Mom'S Italian Cinnamon Cookies(Pinwheels)
Mom's Italian Cinnamon Cookies, also known as Pinwheels, are delightful treats featuring a flaky dough infused with cinnamon and sugar. These visually appealing cookies boast warm cinnamon flavor complemented by a tender, buttery texture. Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or everyday indulgence, they appeal to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make a well in the flour and baking powder.
- Add eggs, vanilla, lemon extract, and liquid fat (corn oil, margarine, or melted butter).
- Beat with a fork, bringing in the dry ingredients.
- Add more flour if necessary to achieve a soft, firm consistency.
- Rest the dough for 10 minutes, then roll out on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Spread melted butter over the rolled dough.
- Sprinkle generously with sugar and cinnamon.
- Roll up the dough tightly into a log.
- Cut into 1/2-inch slices.
- Lay the slices flat on a cookie sheet and bake until lightly golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using melted butter instead of corn oil or margarine. You can experiment with different types of sugar, like brown sugar, for a deeper sweetness. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour to achieve the right consistency. Make sure to roll the dough evenly to ensure uniform baking. For a twist, try adding chopped nuts or dried fruit inside the rolls.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful pinwheels are perfect for afternoon tea or as a sweet treat after a meal. They pair beautifully with coffee or a cup of tea. Consider serving them alongside a fresh fruit salad or a scoop of gelato for a delightful dessert experience. For an Italian-inspired spread, include them with other homemade treats from your favorite Italian recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer to keep them longer, you can freeze the pinwheels. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and slightly crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Italian Cinnamon Cookies(Pinwheels) contains roughly 87 calories, with 1g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before rolling and baking. Alternatively, shape the cookies and freeze them before baking. Just bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I substitute for the lemon extract?
If you don't have lemon extract, you can use almond extract for a different flavor profile or simply omit it if you prefer a more traditional cinnamon cookie taste. Fresh lemon zest can also be a wonderful addition for a natural citrus flavor.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when they are lightly golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them as baking times can vary based on your oven. If you're unsure, you can always check the bottom of one cookie to ensure it's not too pale.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).