Crack Sticks

Introduction

If you’ve never heard of Crack Sticks before, prepare to be amazed! These irresistible little treats are made with white bread, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a buttery cinnamon-sugar coating that crisps up beautifully in the oven. The result? A golden-brown, crunchy exterior with a sweet and creamy center that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether you’re looking for a simple dessert, a holiday party snack, or just something to satisfy your sweet tooth, Crack Sticks are a must-try.

My recipe story

I first discovered Crack Sticks at a family gathering when my aunt brought out a tray fresh from the oven. At first glance, they looked like simple cinnamon-sugar sticks, but one bite revealed the creamy surprise inside. The contrast of textures—crispy on the outside and smooth on the inside—instantly won me over. Since then, I’ve been making them for potlucks, birthdays, and cozy weekend treats. Over time, I’ve tweaked the recipe slightly, balancing the sweetness and adjusting baking times to ensure they always come out perfectly crisp. It’s now a family favorite that disappears faster than I can make them!

Ingredient breakdown

The beauty of Crack Sticks lies in their simplicity. The base of this recipe is soft white bread with the crusts removed, making it easier to roll. It’s a clever way to turn something ordinary into something truly special. Cream cheese is the star of the filling, lending a smooth, tangy richness that pairs beautifully with the sweet coating.

Powdered sugar is mixed with the cream cheese to sweeten the filling while keeping it light and creamy. The cinnamon-sugar mixture that coats the bread gives the sticks their irresistible crunch and warm flavor. Finally, melted butter helps the sugar mixture stick while also adding richness and helping the sticks crisp up in the oven. Together, these humble ingredients create a dessert that tastes like it came from a bakery, yet is simple enough for any home cook to master.

Equipment you’ll need

• Mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or spatula
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Small bowls for dipping
• Sharp knife

Step-by-step directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. This also ensures the bread crisps up evenly without absorbing too much oil or butter.

Step 2: In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy. This creates the luscious filling that will surprise everyone when they bite into the crispy bread. Be sure there are no lumps for the best texture.

Step 3: Using a rolling pin, flatten each slice of bread until it’s thin and pliable. Removing the crusts makes rolling much easier and ensures the sticks bake evenly. Don’t skip this step—rolling gives the bread the perfect texture for wrapping around the filling.

Step 4: Spread about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture onto each flattened slice of bread. Roll it up tightly like a jelly roll, making sure the filling stays inside. A snug roll helps keep the filling from oozing out during baking.

Step 5: Dip each roll into melted butter, coating it evenly. Then, roll it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated. This layer is what transforms the bread into a golden, sweet, and crunchy shell that pairs perfectly with the creamy center.

Step 6: Place the coated rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes, turning them halfway through for even browning. They should be golden brown, crisp on the outside, and slightly puffed when done.

Step 7: Allow the Crack Sticks to cool slightly before serving. They’re delicious warm, but they also hold their texture when served at room temperature, making them perfect for parties.

Variations & substitutions

If you’d like to switch things up, try using flavored cream cheese such as strawberry or honey walnut for a fun twist. You can also add a bit of fruit jam before rolling for a fruity surprise. Nutella or peanut butter makes a decadent alternative to cream cheese. For a savory option, swap the cinnamon-sugar for garlic butter and Parmesan cheese, creating an appetizer version. Whole wheat or brioche bread can also be used for different textures and flavors.

Storage, freezing & make-ahead

Crack Sticks are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 4 days and reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving. To freeze, arrange the unbaked rolls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Serving ideas & pairings

These sweet rolls are fantastic on their own, but you can take them up a notch by serving them with dipping sauces like caramel, chocolate, or strawberry sauce. They pair beautifully with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, making them a cozy treat for brunch or dessert. For parties, arrange them on a platter with fresh fruit for a colorful and inviting presentation. Kids love them in lunchboxes, and they also make a great handheld dessert for potlucks and family get-togethers.

FAQ

Can I use whole wheat bread instead of white?
Yes! Whole wheat bread will give the sticks a nuttier flavor and slightly denser texture, but they’ll still be delicious.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the rolls and refrigerate them unbaked for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving for the crispiest texture.

Do I need to use powdered sugar?
Powdered sugar blends smoothly with cream cheese, but you can use granulated sugar if that’s all you have. The texture may be slightly grainier.

Can I fry these instead of baking?
Absolutely! Frying will make them extra crispy, but baking is lighter and less messy. Choose whichever method suits your preference.

How do I keep the rolls from opening while baking?
Make sure to place them seam-side down on the baking sheet. You can also lightly pinch the seam before dipping in butter.

Final thoughts

Crack Sticks may be simple to make, but they deliver big on flavor and texture. With their crisp, sugary coating and creamy filling, they’re a treat that appeals to both kids and adults. Whether you’re making them for a holiday gathering, a casual dessert, or just because you’re craving something sweet, these little sticks of joy are guaranteed to be a hit. Give them a try—you might just find yourself making them on repeat!

Crack Sticks

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• Author: Sarah White
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 sticks 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these Crack Sticks are the ultimate sweet treat for parties, holidays, or anytime cravings hit.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 16 slices white bread, crusts removed

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened

• 3/4 cup powdered sugar

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.

3. Flatten each slice of bread with a rolling pin until thin and pliable.

4. Spread about 1 tablespoon of cream cheese mixture on each slice, then roll up tightly.

5. Dip each roll in melted butter, then coat with cinnamon-sugar mixture.

6. Place seam-side down on prepared baking sheet.

7. Bake for 18–20 minutes, turning once halfway through, until golden and crisp.

8. Cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.

Notes

These are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for 2 days. Try serving with caramel or chocolate dipping sauce for extra indulgence.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American