Vanilla Cinnamon Sugar Christmas Bites Recipe

If you’re looking to add a little magic to your holiday baking, these Vanilla Cinnamon Sugar Christmas Bites are just the ticket. Imagine tender little bites of buttery dough, perfectly spiced with cinnamon and infused with warm vanilla, then dusted in a sweet cinnamon sugar coating that sparkles like holiday cheer. Easy to make and utterly delicious, these bites are the perfect festive treat to share with family, friends, or even to sneak a few yourself while wrapping presents or sipping cocoa. They capture all the cozy flavors of the season in one delightful, bite-sized package.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple pantry staples that combine to create a wonderful balance of flavor, texture, and festive aroma. Each element plays a crucial role—from the soft, buttery dough to the sweet cinnamon sugar that gives these Christmas Bites their signature sparkle and warmth.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a tender, light dough that holds its shape perfectly.
• 1 tsp baking powder: Adds just the right amount of lift for a soft, airy texture.
• ½ tsp salt: Enhances all the other flavors, balancing sweetness and spice.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and moisture essential for that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
• ½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough while helping to create a lovely crumb.
• 1 large egg: Binds everything together and adds a bit of richness.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses the dough with warm, aromatic flavor that’s the heart of every Vanilla Cinnamon Sugar Christmas Bite.
• ¼ cup milk: Keeps the dough soft and easy to handle.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (for coating): Combines with cinnamon to make the sweet, crunchy outer layer.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Gives the coating that irresistible holiday spice kick.

How to Make Vanilla Cinnamon Sugar Christmas Bites

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple prep ensures your bites bake evenly and come off the tray easily, making cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these first helps distribute the leavening evenly throughout your dough for consistent texture in every bite.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a mixer or a sturdy spoon, cream the softened butter with the granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key for that tender crumb and melt-in-your-mouth softness.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is fully combined. The vanilla extract is the star here, giving your Christmas Bites that signature warm, inviting flavor.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk. This gradual mixing keeps the dough soft and easy to handle, making the perfect consistency for shaping.

Step 6: Shape and Coat

Roll the dough into small 1-inch balls. Then, in a shallow bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Roll each dough ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated—this creates the magical crunchy-sweet outside crust.

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Place the coated balls on your prepared baking sheet, giving them space to spread just a bit. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until they are lightly golden around the edges. Allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely or serve warm.

How to Serve Vanilla Cinnamon Sugar Christmas Bites

Garnishes

Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar right before serving for added sparkle and sweetness. For a festive touch, you can also dust them lightly with powdered sugar or add a small dollop of whipped cream alongside.

Side Dishes

These bites pair wonderfully with warm holiday drinks like mulled cider, hot chocolate, or spiced coffee. Their sweet cinnamon flavor complements creamy and spicy beverages perfectly, making for a cozy treat break.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, arrange your Vanilla Cinnamon Sugar Christmas Bites in small decorative boxes or on holiday platters with candy canes and fresh evergreen sprigs. They also make perfect edible gifts when wrapped in cellophane tied with a ribbon.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Christmas Bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps retain their tenderness and delicious cinnamon sugar crunch without drying out.

Freezing

If you want to prepare these little delights ahead of time, they freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat frozen bites in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5–7 minutes. This restores their fresh-baked warmth and brings back that irresistible aroma of vanilla and cinnamon.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour?

All-purpose flour works best for the right texture, but you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free blends. Just note the texture and taste may vary slightly.

What if I don’t have cinnamon?

Cinnamon is essential to the signature flavor of these bites, but you could try nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for a different seasonal touch if you’re in a pinch.

How long do Vanilla Cinnamon Sugar Christmas Bites stay fresh?

Stored properly in an airtight container, they stay fresh for about 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge.

Can I make these bites vegan?

Yes! Substitute the butter with a vegan alternative and use a flax egg or another egg replacement. Just keep in mind the texture and flavor might be slightly different but still delicious.

What’s the best way to roll the dough balls?

Using slightly greased or floured hands can help prevent sticking. Keep the bites about 1-inch in diameter for even baking and the perfect bite size.

Final Thoughts

If you want to fill your kitchen with the scents of vanilla and cinnamon while creating sweet little bites of holiday joy, these Vanilla Cinnamon Sugar Christmas Bites are an absolute must-try. They’re easy, festive, and guaranteed to become your new go-to for Christmas treats. Trust me, once you make them, they’ll be a regular part of your holiday tradition!