Few treats bring comfort quite like warm, freshly baked cookies. Our Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe takes the classic chocolate chip cookie to the next level by adding a hint of aromatic cinnamon. This simple twist creates a perfect balance of sweet and spice that makes each bite unforgettable.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies we combine carefully selected ingredients that balance sweetness, spice, and rich chocolate flavor. Below are the distinct groups of ingredients needed for an irresistible batch.
Dry Ingredients
We start by gathering our dry ingredients which build the cookie’s structure and deliver the warm cinnamon spice.
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted for a light texture
- 1 teaspoon baking soda, for gentle leavening
- ½ teaspoon salt, to enhance flavors
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, the key spice for that cozy warmth
Wet Ingredients
These ingredients bring moisture, richness, and binding power to our cookie dough.
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- ¾ cup granulated sugar, for sweet crispness
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar, adds moisture and caramel notes
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature for better blending
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract, for deep flavor enhancement
Mix-Ins
Our final touches infuse texture and chocolatey indulgence into each bite.
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips, the star of every bite
- (Optional) ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans, for added crunch and nutty depth
| Ingredient Type | Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry | All-purpose flour | 2 ½ cups | Structure and base |
| Dry | Baking soda | 1 teaspoon | Leavening |
| Dry | Salt | ½ teaspoon | Flavor enhancer |
| Dry | Ground cinnamon | 2 teaspoons | Signature spice |
| Wet | Unsalted butter | 1 cup (2 sticks) | Richness and moisture |
| Wet | Granulated sugar | ¾ cup | Sweetness |
| Wet | Brown sugar | ¾ cup | Moisture and caramel flavor |
| Wet | Eggs | 2 large | Binds ingredients |
| Wet | Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons | Flavor enhancement |
| Mix-Ins | Semisweet chocolate chips | 2 cups | Chocolate delight |
| Mix-Ins (optional) | Chopped nuts | ½ cup | Crunch and nutty flavor |
Equipment Needed
To create the perfect Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies we need the right equipment to ensure precise measurements and even baking for the best results. Below is a detailed list of the essential tools:
- Mixing Bowls: Use a large mixing bowl for combining dry ingredients and a separate medium bowl for wet ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurement of flour, sugars, spices, and liquids is crucial. Use dry measuring cups for powders and liquid measuring cups for wet ingredients.
- Electric Mixer: A hand mixer or a stand mixer helps cream butter with sugars efficiently, creating a light and fluffy dough base.
- Rubber Spatula: Ideal for scraping down bowl sides to fully incorporate ingredients.
- Whisk: Use this for mixing dry spices evenly with flour and baking soda.
- Cookie Scoop: An ice cream or cookie scoop ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking.
- Baking Sheets: Flat, rimmed cookie sheets allow cookies to bake evenly without spreading excessively.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mats: Prevent sticking and promote even browning.
- Cooling Rack: Essential for cooling cookies evenly and preventing sogginess.
- Oven Thermometer (Optional): Ensures accurate oven temperature for consistent baking.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Combine dry and wet ingredients separately |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement |
| Electric Mixer | Creaming butter and sugars |
| Rubber Spatula | Scraping and folding ingredients |
| Whisk | Evenly blending dry ingredients |
| Cookie Scoop | Portioning cookie dough evenly |
| Baking Sheets | Baking cookies evenly |
| Parchment Paper/Silicone Mats | Prevent sticking and aid even baking |
| Cooling Rack | Cooling cookies to maintain texture |
| Oven Thermometer | Verify precise oven temperature (optional) |
Having this essential equipment on hand makes the baking process for our Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe smooth and consistent, ensuring every batch turns out perfectly golden with a rich cinnamon aroma and melty chocolate chips.
Preparation
To achieve the perfect Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookie texture and flavor, precise preparation is essential. Let’s guide you through each step to create a dough that bakes into irresistible cookies filled with warm cinnamon and rich chocolate.
Preparing the Dough
- Cream the Butter and Sugars:
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together unsalted butter (softened), granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. This step traps air, ensuring our cookies are tender and chewy.
- Add Wet Ingredients:
Beat in eggs, one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Follow with pure vanilla extract. This builds flavor and moisture.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients:
- All-purpose flour
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Ground cinnamon
- Combine Wet and Dry:
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Use a rubber spatula or low mixer speed to fold in until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Add Chocolate Chips and Nuts:
Stir in semisweet chocolate chips evenly throughout the dough. If desired, gently fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
“Balancing wet and dry ingredients carefully is key to achieving the perfect cinnamon-infused chocolate chip cookie.”
Chilling the Dough (if applicable)
Chilling the dough is an optional but highly recommended step that helps enhance flavor development and prevent excessive spreading during baking.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Cover the Dough | Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. |
| Chill Duration | Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours for deeper cinnamon flavor. |
| Bring to Bake | Remove dough from refrigerator 10 minutes before scooping cookies to soften slightly. |
Chilling firms the dough, allowing the aroma of cinnamon and chocolate to intensify while yielding thicker, chewier cookies with an even golden edge.
By following these preparation steps with precision, our Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookie dough will be perfectly mixed, flavorful, and ready for baking success.
Instructions
Follow these clear and precise steps to bake our Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies to perfection. We’ll guide you through each stage from oven prep to cooling for the ultimate cookie experience.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Using an oven thermometer can help ensure accurate temperature for even baking and perfect browning.
| Temperature Setting | Fahrenheit (°F) | Celsius (°C) |
|---|---|---|
| Oven Preheat | 350 | 175 |
Position a rack in the middle of your oven to allow air to circulate evenly around the cookies.
Mixing the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, cream 1 cup softened unsalted butter with ¾ cup granulated sugar and ¾ cup packed brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step creates a creamy base that traps air for tender cookies.
