Cinnamon Raisin Spring Cookies

Name: Cinnamon Raisin Spring Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup sugar; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup raisins

Highlighted under: Homemade Dessert Recipes

I absolutely love the combination of cinnamon and raisins, especially in springtime when the flavors really shine. This recipe for Cinnamon Raisin Spring Cookies blends warm, cozy spices with the sweetness of raisins, making each bite a delightful treat. These cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor, perfect for sharing during spring gatherings or enjoying with a cup of tea. I found that adding a touch of vanilla enhances the overall flavor, making them even harder to resist!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T17:38:27.119Z

When I first made these Cinnamon Raisin Spring Cookies, I was amazed by how the simple ingredients could come together to create such a delightful treat. I love experimenting with spices, and the way cinnamon and raisins meld together in a cookie form is truly magical. The trick I discovered is to let the dough rest for a few minutes before baking, which helps the flavors blend beautifully.

As I shared them with friends, I noticed how everyone was drawn to the soft texture and aromatic scent wafting from the oven. I realized that the balance of sweetness and spice is what keeps everyone coming back for more. If you want a little extra crunch, consider adding some chopped nuts to the mix!

Why You Will Love These Cookies
Warm cinnamon aroma that fills your kitchen
Chewy texture with a delightful pop of sweetness from raisins
Quick and easy to make, perfect for any occasion

The Importance of Ingredient Quality

In baking, the quality of your ingredients can significantly impact the final product. For these Cinnamon Raisin Spring Cookies, I recommend using fresh, flavorful raisins as their natural sweetness and chewiness play a crucial role in the overall texture. Consider soaking the raisins in warm water or rum for about 10-15 minutes to plump them up, enhancing their moisture and flavor. This simple step can elevate your cookies from good to outstanding.

Additionally, using unsalted butter instead of margarine or other substitutes ensures that you have better control over the salt content in your cookies. Unsalted butter allows the flavors of cinnamon and sugar to shine through without any unwanted interference. Make sure your butter is at room temperature for optimal creaming; this should take about 30-60 minutes outside the fridge.

Perfecting the Texture

To achieve the ideal chewy texture in your cookies, be cautious not to over-mix the dough once you've combined the wet and dry ingredients. Over-mixing can lead to dense, tough cookies due to the gluten formation in the flour. Mix just until you see no dry flour left and gently fold in the raisins. The dough should be moist but not overly sticky, allowing it to hold its shape during baking.

When it comes to baking time, keep an eye out for visual cues. The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look slightly underbaked. This will ensure they remain soft and chewy as they cool, rather than becoming crispy. If your first batch turns out too firm, try reducing the baking time by a minute or two in subsequent batches.

Storage and Enjoyment

After baking, it's essential to store your Cinnamon Raisin Spring Cookies properly to maintain their softness. Allow the cookies to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. If you prefer to keep them for longer, you can freeze individual cookies by placing them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag. They will stay fresh for up to three months and can be enjoyed straight from the freezer, or warmed briefly in the microwave for that 'just-baked' experience.

These cookies are fantastic on their own, but for a fun twist, try sandwiching them with cream cheese frosting or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a delightful dessert treat. For a variation, you could also add walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it to your taste, making it a go-to for spring baking.

Ingredients

Cinnamon Raisin Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup sugar
1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup raisins

Mix all the ingredients thoroughly to ensure a consistent dough.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract until well combined.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the raisins.

Scoop and Bake

Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them soft.

Pro Tips

For best results, use fresh raisins and avoid overmixing your dough to keep the cookies tender.

Serving Suggestions

Cinnamon Raisin Spring Cookies are delectable on their own, but they can also elevate any gathering when served with a selection of beverages. Pair them with a warm cup of chai tea or coffee, as the spices in the cookies harmonize beautifully with these drinks. For a refreshing option, a glass of iced lemon tea complements the sweetness and spice perfectly while providing a contrast in temperature.

When hosting a spring event, consider presenting these cookies on a tiered platter among other homemade treats. Their inviting aroma and appeal can entice guests. Additionally, wrapping a few cookies in decorative cellophane can create an enjoyable and personal edible gift for friends or family.

Adjusting the Recipe

If you're looking to reduce the sugar content, you can experiment with substituting half of the sugar with unsweetened applesauce. This not only lowers the sweetness but also adds an additional layer of moisture and hints of apple flavor that pairs nicely with cinnamon. Make sure to adjust baking time lightly, as the additional moisture may require a few extra minutes in the oven.

For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Most blends available in stores perform well in cookies, but consider adding a teaspoon of xanthan gum to help bind the ingredients together and maintain the chewy texture. This way, even those with dietary restrictions can enjoy delicious spring cookies.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the raisins?

Yes, feel free to use chocolate chips or other dried fruits instead of raisins.

→ Can I chill the dough before baking?

Absolutely! Chilling the dough for 30 minutes can enhance the flavor and result in thicker cookies.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to three months. Just thaw and bake as directed when ready.