What kind of recipe is it?
Cinnamon Chip Christmas Cookies are a delightful and festive treat that combine the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon with sweet chocolate chips.
These cookies boast a soft, chewy texture that melts in your mouth, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings at home.
The unique combination of spices and sweetness sets them apart from traditional cookies, appealing to both children and adults alike.
Baking these cookies is a wonderful way to embrace the holiday spirit, share joy with loved ones, and create lasting memories.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 ½ cups |
| Baking soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Unsalted butter | ½ cup (1 stick), softened |
| Granulated sugar | ¾ cup |
| Brown sugar | ¾ cup |
| Large eggs | 2 large |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Cinnamon chips | 1 cup |
| Chocolate chips | ½ cup (optional) |
Feel free to customize your cookie experience by adjusting the proportions of cinnamon and chocolate chips, or even adding nuts or dried fruits if desired!
Cooking Steps
- Preheat the oven to 180 °C (350 °F) and position the oven rack in the center.
- Line three baking sheets (or one large baking sheet; approximately 38 x 26 cm (15 x 10 inches)) with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups (312.5 g) of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of salt until evenly combined. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, cream together ½ cup (113 g) of softened unsalted butter, ¾ cup (150 g) of granulated sugar, and ¾ cup (150 g) of brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix on medium speed until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined and no flour streaks remain, about 1-2 minutes. Don’t overmix.
- Gently fold in 1 cup (175 g) of cinnamon chips and ½ cup (90 g) of chocolate chips (if using) with a rubber spatula until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Use a cookie scoop (about 4 cm (1 ½ inches) in diameter) to portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 5 cm (2 inches) apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers appear slightly soft (the cookies will firm up as they cool).
- Remove the baking sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or freeze for future enjoyment.
Variations
- Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Cookies: Substitute ½ cup (120 g) of butter with ½ cup (120 g) of pumpkin puree and add 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice for a fall twist.
- Gluten-Free Cinnamon Cookies: Replace 2 ½ cups (312.5 g) all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
- Vegan Cinnamon Chips Cookies: Swap ½ cup (113 g) of butter with ½ cup (120 ml) of coconut oil and use flax eggs (2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water) instead of eggs for a vegan adaptation.
- Chocolate-Dipped Cinnamon Cookies: Bake the cookies as directed and dip half of each cooled cookie in melted dark chocolate for a decadent finish.
Tips on plating and presentation
How can you elevate the appeal of your Cinnamon Chip Christmas Cookies? I love to plate them in a way that makes them pop.
First, use a festive platter or tiered stand; it instantly brings joy to the table. Consider adding a layer of parchment paper or a decorative cloth underneath for extra charm.
To create height, stack a few cookies and tie them together with a pretty ribbon. I also like to sprinkle some powdered sugar or drizzle melted chocolate on top for a shiny finish.
Don’t forget to include a handwritten tag or note with your cookies. It adds a personal touch, making them perfect for gifting.
Trust me, these small details will impress anyone who receives them!
What other dishes can I pair it with?
Looking for the perfect companions for your Cinnamon Chip Christmas Cookies? I love pairing them with a variety of festive treats that enhance their warm, spicy flavor.
Consider serving them alongside rich, creamy cheesecakes that provide a nice contrast. When I’m feeling adventurous, I whip up a batch of spiced nuts; the crunch and seasoning complement the softness of the cookies wonderfully.
Another delightful pairing is a fruit platter featuring apples and pears, their sweetness balancing the cinnamon notes.
If you’re hosting a holiday gathering, serving these cookies with a selection of brownies can create a delightful dessert table.
No matter the occasion, these pairings can elevate your cookie experience and make your gifting even more special.
What drinks can I pair it with?
When you’re savoring your Cinnamon Chip Christmas Cookies, I find that the right drink can elevate the whole experience. A warm cup of spiced chai complements the sweet and cozy flavors perfectly, while a glass of cold milk gives you that classic cookie dunking vibe.
If you’re in the mood for something festive, try a cranberry or pomegranate juice spritzer; it adds a invigorating contrast and a pop of color to your holiday spread.
For adults, a mulled wine paired with the cookies is an absolute delight, bringing in warmth and spice.
And don’t forget about coffee! A rich espresso or a creamy latte can be a fantastic pairing that highlights the cinnamon notes. Enjoy your cookies with these tasty drinks!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Freeze the Cookies for Later Gifting?
Absolutely, I freeze my cookies all the time! Just let them cool completely, pack them tightly in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh for months. They’re perfect for later gifting! Enjoy!
How Long Do the Cookies Stay Fresh?
The cookies stay fresh for about a week at room temperature if stored in an airtight container. I usually keep them in the fridge for up to two weeks, which helps maintain their deliciousness!
Are There Gluten-Free Alternatives for This Recipe?
I’ve used almond flour and coconut flour as gluten-free alternatives in cookie recipes. They work well, but you’ll need to adjust the ratios. Trust me, the cookies still taste delicious and are wonderfully textured!
Can I Add Nuts or Dried Fruits?
I’ve added chopped nuts and dried fruits to my recipes before, and they work beautifully. Just make sure to balance the flavors, so the cinnamon chips still shine through. Enjoy experimenting!
What Kind of Packaging Is Best for Gifting?
I love using clear cellophane bags tied with festive ribbons to package cookies. It showcases the treats beautifully while keeping them fresh. You can also use tin boxes for a more classic, elegant presentation.