- Beat in 2 large eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for aromatic flavor.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture in batches, mixing just until combined. This prevents overworking the dough which can result in tough cookies.
- Fold in 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips and if desired, 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and taste.
Pro Tip: Avoid overmixing to maintain a soft, chewy cookie texture.
Portioning the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out dough balls of approximately 1½ tablespoons each. This ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking.
Space the dough balls 2 inches apart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent spreading and sticking.
Baking the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 9-11 minutes. Watch for edges to turn light golden brown while centers remain soft and slightly undercooked.
| Baking Time | Cookie Appearance | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 9 minutes | Soft edges slightly golden | Soft chewy center |
| 11 minutes | Edges golden brown throughout | Slightly crisp |
Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even cooking.
Cooling the Cookies
Remove cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This allows them to set and prevents breakage.
Transfer cookies to a cooling rack to cool completely. The chocolate chips will firm up but remain melty, and the cinnamon aroma will fully develop.
Remember: Cooling on a rack ensures air circulation for crisp edges and chewy centers—signature elements of our Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies experience, we offer versatile serving ideas that highlight their warm spice and rich chocolate flavor.
Classic Pairings
- Serve warm cookies with a glass of cold milk for a nostalgic and comforting treat.
- Pair freshly baked cookies with vanilla ice cream to create quick and delicious cookie sandwiches.
- Enjoy cookies alongside a cup of hot coffee or spiced chai tea to complement the cinnamon notes.
Presentation Tips
- Arrange cookies on a rustic wooden board or vintage plate to enhance their homemade charm.
- Dust with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar blend just before serving for added visual appeal and subtle sweetness.
Creative Serving Ideas
| Serving Idea | Description |
|---|---|
| Cookie & Fruit Skewers | Alternate cookie pieces with fresh fruits like strawberries or apple slices for a balanced bite. |
| Dipped Cookies | Dip half of each cookie in melted dark or white chocolate, then chill until set for a decorative twist. |
| Cookie Crumble Topping | Crumble cookies over yogurt or pudding to add texture and a burst of flavor. |
“When serving, slightly warm cookies revive their gooey centers and aromatic spices.” We recommend reheating briefly in a low oven or microwave to achieve this effect.
These suggestions amplify our Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies enjoyment, allowing us to tailor servings to different occasions and tastes.
Storage Tips
To keep our Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies fresh and flavorful, proper storage is essential. Follow these simple steps to maintain their softness, chewiness, and rich cinnamon aroma.
Room Temperature Storage
- Place completely cooled cookies in an airtight container.
- Layer cookies with parchment paper or wax paper between them to prevent sticking.
- Store the container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
- Cookies stored this way will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
Refrigeration
- For longer freshness, keep cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Allow cookies to come to room temperature or warm slightly before serving to restore softness.
- Refrigerated cookies can stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.
Freezing for Extended Storage
- Wrap individual cookies or dough balls tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place them inside a freezer-safe airtight container or resealable freezer bag.
- Freeze for up to 3 months without sacrificing flavor or texture.
- To thaw, leave cookies at room temperature for 30-60 minutes or warm gently in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes.
| Storage Method | Container Type | Storage Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Airtight container | Up to 5 days | Use parchment sheets to layer |
| Refrigeration | Airtight container | Up to 2 weeks | Warm slightly before serving |
| Freezing | Plastic wrap + airtight container | Up to 3 months | Wrap individually, thaw properly |
Additional Tips
- Avoid storing cookies with soft or moist foods to prevent them absorbing unwanted odors or moisture.
- For maintaining that signature chewiness, add a slice of bread in the container; the bread’s moisture helps keep cookies soft.
- Label frozen packages with the date to ensure we use the oldest batches first.
By following these Storage Tips, we preserve the delightful balance of cinnamon warmth and melty chocolate in our cookies for whenever the craving strikes.
Conclusion
These Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies offer a perfect blend of cozy spice and rich chocolate that’s hard to resist. With the right ingredients, tools, and techniques, baking them is straightforward and rewarding. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or stored for later, they bring warmth and comfort to any occasion.
We’re confident this recipe will become a favorite in your baking rotation, delivering delicious results every time. Happy baking!
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed to make Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies?
You need all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, semisweet chocolate chips, and optional walnuts or pecans.
What equipment is essential for baking these cookies?
Mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, an electric mixer, rubber spatula, whisk, cookie scoop, baking sheets, parchment paper or silicone mats, cooling rack, and optionally, an oven thermometer.
How do I prepare the cookie dough properly?
Cream softened butter with sugars, add eggs and vanilla, mix dry ingredients separately, combine gently with wet ingredients, fold in chocolate chips and nuts, then chill dough before baking.
What is the recommended baking temperature and time?
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake cookies for 9-11 minutes, until edges are golden and centers look slightly underbaked.
How can I tell when the cookies are perfectly baked?
Look for golden edges with a slightly soft center that firms while cooling, ensuring a chewy texture with crisp edges.
What are some good serving suggestions for these cookies?
Serve warm with cold milk, use in ice cream sandwiches, pair with coffee or chai tea, dust with powdered sugar, or dip in melted chocolate.
How should I store Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies to keep them fresh?
Store in airtight containers at room temperature for up to a week, refrigerate for up to two weeks, or freeze for up to three months, using a bread slice to maintain moisture.
Can I add nuts to the Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans can be included for extra crunch and flavor, but they are optional.
Why is chilling the dough important?
Chilling prevents spreading during baking and enhances the cookie’s flavor and texture by allowing ingredients to meld.
What tips help ensure even baking?
Use an oven rack in the middle position, measure ingredients accurately, use a cookie scoop for uniform size, and avoid overmixing the dough.