Name: Cinnamon Sugar Shortbread Bites – Soft, Sweet, and Perfect for Gifting
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping); 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for topping)

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Tender shortbread cookies rolled in a warm cinnamon‑sugar coating, offering a simple yet deeply satisfying treat that’s ideal for holiday boxes and tea time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Shortbread has a melt‑in‑your‑mouth texture and the cinnamon‑sugar coating adds a simple but irresistible flavour boost. These bites are small, easy to share, and can be prepared ahead of time. They’re also quite versatile for gifts or pairing with coffee, tea or hot cocoa.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

all‑purpose flour
cornstarch
unsalted butter (softened)
powdered sugar
vanilla extract
ground cinnamon
granulated sugar
coarse sanding sugar (optional)

directions

Pre‑heat oven to 325 °F (165 °C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, whisk together flour and cornstarch.
In another large bowl, cream softened butter with powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add vanilla and beat until combined.
Gradually add the flour‑cornstarch mixture into the butter mixture until dough forms and pulls away from sides of bowl.
Form dough into a log (about 2 inches in diameter), wrap in plastic and chill for 30 minutes.
Slice the log into ¼‑inch thick rounds and place on the prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
Bake for 12‑15 minutes or until edges are just starting to turn golden. Do not over‑bake — shortbread should remain light.
While warm, roll each cookie first in ground cinnamon + granulated sugar mixture, then in coarse sanding sugar if using.
Let the cookies cool completely on a rack before storing or packaging.

Servings and timing

Yields approximately 40 bites. Preparation time about 20 minutes plus 30 minutes chilling, baking time about 12‑15 minutes — total around 1 hour including cooling.

Variations

Add finely chopped nuts (almonds, pecans) to the dough for a slight crunch.
Use cardamom or nutmeg instead of or in addition to cinnamon for a spiced twist.
Dip half of each cookie in melted white chocolate for a decorative finish.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. These cookies do not require reheating — their texture is best when served at room temperature.

FAQs

Why does shortbread use cornstarch?

Cornstarch helps give shortbread its tender, melt‑in‑the‑mouth texture by reducing gluten formation.

Can I make the dough ahead?

Yes — wrap the dough log and store in refrigerator up to 24 hours or freeze up to 1 month. Slice and bake from chilled or frozen (add 1‑2 minutes bake time if frozen).

Why are my cookies brittle?

If over‑baked or too thin, shortbread can become crumbly. Bake until just set with only slight colour at edges.

Can I roll them into balls instead of slicing a log?

Yes — you can scoop 1 tablespoon dough, roll into balls, flatten slightly, then bake. Adjust time to about 10‑12 minutes.

Why should I roll in cinnamon‑sugar while warm?

The slight warmth helps the coating adhere and enhances flavour.

Are they good for gifting?

Yes — their compact size, attractive coating and sturdy shape make them ideal for boxes or tins.

Can I use salted butter?

You can, but reduce any added salt in the dough or skip it altogether, to keep the flavour balanced.

What if I don’t have sanding sugar?

Use coarse granulated sugar or skip it — the cinnamon‑sugar coating alone still tastes excellent.

Can I make them vegan?

Yes — substitute vegan butter and ensure sugar is ethically sourced; baking time and results should be similar.

Do these cookies freeze well?

Yes — cooled cookies freeze well in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Sugar Shortbread Bites are a timeless, elegant treat with minimal fuss and maximum flavour. Their soft texture, warm cinnamon coating, and gift‑friendly format make them a standout for the holidays or any time you’re seeking a simple yet special cookie.

Cinnamon Sugar Shortbread Bites – Soft, Sweet, and Perfect for Gifting

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Cinnamon Sugar Shortbread Bites are soft, buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies cut into bite-sized pieces and coated in a sweet cinnamon-sugar topping. These festive treats are perfect for holiday gifting or snacking.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 64 bites 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
1 tsp ground cinnamon (for topping)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.
Add vanilla extract and mix to combine.
Gradually add in the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish.
In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon together.
Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar evenly over the pressed dough.
Using a knife or bench scraper, score the dough into small bite-sized squares (about 1 inch).
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Remove from oven and re-cut along the score lines while warm.
Allow to cool completely in the pan before serving or packaging.