Sugar Cinnamon Pie Crust has been a delightful discovery for me, bringing back memories of childhood baking with my grandma. I remember the scent of cinnamon filling her kitchen, a comforting aroma that always signaled something special was baking. This recipe for a sweet cinnamon pie crust transforms simple ingredients into an irresistible treat. You’ll love how easy it is to create these pinwheel cookies, turning leftover pie dough into a caramelized, flaky snack. It’s truly an easy ground turkey dinner that everyone will adore. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love These Sugar Cinnamon Pie Crust Pinwheel Cookies

I genuinely believe you’ll adore these cookies for so many reasons. They’re a fantastic way to use up extra pie dough, turning it into something truly special with minimal effort. Here’s why they’ll become a new favorite:

They offer a perfect balance of sweet and spicy, with a delightful crunch in every bite.
This is an easy sugar cinnamon pie crust recipe, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
You’ll achieve a wonderfully flaky sugar cinnamon pie crust texture, making them incredibly satisfying.
They’re budget-friendly, transforming humble pie crust into an impressive treat without breaking the bank.
These cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and perfect for family gatherings or a quick snack.
They’re versatile, allowing for simple variations to suit any taste preference.

Ingredients for Sugar Cinnamon Pie Crust Pinwheel Cookies

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful treats. I love how simple this list is, proving that you don’t need much to make something truly delicious.

2 pie crusts (homemade or refrigerated) – I often use store-bought for convenience, but your favorite homemade recipe works beautifully too.
2 tablespoons butter, melted – This helps the sugar and cinnamon adhere to the pastry.
1 1/2 cups white sugar, divided – This provides the sweetness and creates that lovely caramelized coating on our cinnamon sugar pastry dough.
Ground cinnamon, to taste – Don’t be shy here; adjust the amount to your personal preference for that perfect spiced flavor.

These basic items are all you need to transform simple pie dough into irresistible cookies.

How to Make Sugar Cinnamon Pie Crust Pinwheel Cookies

Making these pinwheel cookies is incredibly satisfying, and I promise you’ll love how straightforward the process is. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a batch of warm, sweet treats in no time.

Step 1: First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, I always line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly coat it with cooking spray. This makes cleanup a breeze and prevents sticking.
Step 2: Next, grab a bowl or a large plastic bag and place 1 cup of white sugar inside. This sugar will be used later to coat the finished cookies, giving them that extra sparkle. Set it aside for now.
Step 3: Unroll or gently roll out your pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. My goal is always to get each crust to about 1/8 inch thick, ensuring a nice, even surface for our sweet cinnamon pie crust. If you’re using homemade sugar cinnamon pie dough, this is where it really shines!
Step 4: Now, brush the melted butter evenly over both pie crusts. You want just enough to lightly coat the surface without making it soggy. This butter acts as a delicious glue for our sugar and cinnamon.
Step 5: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of white sugar evenly over both crusts. Then, follow with a generous dusting of ground cinnamon. I love the smell of cinnamon at this stage; it truly signals something wonderful is coming. Feel free to adjust the cinnamon to your preference for a richer spiced flavor.
Step 6: Carefully roll each crust into a log. It’s important not to roll them too tightly, as they need a little space to puff up beautifully while baking. This gentle rolling is what creates that gorgeous cinnamon swirl pie crust effect you’re aiming for.
Step 7: Once rolled, slice each log into 1/2-inch rounds. Arrange these rounds, cut-side down, on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one to allow for expansion.
Step 8: Bake the cookies for 15–20 minutes, or until they turn a lovely golden brown and you see the sugar starting to bubble and caramelize around the edges. This caramelization is key to their delicious flavor and texture.
Step 9: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. They’ll be delicate at first, so this cooling time helps them firm up before you gently loosen them with a spatula.
Step 10: Once fully cooled, roll each cookie in the reserved sugar from Step 2. This final coating ensures every sugar cinnamon pie crust cookie is perfectly finished with a sparkling, sweet crunch.
Step 11: Serve and enjoy your delightful homemade cookies! I find them irresistible when they’re still slightly warm.

Delicious Sugar Cinnamon Pie Crust Pinwheel Cookies cooling on a rack, showcasing their golden-brown color and sweet aroma

Pro Tips for the Best Sugar Cinnamon Pie Crust Pinwheel Cookies

I’ve made these pinwheel cookies countless times, and I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way that I’m excited to share with you. These tips will help ensure your Sugar Cinnamon Pie Crust pinwheels turn out perfectly crisp and delicious every time.

