Save to Pinterest My sister brought a batch of Christmas Crack to a holiday gathering last year, and within minutes, the bowl was empty. Everyone kept sneaking back for just one more piece, their fingers sticky with cinnamon sugar. When she finally revealed it was air-fried pasta, I couldn't believe how simple yet addictive it was. That night, I went home determined to recreate it, and now it's become my secret weapon at every festive party. This recipe has completely changed how I think about leftover pasta and quick holiday snacks.
I made this for my book club last month, and one friend asked for the recipe before even finishing her first handful. The combination of warm, buttery pasta with that sparkly cinnamon sugar coating just hits differently than store-bought snack mixes. My mom now keeps asking me to make it every time she hosts, which is both flattering and slightly overwhelming in the best way.
Ingredients
- Bowtie (farfalle) pasta, 250 g: The bow shape creates little pockets that trap the cinnamon sugar coating, giving you maximum flavor in every bite.
- Vegetable oil, 2 tbsp: A light coating is all you need to help the pasta crisp up evenly in the air fryer.
- Granulated sugar, 60 g: The sweetness balances the cinnamon's warmth and the salt's savory edge.
- Ground cinnamon, 1 1/2 tsp: Don't skip fresh cinnamon if you have it; the flavor difference is noticeable.
- Kosher salt, 1/2 tsp: This is non-negotiable for cutting through the sweetness and making the flavors pop.
- Unsalted butter, melted, 2 tbsp: Melted butter helps the cinnamon sugar cling to every piece and adds richness that elevates the whole snack.
Instructions
- Cook the pasta to just-right:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and add the bowtie pasta, cooking for 7 to 8 minutes until it's tender but still has a slight bite. The pasta will crisp further in the air fryer, so don't overcook it here. Drain it well and pat it completely dry with paper towels, as any lingering moisture will stop it from getting properly crispy.
- Oil the pasta lightly:
- Transfer the dried pasta to a bowl and drizzle with vegetable oil, tossing gently until every piece is coated. This thin layer of oil is what allows the pasta to crisp up and the cinnamon sugar to adhere.
- Preheat your air fryer:
- Set it to 200°C (400°F) and let it heat for 3 minutes. This ensures even cooking from the moment the pasta hits the basket.
- Air fry in batches for maximum crispness:
- Spread the pasta in a single layer in your air fryer basket without crowding, then air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. You'll know it's ready when the pasta is golden and makes a gentle crunch sound when you move it around.
- Mix the cinnamon sugar blend:
- While the pasta is crisping, combine the sugar, cinnamon, and kosher salt in a wide, shallow bowl. A wide bowl makes it easier to toss the pasta without spilling the coating everywhere.
- Coat while warm:
- As soon as the pasta comes out of the air fryer, transfer it to a large bowl and drizzle with melted butter, tossing quickly to coat. The warmth helps the butter distribute evenly and keeps everything from clumping.
- Add the magic coating:
- While the pasta is still warm, add the cinnamon sugar mix in batches and toss until every single piece is covered in that sweet, spiced goodness. Work quickly but gently so you don't crush the delicate pasta.
- Let it cool for crunch:
- Spread the coated pasta on a baking sheet or clean countertop and let it cool completely. As it cools, it hardens into that irresistible crackling texture that makes this snack so addictive.
Save to Pinterest The first time my kids tried this, they were so surprised that it was made from regular pasta that they wanted to help me make it again immediately. There's something magical about transforming something so everyday into something that feels fancy and special.
Why Your Air Fryer is Perfect for This
The air fryer's circulating heat does something special that you can't replicate in a regular oven—it dries out the pasta while crisping it at the same time, with barely any oil needed. You avoid deep frying and all the splatter and oil smell that comes with it. The result is lighter, less greasy, and somehow even more addictive than the fried version.
Flavor Variations to Try
The basic cinnamon sugar is classic, but once you master this recipe, the variations are endless. Some of my favorite experiments have been adding a tiny pinch of cayenne for heat, nutmeg for warmth, or even a whisper of cardamom if I'm feeling fancy. You can also swap the cinnamon entirely for cocoa powder and a touch of espresso powder for a mocha version that's surprisingly elegant.
Storage and Gifting
This snack actually improves with time because the cinnamon sugar flavor deepens as it sits. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, and it'll stay crispy the entire time. I've also started packaging batches in pretty jars with ribbon for holiday gifts, and people genuinely light up when they receive it.
- Keep it sealed in an airtight container to maintain maximum crunch and prevent the coating from absorbing moisture.
- Make it a day or two ahead for stress-free party prep, since it only gets better.
- Double the recipe without worry because it disappears fast.
Save to Pinterest What started as a curiosity has become a tradition, and I love how this snack brings people together in the simplest, most delicious way. Once you taste it, you'll understand why everyone calls it Christmas Crack.
Answers to Recipe Questions
- → What pasta works best for this snack?
Bowtie pasta delivers great texture and shape, but penne or rotini can be used as alternatives.
- → How do I ensure the pasta gets crispy in the air fryer?
Drain and pat dry pasta thoroughly before coating in oil, then air fry in a single layer, shaking halfway for even crisping.
- → Can I adjust the cinnamon sugar mix for different flavors?
Yes, adding a pinch of cayenne or nutmeg enhances warmth and depth in the cinnamon sugar coating.
- → How should I store this snack for maximum freshness?
Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain crunchiness.
- → Is this snack suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it contains no meat or animal-derived ingredients beyond butter, making it vegetarian friendly.
- → What oils are best for air frying pasta?
Vegetable oils like canola or sunflower oil are ideal for even coating and crisp texture.