Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Hearts

Name: Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Hearts
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Highlighted under: Easy Baking Recipes

I love making Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Hearts for their delightful combination of warmth and sweetness. As I roll out the dough and cut it into bright heart shapes, the aroma fills the kitchen, instantly bringing smiles to my family. These delicate cookies are perfect for sharing, especially during special occasions or simply as a treat to brighten up a day. With just a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top, they become not just a dessert but a cherished memory every time I serve them.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-17T15:12:27.911Z

As I embarked on creating these Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Hearts, I realized how simple ingredients could transform into something extraordinary. The key is in the freshness of the spices; using freshly ground cinnamon elevates the flavor, creating cookies that burst with delightful warmth. I love letting the dough chill slightly before rolling it out; this ensures clean edges and perfectly shaped hearts, making them as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate.

Experimenting with different shapes and adding a touch of vanilla to the dough really brings everything together. It’s not just about the cookies; it’s the joy of sharing them. I often package them in pretty boxes for friends and family, making an ordinary day feel extraordinary. Each bite is a reminder that even small treats can carry a lot of love!

        Why You'll Love These Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Hearts
        The cozy aroma of cinnamon fills your kitchen.
They are simple to prepare yet look exquisitely festive.
Perfectly sweet, they are ideal for sharing with loved ones.

      

The Art of Rolling and Cutting

When rolling out your dough, ensure that your work surface is well-floured to prevent sticking. A rolling pin with guides can help achieve an even thickness of about 1/4 inch, which is crucial for these cookies to bake evenly. If the dough stretches or becomes too soft while rolling, pop it back into the refrigerator for a few minutes until it firms up. This will make it easier to shape and reduce the chances of warping during baking.

When cutting the cookies into heart shapes, use a sharp cookie cutter for clean edges. If you find the dough sticking to the cutter, gently dust the cutter with flour between cuts. This will help create neat, festive shapes that hold their design. Keep an eye out for scraps; you can roll them out again to cut additional hearts, minimizing waste and maximizing sweetness!

Perfecting the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

The blend of cinnamon and sugar creates a delightful crust that enhances the overall flavor profile of these cookies. For the best results, use freshly ground cinnamon, as its flavor is more vibrant and aromatic than pre-ground options. When mixing the cinnamon sugar topping, ensure it is well combined to avoid clumps of cinnamon that can create an overpowering taste in some bites.

Sprinkling the cinnamon sugar generously on top of each heart allows for an explosion of flavor with every bite. However, be careful not to overdo it, as too much can lead to an overly sweet cookie. A light, even dusting helps maintain the balance of flavors, accentuating the warmth of the cinnamon while still allowing the buttery undertones of the cookie to shine through.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to bring the sweetness to life:

For the Cookies

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Hearts:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, then gradually mix in the dry ingredients.

Chill and Roll the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes. Once chilled, roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick and cut into heart shapes.

Add Cinnamon Sugar

Mix the sugar and cinnamon together in a small bowl. Place the cookies on your prepared baking sheet and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mix generously on top.

Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, you can glaze these cookies with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk once they are cooled.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Hearts can be prepared ahead of time, making them a perfect choice for busy days. After rolling and cutting the dough, place the cookies on a baking sheet and freeze them for up to an hour. Once frozen, you can transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer bag, saving valuable space. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake from frozen; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for perfectly baked treats.

To store baked cookies, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer softer cookies, add a slice of bread to the container; this will help maintain moisture. For longer-lasting freshness, consider freezing the cookies in layers separated by parchment paper. This way, you can pull out just the amount you need without defrosting the whole batch.

Creative Variations

While the classic cinnamon sugar topping is delightful, feel free to experiment! For a fun twist, try adding a hint of nutmeg or ginger to the cinnamon sugar mix for a spiced variation. Alternatively, you could drizzle melted chocolate over cooled cookies for an indulgent version. Each variation adds a distinct flavor layer while keeping the essence of the Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Hearts intact.

Another fun idea is to incorporate vibrant, colored sprinkles on top of the cinnamon sugar before baking, especially for festive occasions. This boost of color can visually enhance these cookies, making them even more appealing for gatherings. Consider adding a citrus zest to the dough for a refreshing touch that complements the sweetness perfectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead?

Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but it may change the texture slightly.

→ How can I store the cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these cookies?

Absolutely! You can freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months.

→ What other flavors can I add?

You can experiment by adding nutmeg or ginger for an extra flavor boost!