Don’t overwork your pie dough. Gentle handling keeps the crust flaky and tender, which is key for a delicate cookie.
Be generous with the cinnamon and sugar; it’s what gives these cookies their irresistible flavor and golden-brown caramelization.
Ensure your oven is fully preheated. A consistently hot oven helps the cookies bake evenly and become perfectly crisp.
Allow the cookies to cool completely before rolling them in the final sugar coating. This prevents the sugar from melting and creates a beautiful, sparkling finish.

What’s the secret to perfect crispy Sugar Cinnamon Pie Crust Pinwheel Cookies?

The real secret for the best sugar cinnamon pie crust pinwheels lies in the baking time and temperature. Baking at 350°F (175°C) until golden brown allows the sugar to caramelize properly, creating that delightful crispness. Don’t pull them out too early!

Can I make these Sugar Cinnamon Pie Crust Pinwheel Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the logs of dough up to 2 days in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply slice and proceed with the baking instructions. This is perfect for stress-free entertaining.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Sugar Cinnamon Pie Crust Pinwheel Cookies?

One common mistake is rolling the dough too thick, which can lead to chewy rather than crispy cookies. Another is over-rolling the log too tightly, which can prevent the beautiful cinnamon swirl from forming. Also, avoid under-baking; you want that deep golden color for maximum flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Your Sugar Cinnamon Pie Crust Pinwheel Cookies

Once your delightful Sugar Cinnamon Pie Crust pinwheel cookies are baked and cooled, the fun truly begins with serving them! I find these little treats are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. They make a fantastic standalone snack for an afternoon pick-me-up or a simple dessert after any meal.

For a cozy treat, I love serving them alongside a warm mug of coffee, tea, or even a glass of cold milk. The crisp texture and sweet cinnamon flavor of the sweetened cinnamon baked crust complement these beverages perfectly. You could also arrange them on a platter with fresh fruit, like sliced apples or berries, for a lighter, more refreshing dessert spread. They’re also a charming addition to any brunch table or holiday cookie assortment!

Close-up of a stack of golden-brown Sugar Cinnamon Pie Crust Pinwheel Cookies, dusted with extra sugar, ready to be served

Nutrition Facts for Sugar Cinnamon Pie Crust Pinwheel Cookies

I know many of you are curious about the nutritional content of these delicious treats, so I’ve compiled an estimate for you. Per serving, which is about 2 cookies, here’s what you can expect:

Calories: 64
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 35 mg
Fat: 3 g
Saturated Fat: 1 g
Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 9 g
Fiber: 0 g
Protein: 1 g
Cholesterol: 5 mg

Please remember that these nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you choose for your Sugar Cinnamon Pie Crust cookies.

How to Store and Reheat Sugar Cinnamon Pie Crust Pinwheel Cookies

I always make a big batch of these delicious cookies, and thankfully, they store wonderfully! To keep your Sugar Cinnamon Pie Crust pinwheels fresh and crisp, first ensure they are completely cooled to room temperature. This is crucial to prevent them from becoming soggy in storage.

For short-term storage, place the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to one week. If you’ve created a beautiful sugared cinnamon pie shell effect, you want to preserve that crunch! For longer storage, you can freeze them. Arrange the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months.

To reheat, pop them into a 325°F oven for 3-5 minutes to restore their crispness. This brings back that freshly baked taste and texture, making them just as enjoyable as the day they were made.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sugar Cinnamon Pie Crust

What is a sugar cinnamon pie crust?

A sugar cinnamon pie crust is essentially a standard pie dough that has been enhanced with a generous layer of sugar and ground cinnamon, typically rolled into a pinwheel. This simple addition transforms a plain pastry into a sweet, spiced, and often crispy treat, perfect for snacking or dessert. It’s a delightful way to elevate basic pie dough.

Why add cinnamon to pie crust?

Adding cinnamon to pie crust, especially for a sugar cinnamon pie crust, brings several benefits. Firstly, it infuses the pastry with a warm, aromatic spice that complements sweet fillings or creates a delicious standalone cookie. Secondly, cinnamon pairs beautifully with sugar to caramelize during baking, contributing to a wonderfully crisp texture and a rich, golden-brown color. It truly elevates the flavor profile.

