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Christmas Eve Cinnamon Crisps are the answer to last minute holiday sweet cravings when you want something festive without fuss. Quick to bake and brimming with cinnamon sugar warmth these delicate crisps turn simple tortillas into a treat that always disappears fast from the snack table. The recipe is easy enough for kids to help with and becomes a cherished part of family traditions after just one batch.
I first made these while searching for something fast to add to our Christmas movie night snack spread. Now my family always begs for them as soon as the holiday music goes on. The scent of cinnamon in the oven brings everyone into the kitchen.
Ingredients
- Flour tortillas: they crisp up beautifully and are lighter than pastry for quick snacking Choose fresh pliable tortillas without cracks for the best result
- Melted butter: it creates a golden finish and rich flavor Use real unsalted butter for the best taste
- Sugar: gives essential sweetness and crunch Granulated white sugar works best
- Cinnamon: delivers cozy warmth Choose ground cinnamon that smells strong and fresh
- Vanilla: adding a hint is optional for extra aroma Pure vanilla extract really shines here
- Nutmeg: a pinch for depth and a touch of holiday spice Use whole nutmeg and grate a little for maximum fragrance
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet:
- Heat the oven to three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit and lay parchment paper on a large baking sheet to prevent sticking and ease cleanup
- Mix Cinnamon Sugar:
- Combine sugar cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg in a small bowl Use a fork to mix thoroughly for even flavor
- Butter the Tortillas:
- Brush both sides of each tortilla with melted butter making sure to reach the edges and cover evenly for the best crunch
- Coat with Cinnamon Sugar:
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously onto both sides of the tortillas Press lightly to help it adhere
- Cut into Shapes:
- Slice tortillas into triangles strips or fun shapes using a knife or cookie cutters Get creative for more holiday magic
- Arrange and Bake:
- Lay the coated pieces in a single layer on the baking sheet Leave space so each piece browns and crisps evenly
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the tray in the oven Bake for ten to twelve minutes watching closely near the end for even color and crispness
- Cool and Crisp:
- Let crisps cool completely on a wire rack or the baking sheet Their texture firms up as they come to room temperature
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One of my favorite things is adding just a dash of freshly grated nutmeg to the sugar It reminds me of my grandmother’s spice cabinet and brings a nostalgic note that takes these crisps over the top for me We make these together every year sharing stories while we cut the tortillas into stars and trees
Storage Tips
Store leftover cinnamon crisps in a completely airtight container at room temperature They stay crisp for up to four days Avoid humidity which will make them lose their crunch If they soften up just pop them back in the oven at three hundred degrees for a couple minutes to refresh
Ingredient Substitutions
No flour tortillas Use puff pastry sheets for a richer flakier texture Try gluten free tortillas if you need to cater to allergies For sugar swap in coconut sugar for a deeper flavor or use half brown sugar for a hint of caramel Add cardamom or even substitute pumpkin pie spice for a twist
Serving Suggestions
Pile them in a bowl and serve solo for a light treat or pair with caramel Nutella or sweet cream cheese dip for an extra special dessert Add them to your cookie platter or pack into pretty bags tied with ribbon as edible gifts My kids enjoy dunking them in hot cocoa
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A Bit of History
Cinnamon crisps are inspired by Mexican buñuelos and the timeless tradition of sweet fried or baked dough sprinkled with sugar Foods like these bring global warmth to holiday tables adding familiar spice and crunch to any winter gathering Over time simple tortilla crisps have found a place at modern celebrations for their ease and joy factor
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep cinnamon crisps crunchy after baking?
Allow crisps to cool completely, then store in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their texture.
- → Can I use puff pastry instead of tortillas?
Yes, puff pastry yields a flakier, richer result. Follow the same steps, adjusting baking time as needed for thickness.
- → What shapes work best for cutting the crisps?
Triangles, strips, or festive shapes like stars and trees work well. Use a sharp knife or cookie cutters for best results.
- → Are there variations for extra flavor?
Try adding cardamom, nutmeg, or a dash of cocoa powder to the sugar blend, or dust cooled crisps with powdered sugar.
- → What can I serve alongside cinnamon crisps?
Pair with caramel sauce, chocolate dip, or cream cheese frosting for a sweet and indulgent finish.
- → Do I need to flip crisps during baking?
No flipping is needed. Baking them flat on a lined sheet ensures even crispness and color.