We can’t resist the allure of cinnamon chocolate chip cookies, a delightful twist on the classic treat that adds warm, spicy notes to gooey chocolate goodness. Originating from our love for comfort baking these easy delights have become a staple in our kitchen experiments.
Whether you’re craving a cozy snack or want to impress guests these cookies deliver big on flavor with minimal effort. Join us as we guide you through this simple recipe that’s perfect for bakers of all levels.
Ingredients
To create our delicious cinnamon chocolate chip cookies, we start by gathering the key ingredients in the order they’ll be used. This ensures a smooth baking process, blending warm cinnamon flavors with gooey chocolate chips for that perfect, comforting treat.
- All-purpose flour (2 ½ cups, sifted): We begin with this as the base, providing structure and a tender crumb to our cookies.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened at room temperature): Next, we’ll cream this for a rich, buttery foundation that enhances the cookie’s melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Granulated sugar (¾ cup): Added right after butter, this sweetens the dough and helps achieve a golden, crisp edge.
- Brown sugar (¾ cup, packed): Following granulated sugar, it adds depth and moisture for a chewy interior.
- Eggs (2 large, at room temperature): These come in to bind the ingredients, ensuring our dough holds together perfectly.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): We incorporate this for a subtle aroma that complements the cinnamon without overpowering it.
- Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons): As the star spice, it’s added to infuse warm, spicy notes that elevate our chocolate chip cookies.
- Baking soda (1 teaspoon): This leavening agent follows to help the cookies rise and spread evenly.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): A small but crucial addition for balancing flavors.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (2 cups): Finally, these are folded in for the gooey chocolate bursts that make every bite irresistible.
Equipment Needed
Now that we’ve gathered our key ingredients for the cinnamon chocolate chip cookies, let’s turn our attention to the essential equipment that makes baking these treats straightforward and efficient. Having the right tools on hand ensures even mixing, precise measurements, and flawless baking results, allowing us to create cookies with that perfect golden edge and gooey center.
We recommend the following items to streamline your preparation:
- Large mixing bowl: For combining dry ingredients like flour, cinnamon, and baking soda; we use this to achieve a uniform blend and prevent lumps.
- Medium mixing bowl: Ideal for creaming butter and sugars together; this helps us incorporate air for a light, fluffy dough texture.
- Electric mixer or sturdy whisk: Our go-to for beating the butter, sugars, eggs, and vanilla extract; it ensures a smooth, creamy mixture that enhances the cookies’ chewiness.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key, so we always use these for accurate portions of ingredients like brown sugar and chocolate chips to maintain consistent flavor and texture.
- Baking sheets: Sturdy, rimmed sheets that fit in a standard oven; we line them with parchment paper for even heat distribution and easy cookie removal.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: This non-stick liner prevents sticking and promotes even browning, helping our cookies bake to a perfectly crisp exterior.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: For folding in chocolate chips and scraping down bowl sides; we find this tool essential for gentle mixing without overworking the dough.
- Oven thermometer: To verify accurate oven temperature, as we know even a few degrees can affect the cookies’ rise and cinnamon-infused aroma.
- Wire cooling rack: After baking, we transfer cookies here to cool evenly, locking in that irresistible warm, chocolatey scent.
By preparing these tools in advance, we’re set for a seamless baking experience that delivers mouthwatering cinnamon chocolate chip cookies every time.
Instructions
We guide you through baking our irresistible Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies with straightforward steps that build on the ingredients and tools we’ve prepared. Let’s create batches of warm, aromatic treats featuring cinnamon‘s spicy warmth and gooey chocolate chips for a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Prepare Ingredients
First, we ensure all components are ready for seamless mixing. Start by softening 1 cup of unsalted butter; leave it at room temperature for 30 minutes until it’s pliable but not melted. Measure out 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 3/4 cup brown sugar, 2 large eggs, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips. Sift the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon together in a medium bowl to blend evenly—this step guarantees a smooth dough with that signature spicy aroma wafting through your kitchen.
Mix the Dough
We combine the ingredients to form a rich, flavorful dough. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy with a creamy texture that promises melt-in-your-mouth cookies. Add the 2 eggs one at a time, beating well after each to incorporate air for a tender crumb, then mix in the 2 teaspoons vanilla extract for a sweet, fragrant boost. Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients—flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon—on low speed until just combined, avoiding overmixing to keep the dough soft and chewy. Finally, fold in the 2 cups chocolate chips using a spatula, ensuring even distribution so every bite delivers that delightful contrast of crunchy chips and spiced warmth.
