Cinnamon cookies

Cinnamon Cookies - A fragrant and comforting delicacy

In search of a quick and simple dessert that is full of flavor, cinnamon cookies are the perfect choice! This recipe, inspired by the talented Anna Olson, brings a touch of warmth and joy in every bite. Whether you serve them at a gathering with friends or simply reward yourself after a long day, these cookies are an unforgettable choice. Plus, cinnamon not only adds flavor but also a wealth of nutritional benefits, such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 20 cookies

Ingredients:

- 200 g butter or margarine (make sure it is at room temperature for better mixing)
- 3 tablespoons honey (provides a natural sweetness that perfectly blends the flavors)
- 50 g powdered sugar (for a fine and fluffy texture)
- 3-4 tablespoons lemon juice (this will add a note of freshness)
- 1 pinch of ammonium bicarbonate (helps the dough rise)
- 1 pinch of baking soda (also contributes to aerating the dough)
- 50 ml sparkling water (the carbon dioxide bubbles will make the dough lighter)
- 1 vanilla essence (for a deep and comforting flavor)
- 2 tablespoons cinnamon (a key ingredient, full of character)
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest (adds a vibrant citrus flavor)
- Approximately 250 g flour (depending on the moisture of the ingredients, you may need more or less)

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl, add the soft butter or margarine and the powdered sugar. Use a mixer or spatula to cream the butter until it becomes a fluffy and light mixture. This is the perfect base for your cookies.

2. Adding the wet ingredients:
Incorporate the honey, lemon juice, sparkling water, and vanilla essence. Make sure to mix well so that all the ingredients combine harmoniously. You can substitute honey with another natural sweetener, such as maple syrup, if you wish!

3. Flavoring the dough:
Add the cinnamon, grated lemon zest, and ammonium bicarbonate and baking soda. Mix well to distribute the flavors and activate the rising reaction.

4. Incorporating the flour:
Start adding the flour gradually. It is important to do this in a rain-like manner, mixing continuously to avoid lumps. You will obtain a soft and easy-to-roll dough, perfect for cookies.

5. Shaping the cookies:
Sprinkle a work surface with flour. Use a rolling pin to roll out the dough into a not very thick sheet, about 5 mm. Using a cutter or a glass, cut out the desired shapes. You can opt for classic circular shapes or festive shapes, depending on the occasion.

6. Preparing the oven:
Preheat the oven to 180°C, ensuring it is well heated before placing the cookies inside. Arrange the cookies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving space between them, as they will expand slightly during baking.

7. Baking:
Bake the cookies for 15-20 minutes, until they become golden around the edges. They will have an enticing cinnamon aroma that will fill the entire house!

8. Cooling and decorating:
After removing them from the oven, let the cookies cool on a cooling rack. Once they have completely cooled, dust them with powdered sugar or decorate them with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar mixed with cinnamon and a few drops of lemon juice. Put the glaze in a bag, cut a corner, and creatively decorate the cookies!

Helpful tips:
- To add a touch of originality, you can replace part of the flour with almond or oat flour, giving a different texture to the cookies.
- If you want to make them less sweet, you can reduce the amount of honey.
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for a few days without losing their freshness.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use oil instead of butter? While oil can be an alternative, the taste and texture will vary. Butter provides a richer flavor and a more pleasant texture.
- How can I make the cookies crunchier? You can bake the cookies a bit longer, but be careful not to burn them. Also, make sure the dough sheets are thin.

Delicious combinations:
These cinnamon cookies pair perfectly with a cup of hot tea or aromatic coffee. You can also serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly decadent dessert.

Remember, cooking is an art, and every recipe is an opportunity to express yourself! So, enjoy the process, experiment, and adapt the recipe to your preferences. In the end, you will have not only delicious cookies but also beautiful memories and unforgettable moments spent in the kitchen!