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Discover these irresistible cinnamon sugar cookies that perfectly balance warmth and sweetness. Made with brown sugar and a generous amount of cinnamon, these cookies turn out perfectly chewy every time. They're ideal for holiday cookie swaps, afternoon tea, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth!
Ingredients for Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Sugar Cookies Recipe
- 9oz All-Purpose Flour
- 6oz Unsalted Butter
- 5.3oz Brown Sugar
- 1 whole Egg
- 2 tbsp Ground Cinnamon
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 0.5 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Baking Powder
Instructions for Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together 6oz softened butter and 5.3oz brown sugar until light and fluffy
- Beat in 1 whole egg, 1 tsp vanilla extract until well combined
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 9oz flour, 2 tbsp cinnamon, 1 tsp baking powder, and 0.5 tsp salt
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until a dough forms
- Roll the dough into 12 equal-sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie
- Gently press down on each cookie to flatten slightly
- Bake for 12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden
- Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely
Introducing the Perfect Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Sugar Cookies
There's something truly magical about the aroma of cinnamon cookies wafting through your home, and these Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Sugar Cookies are no exception. As a busy chef who appreciates straightforward, foolproof recipes, I can't help but love how these cookies strike the perfect balance between simplicity and indulgence. With just 27 minutes of total time - 15 for prep and 12 for baking - you'll have a dozen incredibly satisfying cookies ready to enjoy.
What sets these cookies apart is their perfect texture: crispy on the edges yet wonderfully chewy in the center. The combination of brown sugar and a generous amount of cinnamon creates a warm, comforting flavor that's impossible to resist. Whether you're an experienced baker or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is approachable and rewarding.
Each cookie is carefully crafted to deliver 245 calories of pure joy, making them substantial enough to satisfy your sweet craving without going overboard. They're the kind of cookies that make you close your eyes and smile with that first warm, spicy bite.
Tips for Cinnamon Cookie Success
Let me share some of my tried-and-tested tips that will help you achieve cookie perfection every time. First and foremost, temperature matters - ensure your butter is properly softened but not melted. I usually leave it out for about an hour before baking. When you cream it with the brown sugar, don't rush this step; those 2-3 minutes of beating create the foundation for that perfect chewy texture.
For measuring, while I've provided both imperial (9 oz flour) and metric (250g) measurements, I always recommend using a kitchen scale for the most accurate results, especially with flour. If you're using cups, remember to fluff the flour first, then spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off - never pack it down.
Don't skip the step of chilling the dough if your kitchen is warm. If the dough feels too soft after mixing, 30 minutes in the refrigerator will make it much easier to handle. And speaking of handling, avoid overworking the dough when mixing in the dry ingredients - stop as soon as everything is combined.
Serving Your Cinnamon Sugar Cookies in Style
These cookies are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. I love offering them slightly warm, when the cinnamon flavor is at its most aromatic. They pair beautifully with a variety of beverages - try them with a cup of hot coffee for breakfast (I won't judge!), or alongside afternoon tea for a cozy break.
For special occasions, consider creating a cookie platter with these as the centerpiece. Their beautiful crackly top and golden-brown edges make them visually appealing, and their robust cinnamon flavor complements other cookie varieties perfectly. During the holiday season, I often package them in cellophane bags tied with festive ribbons for gifting.
A Sweet Memory: How These Cookies Saved a Rainy Day
I'll never forget the dreary autumn afternoon when these cinnamon sugar cookies first won my heart. It was one of those endlessly rainy Sundays in October, and my daughter's outdoor birthday party plans were completely washed out. With twelve disappointed kids and their parents crammed into our living room, I needed a quick solution to lift everyone's spirits.
These cookies came to the rescue. I had all the ingredients on hand, and within 45 minutes, the house was filled with the most incredible cinnamon aroma. The kids loved rolling the dough balls, and watching them through the oven door as they transformed into perfect, chewy cookies. What started as a potential party disaster turned into one of our most memorable celebrations, with everyone leaving with warm cookies and even warmer hearts.
Now, every time I bake these cookies, they bring back that wonderful memory of how a simple recipe turned a rainy day into something special. Sometimes the best recipes aren't just about the end result - they're about the moments they help create.
Smart Substitutions for Your Cinnamon Sugar Cookies
Let me share some reliable substitutions that'll keep these cinnamon sugar cookies just as delicious while accommodating different needs:
For the flour:
- Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free cookies
- Whole wheat pastry flour works for a nuttier flavor (use 9 oz/250g)
For the butter:
- Dairy-free butter alternatives work beautifully (maintain the 6 oz/170g measurement)
- Coconut oil (solid, not melted) can work, though cookies may spread slightly more
- Plant-based butter sticks are great for vegan baking
For the egg:
- 1/4 cup (60ml) unsweetened applesauce
- 1 flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes)
- 1/4 cup (60g) mashed banana (will add slight banana flavor)
For the brown sugar:
- Coconut sugar offers a similar caramel note (use 5.3 oz/150g)
- Regular granulated sugar + 1 tablespoon (15ml) molasses
- Monk fruit brown sugar substitute for a lower-sugar option (follow package conversion)
For the cinnamon:
- Apple pie spice for a more complex flavor
- Pumpkin pie spice works wonderfully
- Cardamom (use half the amount) for a unique twist
For the vanilla:
- Almond extract (use half the amount for a different flavor profile)
- Maple extract
- Vanilla bean paste (same amount)
Remember that each substitution might slightly alter the texture or taste of your cookies, but these are all tested alternatives that'll give you delicious results.
