Thinking of cinnamon sugar cookies makes me remember my grandmother’s cozy kitchen. The smell of warm butter and sweet cinnamon was everywhere. She carefully rolled each dough ball in sugar, a special ritual.
I remember the joy on my siblings’ faces as we waited for the cookies to cool. These moments of togetherness over homemade treats are special. They are why I love cinnamon sugar cookies so much.
Today, I want to share with you how to make the best cinnamon sugar cookies. They are simple, delightful, and perfect for making your own sweet memories.
What are Cinnamon Sugar Cookies?
Cinnamon sugar cookies are a tasty treat. They are soft and chewy. They have the warm taste of cinnamon and sugar.
They mix the classic sugar cookie with the snickerdoodle. This makes them a hit with friends and family.
The recipe is simple. It uses butter, sugar, flour, and eggs. The cinnamon-sugar coating adds a special taste and look.
It uses 1½ cups of sugar in the dough and ⅓ cup for coating. This makes the cookies sweet and warm.
Preparing them is fun. You roll the dough into balls and coat them in cinnamon-sugar. The smell of homemade cookies fills the air.
It’s hard to resist eating them before they cool. Cinnamon sugar cookies are great for bake sales or family gatherings. They’re also perfect for a quiet afternoon.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This quick cinnamon sugar cookie recipe is a joy to make. It’s simple and tastes amazing. You can make a batch in just 45 minutes, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
The cinnamon flavor fills the kitchen as they bake. Each cookie is sweet and warm. They’re great for holidays or cozy nights.
This recipe uses only ten ingredients. You can make them with a mixer or by hand. They stay soft for days if stored right. You can also freeze them for up to a month.
These cookies are a favorite among friends and family. Their familiar taste and easy making make them special. This recipe holds a special place in my heart.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Cookies
To make tasty cinnamon sugar cookies, you need the right stuff. These ingredients make your cookies taste good and feel right. Here’s what you need for this simple recipe, plus some ideas to make them your own.
Essential Ingredients
- 1 cup sugar – Adds sweetness to the cookies.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter – Provides moisture and richness to the cookie.
- 1 large egg – Acts as a binder for the ingredients.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor profile.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – Forms the cookie base.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon – The star spice that gives the cookies their distinct flavor.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the cookies rise.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness of the cookie.
- For rolling: 1/4 cup sugar + 1 tablespoon cinnamon.
- For icing: 2 tablespoons milk and powdered sugar mixed to desired consistency.
Substitutions and Variations
Want to try something new with your cinnamon sugar cookies? Here are some ideas:
- Use salted butter instead of unsalted for a slightly different flavor.
- Substitute brown sugar for white sugar for added depth.
- Add chocolate chips for a sweet twist on this classic recipe.
- Mix powdered sugar with vanilla and milk to create a delicious icing for your cookies.
Follow this easy cinnamon sugar cookies recipe to make yummy treats. Remember to watch the baking time for the best texture!
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Unsalted Butter | 1/2 cup |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| All-Purpose Flour | 1 1/2 cups |
| Cinnamon | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| Baking Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Sugar for Rolling | 1/4 cup + 1 tablespoon cinnamon |
| Milk for Icing | 2 tablespoons |
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cinnamon Sugar Cookies
Making the best cinnamon sugar cookies is easy. Just follow a few simple steps. You’ll get soft cookies perfect for any time. This guide will help you with both making and baking.
Preparation Tips
Start by creaming sugar and butter in a bowl. This makes the cookies fluffy. Then, add an egg and vanilla for extra taste.
In another bowl, mix dry ingredients like flour and cinnamon. Slowly add these to the wet mix. Chill the dough for two hours. This makes it easier to shape.
Baking Tips
Preheat the oven to 350°F after chilling. Roll dough into balls and coat with cinnamon sugar. Place them on a greased sheet, leaving space.
Bake for 6 to 8 minutes, until edges are brown. Let them cool a bit before moving to a wire rack. These steps make the cookies delicious.
