What if you could bake a cookie that takes you on a journey to the heart of a Mexican kitchen, where the scent of cinnamon fills the air? These Mexican Cinnamon Sugar Cookies do just that. Airy, crispy, and perfectly spiced, they’re like a warm hug from your favorite childhood memories.
This recipe has been passed down through my family, and every bite brings a nostalgic smile. Ready to create your own sweet memories? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love These Mexican Cinnamon Sugar Cookies
- A Family Classic: This recipe has been cherished for generations — it’s a taste of tradition.
- Easy to Make: You can have these cookies ready in just 30-45 minutes. Perfect for last-minute cravings!
- Crispy Perfection: Thanks to the shortening, these cookies stay tall, crispy, and full of flavor.
- Packed with Cinnamon: The double coating of cinnamon sugar inside and out makes these cookies an absolute delight for cinnamon lovers.
Mexican Cinnamon Sugar Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour 300g
- 1 cup shortening 185g
- 1 cup granulated sugar 200g
- 1 large egg room temperature
- 1 tablespoon Mexican vanilla or pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 ¼ teaspoons ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prep the Coating: In a small bowl, combine ½ cup sugar and 1 ¼ teaspoons cinnamon. Set aside.
- Heat the Shortening: Place the shortening in a heat-safe bowl and microwave for 15-20 seconds to soften it. This makes mixing easier.
- Cream the Shortening and Sugar: Add the granulated sugar and vanilla to the softened shortening. Whisk on medium-high until light and fluffy. Scrape down the bowl to make sure everything’s combined.
- Add the Egg: Whisk in the egg until the mixture is smooth and airy.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Mix the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix — you want a light and crispy cookie!
- Shape the Cookies: Use a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop to portion out the dough. Gently press the dough into the scoop, then release it.
- Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: Roll each dough ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture, making sure it’s evenly coated.
- Bake: Place the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced at least 2 inches apart. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 13-14 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly browned.
- Double Coat for Extra Flavor: After the cookies cool for a few minutes, roll them in the cinnamon sugar again for an extra boost of flavor.
Notes
- Kitchen Scale: Recommended for accurate measurement of dry ingredients.
- Shortening Tip: Heating the shortening before mixing ensures a smoother blend with sugar.
- Double Coating: Rolling the cookies in cinnamon sugar before and after baking enhances flavor.
Baking Tips for Success
- Use a Kitchen Scale: Measuring by weight ensures accuracy and prevents dry, tough cookies.
- Don’t Skip Heating the Shortening: Softened shortening blends more easily with sugar for a fluffier dough.
- Oven Thermometer: This helps ensure your oven is the correct temperature for consistent results.
- Double Coating: The second coat of cinnamon sugar makes these cookies irresistible!
Why These Cookies Are Special
These Mexican Cinnamon Sugar Cookies aren’t just another treat — they’re a piece of family history. My mom’s handwritten recipe, tucked away for years, always brought comfort and joy when she baked these. The simplicity, the warmth of cinnamon, and the crispy texture make them timeless.
FAQs
Why Are My Cookies Dry?
Too much flour is often the culprit. Use the spoon-and-level method or a kitchen scale to measure accurately.
How Long Do Mexican Cinnamon Sugar Cookies Keep?
Store Cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. They also freeze beautifully for up to 3 months!
Tips & Variations
- Substitute Option: Margarine can be used if shortening is unavailable.
- Avoid Dryness: Use the spoon-and-level method for flour to prevent dry cookies.
- Flavor Boost: Add extra cinnamon for a stronger spice flavor.
Looking for More Easy Mexican-inspired recipes?
If you loved these Mexican Cinnamon Sugar Cookies, I’ve got even more delicious and comforting recipes that will bring bold, authentic Mexican flavors to your kitchen. Check these out!
- Mexican Pizza Recipe
- Authentic Mexican Chicken Soup
- Jiffy Mexican Cornbread Recipe
- Mexican Hot Chocolate (Chocolate Caliente)
These recipes are sure to spice up your meals—give them a try and bring the taste of Mexico straight to your table!
Did You Make This Recipe?
Please let me know how these Mexican Cinnamon Sugar Cookies turned out for you! Leave a comment below and tag @foodiecreator on Instagram and hashtag it #foodiecreator.
