Mediterranean Crack Sticks
Mediterranean Crack Sticks are a fun, crispy, and sweet finger snack that blends creamy richness with a warm cinnamon-sugar crunch. Made with simple ingredients you likely already have at home, these golden treats are perfect for coffee breaks, party platters, or dessert trays. The combination of smooth cream cheese filling and caramelized cinnamon coating makes them irresistibly addictive—hence the name!
Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
Bread:
8 slices white sandwich bread, crusts removed
Filling:
4 oz (½ cup) cream cheese, softened
3 tbsp powdered sugar
½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Coating:
2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter for extra richness)
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions:
Prepare the Bread:
Trim the crusts off the bread slices. Use a rolling pin to flatten each slice into a thin, flexible sheet.
Make the Filling:
In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Rolls:
Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture over each flattened bread slice. Roll each slice tightly into a log.
Coat the Rolls:
In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon. Brush each rolled stick lightly with olive oil, then roll it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until evenly coated.
Bake or Pan-Fry:
To Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place rolls on a parchment-lined tray and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
To Pan-Fry: Heat a small amount of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the rolls for 1–2 minutes per side, turning until all sides are golden brown.
Serve:
Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm for the best texture and flavor.
Tips
Soften the Cream Cheese Properly: Leave it at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing so it spreads smoothly and evenly.
Don’t Overfill: Use just a thin layer of filling—too much can cause the rolls to open up during baking or frying.
Seal the Edges: Press the end of the roll gently to help it stick together before coating.
For Even Browning: If baking, flip the rolls halfway through. If pan-frying, keep the heat medium to avoid burning the sugar.
Best Served Fresh: These are crispiest right after cooking. If you make them ahead, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 3–5 minutes to re-crisp.
Variations:
Mediterranean Twist: Add a drizzle of honey or sprinkle of crushed pistachios after baking for a Mediterranean dessert flair.
Savory Version: Replace the sweet filling with herbed cream cheese or feta mixed with sun-dried tomatoes and olives. Skip the cinnamon-sugar coating and brush with olive oil and herbs instead.
Chocolate Lovers: Mix a teaspoon of cocoa powder or Nutella into the cream cheese filling.
Fruit-Filled: Add finely chopped strawberries, figs, or dates inside for a fruity surprise.
Air Fryer Option: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway. They’ll turn out perfectly crisp with less oil.
Q&A
Q: Can I make Mediterranean Crack Sticks ahead of time?
A: Yes. You can prepare and roll them with the filling, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking or frying. Brush with olive oil and coat in cinnamon-sugar right before cooking for the best crunch.
Q: Can I freeze these?
A: You can. Arrange the rolled sticks (uncooked) on a tray and freeze until solid, then store in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to use, bake them straight from frozen—just add 3–4 minutes to the bake time.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftover Crack Sticks?
A: Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving—it makes them soft.
Q: Can I use whole wheat or multigrain bread?
A: You can, but the texture will be slightly denser and less crisp. White sandwich bread works best for that classic, flaky crust.
Q: How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?
A: Don’t overfill, and make sure the edges are sealed tightly by pressing or pinching before coating.
Nutrition
(Approx. per 2 Crack Sticks)
Calories: 190 kcal
Protein: 4 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Fat: 11 g
Saturated Fat: 4 g
Sugar: 8 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sodium: 160 mg
(Values may vary slightly depending on ingredients and portion size.)
Conclusion
Mediterranean Crack Sticks are the perfect blend of simple ingredients and big flavor. With their creamy filling, crisp exterior, and warm cinnamon aroma, they hit that nostalgic sweet spot without much effort. They’re great for brunches, parties, or even as a sweet snack alongside coffee or tea. Whether you make them classic, fruity, or savory, these bite-sized rolls prove that something so easy can still feel special and homemade.