Name: Cinnamon Sugar Shortbread That'll Warm Your Holiday Spirit
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter, softened (for a rich and tender texture); 3/4 cup Brown Sugar, lightly packed (adds moisture and caramel depth); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (elevates flavor); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (main structural element); 1 tablespoon Ground Cinnamon (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon Salt (skip if using salted butter); 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (provides sweetness and crunch)

As I pulled my Cinnamon Sugar Shortbread Cookies from the oven, the warm scent of cinnamon enveloped my kitchen like a cozy hug. These cookies are not just delightful treats; they embody the spirit of holiday baking with their tender, buttery texture and sweet, spiced coating. Perfect for either a festive gathering or a quiet evening at home, they come together in a flash, making them an easy yet impressive solution for anyone craving a break from fast food. The best part? They offer that nostalgic comfort we all seek during the holidays without the fuss. Curious to see how these scrumptious cookies can quickly become your new favorite recipe?

Why you’ll adore every bite?

Delightful Aromas: The moment you bake these cookies, your kitchen will be filled with the warm, inviting scent of cinnamon, making them perfect for holiday gatherings.

Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned bakers looking to whip up an impressive treat in no time.

Perfectly Sweet: The combination of buttery shortbread and a crunchy cinnamon-sugar coating creates a delightful contrast that will have everyone reaching for more.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving them at a festive gathering or handing them out as gifts, you can be sure these cookies will be a hit! Plus, you might want to pair them with a cozy cup of hot cocoa or try them alongside our Pot Brown Sugar for a complete holiday experience.

Versatile Twist: Feel free to customize your cookies with nuts or different extracts for a personal touch. There’s no limit to how these shortbread beauties can shine!

Cinnamon Sugar Shortbread Ingredients

• Get ready to bake!

For the Dough

Butter – Use softened, unsalted butter for a rich and tender texture.
Brown Sugar – Lightly packed brown sugar adds moisture and caramel depth to the cookies.
Vanilla Extract – Elevates flavor; consider almond extract for a delightful twist.
All-Purpose Flour – The main structural element, ensure you measure correctly to avoid dryness.
Ground Cinnamon – Infuses the cookies with that essential warm spice; adjust it based on your taste.
Salt – Enhances flavor; skip it if using salted butter.

For the Coating

Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and a slight crunch in the cinnamon-sugar topping.

Embrace the holiday spirit and indulge yourself with these Cinnamon Sugar Shortbread delights!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Sugar Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and ¾ cup of lightly packed brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Continue mixing for about 3 minutes until the mixture is creamy and lightened in color. This step ensures a rich and tender base for your Cinnamon Sugar Shortbread Cookies.

Step 2: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Next, gently add 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to the creamed butter mixture. Mix on low speed just until combined; the dough should appear slightly crumbly but hold together when pressed. Avoid over-mixing to maintain the perfect texture for your shortbread cookies.

Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup of granulated sugar and an additional 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to create the cinnamon-sugar mixture. This sweet coating will give your baked cookies a delightful crunch and flavor. Stir well to ensure the cinnamon is evenly distributed throughout the sugar.

Step 4: Form the Cookie Dough Balls
Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the dough and roll them into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Once rolled, generously coat each ball in the prepared cinnamon-sugar mixture. Place the coated balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring there’s enough space between each to allow for spreading while baking.

Step 5: Flatten the Dough Balls
With a glass or the palm of your hand, gently flatten each dough ball to about ½ inch thick. This step aids in even baking and gives your Cinnamon Sugar Shortbread Cookies that classic shortbread appearance. Ensure there’s adequate space between the cookies to prevent them from merging during baking.

Step 6: Add the Fork Marks
Use a fork to pierce each flattened cookie in three rows, creating a decorative pattern. This step not only adds charm but helps prevent the cookies from puffing up while baking. Your Cinnamon Sugar Shortbread Cookies will look beautiful and showcase that classic homemade touch.

Step 7: Chill the Cookies
Place the baking sheet with the shaped cookies in the fridge and chill for about 15 minutes. Chilling the dough is essential for helping the cookies retain their shape and enhances the flavors, ensuring a wonderful result when baked.

Step 8: Preheat and Bake
While the cookies chill, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Once preheated, remove the baking sheet from the fridge and bake the cookies for 12 minutes, or until they are just set and lightly golden around the edges. The warm aroma of cinnamon will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist.

Step 9: Cool and Serve
After baking, allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps them firm up, ensuring they won’t crumble when moved. Finally, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, and savor the delightful flavors of your freshly made Cinnamon Sugar Shortbread Cookies.

What to Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Shortbread Cookies

Baking these cookies is just the beginning of creating a warm, festive experience that delights the senses.

