Cinnamon Sugar Pie Crust Cookies are a delightful treat that’s easy to make and perfect for using up leftover pie crust. These crispy, buttery cookies are sprinkled with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar, making them a simple yet irresistible snack. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to accompany your afternoon tea or a quick dessert to satisfy your cravings, these cookies are sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 unbaked pie crust: You can use store-bought or homemade pie crust for this recipe. If using store-bought, a single crust is sufficient.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and a bit of crunch to the cookies.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Provides a deeper, caramel-like sweetness that complements the cinnamon.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: The star spice that gives these cookies their warm, comforting flavor.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Helps the cinnamon sugar mixture adhere to the pie crust and adds richness to the cookies.
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the cookies from sticking and to ensure even baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust
- Roll out the pie crust on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. If your pie crust is already rolled out, simply lay it flat on your work surface.
- Cut the dough: Using a sharp knife, pizza cutter, or cookie cutter, cut the pie crust into your desired shapes. You can create strips, squares, or use cookie cutters to make fun shapes. If you’re using cookie cutters, be sure to re-roll the scraps and cut out additional shapes to use up all the dough.
Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
- Combine the sugars and cinnamon: In a small bowl, mix together the 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon until well blended.
- Melt the butter: In a separate small bowl, melt the 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. This can be done in the microwave in short bursts or on the stovetop over low heat.
Step 4: Assemble the Cookies
- Brush the pie crust pieces with the melted butter, ensuring that each piece is evenly coated. The butter not only adds flavor but also helps the cinnamon sugar mixture stick to the dough.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously over the buttered pie crust pieces. Make sure each piece is well-coated with the mixture for maximum flavor.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
- Arrange the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one to allow for even baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-12 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown and crispy. The exact baking time may vary depending on the thickness of your pie crust and the size of your cookies, so keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. This helps them set and become extra crispy.
- Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, they are ready to be enjoyed!
Tips for Success:
- Use leftover pie crust: If you’ve made a pie and have leftover crust, this recipe is a great way to use it up and reduce waste.
- Vary the shapes: Get creative with cookie cutters or simply cut the dough into rustic strips or squares for a homemade look.
- Adjust the sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar and cinnamon to suit your taste. You can even add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for extra warmth.
Variations:
- Add a glaze: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle the cooled cookies with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
- Make them savory: Omit the sugar and cinnamon, and instead sprinkle the pie crust with a mix of parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and herbs for a savory snack.
- Chocolate-dipped: After the cookies have cooled, dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and let it set on parchment paper for a chocolatey twist.
Cinnamon Sugar Pie Crust Cookies are a delightful, easy-to-make treat that takes minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover pie crust or simply craving something sweet and crunchy, these cookies are a perfect choice. Their simple ingredients and quick preparation make them a great recipe to whip up with kids or to enjoy as a last-minute dessert. With a warm, buttery flavor and a hint of cinnamon, these cookies are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Enjoy them on their own, with a cup of tea or coffee, or as a topping for ice cream or pudding. No matter how you serve them, these cookies are sure to please!
