When it comes to quick, crowd-pleasing desserts, crack sticks have earned their reputation as one of the most irresistible treats you can make. With a golden, crispy outside and a creamy, cinnamon-sugar filling, these little roll-ups are often described as “dangerously addictive”—hence the playful name. Whether you’re planning a family gathering, a casual party, or simply craving a sweet bite at home, this recipe delivers a crunchy, creamy, and downright delicious experience that’s hard to forget.

Before we dive into the detailed recipe and all the creative twists you can try, let’s explore what exactly makes crack sticks so unique. But first—if you’re new to the world of cinnamon-sugar desserts, you’ll want to check out resources like perfect cinnamon-sugar ratio to master that classic coating and soften cream cheese fast to make spreading the filling easier. These small tips will help you nail this recipe from the start.

Table of Contents

What Are Crack Sticks?

Crack sticks are essentially rolled-up bread slices that have been flattened, filled with sweetened cream cheese, dipped in melted butter, and then coated with cinnamon sugar before being baked (or air fried) to perfection.

Other names you might come across include:

Cinnamon cream cheese roll-ups
Cinnamon sugar bread sticks
Cream cheese dessert roll-ups

No matter what you call them, the process remains the same: simple ingredients, quick prep, and a result that delivers both crunch and creaminess in every bite.

Why You’ll Love Crack Sticks

There are plenty of reasons why these little rolls have become a staple for dessert lovers everywhere:

Quick prep: From start to finish, you’ll be enjoying them in under 30 minutes.
Minimal ingredients: Only 6–7 common items needed.
Kid-friendly: Both fun to make and fun to eat.
Versatile: Perfect as a holiday treat, after-dinner sweet, or party finger food.
Endlessly customizable: Add different fillings, swap the bread type, or bake in an air fryer for a modern twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the classic crack sticks, here’s what you’ll need:

White sandwich bread – works best because it flattens easily and crisps up well.
Cream cheese (softened) – provides the smooth, rich filling.
Powdered sugar – adds sweetness without grit.
Vanilla extract (optional) – enhances flavor.
Butter (melted) – helps the cinnamon sugar stick and creates a crisp crust.
Cinnamon + sugar mixture – the signature sweet coating.

Optional ingredients:

Citrus zest for a fresh twist.
Brown sugar for a deeper caramel flavor.
Brioche or Hawaiian bread for extra richness.

12 slices white sandwich bread (crusts removed, flattened)

8 oz cream cheese (softened)

¾ cup powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

½ cup unsalted butter (melted)

1 cup granulated sugar

2 tsp ground cinnamon

Equipment Checklist

Rolling pin (or clean glass) to flatten the bread.
Mixing bowls for filling, melted butter, and cinnamon-sugar.
Baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Wire rack for cooling.
Oven or air fryer.

Crack sticks dessert roll-ups with cinnamon sugar

Step-by-Step: Classic Crack Sticks Recipe

Preheat your oven to 350–375°F (180–190°C).
Prepare the bread by trimming off crusts and rolling each slice flat.
Make the filling by beating softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla (if using).
Spread the filling thinly across each flattened slice.
Roll tightly from one end to the other.
Dip in melted butter, making sure not to oversaturate.
Coat with cinnamon sugar, rolling each stick generously.
Place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
Bake for 10–20 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Cool for 2–3 minutes before serving to let them set.

Pro Tip: For a caramelized finish, bake on a wire rack to allow heat circulation and prevent sogginess.

Air Fryer Crack Sticks

For those who love the convenience of air fryers, you can make crack sticks in just a few minutes:

Preheat air fryer to 350–360°F (175–182°C).
Place prepared sticks in a single layer (don’t overcrowd).
Cook for 6–8 minutes, checking at the 5-minute mark.
Enjoy a crispier, slightly lighter texture compared to oven-baked.

Flavor Variations

The classic version is amazing, but here are some fun variations:

Pumpkin Spice Crack Sticks: Blend pumpkin purée and cream cheese with pumpkin spice before spreading.
Chocolate Hazelnut Roll-Ups: Swap cream cheese filling for Nutella or combine both.
Apple Pie Filling: Spread a thin layer of apple butter or spiced apples before rolling.
Berry Cheesecake Sticks: Add a line of jam inside with the cream cheese.
Savory Twist: Use garlic butter and parmesan instead of sugar and cinnamon for a party snack.

Serving Ideas

Dust with powdered sugar before serving for extra presentation.
Serve alongside caramel or chocolate dipping sauce.
Pair with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a cozy snack.
Arrange on a holiday platter with other bite-sized sweets.

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating

Make-ahead: Roll and chill unbaked sticks overnight; coat and bake when ready.
Storage: Keep in an airtight container; enjoy within 2–3 days.
Reheating: Warm in oven at 350°F for 5–8 minutes or in the air fryer for 3–4 minutes.
Freezing: Freeze unbaked rolls; bake straight from frozen with a few extra minutes added.

Troubleshooting Tips

Unsealed rolls? Roll tightly and always place seam-side down.
Too soggy? Dip quickly in butter—don’t soak.
Leaking filling? Don’t overfill; use softened cream cheese.
Too pale? Bake an extra 2–3 minutes or broil briefly at the end.

FAQs

Can I use wheat or brioche bread instead of white?
Yes, soft wheat works fine, and brioche or Hawaiian bread gives a richer taste.

Do I need vanilla extract?
It’s optional—many recipes skip it, but it adds flavor depth.

What’s the best oven temperature?
350°F gives steady results; 375°F browns faster but watch carefully.

Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and chill overnight, then bake fresh.

How long do they keep?
Best within 2–3 days, though refrigeration can extend to 5 days.

Can they be frozen?
Yes, freeze unbaked and bake from frozen with a few extra minutes.

Conclusion

Crack sticks are more than just a quick dessert—they’re a memory-making treat, perfect for parties, holidays, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. With their crispy cinnamon-sugar coating and creamy filling, they’re guaranteed to be a hit with anyone who tries them. Try the classic version first, then experiment with variations like pumpkin spice or chocolate hazelnut.