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Ground cinnamon | 2 teaspoons (in dough) |
| Granulated sugar | 1/2 cup (in dough) & 1/4 cup (coating) |
| Butter | 1/2 cup |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Egg | 1 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Cinnamon (for coating) | 1 tablespoon |
How to Achieve the Perfect Texture
To make easy cinnamon sugar cookies chewy, follow some key steps. Don’t overbake them. They will get firmer after you take them out of the oven.
Using both granulated and brown sugar in the dough is important. It adds sweetness and keeps the cookies moist. Brown sugar is key for that chewy feel.
It’s important to cream the butter and sugar well. You want it light and fluffy. This makes the cookies puffy and chewy. Brown the butter for more flavor.
| Texture Component | Effect on Cookies |
|---|---|
| Butter Type | Unsalted butter retains moisture; browning adds flavor. |
| Sugar Ratio | Mixing granulated and brown sugar enhances chewiness. |
| Baking Time | Removing cookies from the oven while underbaked keeps them chewy. |
| Creaming Method | Aerating the butter and sugar yields a lighter texture. |
Follow these tips to get the perfect texture for your cinnamon sugar cookies. A bit of practice will make them perfect for any time!
Serving Suggestions for Cinnamon Sugar Cookies
Homemade cinnamon sugar cookies are great for many ways to serve. I enjoy them warm from the oven with cold milk or hot cocoa. It’s a cozy treat perfect for a quiet evening.
For a sweet dessert, pair cookies with vanilla ice cream. The warm cookies and cold ice cream mix is amazing. Or, for a morning boost, these cookies go well with coffee.
At a party, show off your cookies on fancy platters. Their smell and look will wow everyone. They’re a hit at any dessert table or holiday spread, adding joy to your event.
Storing and Freezing Cinnamon Sugar Cookies
After baking my chewy cinnamon sugar cookies, I make sure they stay fresh. Storing them right is key to keep their taste and texture good.
Storage Recommendations
For fresh cookies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They last about 5 days this way. To keep them longer, the fridge is best for up to 12-14 days.
Use parchment paper between cookies to stop them from sticking.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing cookies lets me enjoy them later without losing flavor. I freeze unbaked dough balls on a parchment-lined sheet until solid. Then, I put them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
When baking, add a minute or two to the time. Baked cookies also freeze for 3 months. To bake a frozen cookie, thaw it for 5-6 hours or overnight. Then, bake at 350°F (177°C) for 13-14 minutes.
| Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|
| Airtight container at room temperature | Up to 5 days |
| Refrigerated | 12-14 days |
| Frozen raw dough | Up to 3 months |
| Frozen baked cookies | Up to 3 months |
| Thawing time | 5-6 hours or overnight |
Creative Twists on Cinnamon Sugar Cookies
Turning classic cinnamon sugar cookies into fun variations can make baking more exciting. By adding creative twists, I can make my cookies even more special. These ideas add new flavors and looks, making them unique. Here are two fun ideas!
Adding Icing
For a sweeter touch, I often add a simple icing to my cookies after they cool. I mix powdered sugar, vanilla, and a bit of milk for the icing. This icing makes my cookies taste better and look nicer.
Incorporating Chocolate Chips
Another fun idea is to add chocolate chips to the dough before baking. This mix of cinnamon and chocolate makes the cookies taste amazing. These changes make my cookies a hit at any dessert table.
| Twist | Description |
|---|---|
| Adding Icing | A sweet drizzle of icing made from powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk that enhances flavor and appearance. |
| Incorporating Chocolate Chips | Mix semi-sweet or white chocolate chips into the dough for a delicious combination that complements the cinnamon. |
Where to Enjoy the Best Cinnamon Sugar Cookies
Looking for the best cinnamon sugar cookies? Check out local bakeries and cafes. They make tasty versions of this classic treat. My neighborhood bakery has amazing homemade cookies that I love.
Hosting a cookie exchange party is fun. It lets me try different recipes and share my cookies with friends. Everyone gets to make their cookies special.
Cinnamon sugar cookies are great for any occasion. They’re perfect for home, parties, or holidays. Friends should try making their own and share their creations. Don’t miss the Twitter party on December 4th for more recipes and prizes!
