Vanilla Cinnamon Sugar Christmas Bites
Soft, buttery, and rolled in festive cinnamon sugar — the perfect holiday cookie to share.
Introduction
There’s something magical about the smell of cinnamon and vanilla wafting through the kitchen during the holidays. These Vanilla Cinnamon Sugar Christmas Bites are bite‑sized cookies that combine buttery dough, warm spices, and a sparkling sugar coating. They’re simple to make, yet they look and taste like a treat straight from a bakery.
Perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or cozy nights by the fire, these cookies are a festive twist on the classic sugar cookie. Their small size makes them ideal for snacking, gifting, or serving alongside hot cocoa.
Ingredients
For the Dough
2 cups all‑purpose flour
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
For the Coating
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
Step‑by‑Step Directions
Preheat Oven: Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add Egg & Vanilla: Mix in egg and vanilla until smooth.
Combine Dry Ingredients: Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to wet mixture until dough forms.
Shape Dough: Roll dough into 1‑inch balls.
Coat: Mix sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Roll each dough ball until coated.
Bake: Place on baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart. Bake 10–12 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
Cool & Serve: Let cool on wire rack. Enjoy warm or store in airtight container.
Baking Science
Butter + sugar creaming traps air, giving cookies a light texture.
Eggs provide structure and moisture.
Vanilla extract enhances sweetness and aroma.
Cinnamon sugar coating caramelizes slightly, creating a crisp exterior.
Tips for Success
Chill dough for 20 minutes if too soft to roll.
Use high‑quality vanilla for best flavor.
Double‑coat in cinnamon sugar for extra sparkle.
Bake until just golden — overbaking makes them dry.
Variations
Stuffed Bites: Add a chocolate chip or caramel piece inside each dough ball.
Nutty Twist: Roll in finely chopped pecans with cinnamon sugar.
Glazed Version: Drizzle with vanilla glaze after baking.
Festive Colors: Mix red and green sprinkles into coating for holiday flair.
Serving Ideas
Arrange on a holiday platter with other cookies.
Package in tins for edible gifts.
Pair with hot cocoa or spiced tea.
Use as stocking stuffers wrapped in parchment.
Storage
Room Temperature: Airtight container up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze baked bites up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.
Make‑Ahead: Prepare dough, refrigerate overnight, and bake fresh.
Storytelling Element
Imagine a snowy evening, the tree lights twinkling, and a tray of warm cinnamon sugar bites on the table. Guests reach for one, the crisp sugar coating giving way to soft vanilla‑scented dough. It’s a simple cookie, but it carries the joy of the season in every bite.
Conclusion
These Vanilla Cinnamon Sugar Christmas Bites are festive, easy, and endlessly adaptable. With their buttery texture, warm spice, and sparkling sugar finish, they’re perfect for holiday gatherings or gifting.