Can I use a gluten-free pie crust for these pinwheel cookies?

Yes, you absolutely can! I’ve had great success using my favorite gluten-free pie crust recipe for these pinwheel cookies. The key is to ensure the dough is pliable enough to roll without cracking. The butter, sugar, and cinnamon additions work just as well with gluten-free pastry, allowing you to enjoy a delicious sugar cinnamon pie crust even with dietary restrictions.

What kind of sugar is best for a sugar cinnamon pie crust?

For this sugar cinnamon pie crust recipe, I find that regular white granulated sugar works best. Its fine granules distribute evenly and caramelize beautifully, creating that signature sweet crunch. While brown sugar could add a molasses note, it might make the crust a bit chewier and less crisp. Stick with granulated sugar for the classic pinwheel cookie texture.

Variations of Sugar Cinnamon Pie Crust Pinwheel Cookies You Can Try

I love experimenting in the kitchen, and these Sugar Cinnamon Pie Crust pinwheel cookies are perfect for creative twists! If you’re looking to mix things up, here are a few variations I’ve enjoyed. Each one builds on the delicious foundation of this easy recipe.

Nutty Crunch: Before rolling, sprinkle a thin layer of finely chopped pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon-sugar mixture. This adds a delightful crunch and a rich, nutty flavor that complements the sweet spice beautifully.
Citrus Zest: For a brighter flavor profile, add a teaspoon of finely grated orange or lemon zest to your cinnamon-sugar mixture. The citrus notes provide a lovely contrast to the warm spices in this spiced pie crust recipe.
Holiday Spice: During festive seasons, swap out the plain cinnamon for a blend of pumpkin pie spice or apple pie spice. This instantly transforms your Sugar Cinnamon Pie Crust cookies into a seasonal treat, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Chocolate Drizzle: After baking and cooling, melt some dark or white chocolate and drizzle it over the cookies. This adds an extra layer of indulgence and a beautiful visual appeal, making them even more decadent.

Sugar Cinnamon Pie Crust: 2 Amazing Sweet Treats

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Author: Michael
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 48 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Sugar Cinnamon Pie Crust Pinwheel Cookies are buttery, crisp, and perfectly caramelized. Made with flaky pie crust, cinnamon, and sugar, they are a nostalgic, easy-to-make treat that transforms simple ingredients into irresistible bite-sized cookies. This recipe is ideal for using leftover pie crust or store-bought dough, offering a quick and satisfying dessert.

Ingredients

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2 pie crusts (homemade or refrigerated)
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 1/2 cups white sugar, divided
Ground cinnamon, to taste

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly coat with cooking spray.
Place 1 cup of white sugar in a bowl or large plastic bag; set aside for coating the cookies later.
Unroll or roll out pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Roll each crust into a flat disk, about 1/8 inch thick, to ensure an even surface for your sweet cinnamon pie crust.
Brush the melted butter evenly over both pie crusts, using just enough to lightly coat the surface without soaking it.
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup white sugar evenly over both crusts, followed by a generous dusting of ground cinnamon. Adjust the amount of cinnamon to your preference for a spiced pie crust recipe.
Roll each crust into a log; do not roll too tightly, as they need space to puff up while baking. This creates the cinnamon swirl pie crust effect.
Slice each log into 1/2-inch rounds and arrange them cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
Bake the cookies for 15–20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the sugar starts to bubble and caramelize. This creates sweetened cinnamon baked crust.
Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before gently loosening them.
Once fully cooled, roll each cookie in the reserved sugar for a final sparkling coating, ensuring each sugar cinnamon pie crust cookie is perfectly finished.
Serve and enjoy your homemade sugar cinnamon pie dough cookies.

Notes

Brush melted butter with a hint of vanilla or almond extract for added aroma.
For a nutty twist, sprinkle crushed pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon sugar before rolling.
Drizzle baked cookies with a thin glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for extra indulgence.
Around the holidays, use pumpkin pie spice or apple pie spice instead of cinnamon for a festive twist.
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
To freeze, skip the final sugar coating and freeze baked cookies in a single layer. Once thawed, roll in sugar before serving.
To re-crisp, pop them into a 325°F oven for 3–5 minutes.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Cookies
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American