Creamy Hot Chocolate: The rich, velvety texture of hot chocolate perfectly complements the buttery sweetness of the cookies, creating a cozy treat. Imagine curling up by the fire with this delicious duo.
Warm Apple Cider: The spiced flavors of warm apple cider will enhance the cinnamon notes in your cookies, evoking the essence of autumn and holiday gatherings.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream brings a creamy contrast to the chewy cookies, turning your dessert into a delightful treat. Adding a drizzle of caramel makes it indulgent!
Fruity Cheesecake Bars: The tangy, creamy profile of cheesecake bars provides a delightful balance with the sweetness of the cookies, perfect for festive gatherings.
Festive Fruit Salad: A bright fruit salad, with juicy berries and citrus, offers a refreshing contrast to the warm spices of the cookies and adds a burst of color to your table.
Nutty Coffee Brew: A cup of nut-flavored coffee elevates the experience by enhancing the cookies’ buttery texture and offering a cozy pair while enjoying a leisurely afternoon.
Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The sweet and salty crunch of chocolate-dipped pretzels balances perfectly with the soft cookies, adding an exciting texture contrast to your holiday spread.
Peppermint Marshmallows: Add a fluffy and minty sweetness to your dessert table that echoes the holiday spirit while appealing to both kids and adults alike.

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Shortbread

Soft Butter: Always use softened, unsalted butter for a tender texture; it creams better with sugars than cold butter.

Measure Carefully: Proper measuring of flour is crucial; too much can cause dryness. Spoon and level it rather than scooping directly from the bag.

Chill the Dough: Don’t skip chilling the dough before baking. It helps the cookies retain their shape and enhances flavor, resulting in perfect Cinnamon Sugar Shortbread.

Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to ensure your cookies remain tender and moist. Over-mixing can lead to a tough texture.

Stay Alert: Bake until the edges are lightly golden—this ensures the middle stays soft and chewy while providing a lovely crunch around the edges.

How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Sugar Shortbread

Room Temperature: Store your Cinnamon Sugar Shortbread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their delightful texture and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer a chewier cookie, keep them in the fridge for an extra day; however, be sure to use an airtight container to avoid drying.

Freezer: To enjoy your cookies later, freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, simply thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

Make Ahead Options

These Cinnamon Sugar Shortbread Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first six steps, then wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Chilling the dough helps enhance the flavors, ensuring your cookies are just as delightful when baked later. Alternatively, you can bake them ahead of time; simply store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to serve, if desired, give them a light dusting of cinnamon sugar before enjoying these comforting treats!

Cinnamon Sugar Shortbread Variations

Feel free to explore all the delightful ways to customize your Cinnamon Sugar Shortbread for a unique twist!

Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts for a delicious crunch. These nuts not only add richness but also complement the sweetness beautifully.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour to create a gluten-free version. Your cookies will remain tender and delightfully flavorful!
Spicy Boost: Add a pinch of ground ginger or nutmeg for a warm, spicy kick that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon.
Chocolate Lovers: Toss in semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks directly into the dough for a dreamy chocolate-cinnamon fusion.
Fruity Twist: Mix in some dried cranberries or cherries for a tangy bite in each cookie. This adds both flavor and color, making them a festive treat!
Luxurious Coating: Instead of plain granulated sugar, roll the cookies in a mixture of turbinado sugar for an extra crunch and caramel-like taste.
Herbal Infusion: Incorporate finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough for a surprising yet sophisticated twist, enhancing the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions: These cookies are wonderful on their own, but why not pair them with a warm cup of Pot Brown Sugar for a delightful holiday experience?

Each variation allows you to create a personal favorite that suits your taste and occasion perfectly!

Cinnamon Sugar Shortbread Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right ingredients for my cookies?
Absolutely! For the best Cinnamon Sugar Shortbread Cookies, ensure your butter is unsalted and softened, ideally at room temperature for about 30 minutes. When choosing brown sugar, opt for lightly packed to maintain moisture levels. I always recommend sticking with quality vanilla extract; if you’re feeling adventurous, almond extract can give your cookies a special twist. Make sure your flour is fresh and properly measured for the best results!

What is the best way to store these cookies, and how long will they last?
Very simple! Store your Cinnamon Sugar Shortbread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This will help them maintain their delightful texture. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Just remember to layer them with parchment paper to avoid sticking together!

Can I freeze the dough before baking?
Absolutely! To freeze the dough, shape it into balls as instructed and then place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour until firm, then transfer the frozen dough balls to a zip-top freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, just preheat your oven and place the frozen dough directly on the baking sheet—no need to thaw! Bake them for an extra minute or two, and you’ll have perfectly fresh cookies.

What should I do if my dough is too crumbly?
Great question! If you’re finding your dough is overly crumbly and not holding together, don’t fret. Just add a tiny splash of milk—about a teaspoon at a time—mixing gently until the dough begins to come together. Be careful not to over-mix, as that can lead to tough cookies. This gentle adjustment usually does the trick!

Are there any dietary considerations or allergens to be aware of?
Very thoughtful! If you’re baking for guests, be mindful of common allergens like gluten and dairy. You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour to cater to gluten sensitivities. For a dairy-free version, opt for vegan butter or coconut oil; just ensure your other ingredients are also free of any allergens. I always recommend checking with your guests about any dietary restrictions before baking—better safe than sorry!

Can I modify the recipe with different flavors or additions?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment! You can add finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for texture, or mix in chocolate chips for a different flavor profile. You could also incorporate spices like nutmeg or swap in citrus zest for an aromatic variation. The more the merrier, as they say! Customize it to reflect your taste, and enjoy the creative process!