Cinnamon cookies are the little hugs of the baking world. Soft, sweet, and perfectly spiced, they’re the kind of cookie that makes your kitchen smell like cozy memories. Think of it as comfort in cookie form: warm brown sugar, a whisper of cinnamon, and a hint of vanilla coming together to create a soft, chewy treat that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a special occasion, or just a quiet night with a cup of milk, cinnamon cookies deliver that satisfying mix of nostalgia and indulgence. And the best part? They’re simple enough for beginners yet elegant enough to impress anyone at the cookie swap.
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Cinnamon Cookie
- Total Time: 27 mins
Description
Soft, chewy cinnamon cookies with warm spice, perfect for home baking or festive occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- Optional: 2 tablespoons white sugar for rolling
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream butter and sugars until fluffy, then mix in egg and vanilla.
- Fold in flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until just combined.
- Scoop dough into balls, roll in optional sugar, and place on baking sheet.
- Bake 10–12 minutes until edges are set but centers are soft. Cool on wire rack.
Notes
- Slightly underbake for soft, chewy centers.
- Store in airtight container for freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 12 mins
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 cookies
Table of Contents
Why Cinnamon Cookies Are a Timeless Treat
The Story Behind Cinnamon Cookies
Cinnamon cookies have been a favorite across generations because they combine simple ingredients with bold flavor. From the smell that fills your home to the golden edges that hide a soft center, these cookies have a way of creating memories. Historically, cinnamon was a luxury spice, so even simple cookies that used it felt like a special treat. Today, cinnamon cookies continue that tradition, giving everyday baking a little bit of magic.
What Makes These Cookies Soft and Flavorful
The secret to a perfect cinnamon cookie lies in balancing butter, sugar, and cinnamon just right. Soft centers come from properly creamed butter and sugar, while a touch of brown sugar keeps the cookie moist and chewy. Cinnamon adds warmth and depth without being overpowering. Additionally, a pinch of salt and a splash of vanilla enhance the overall flavor, making these cookies irresistible. By paying attention to these details, even beginner bakers can achieve bakery-style results at home.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Cookies
Pantry Staples for Easy Baking
Cinnamon cookies are one of those recipes that rely on ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. The beauty of these cookies is that they combine basic pantry items—flour, sugar, butter, and eggs—with the warm, cozy spice of cinnamon. Because of that, you don’t need anything fancy to get bakery-style results at home. Using simple ingredients ensures the flavor is balanced, soft, and perfectly sweet. Even beginners can whip up these cinnamon cookies without stress, and the aroma that fills your kitchen will make everyone curious before the first bite.
Choosing the Best Cinnamon and Flavor Enhancers
Not all cinnamon is created equal, and using a good-quality ground cinnamon really elevates the flavor. Pair it with a hint of vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to highlight the warm, sweet notes. Brown sugar adds moisture and richness, making the cookies soft and chewy, while granulated sugar provides that gentle sweetness. By selecting fresh ingredients and balancing them carefully, these cinnamon cookies will taste like they came straight from a bakery but stay easy enough for homemade baking.
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Unsalted butter, softened | 1 cup |
| Granulated sugar | ½ cup |
| Brown sugar, packed | ½ cup |
| Large egg | 1 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking soda | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Ground cinnamon | 2 teaspoons |
| Optional: White sugar for rolling | 2 tablespoons |
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cinnamon Cookies
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture looks light and fluffy. This step is key because it traps air, which helps create soft, chewy centers. Next, add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. The dough should be thick, soft, and lightly speckled with cinnamon.
Step 2: Shaping and Baking
Use a cookie scoop or spoon to form dough balls about 1.5 inches in diameter. Optional: roll each ball lightly in granulated sugar to add a delicate, sparkling finish. Place them on the lined baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers still look slightly soft. This ensures the signature soft texture that makes cinnamon cookies so irresistible.
Step 3: Cooling and Finishing Touches
Once baked, remove the cinnamon cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling helps the centers firm up without drying out, keeping them soft and chewy. For a little extra flair, you can dust the tops lightly with cinnamon sugar. Serve warm with a glass of milk or your favorite hot drink for the ultimate cozy treat.