Shape and Bake
With the dough ready, we shape and bake for golden perfection. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion the dough into 1.5-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the sheets—this spacing allows for even spreading and creates cookies with crispy edges and soft centers. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges turn a light golden brown and the cinnamon aroma fills your kitchen, evoking cozy comfort. The cookies should still look slightly underbaked in the middle for that ideal gooey texture once cooled.
Cool the Cookies
Finally, we cool the cookies to set their texture and enhance flavors. Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies rest on them for 5 minutes to firm up slightly, allowing the cinnamon and chocolate to meld into a irresistible taste. Transfer them to a wire cooling rack using a spatula and cool completely for about 10-15 minutes—the wait rewards you with cookies that are chewy on the inside with a satisfying crunch, ready for enjoying their warm, spicy-sweet profile.
Make-Ahead and Storage
To keep our Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies fresh and ready for any craving, we recommend planning ahead and storing them properly. This ensures you can enjoy their warm, spicy cinnamon aroma and gooey chocolate centers whenever you like.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing the dough in advance lets us capture the rich, buttery flavors of our Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies without last-minute rush. Follow these steps for seamless preparation:
- Refrigerate the dough: After mixing, shape the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This enhances the flavors and makes the cookies chewier when baked.
- Freeze for longer storage: For extended make-ahead options, arrange dough balls on a lined baking sheet and freeze until solid – about 1 hour. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months. When ready, bake from frozen adding 1-2 minutes to the original baking time for that perfect golden edge.
Storage Guidelines
Once baked, our Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies maintain their irresistible texture and taste with proper storage. Below, we outline the best methods to preserve their spicy warmth and chocolatey goodness.
For quick reference, here’s a breakdown of storage durations and tips:
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 3-5 days | Store in an airtight container away from direct sunlight to keep cookies soft and flavorful. |
| Refrigerator | Up to 1 week | Wrap cookies tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container to prevent drying and preserve the cinnamon spice. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Freeze in a single layer first, then transfer to freezer-safe bags. Thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes to retain the gooey centers. |
By following these guidelines, we can ensure every bite of our Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies delivers the same comforting delight as when freshly baked.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this cinnamon chocolate chip cookie recipe, and we’re confident it’ll become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. It’s all about that perfect blend of warm spices and melty chocolate that brings comfort to every bite.
Give it a try and tweak it to suit your tastes—we bet it’ll impress family and friends alike. Baking’s our passion, and we’re sure you’ll enjoy these treats as much as we do.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are cinnamon chocolate chip cookies?
Cinnamon chocolate chip cookies are a cozy twist on classic chocolate chip cookies, featuring warm cinnamon for added spice and flavor. They’re easy to bake at home, perfect for beginners, and offer a comforting balance of gooey chocolate and soft texture, making them ideal for snacks or sharing.
What ingredients are needed for cinnamon chocolate chip cookies?
You’ll need all-purpose flour, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, baking soda, salt, and semi-sweet chocolate chips. These ingredients create a rich dough with perfect texture—cinnamon adds warmth, while chocolate chips provide gooey sweetness for a delicious treat.
What equipment is required to bake cinnamon chocolate chip cookies?
Essential tools include mixing bowls for combining ingredients, an electric mixer for even dough, measuring cups for accuracy, baking sheets for even cooking, and a wire cooling rack. These help achieve golden edges and soft centers, ensuring your baking process is smooth and efficient.
How do I make cinnamon chocolate chip cookies?
Start by softening butter and mixing with sugars, eggs, and vanilla. Add dry ingredients like flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt, then fold in chocolate chips. Shape dough into balls, bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes until golden, and cool on a rack for best texture. The result is warm, flavorful cookies ready in under an hour.
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time for cinnamon chocolate chip cookies?
Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours to enhance flavors and make chewier cookies, or freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen dough in the fridge before baking. This method allows for fresh-baked treats anytime, maintaining that perfect cinnamon-chocolate balance.
How should I store cinnamon chocolate chip cookies?
Store baked cookies at room temperature in an airtight container for 3-5 days, in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. Use wax paper between layers to keep them fresh and prevent sogginess, ensuring they retain their soft texture and delicious taste.