Nutrition Facts and Health Tips
Let's break down what you're getting in each of these delightful cinnamon sugar cookies:
Per Cookie (based on 12 servings):
- Calories: 245
- Total Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Sugar: 15g
- Protein: 3g
While these cookies are definitely a treat, they do have some nutritional bright spots. The cinnamon isn't just for flavor - it's known for its antioxidant properties and potential blood sugar regulation benefits. The brown sugar provides some minerals like iron and potassium, though in small amounts.
To make these cookies a bit more nutritious, you could:
- Use whole wheat flour for added fiber
- Reduce the sugar by 25% (about 4 oz/112g instead of 5.3 oz/150g)
- Add chopped nuts for healthy fats and protein
- Include ground flaxseed for omega-3s
Remember, cookies are meant to be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. One cookie is a reasonable portion size, providing enough sweetness to satisfy your craving without overdoing it.
Important Allergy Information
These cinnamon sugar cookies contain several common allergens that you should be aware of:
Major Allergens Present:
- Wheat (all-purpose flour)
- Dairy (butter)
- Eggs
Potential Cross-Contamination Concerns:
- If using shared equipment, be aware of possible nut traces
- Commercial vanilla extract may contain alcohol
- Some cinnamon brands process their spices in facilities that also handle nuts
Safe Alternatives for Common Allergies: For Celiac/Gluten Sensitivity:
- Use certified gluten-free flour blend
- Verify your vanilla extract is gluten-free
- Check spice labels for gluten-free certification
For Dairy Allergies:
- Use plant-based butter alternatives
- Ensure all other ingredients are dairy-free
For Egg Allergies:
- Use recommended egg substitutes from substitution section
- Ensure other ingredients haven't been processed with eggs
Always clearly label these cookies when sharing them with others and keep your kitchen scrupulously clean when baking for someone with allergies.
Storage and Freshness Guide
These cinnamon sugar cookies keep wonderfully when stored properly. Here's how to maintain their soft, chewy texture:
Room Temperature Storage:
- Store in an airtight container
- Will stay fresh for 5-7 days
- Add a slice of bread to the container to maintain moisture
- Keep away from direct sunlight and heat
Refrigerator Storage:
- Can be refrigerated for up to 2 weeks
- Place in an airtight container with wax paper between layers
- Allow to come to room temperature before serving
- Not recommended as it can dry out the cookies
Freezer Storage:
- Baked cookies freeze well for up to 3 months
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag
- Cookie dough balls can be frozen for up to 3 months
- Thaw frozen cookies at room temperature for 2-3 hours
Make-Ahead Tips:
- Prepare dough up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate
- For frozen dough balls, add 1-2 minutes to baking time
- Label containers with the date of baking/freezing
Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Sugar Cookies
Why did my cookies spread too much?
- Butter might have been too soft
- Make sure to chill the dough if it feels too soft
- Check if your oven temperature is accurate
- Use cool baking sheets between batches
Can I double the recipe?
- Yes, just maintain the same proportions
- Mix in smaller batches for even distribution
- You may need to adjust baking time slightly
- Use multiple baking sheets for efficiency
How do I know when they're done?
- Edges should be lightly golden
- Center should look slightly underbaked
- They'll continue cooking on the hot baking sheet
- Total baking time should be about 12 minutes
Why aren't my cookies chewy?
- Don't overbake them
- Use the correct amount of butter
- Brown sugar is key for chewiness
- Store properly in airtight container
Can I make these ahead for an event?
- Yes, they keep well for 5-7 days
- Freeze for up to 3 months
- Make dough ahead and refrigerate for 24 hours
- Allow frozen cookies to thaw completely before serving
Sweet Success with Your Cinnamon Sugar Cookies
These soft and chewy cinnamon sugar cookies are truly a delightful treat that brings together the comforting warmth of cinnamon with the perfect chewy texture. Whether you're baking them for a holiday gathering, afternoon tea, or just because you deserve something special, these cookies deliver consistent results with minimal fuss.
Remember that baking is both a science and an art - don't be afraid to experiment with the substitutions we discussed while keeping the core techniques intact. The recipe is forgiving enough for beginners but yields results that will impress even experienced bakers.
Keep in mind that the key to perfect cookies lies in room temperature ingredients, proper measuring, and not overbaking. These little details make the difference between good cookies and great ones.
I hope this recipe becomes a favorite in your baking repertoire. There's nothing quite like the smell of cinnamon cookies wafting through your kitchen, except maybe that first warm, chewy bite!