Tips for Baking the Perfect Cinnamon Cookies
Achieving the Perfect Soft Texture
The secret to soft cinnamon cookies lies in a few simple but crucial steps. First, always use room-temperature butter to ensure proper creaming with the sugars. This traps air in the dough, which helps create that soft, tender texture. Second, measure your flour carefully—spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off instead of scooping directly. Too much flour can make cookies dry and dense. Finally, slightly underbake your cookies; the centers should still look soft when you take them out. They’ll continue to set as they cool, leaving you with the perfect soft and chewy bite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even simple recipes can go wrong if you’re not careful. Overmixing the dough can break down the structure and create tough cookies. Baking at too high a temperature can dry out the edges before the centers are done. Also, skipping the cooling time is a common mistake. Cutting or touching cookies too early can ruin the soft texture. Lastly, don’t forget to use fresh cinnamon for maximum flavor—stale spice will make the cookies taste flat. Following these tips ensures your cinnamon cookies come out perfectly every time.
Serving and Storing Cinnamon Cookies
Creative Ways to Serve These Cookies
Cinnamon cookies are a versatile treat that works for nearly any occasion. Serve them warm with a glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or hot cocoa to bring out the cozy cinnamon flavor. For special occasions, try sandwiching a little cream cheese frosting or caramel between two cookies for an extra indulgent treat. You can also sprinkle them with a dusting of cinnamon sugar or top them with a drizzle of melted white chocolate. Because they’re soft and flavorful, cinnamon cookies make a perfect addition to dessert trays, cookie swaps, or casual weekend snacks.
How to Store for Freshness
Proper storage keeps cinnamon cookies soft and flavorful for longer. Once fully cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. Adding a slice of bread to the container helps maintain moisture, keeping the cookies soft. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a sealed container or individually wrapped in plastic wrap for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the oven. This way, every bite tastes fresh-baked, with soft, chewy centers and perfectly spiced cinnamon flavor.
Flavor Variations and Fun Twists for Cinnamon Cookies
Add-Ins and Toppings
Cinnamon cookies are delicious on their own, but you can easily add variety to keep things exciting. For example, white chocolate chips or chopped nuts mixed into the dough create extra texture and flavor. A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top before baking adds a subtle crunch and intensifies the warm cinnamon aroma. For a more indulgent twist, drizzle melted chocolate or caramel over cooled cookies. These small adjustments make your cinnamon cookies feel extra special while keeping them soft and chewy.
Holiday and Seasonal Cinnamon Cookie Ideas
Cinnamon cookies are naturally festive, making them perfect for holidays and seasonal treats. Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a spiced autumn version, or top them with a light dusting of powdered sugar for winter holidays. You can also shape the dough into small hearts or stars for themed events like Valentine’s Day or Christmas. Kids and adults alike love decorating these cookies with frosting, sprinkles, or chocolate drizzle. With just a few creative tweaks, cinnamon cookies transform from a simple everyday snack to a show-stopping centerpiece for celebrations.
FAQs About Cinnamon Cookies
Can I Make Cinnamon Cookies Ahead of Time?
Yes! Cinnamon cookies are perfect for making ahead. You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Chilling the dough can even improve the texture, making the cookies thicker and softer.
How Do I Keep Cinnamon Cookies Soft?
The key is not to overbake. Take the cookies out when the edges are set but the centers still look slightly soft. Storing them in an airtight container with a slice of bread also helps maintain moisture.
Can I Substitute Ingredients in Cinnamon Cookies?
You can use light brown sugar instead of dark, or coconut oil in place of butter for a slightly different flavor. However, stick to all-purpose flour for best texture; cake flour may make cookies too delicate.
Are Cinnamon Cookies Good for Holidays?
Absolutely! Cinnamon cookies are naturally festive and pair well with seasonal spices like nutmeg or ginger. You can shape or decorate them for any occasion, making them ideal for holidays, parties, or gifting.
Conclusion
Cinnamon cookies are a simple yet timeless treat that everyone can enjoy. With their soft, chewy centers and warm, comforting spice, they bring cozy flavors to any occasion. Whether baked for a family snack, holiday gathering, or casual treat, these cookies are easy to make and versatile enough for creative add-ins or seasonal twists. Following the steps and tips ensures bakery-style results right at home, even for beginner bakers. Once you try this recipe, cinnamon cookies are sure to become a go-to favorite for satisfying sweet cravings.