As the holiday season approaches, the crisp chill in the air calls for cozy traditions and festive treats that ignite warm memories. I can still picture my family’s kitchen filled with laughter and the sweet aroma of cinnamon drifting from the oven, setting the perfect backdrop for our Christmas Eve celebrations. This year, I’m excited to share a delightful recipe that captures that very essence: Christmas Eve Cinnamon Crisps.
These treats are a charming twist on the traditional holiday fare, featuring simple ingredients like flour tortillas, butter, and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. They come together in just 22 minutes but taste like the star of the show. Whether you want a sweet snack to enjoy with loved ones or a quick dessert that everyone will adore, these crispy delights are sure to make an appearance at your holiday gatherings. Let’s make your kitchen the heart of the festivities with these easy-to-make treats that are perfect for all ages!
Why You'll Love This Christmas Eve Cinnamon Crisps
- These Christmas Eve Cinnamon Crisps are incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip them up in just 22 minutes.
- The delightful combination of cinnamon and sugar creates a flavor that is both warm and comforting, perfect for the holiday season.
- Their versatility means you can serve them as a snack, dessert, or even with a festive dip for a fun twist.
- With their golden brown color and crispy texture, these treats are visually appealing and will impress your guests at any gathering.
Christmas Eve Cinnamon Crisps Ingredients
For the Crisps
• Flour tortillas – 6 large tortillas will provide a sturdy base that crisps perfectly.
• Unsalted butter – 1/4 cup of melted butter adds richness and helps the cinnamon sugar adhere.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
• Granulated sugar – 1/2 cup for the sweetness that complements the warm spices beautifully.
• Ground cinnamon – 2 teaspoons of this aromatic spice is essential for that classic cinnamon flavor in your Christmas Eve Cinnamon Crisps!
• Vanilla extract (optional) – 1 teaspoon can enhance the depth of flavor, adding a lovely aromatic touch.
• Ground nutmeg (optional) – A pinch of nutmeg introduces a hint of warmth and complexity to the mixture.
These ingredients come together to create a delightful treat that will surely be a hit at your holiday celebrations!
How to Make Christmas Eve Cinnamon Crisps
-
Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your cinnamon crisps bake evenly and reach that perfect golden-brown hue.
-
Mix Sugar and Spice: In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and optional nutmeg. Stir until well-blended, creating a fragrant mixture that will coat your crisps.
-
Butter the Tortillas: Take each flour tortilla and generously brush both sides with melted butter. This step not only adds richness but helps the cinnamon sugar adhere beautifully.
-
Sprinkle Cinnamon Sugar: Evenly sprinkle your cinnamon sugar mixture over both sides of the buttered tortillas, ensuring every bite will be bursting with flavor.
-
Cut and Arrange: Slice the tortillas into festive triangles, strips, or any fun shapes you prefer. Arrange them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet to ensure they crisp up nicely.
-
Bake to Perfection: Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remember to rotate the pan halfway through baking for even results!
-
Cool Completely: Once baked, remove the crisps from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. This will help them maintain their delightful crunch.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra festive touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Christmas Eve Cinnamon Crisps Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these delicious crisps with your favorite flavors and dietary preferences!
-
Gluten-Free: Swap the flour tortillas for gluten-free tortillas to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
-
Sugar-Free: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol for a low-calorie version without sacrificing taste or texture.
-
Nutty Twist: Add 1/4 cup of finely chopped nuts like almonds or pecans to the cinnamon sugar for a delightful crunch that elevates every bite.
-
Spicy Kick: Incorporate 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cinnamon sugar for a surprising heat that beautifully contrasts with the sweetness.
-
Cocoa Crunch: Mix in 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder with the sugar and cinnamon for a chocolatey variation. It adds an enticing depth of flavor to your crisps!
-
Fruity Flavor: Top the baked crisps with a drizzle of melted chocolate and a sprinkle of dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a fruity touch that enhances their appeal.
-
Cheesy Delight: Before baking, sprinkle shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella on top for a unique savory twist that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
-
Cinnamon Roll Style: Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting over each crisp after baking for an indulgent treat reminiscent of cinnamon rolls. Perfect for a festive dessert!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Eve Cinnamon Crisps
Room Temperature: Store uncovered in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for the best crunch. Keep them away from humidity to maintain freshness.
