Go Back
cookies on parchment paper
Print Recipe
5 from 1 vote

Cinnamon Shortbread Cookies

Learn how to make buttery, spiced cinnamon shortbread cookies with this easy recipe! Perfect for the holidays, these cookies are foolproof, flavorful, and great for gifting.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Servings: 36 cookies

Equipment

  • cookie sheets
  • Parchment Paper

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (230 grams)
  • ½ cup granulated sugar (100 grams)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (260 grams)
  • ½ cup rice flour (80 grams)

Cinnamon-Sugar Mix

  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon dark brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line two cookie trays with baking paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
  • In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is pale and fluffy. Sift the plain flour and rice flour into the bowl, then mix until a dough forms. The dough will appear crumbly at first—keep mixing until it clumps together.
  • On a lightly floured surface, shape the dough into a ball and roll it out to about 5–6mm thickness. Use cookie cutters to create your desired shapes. I use 2.5-inch (6 cm) round cutters with crimped edges. Gather and re-roll any scraps to minimize waste.
    Gently transfer the cookies onto the prepared baking trays using a palette knife or spatula.
  • Bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Avoid overbaking to preserve their tender texture.
  • While the cookies bake, combine all the cinnamon and sugar on a wide plate until combined.
  • Once the cookies are out of the oven and slightly cooled, brush each one with melted butter. Immediately press the cookies into the spice mix, coating one side.

Notes

  • Cold Butter: Softened butter is essential for that signature shortbread texture. If your butter is too warm, the dough may spread excessively during baking.
  • Even Thickness: Rolling the dough evenly ensures all cookies bake at the same rate.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to a week. The spice coating keeps the flavors bold and the cookies fresh.