Cinnamon sugar cookies – the name alone evokes warm memories of cozy kitchens and the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and sugar baking. They’re simple, classic, and oh-so-delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe will guide you through each step, ensuring perfectly soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookies every time.
The Allure of Cinnamon Sugar Cookies
The beauty of cinnamon sugar cookies lies in their simplicity. These cookies are perfect for a quick treat, a last-minute dessert, or a baking project with kids. Their delightful crunch gives way to a soft, chewy center, bursting with the comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Wire rack
Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Perfection
1. Preparing the Dough
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a soft and chewy cookie.
- Add the egg and vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually incorporate dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can lead to tough cookies.
2. Shaping and Coating the Cookies
- Prepare the cinnamon sugar mixture: In a shallow dish, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
- Shape the dough: Scoop out rounded tablespoons of dough and roll them into balls.
- Coat the cookies: Roll each dough ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
3. Baking to Golden Perfection
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Arrange and bake: Place the coated cookie dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
4. Cooling and Serving
- Cool completely: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips and Tricks from a Seasoned Baker
- Room temperature butter is key: For the best texture, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature before starting.
- Don’t overmix: Overmixing the dough can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies.
- Chilling time is optional: While not mandatory, chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help prevent spreading and result in slightly thicker cookies.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
Cinnamon Sugar Cookies
FAQs About Cinnamon Sugar Cookies
Q: Can I use a different type of sugar for the coating?
A: Absolutely! While granulated sugar is the classic choice, you can experiment with other sugars like brown sugar or turbinado sugar for a deeper flavor and a slightly crunchier texture.
Q: My cookies turned out flat. What went wrong?
A: Cookies spreading too much can be due to several reasons, such as using butter that wasn’t softened enough, overmixing the dough, or not chilling the dough before baking.
Q: Can I freeze cinnamon sugar cookies?
A: Yes, you can freeze both unbaked cookie dough and baked cookies. For unbaked dough, simply freeze the rolled balls in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. Baked cookies can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Presentation and Serving
These rustic cookies are best enjoyed warm, with their cinnamon sugar coating still slightly melty. Serve them on a platter for a casual gathering or arrange them in a basket for a charming touch.
Cinnamon Sugar Cookies Platter
Cinnamon sugar cookies are incredibly versatile. They pair perfectly with a cold glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also make a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.
Explore More Delicious Treats
If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like some of our other cookie recipes:
- How to Make Pecan Pie Cheesecake
- How to Make Oatmeal Spice Cookies
- How to Make Soft Molasses Cookies
We’d love to hear about your cinnamon sugar cookie adventures! Share your experiences, tips, and photos in the comments below. Happy baking!