Fridge: If you have leftover Christmas Eve Cinnamon Crisps, you can keep them in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Note that they may lose some crispness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the crisps in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight freezer bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw them at room temperature and bake briefly to re-crisp.
Reheating: To regain that delightful crunch, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This will refresh the Christmas Eve Cinnamon Crisps beautifully!
What to Serve with Christmas Eve Cinnamon Crisps?
These festive treats are not just delicious on their own; they can elevate your holiday gatherings to a whole new level when served with complementary delights.
-
Warm Spiced Apple Cider: This cozy beverage warms the heart and balances the sweetness of the crisps, making for a perfect pairing during chilly nights.
-
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, creamy texture of soft-serve enhances each crisp’s satisfying crunch for a delightful contrast of temperatures.
-
Chocolate Dipping Sauce: Rich melted chocolate adds indulgence, inviting you to dip and enjoy the crisps in a new, decadent way.
-
Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful burst of berries and citrus balances the sweet and spiced flavors, introducing a refreshing note to each bite.
-
Festive Cheese Plate: Soft cheeses like Brie or a tangy goat cheese can create an appealing contrast with the cinnamon flavors and maintain a sweet-savory balance.
-
Hot Cocoa: Cozy up with this rich, warm drink topped with whipped cream or marshmallows; it’s an inviting complement to the crispness of the treats.
Pair these options with your Christmas Eve Cinnamon Crisps to create moments of joy that you and your loved ones will cherish this holiday season!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Eve Cinnamon Crisps are perfect for busy cooks wanting to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the cinnamon sugar mixture and brush the tortillas with melted butter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate the prepared tortillas, ensuring they are tightly wrapped to prevent them from drying out. When you’re ready to bake, remove them from the fridge, sprinkle on the cinnamon sugar, and slice into your desired shapes. Bake as directed for that delightful crispiness. This way, you’ll have warm, homemade treats ready to serve to your loved ones with minimal effort!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For your Christmas Eve Cinnamon Crisps, ensure your oven is thoroughly preheated to 375°F for even baking and the perfect texture.
- A common mistake is not brushing enough melted butter on the tortillas; a generous coating helps the cinnamon sugar stick and adds richness.
- When mixing the cinnamon sugar, feel free to adjust the ratio of sugar to cinnamon based on your taste preference for a stronger or milder flavor.
- Remember to check the crisps at the 10-minute mark to avoid overbaking; they can quickly go from perfect to burnt.
Christmas Eve Cinnamon Crisps Recipe FAQs
What type of flour tortillas should I use?
I recommend using large flour tortillas for making Christmas Eve Cinnamon Crisps, as they hold up well during baking and provide the perfect base for achieving a crisp texture. Look for tortillas that are soft but sturdy—avoid any that have dark spots, which may indicate they’re past their prime.
How should I store leftover Cinnamon Crisps?
To maintain their delightful crunch, store any leftover Christmas Eve Cinnamon Crisps uncovered in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keep them in a dry location, as humidity can make them soggy. If you prefer, you can also refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 5 days, but they may lose some crispness.
Can I freeze Christmas Eve Cinnamon Crisps?
Absolutely! To freeze your Christmas Eve Cinnamon Crisps, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until firm, about 1-2 hours. Once solid, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their crispiness.
What should I do if my Cinnamon Crisps aren’t crispy after baking?
If your Christmas Eve Cinnamon Crisps aren’t as crispy as you’d like after baking, it could be due to insufficient baking time or moisture. Make sure to bake them until they are golden brown, and remember to rotate the pan halfway through to ensure even baking. If they’re still not crispy after cooling, you can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes, which will help regain their crunch.
Are there any dietary concerns with the ingredients?
Great question! The main ingredients in Christmas Eve Cinnamon Crisps are flour tortillas, butter, granulated sugar, and spices, which are generally safe for most people. However, if you have dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free tortillas for a gluten-free option. If anyone in your household has allergies, be mindful of butter or the optional additions like vanilla extract, which should be checked for potential allergens.
Christmas Eve Cinnamon Crisps
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and optional nutmeg. Stir until well-blended.
- Generously brush both sides of each flour tortilla with melted butter.
- Evenly sprinkle your cinnamon sugar mixture over both sides of the buttered tortillas.
- Slice the tortillas into triangles or strips and arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Allow the crisps to cool completely on a wire rack.
Leave a Comment