There’s something magical about the smell of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen—it’s warm, comforting, and instantly nostalgic. These Traditional Mexican Cinnamon Cookies, also known as Polvorones de Canela, are crumbly, buttery little treasures rolled in sweet cinnamon sugar. They melt in your mouth with every bite and bring a touch of old-world charm to your table.

This is the kind of cookie that pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or Mexican hot chocolate on a cool afternoon. They’re simple to make, but trust me, the flavor is anything but ordinary.

Why You’ll Love Traditional Mexican Cinnamon Cookies

• Cozy flavor — cinnamon is the star, giving each bite a warm, aromatic finish.
• Melt-in-your-mouth texture — soft and crumbly, just like grandma used to make.
• Simple ingredients — you probably have everything in your pantry right now.
• Perfect for gifting — they store well and look beautiful in cookie tins.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Use room temperature butter — it creams better and gives the cookies their tender texture.
• Don’t overmix — this keeps them delicate instead of tough.
• Chill the dough — prevents spreading and keeps the cookies from getting too flat.
• Roll while warm — cinnamon sugar sticks best when cookies are still slightly warm.

Ingredients

1. 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

2. ½ cup powdered sugar

3. 2 cups all-purpose flour

4. 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (plus extra for rolling)

5. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

6. ¼ teaspoon salt

7. ¼ cup granulated sugar (for rolling)

Instructions

Step 1 – Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 2 – Add the Flavorings

Mix in vanilla extract and ground cinnamon.

Step 3 – Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Gradually add to the butter mixture until a soft dough forms.

Step 4 – Chill the Dough

Wrap dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 5 – Shape the Cookies

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on a lined baking sheet.

Step 6 – Bake

Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden.

Step 7 – Coat in Cinnamon Sugar

In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar with a pinch of cinnamon. Roll warm cookies in the mixture until fully coated.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The combination of powdered sugar in the dough and granulated sugar on the outside creates a double sweetness—soft inside, slightly crisp outside. Using real cinnamon (not just “cinnamon flavoring”) makes all the difference in aroma and depth of flavor.

How to Serve Traditional Mexican Cinnamon Cookies

Serve with coffee, hot chocolate, or tea for the ultimate cozy treat. They’re also a perfect addition to a holiday cookie platter.

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Crumble over ice cream for a cinnamon cookie topping.
• Use as a cheesecake crust by crushing and mixing with melted butter.
• Layer in a trifle for a Mexican-inspired dessert.

Additional Tips

• Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
• Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months.
• Add a dash of nutmeg for extra warmth.

Make It a Showstopper (Presentation Ideas)

Stack them high on a vintage plate, dust lightly with powdered sugar, and tuck in a cinnamon stick for a rustic, inviting look.

FAQ’s

1. Are these the same as snickerdoodles? Not exactly—these are more crumbly and less chewy.
2. Can I use margarine instead of butter? Butter gives the best flavor and texture.
3. Can I make the dough ahead? Yes, refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking.
4. Why is my dough too crumbly? Add a teaspoon of milk to help it come together.
5. Can I double the recipe? Absolutely, they’re great for big batches.
6. Do they spread a lot? No, chilling keeps them nicely rounded.
7. Can I skip the cinnamon sugar coating? You can, but it’s the signature touch.
8. Are these gluten-free? Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend if needed.
9. What’s the best cinnamon to use? Mexican cinnamon (canela) for authenticity.
10. Can I add nuts? Yes, finely chopped pecans or walnuts are delicious.

Conclusion

Traditional Mexican Cinnamon Cookies are proof that the simplest recipes can be the most unforgettable. With their warm spice, tender crumb, and sugary coating, these cookies feel like a hug in edible form. Whether for a holiday tray, an afternoon snack, or a sweet gift, they’re a timeless treat that never fails to charm.

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