything lock together tightly without splitting.
Step 4: Fill and Roll Up the Crack Sticks
Spread a generous spoonful of the cream cheese mixture on one end of each flattened bread slice. Then, roll it up tightly from the filled end, keeping the spiral secure. You’ll end up with 12 cute little logs just waiting for their sweet makeover.
Step 5: Make the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
In a shallow bowl, mix the granulated sugar with the ground cinnamon. Stir well so the cinnamon is evenly distributed—that way, every inch of your Crack Sticks will get that comforting, golden coating.
Step 6: Dip and Coat
Dip each filled bread roll in the melted butter, coating all sides. Immediately roll it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, pressing lightly so the coating sticks. The butter ensures maximum crunch and helps the spiced sugar caramelize in the oven.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Arrange the coated Crack Sticks on your prepared baking sheet, seam side down so they don’t unravel. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rolls are puffed and golden, and the coating is gloriously crisp. Serve warm for the ultimate Crack Sticks experience!
How to Serve Crack Sticks
Garnishes
For a show-stopping finish, dust your freshly baked Crack Sticks with a sprinkle of extra powdered sugar or add a drizzle of caramel sauce. Even a few fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream on the side will make these dessert sticks feel extra special and party-ready.
Side Dishes
While Crack Sticks really shine on their own, pair them with a mug of coffee, hot chocolate, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for contrasting warmth or coolness. They also make a playful addition to a dessert platter with fresh fruit or chocolate-dipped strawberries for a fun family night or brunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve Crack Sticks upright in a glass jar for a playful, grab-and-go presentation, or arrange them on a platter piled high with fruit slices and mint leaves. For a party, thread them onto decorative skewers and stack on a cake stand for an eye-catching centerpiece that will have everyone coming back for more.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’ve managed to save any Crack Sticks, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The crispy coating will soften a bit over time, but a quick reheat can bring them back to life.
Freezing
Crack Sticks freeze surprisingly well! Arrange cooled sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature or reheat straight from frozen in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crunch.
Reheating
To restore that fresh-baked, crackly texture, pop leftover Crack Sticks in a 325°F oven for about 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to soften rather than crisp, but a toaster oven works wonders in a pinch.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free bread for Crack Sticks?
Absolutely! While white sandwich bread creates the softest, most classic texture, you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free bread as long as it’s soft enough to roll without cracking. Just be sure to remove the crusts and flatten well.
Can I prepare Crack Sticks ahead of time before baking?
You can prep the rolls up to the point of dipping in butter and sugar, then refrigerate them on a baking sheet covered with plastic wrap. When ready to bake, dip and coat just before placing in the oven for the crispiest finish.
What other fillings can I use inside Crack Sticks?
Feel free to get creative! Try adding a layer of berry jam with the cream cheese, swap in Nutella for a chocolatey twist, or sprinkle on mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts for a fun surprise.
Can I make Crack Sticks without butter?
If you want to cut back on butter, you can brush the rolls with melted coconut oil or a plant-based substitute. The result will be slightly different in flavor and crispness but still tasty and golden brown.
How do I keep Crack Sticks crispy after baking?
Crack Sticks are crispiest enjoyed fresh from the oven, but if you know you won’t be serving them right away, cool them completely and store in a container lined with paper towel to absorb excess moisture. Reheat in the oven before serving to bring back their irresistible crunch.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so satisfying about biting into a homemade Crack Stick: the sweet, fragrant crunch gives way to a rich, creamy center, and every bite is pure comfort. I can’t recommend these enough for dessert, a sweet breakfast treat, or a special surprise for guests. Give Crack Sticks a try—you’ll see why they’ve become an irresistible favorite in my kitchen!
More Addictive Dessert Recipes to Try Next
Loved the sweet crunch and creamy surprise of these Crack Sticks? You’ll definitely want to try the buttery, pull-apart magic of the Pepperoni Cheese Pull Apart Bread Recipe—a savory cousin with equal wow-factor. For a creamy indulgence with a fruity twist, check out the Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe. If cinnamon-sugar’s your thing, the Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars will definitely steal your heart. You can also shake things up with the Banana Bread Cinnamon Swirl Rolls—a soft and sticky treat perfect for brunch or dessert. And for those craving a warm, Southern-style bite, the Fried Green Tomato Sliders Recipe pairs crispy with creamy in an unforgettable way.
Print
Crack Sticks Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 sticks
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crack Sticks are irresistible dessert rolls made by wrapping creamy, vanilla-infused cream cheese inside flattened slices of white bread. Each stick is dipped in butter, rolled in cinnamon sugar, and baked until golden and crisp for the ultimate sweet treat. Perfect for parties, snacks, or whenever you crave something quick, simple, and delightfully indulgent.
Ingredients
Bread & Cream Cheese Filling
- 12 slices white sandwich bread, crusts removed
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup melted butter
Instructions
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat or mix until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, with no lumps remaining.
- Flatten the Bread: Using a rolling pin, roll each slice of bread until it is thin and flat. This helps the bread roll up easily and creates the perfect texture after baking.
- Fill and Roll the Bread: Spread about one generous tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture onto one end of each flattened bread slice. Roll each slice up tightly, starting from the filled end, to seal in the filling.
- Mix Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, stir together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until well combined. This aromatic blend will form your coating.
- Coat Each Roll: Dip each rolled-up bread stick fully into the melted butter, ensuring all sides are covered. Then roll each stick in the cinnamon sugar mixture, making sure it is evenly coated on all sides.
- Bake: Arrange the coated sticks seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Notes
- For best results, use white sandwich bread that is fresh but not too soft for easier rolling.
- Swap in flavored cream cheese or spread a thin layer of jam before rolling for variation.
- Let the sticks cool for a few minutes before eating—they’ll crisp up more as they sit.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and reheated in a toaster oven for max crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stick
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 170mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg