Cinnamon Cookies Recipe: A Warm, Spicy Treat for Everyone
Are you ready to bake up a batch of incredibly delicious cinnamon cookies? This recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike, promising a delightful aroma and a taste that will leave you wanting more. Let's dive into the ingredients and steps to create these irresistible treats!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe yields approximately 24 delicious cookies. Adjust the quantities according to your needs.
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: Softened butter is key for a smooth and creamy cookie dough. Don't melt it!
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar: This provides sweetness and helps create a chewy texture.
- 2 large eggs: These bind the ingredients together and add richness.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor and adds warmth.
- 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for your cookies.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: The star of the show! This provides the signature cinnamon flavor.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions:
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. An electric mixer makes this step a breeze!
- Add Eggs & Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine Wet & Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Scoop & Bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Cool & Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Extra Delicious Cinnamon Cookies:
- Chill the Dough: For thicker, chewier cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Add Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts add a delightful crunch.
- Spice it Up: Experiment with other spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a unique flavor profile.
- Glaze or Frost: Once cooled, drizzle with a simple cinnamon glaze or frost with your favorite cream cheese frosting.
FAQs about Cinnamon Cookies:
Q: Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
A: Yes, you can substitute brown sugar for some or all of the granulated sugar. Brown sugar will result in a moister, slightly darker cookie.
Q: How do I store leftover cookies?
A: Store your cinnamon cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Q: Can I freeze the cookie dough?
A: Yes! Freeze the cookie dough in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before baking.
Enjoy baking these wonderfully aromatic and delicious cinnamon cookies! Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Happy baking!
