Irresistible Classic Cinnamon Sugar Cookies in 30 Minutes

Oh, you’re in for a treat. These Classic Cinnamon Sugar Cookies are my go-to recipe when I need something sweet, simple, and downright comforting in a hurry. There’s something magical about that buttery, cinnamon-kissed dough rolling between your fingers—it takes me straight back to my grandma’s kitchen, where the scent of warm cookies filled the air every Sunday afternoon.

What I love most? You probably have everything you need in your pantry right now. No fancy ingredients, no complicated steps—just pure, old-fashioned cookie goodness. The balance of sweetness from the sugar and that warm hug of cinnamon? Absolute perfection. And trust me, these disappear faster than you can say “just one more”.

Table of Contents

Print

Why You’ll Love These Classic Cinnamon Sugar Cookies

Let me tell you why these cinnamon sugar cookies have been my secret weapon for years:

• Quick & easy – From bowl to table in under 30 minutes. Perfect for last-minute cravings or surprise guests
• Crowd-pleasing magic – That warm cinnamon-sugar combo makes these disappear at every gathering
• Perfect texture – Crispy edges with that irresistible soft center you keep coming back for
• Pantry staples – No fancy ingredients needed – just good old butter, sugar, and love
• Nostalgia in every bite – That childhood cookie jar feeling you can’t buy at any bakery

Honestly? I’ve lost count of how many times these have saved my baking reputation. If you’re looking for other quick treats, check out my recipe for chocolate chip cookie bars recipe.

Ingredients for Classic Cinnamon Sugar Cookies

Gather these simple ingredients – I bet most are already in your kitchen. The magic is in the perfect balance:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Leave it out for 30 minutes until it gives slightly when pressed
• 1 cup granulated sugar – Plain white sugar works best here
• 1 large egg – Straight from the fridge is fine
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – The real stuff makes all the difference
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Spoon and level it – don’t scoop
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – Check it’s not expired
• ½ teaspoon salt – Just enough to balance the sweetness
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon – Freshly opened for maximum aroma
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (for rolling) – This creates that crackly sugar crust

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

While I’m usually all for improvisation, some swaps work better than others here:

• Butter alternatives: Margarine works in a pinch, but real butter gives better flavor and texture
• Flour warning: Don’t substitute with gluten-free blends unless you’re ready for crumbly results
• Spice boost: Add ½ teaspoon nutmeg if you love extra warmth
• Egg emergency: No eggs? Try ¼ cup applesauce, but expect softer cookies

My golden rule? The simpler the ingredients, the better these classic cookies turn out.

How to Make Classic Cinnamon Sugar Cookies

Alright, let’s get baking. These cinnamon sugar cookies come together so easily – just follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. Trust me, this prevents sticking better than greasing the pan.
2. Cream the butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy. This is where the magic starts – beat it for a good 2-3 minutes until it looks like pale yellow clouds.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla until everything’s beautifully combined. Scrape down the sides – don’t let any butter escape.
4. Whisk together the dry ingredients in another bowl. I like to sift them together to prevent any baking soda lumps.
5. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet ingredients, mixing just until the dough comes together. Overmixing makes tough cookies – we want tender.
6. Roll tablespoon-sized balls of dough between your palms, then roll each in the reserved sugar. The sugar coating gives that irresistible crackly crust.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges just start turning golden. They’ll look slightly underdone – that’s perfect. They’ll firm up as they cool.

Tips for Perfect Classic Cinnamon Sugar Cookies

Here are my hard-earned secrets for cookie perfection:

• If your dough feels sticky, chill it for 15 minutes – cold dough spreads less
• Don’t skip the parchment paper – it prevents bottoms from over-browning
• The cookies are done when they look set but still soft in the center
• Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes – they’re too fragile when hot.

Serving & Storing Classic Cinnamon Sugar Cookies

Nothing beats enjoying these cinnamon sugar cookies warm from the oven with an ice-cold glass of milk – it’s pure nostalgia in every bite. For grown-up indulgence, dunk them in your afternoon coffee – the cinnamon plays beautifully with rich coffee flavors.

Store leftovers (if you have any) in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Whatever you do, don’t refrigerate them – it dries them out. Pro tip: Layer cookies between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking. The sugar coating stays crisp and delicious for days. You can find more baking inspiration on our Pinterest page.

Classic Cinnamon Sugar Cookies Variations

While I adore the original version, sometimes I can’t resist playing with this recipe. Here are my favorite easy twists:

• Spice it up: Add ½ teaspoon nutmeg or cardamom to the dough for extra warmth
• Chocolate dip: Melt some dark chocolate and dip half of each cooled cookie – sweet meets sophisticated.
• Brown sugar swap: Replace half the white sugar with brown sugar for deeper caramel notes
• Cinnamon sugar dust: Roll baked cookies in cinnamon sugar while still warm for double the spice kick

My kids go crazy for the chocolate-dipped version – though honestly, they disappear even faster than the originals. If you enjoy spiced baked goods, you might also like our cinnamon sugar pumpkin muffins recipe.

Nutritional Information for Classic Cinnamon Sugar Cookies

Just so you know – these nutritional estimates can vary depending on your exact ingredients. Each cookie comes in around 120 calories with that perfect balance of buttery goodness and cinnamon sweetness. Enjoy in moderation… or don’t – I won’t judge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Now what are you waiting for? Grab that mixing bowl and bake up some cinnamon-scented happiness today. Tag me in your cookie photos – I’d love to see your batches. For more quick recipes, check out this last minute dinner recipes guide.