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Sweet, crunchy cinnamonsugar crisps like these Christmas Eve Cinnamon Crisps bring a simple yet festive treat to the holiday table. They are perfect for sharing during family movie nights or as a quick homemade dessert that everyone can enjoy.
I remember making these with my kids on Christmas Eve the joy of cutting out shapes and smelling the cinnamon filled our home with warmth and excitement.
Ingredients
- 6 large flour tortillas: These provide the perfect thin base for crispness choose fresh, pliable tortillas for best results
- 1/4 cup melted butter: Butter adds richness and helps the sugar mixture stick evenly
- 1/2 cup sugar: This sweetens the crisps and caramelizes nicely when baked
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon: Cinnamon gives the crisps their signature warm spice flavor use fresh ground for best aroma
- 1 teaspoon vanilla: Optional but adds a lovely depth and warmth
- Pinch of nutmeg: Optional for added festive spice complexity fresh nutmeg from a grater works best
Instructions
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures the crisps bake evenly and do not stick.
- Mix the sugar and spices:
- In a small bowl thoroughly combine the sugar cinnamon and nutmeg. Mixing these dry spices before adding them to the tortillas helps spread the flavors consistently.
- Brush with butter:
- Brush both sides of each tortilla with the melted butter. This step is crucial because it ensures the cinnamon sugar sticks well and the crisps develop that golden buttery crunch.
- Coat with cinnamon sugar:
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously over both sides of the buttered tortillas. Don’t be shy here the sugar and spice coating is what gives these their irresistible flavor.
- Cut into shapes:
- Cut the tortillas into triangles strips or use cookie cutters for festive shapes. Cutting before baking saves time and allows the crisps to have crispy edges all around.
- Arrange to bake:
- Arrange the pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet making sure they do not overlap so each crisp bakes evenly.
- Bake:
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Watch carefully towards the end because thin crisps can brown quickly. For extra crunch you can add another minute or two but avoid burning.
- Cool:
- Remove from the oven and let the crisps cool completely on the sheet. They will firm up further as they cool down.
Cinnamon is my secret favorite here. Its warm scent instantly brings back memories of holiday baking marathons with my family. These crisps always remind me of cozy winter nights filled with laughter and good cheer.
Storage Tips
Store cooled crisps in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay crisp for several days but best eaten within 3 days for maximum freshness. Avoid storing in the refrigerator as moisture can soften the crisps.
Ingredient Substitutions
To make it dairy free try using melted coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute. For a low sugar alternative you can use a sugar substitute that bakes well such as coconut sugar. If you want gluten free options substitute with gluten free tortillas that hold up well to crisping.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with warm spiced apple cider or hot chocolate for an extra cozy holiday experience. Use them as a crunchy garnish for ice cream or pudding desserts during the holidays. Add a small bowl of whipped cream or fruit preserves on the side for dipping.
These cinnamon crisps are quick to make and perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings. They crisp up beautifully and pair well with warm beverages.
Your Recipe Questions Answered
- → What ingredients are used for the cinnamon sugar coating?
The coating combines sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg for warmth, with optional vanilla to add depth.
- → How do I ensure the crisps bake evenly?
Arrange the pieces on parchment-lined baking sheets without overlapping, allowing heat to circulate freely.
- → Can I shape the crisps differently?
Yes, cutting the tortillas into triangles, strips, or holiday-themed shapes works well for presentation.
- → What is the recommended baking time and temperature?
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 to 12 minutes until crisp and lightly golden.
- → How can I make the crisps extra crunchy?
Bake an additional 1 to 2 minutes after the initial time but watch closely to avoid overbrowning.