Imagine transforming leftover pie crust into a delightful batch of crispy, cinnamon-spiced cookies that practically melt in your mouth. These Pie Crust Cookies with Cinnamon Sugar Filling are a testament to the fact that culinary creativity often arises from simple ingredients and a touch of ingenuity. This recipe not only utilizes every last bit of your pie dough but also delivers a symphony of flavors and textures that will captivate your taste buds.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
These cookies are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and readily available ingredients. The combination of flaky pie crust, warm cinnamon, and sweet brown sugar creates an irresistible treat that is perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings or serving as a delightful accompaniment to your favorite hot beverage. Furthermore, these cookies are a fantastic way to reduce food waste by utilizing leftover pie dough, turning it into a delectable and satisfying snack. With their inviting aroma and comforting taste, these cookies will undoubtedly become a beloved addition to your baking repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 pie crust or leftover pie dough (see notes)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Step 2: On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pie dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. This ensures that the cookies will be thin and crispy.
Step 3: Ensure your butter is softened at room temperature. Spread the softened butter evenly over the entire surface of the rolled-out pie crust. This layer of butter will add richness and flakiness to the cookies.
Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon until well combined. The brown sugar adds a caramel-like sweetness that complements the warmth of the cinnamon perfectly.
Step 5: Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture generously and evenly over the buttered pie dough. Make sure every part of the dough is covered to ensure each cookie is packed with flavor.
Step 6: Carefully roll up the pie dough from one end to the other, creating a snug but not overly tight roll. This ensures that the cookies will maintain their shape during baking.
Step 7: Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled dough into 1/4-inch-thick pieces. These slices will become the individual cookies.
Step 8: Lay each slice flat side down on the prepared baking sheet, giving them a little space between each cookie to allow for even baking.
Step 9: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 10: Once the cookies are baked, let them cool for a few minutes on the cookie sheet before transferring them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely. This prevents them from becoming soggy.
COOKING Rating:
- Ease of Preparation: Very Easy
- Taste: Delicious
- Overall: Excellent
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra decadent treat.
- Enjoy them as a delightful accompaniment to a cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.
- Pack them in lunchboxes for a sweet and satisfying snack.
- Arrange them on a platter for an elegant dessert presentation at gatherings.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use homemade pie crust.
- If you don’t have brown sugar, you can substitute it with granulated sugar mixed with a teaspoon of molasses.
- Experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger, to customize the flavor.
- Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
- To revive slightly stale cookies, warm them in the oven for a few minutes.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 25-27 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 per cookie (depending on the size and ingredients)
- Protein: 1-2 grams per cookie
- Sodium: Varies depending on the pie crust used
Conclusion
These Pie Crust Cookies with Cinnamon Sugar Filling are a delightful treat that combines simplicity and flavor in perfect harmony. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dessert, a way to utilize leftover pie dough, or simply a comforting snack to satisfy your sweet cravings, these cookies are sure to deliver. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on a baking adventure that will fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and sugar.
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use store-bought pie crust for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Store-bought pie crust works perfectly well for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it according to the package instructions before rolling it out.
Q2: What if I don’t have brown sugar?
A: If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, you can easily make a substitute by mixing granulated sugar with a teaspoon of molasses. This will give you the same rich, caramel-like flavor.
Q3: Can I add other spices to the cinnamon sugar filling?
A: Definitely! Feel free to experiment with other spices, such as nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger, to customize the flavor of the cookies. A pinch of cloves can also add a warm, aromatic touch.
Q4: How should I store the leftover cookies?
A: To keep the cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If they start to lose their crispness, you can revive them by warming them in the oven for a few minutes.
Q5: Can I freeze these cookies?
A: Yes, you can freeze these cookies for longer storage. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven.
