Christmas Eve Cinnamon Crisps

These Christmas Eve Cinnamon Crisps have become a festive favorite for their sweet crunch and simple preparation. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy movie nights, they bring a little extra magic to the season.

Background

I started making these crisps after finding the recipe tucked into an old holiday cookbook. Now, they are a beloved tradition that kids and adults alike eagerly look forward to each year.

Ingredients

• Flour tortillas: six large for the crisp base choose fresh ones for best texture
• Melted butter: quarter cup for richness and helps cinnamon sugar stick use unsalted for control over saltiness
• Sugar: half a cup for sweetness fine granulated sugar melts nicely
• Cinnamon: two teaspoons to add warm spice opt for freshly ground if possible for bold flavor
• Vanilla: one teaspoon optional lends subtle depth and aroma
• Nutmeg: a pinch optional but adds a festive earthy undertone best when freshly grated

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the oven:

Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.

Mix the cinnamon sugar:

In a small bowl, thoroughly combine the sugar cinnamon and nutmeg if using ensuring an even flavor throughout.

Butter the tortillas:

Brush both sides of each tortilla evenly with melted butter. This step is crucial to achieve that golden crunch and hold on to the cinnamon sugar.

Sprinkle the sugar mixture:

Generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar over both sides of the buttered tortillas so every bite is perfectly sweet and spiced.

Cut into shapes:

Use a sharp knife or festive cookie cutters to slice the tortillas into triangles strips or holiday shapes like stars or trees.

Arrange on baking sheet:

Place the cut pieces on the parchment-lined sheet ensuring they are spaced out and not overlapping for even baking.

Bake until crisp:

Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the crisps are golden and crispy. Watch closely near the end as they can go from golden to burnt quickly.

Cool completely:

Remove the baking sheet and let the crisps cool fully on a wire rack or plate. They will continue to firm up and achieve perfect crunchiness as they cool.

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Personal Note

Cinnamon stands out as my favorite ingredient here. Its warm aroma always fills the kitchen with holiday spirit as these crisps bake. One Christmas Eve I remember making these while the carolers sang outside and the whole house felt wrapped in cozy cheer.

Storage Tips

Store the crisps in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them crisp for up to a week. Avoid refrigeration as it can introduce moisture and soften the texture. For longer storage freeze in a sealed bag and re-crisp in the oven before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have flour tortillas try lightly brushed puff pastry for a flakier version or corn tortillas for a different texture but slightly less pliable. Maple syrup can be added to the butter for extra sweetness. Ground cloves or allspice can substitute or complement nutmeg for twist on the spice blend.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these crisps alongside hot cocoa eggnog or coffee for a festive treat. They make delightful edible garnishes on holiday dessert platters or can be crumbled over ice cream or pudding for added crunch and flavor.

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Cultural and Historical Context

Cinnamon has a rich history dating back thousands of years and was once considered a prized spice worth its weight in gold. Its association with holiday baking and preserves connects modern cooks with festive traditions of warmth and comfort through sweet spiced flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of tortillas work best for cinnamon crisps?

Large, flour tortillas are ideal as they crisp nicely and hold the cinnamon sugar coating well during baking.

→ How can I make the crisps extra crunchy?

Baking a couple of minutes longer helps achieve extra crunch, but watch carefully to prevent over-browning.

→ Can I use alternative spices in the cinnamon sugar mix?

Yes, adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of vanilla can enhance the warm flavors without overpowering the cinnamon.

→ What shapes can I cut the tortillas into?

Triangles, strips, or festive holiday shapes like stars or trees add a fun visual touch before baking.

→ How should I store leftover cinnamon crisps?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispness for several days.

→ Are these crisps suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, the crisps contain no animal products beyond butter, making them vegetarian-friendly.