Cinnamon Sugar Pie Crust Cookies: A Symphony of Sweet Elegance
Step into a realm of sweet nostalgia and irresistible aromas with our Cinnamon Sugar Pie Crust Cookies. These delicate bites are a celebration of simplicity, transforming leftover pie crust into golden, cinnamon-kissed treasures. Join us on a journey where minimal ingredients meet maximum flavor, creating a treat that not only captivates your taste buds but also transports you to cherished moments of homemade goodness.
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust Cookies:
- Leftover pie crust (or store-bought if unavailable)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Optional Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Roll Out the Pie Crust
- Roll out the leftover pie crust on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.
Step 3: Brush with Butter
- Brush the entire surface of the pie crust with melted butter, ensuring an even coating.
Step 4: Sprinkle Cinnamon Sugar
- In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the buttered pie crust.
Step 5: Cut Out Shapes
- Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes from the pie crust. Gather and re-roll any scraps to maximize the number of cookies.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
- Place the cut-out shapes on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
Step 7: Optional Glaze (if desired)
- In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create a glaze.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies for an extra layer of sweetness.
Cook Notes
- Ensure that the pie crust is well-chilled before rolling it out for better handling.
- Experiment with different cookie cutter shapes for a festive touch.
Variations
Chai Spice Infusion
- Enhance the cinnamon sugar mixture with a pinch of chai spice for a warm and aromatic twist.
Citrus Zest Elevation
- Add finely grated orange or lemon zest to the cinnamon sugar for a burst of citrusy freshness.
Nutty Crunch Dimension
- Incorporate finely chopped nuts (such as pecans or almonds) into the cinnamon sugar mixture for added texture.
Keto Version
For those following a keto lifestyle, savor the sweetness with these modifications:
For the Pie Crust Cookies:
- Use a keto-friendly pie crust recipe, replacing traditional flour with almond or coconut flour.
- Substitute granulated sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener.
For the Glaze (if desired):
- Create a glaze using powdered erythritol or another keto-friendly sweetener.
Additional Variations:
- Experiment with different keto-friendly flours to find the perfect crust texture.
Low-Carb Version
Trim down the carbs without compromising on flavor:
For the Pie Crust Cookies:
- Opt for a low-carb pie crust recipe, utilizing almond or coconut flour.
- Replace granulated sugar with a low-carb sweetener.
For the Glaze (if desired):
- Craft a glaze using powdered erythritol or another low-carb sweetener.
Additional Variations:
- Explore different low-carb flours to achieve a delightful cookie texture.
In conclusion, Cinnamon Sugar Pie Crust Cookies are a testament to the art of transforming humble leftovers into delightful creations that evoke the warmth of homemade goodness. Whether you follow the classic recipe, embark on keto or low-carb adaptations, or experiment with unique variations, the result is a batch of golden-brown treats that capture the essence of sweet simplicity. Share these cookies with loved ones, serve them at gatherings, or indulge in a moment of sweetness on your own. Let the aroma of cinnamon, the buttery flakiness of the crust, and the touch of sweetness transport you to a place where every bite is a reminder of the simple joys of baking. Enjoy every moment of this sweet symphony!
