Pin It I stumbled on this recipe during a frantic search for something crunchy and festive that didn't require turning on the oven. My air fryer was sitting idle, and a half-empty box of bowtie pasta seemed like an odd candidate for snacking. But after one bite of that buttery, cinnamon-sugar crust, I couldn't stop reaching back into the bowl. It became my secret weapon for every holiday gathering that year.
The first time I brought this to a party, someone asked if I'd bought it from a gourmet shop. I laughed and pointed at the empty pasta box in my recycling bin. Watching people crowd around the bowl, fingers sticky with cinnamon sugar, made me realize how a simple idea can spark genuine joy. It's become my go-to whenever I want to surprise people without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- Bowtie pasta: The frilly edges crisp up beautifully in the air fryer, creating more surface area for that cinnamon sugar to cling to.
- Vegetable oil: A light coating prevents sticking and helps the pasta turn golden without burning.
- Granulated sugar: Melts slightly against the warm pasta, forming a sweet glaze that balances the salt.
- Ground cinnamon: The star of the flavor show, warm and aromatic, it makes every bite feel like the holidays.
- Kosher salt: A small pinch cuts the sweetness and makes the cinnamon pop in unexpected ways.
- Unsalted butter: Melted and tossed in while the pasta is hot, it acts like glue for the sugar coating and adds richness.
Instructions
- Boil and Dry:
- Cook the bowtie pasta in salted water until just al dente, then drain and pat it completely dry with paper towels. Any lingering moisture will prevent that crispy crunch you're after.
- Coat in Oil:
- Toss the dried pasta with vegetable oil until every piece glistens. This thin layer protects the pasta and encourages even browning.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Set it to 200°C (400°F) and let it warm for 3 minutes. A hot basket means crispier edges right from the start.
- Air Fry in Batches:
- Spread the pasta in a single layer and air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, shaking halfway through. Listen for that crackling sound as the edges turn golden.
- Mix the Cinnamon Sugar:
- While the pasta crisps, whisk together sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a wide bowl. The aroma alone will make you impatient.
- Butter and Toss:
- Transfer the hot, crispy pasta to a large bowl and drizzle with melted butter, tossing until every piece is coated. Work quickly while the pasta is still warm.
- Add the Sugar Mix:
- Pour the cinnamon sugar over the buttered pasta and toss enthusiastically until every bow is covered in that sweet, spiced dust.
- Cool Completely:
- Spread the coated pasta on a tray and let it cool to room temperature. The coating will set and the crunch will sharpen as it rests.
Pin It One December evening, my niece helped me shake the air fryer basket and giggled every time a piece of pasta rattled against the sides. When we finally tasted the finished batch, she declared it better than candy and asked if we could make it every weekend. That moment reminded me how the simplest recipes often create the warmest memories.
Flavor Twists
A pinch of cayenne in the cinnamon sugar adds a surprising warmth that keeps people guessing. I've also stirred in a little nutmeg or cardamom when I want a more complex spice profile. If you're feeling adventurous, try a drizzle of honey instead of butter for a sticky, golden finish.
Storage and Freshness
Once cooled, this snack stays crunchy in an airtight container for up to three days, though it rarely lasts that long in my house. If it does soften, a quick minute in the air fryer at 180°C (350°F) brings back that satisfying snap. I've even packaged it in clear bags with ribbon for last-minute holiday gifts.
Serving Ideas
I've served this alongside spiced nuts and popcorn at movie nights, and it always steals the spotlight. It's also perfect for filling stockings, topping ice cream, or setting out in small bowls during game day.
- Pair it with hot cocoa or mulled cider for a cozy winter snack spread.
- Mix in dried cranberries or white chocolate chips after coating for extra festive flair.
- Use different pasta shapes like penne or rotini to change the texture and look.
Pin It This recipe taught me that holiday magic doesn't always come from complicated techniques or exotic ingredients. Sometimes all you need is a little creativity, a hot air fryer, and the willingness to turn pasta into something wonderfully unexpected.
Recipe FAQs
- → What pasta type is best for this snack?
Bowtie (farfalle) pasta is preferred for its shape and texture, but penne or rotini can also be used.
- → How do you achieve a crispy texture?
After cooking, drying the pasta thoroughly and air-frying at high heat ensures a crisp, crunchy finish.
- → Can I adjust the seasoning?
Yes, adding spices like cayenne or nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar mix enhances the flavor profile.
- → What oil is suitable for frying?
Neutral oils such as canola or sunflower work well to coat the pasta evenly before air frying.
- → How should this snack be stored?
Keep in an airtight container for up to three days to maintain crunchiness.