Cinnamon Sugar Cookies - italiancookies.com

Cinnamon Sugar Cookies: A Cozy Classic

Cinnamon sugar cookies have a cozy, nostalgic history that goes back to early European baking. Back then, cinnamon was a big deal a luxury spice prized for its sweet, warming aroma. It turned plain sugar cookies into something truly special.

These cookies likely started as early versions of snickerdoodles. By the 19th century, they had made their way into German and American kitchens. Bakers began sprinkling cinnamon and sugar over soft or crisp dough—a simple trick that added rich flavor and warmth.

They became especially popular in the fall and winter, when that spiced scent feels extra comforting. Today, cinnamon sugar cookies remain a classic. People love them for their familiar taste, simple ingredients, and homemade charm. Honestly, who can say no to that?

Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a cozy weekend at home, or just because you’re in the mood for something sweet, these cinnamon sugar cookies are a favorite. They’re soft in the center with just the right amount of crisp around the edges, and that signature cinnamon-sugar coating adds the perfect finishing touch. Simple, delicious, and full of classic flavor.

Easy Cinnamon Sugar Cookies Recipe
These soft and buttery cinnamon sugar cookies are a timeless treat with the perfect balance of sweetness and warm spice. They’re simple to make, require no chill time, and bake up beautifully every time. Perfect for holidays, cozy nights, or just because!
This quick and easy cinnamon sugar cookie recipe is perfect for when you want to enjoy something homemade without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time, these cookies come together in no time—and the end result is absolutely irresistible. The warm, sweet blend of cinnamon and sugar creates that nostalgic flavor we all know and love, making every bite feel like a comforting hug.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 36 cookies
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
Topping
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon

Instructions
 

  1. Preheat Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
  2. Make the Dough:
    In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
    Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
    In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt.
    Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  4. Mix the Cinnamon Sugar:
    In a small bowl, stir together the sugar and cinnamon for the coating.
  5. Shape & Roll:
    Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of dough per cookie and roll it into a ball.
    Roll each dough ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.
  6. Bake:
    Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
    Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should still be soft.
  7. Cool:
    Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Use Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is soft but not melted. Room temperature butter creams better with sugar, giving your cookies a tender, fluffy texture.
Don’t Skip the Cream of Tartar: Cream of tartar gives these cookies a slight tang and helps create that soft, chewy center. It also prevents the sugar from crystallizing, keeping the texture smooth.
Evenly Sized Dough Ball: For uniform baking, use a small cookie scoop or tablespoon to ensure all your dough balls are the same size. This helps them bake evenly and look consistent.
Don’t Overbake: These cookies should look slightly underbaked in the center when you take them out of the oven. They’ll continue to set as they cool, staying soft on the inside with lightly crisp edges.
Let Them Cool on the Pan First: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before moving them. This prevents them from breaking apart and helps them firm up properly.

Add Your Own Spice Twist

If you’re like me and can’t get enough of cozy, warm spices, try customizing the cinnamon sugar coating! A pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or even pumpkin pie spice can take these cookies to the next level—especially during the fall and holiday season. It’s an easy way to make the recipe your own while adding extra depth and seasonal flavor.

Variations to Try

Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Sugar Cookies
Add 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to the cinnamon sugar mix for a fall-inspired twist. These cookies pair perfectly with a warm cup of apple cider!

Chai-Spiced Cinnamon Sugar Cookies
Mix in ½ teaspoon ground cardamom, ½ teaspoon ground ginger, and ¼ teaspoon ground cloves into the cinnamon sugar coating. It brings a cozy chai flavor that’s perfect for chilly days.

Citrus Zest Cinnamon Sugar Cookies
Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the cookie dough for a bright, fresh flavor that balances the warmth of the cinnamon sugar.

Chocolate-Dipped Cinnamon Sugar Cookies
After baking and cooling, dip half of each cookie in melted dark or white chocolate. Let them set for an extra indulgent treat.

Maple Cinnamon Sugar Cookies
Swap half the sugar in the dough with maple sugar or add 1 tablespoon of pure maple syrup for a rich, autumnal sweetness.

Spiced Apple Cinnamon Sugar Cookies
Fold in small, dried apple pieces or finely chopped fresh apples into the dough, then sprinkle with cinnamon sugar before baking for a fruity twist.

    Storage

    At Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container or zip-top bag. They’ll stay soft and tasty for up to 5 days.

    Avoid Humidity: Keep the container in a cool, dry place to prevent the cookies from getting soggy.

    Freezing: Want to save them longer? Freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep well for up to 3 months.

    Thawing: When ready to enjoy, let the cookies thaw at room temperature for about 1–2 hours. You can also warm them briefly in the oven (about 300°F for 5 minutes) to refresh that just-baked taste.