Description
These Christmas Eve Cinnamon Crisps are a delightful and easy-to-make treat that brings the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar to your holiday celebrations. Perfect for a quick snack, a sweet addition to your dessert table, or a simple homemade gift, these crisps require minimal ingredients and effort. The aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake is guaranteed to evoke the spirit of Christmas. Their simple yet satisfying taste appeals to all ages, making them a hit at any gathering. Plus, their crispy texture and festive shapes make them a fun and visually appealing addition to your holiday spread.
Ingredients
- Main Ingredients
- 6 large flour tortillas
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
Preparation
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the crisps from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of ground nutmeg (if using) until evenly blended. This cinnamon-sugar mixture is what gives the crisps their irresistible flavor.
- Step 3: Brush both sides of each flour tortilla with melted butter. Ensure that the entire surface is coated, as this will help the cinnamon-sugar adhere and create a crispy texture during baking.
- Step 4: Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over both sides of the buttered tortillas. Gently press the mixture into the tortilla to help it stick.
- Step 5: Slice the tortillas into triangles, strips, or any desired festive shapes using a pizza cutter or knife. Get creative with star, tree, or even angel shapes to add a personal touch to your holiday treat.
- Step 6: Arrange the tortilla pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure that they do not overlap. Overlapping can cause uneven baking and prevent the crisps from achieving maximum crispiness.
- Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the crisps are golden brown and crispy. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking time to ensure even browning. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
- Step 8: Remove the crisps from the oven and immediately transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling on a wire rack prevents them from becoming soggy and allows them to maintain their crisp texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Uses common pantry staples.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Customizable: Adapt the shapes and spices to your liking.
- Kid-Friendly: A fun and easy recipe to make with children.
- Festive: Perfect for Christmas Eve or any holiday gathering.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a snack with a glass of milk or hot chocolate.
- Offer as a light dessert after a holiday meal.
- Package in decorative bags as a homemade gift.
- Crush and sprinkle over ice cream or yogurt.
- Pair with a warm beverage such as spiced cider or mulled wine.
Tips
- For extra flavor, try using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a spicy kick.
- Store cooled crisps in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain crispness.
- Use different cookie cutters to create fun, festive shapes.
- If the crisps start to brown too quickly, reduce the oven temperature slightly.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 20-22 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 100mg
Conclusion
These Christmas Eve Cinnamon Crisps are more than just a simple treat; they are a symbol of holiday warmth and togetherness. Their ease of preparation and delightful flavor make them a perfect addition to your festive celebrations. Whether you’re baking them with family, sharing them with friends, or simply enjoying them by the fire, these crisps are sure to bring a touch of holiday magic to your home. Enjoy the simple pleasures of the season with this easy and delicious recipe!
Questions and Answers
- Can I use whole wheat tortillas for this recipe?
Yes, you can use whole wheat tortillas. They will add a slightly nutty flavor and a bit more fiber to the crisps. However, keep in mind that they might require a minute or two longer in the oven to achieve the same level of crispness as white flour tortillas. - How do I store the cinnamon crisps to keep them crispy?
To maintain their crispiness, store the cooled cinnamon crisps in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid storing them in a humid environment, as moisture can make them soft. If they do lose some crispness, you can briefly re-crisp them in a low-temperature oven for a few minutes. - Can I add other spices to the cinnamon-sugar mixture?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other spices such as ground ginger, cardamom, or allspice to customize the flavor to your liking. A pinch of sea salt can also enhance the sweetness and add depth to the flavor profile. - What can I use instead of butter?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, you can use melted coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute. These options will provide a similar richness and help the cinnamon-sugar mixture adhere to the tortillas. - Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these cinnamon crisps ahead of time. They can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. However, they are best enjoyed fresh, as they tend to lose some of their crispness over time.
