Pineapple and Cinnamon Shortbread Cookies: A Tropical Twist on a Classic Treat

Shortbread cookies are known for their buttery, crumbly texture and delicate flavor, but what happens when you add the sweetness of pineapple and the warmth of cinnamon? You get a tropical-inspired treat that is sure to delight your taste buds. Pineapple and cinnamon shortbread cookies combine the rich, buttery base of shortbread with the vibrant flavor of pineapple and the cozy, aromatic touch of cinnamon.

These cookies are perfect for anyone who loves a twist on a classic recipe. The tropical pineapple adds a burst of freshness, while the cinnamon complements the natural sweetness of the fruit. Whether you’re serving them at a summer gathering or simply enjoying them as an afternoon snack, these cookies are guaranteed to become a favorite.

In this article, we’ll take you through the steps of making these irresistible cookies, share tips for perfecting the texture, and explore creative ways to customize the recipe to suit your taste.

Health Benefits of Pineapple and Cinnamon

Before diving into the recipe, let’s take a look at the health benefits of the two main ingredients: pineapple and cinnamon.

Pineapple:

Pineapple is a tropical fruit that is packed with nutrients. It is an excellent source of vitamin C, which supports immune health and promotes collagen production for healthy skin. Pineapple also contains bromelain, an enzyme that can aid digestion by breaking down proteins. The natural sweetness of pineapple makes it an ideal addition to baked goods, where it adds both flavor and moisture.

Cinnamon:

Cinnamon is a popular spice that is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to regulate blood sugar levels. It also has antioxidant benefits, helping to protect the body from oxidative stress. In addition to its health benefits, cinnamon adds a warm, comforting flavor to desserts, making it a perfect complement to the sweet and tangy pineapple.

Together, pineapple and cinnamon not only create a delicious flavor profile but also provide some healthful benefits that make these cookies an indulgent yet nutritious treat.

Ingredients for Pineapple and Cinnamon Shortbread Cookies

To make these tropical shortbread cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup dried pineapple (finely chopped, or fresh pineapple if preferred)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

These ingredients will create a buttery, crumbly shortbread cookie with a tropical twist from the pineapple and a warm spice from the cinnamon.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Pineapple and Cinnamon Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 3-4 minutes. The butter should be at room temperature to ensure it creams well.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and ground cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring until the dough just begins to come together.

Step 4: Incorporate the Pineapple

Once the dough is formed, fold in the finely chopped dried pineapple (or fresh pineapple, if using). Mix gently to evenly distribute the fruit throughout the dough. The pineapple adds both moisture and sweetness to the cookies.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a log about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Alternatively, you can press the dough into a square or rectangle and cut it into shapes. For a traditional shortbread look, you can also shape the dough into round cookies using a cookie scoop.

Step 6: Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough will help the cookies maintain their shape during baking and make them easier to slice or cut.

Step 7: Slice and Bake

Once chilled, slice the dough into rounds or cut it into your desired shape. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small amount of space between them. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, they are ready to enjoy.

Tips for Perfect Pineapple and Cinnamon Shortbread Cookies

• Use Room Temperature Butter: For the best texture, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature before you begin. This will ensure that it creams easily with the sugar.
• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough before baking helps the cookies keep their shape and results in a better texture. Don’t skip this step.
• Adjust the Pineapple: If you prefer a stronger pineapple flavor, you can add more dried pineapple or even use fresh pineapple. Just be mindful that fresh pineapple has more moisture, which can affect the dough’s consistency.
• Add Extra Spice: If you enjoy a more intense spice flavor, feel free to add an extra pinch of cinnamon or even a dash of nutmeg to the dough.

Creative Variations of Pineapple and Cinnamon Shortbread Cookies

While these pineapple and cinnamon shortbread cookies are delicious as they are, here are a few variations you can try:

• Coconut Pineapple Shortbread: Add shredded coconut to the dough to enhance the tropical flavor and texture of the cookies.
• Spicy Pineapple Cookies: Add ground ginger or cloves for a spicier twist that complements the pineapple and cinnamon.
• Chocolate-Dipped Pineapple Shortbread: After the cookies have cooled, dip them in melted dark or white chocolate for an indulgent finish.

When to Serve Pineapple and Cinnamon Shortbread Cookies

These tropical shortbread cookies are perfect for a variety of occasions:

• Afternoon Tea: Serve these cookies with your afternoon tea for a refreshing, tropical treat.
• Holiday Baking: These shortbread cookies make a great addition to your holiday cookie platter, offering a sweet and spiced flavor that will complement other treats.
• Picnics and Parties: These cookies are easy to pack and serve at outdoor gatherings, picnics, or parties.
• Gifts: Pack these cookies in a beautiful tin or box and give them as a homemade gift for friends and family.

Conclusion: A Tropical Delight

Pineapple and cinnamon shortbread cookies offer a delightful twist on a classic favorite. The buttery, crumbly texture of shortbread is elevated by the sweet, tropical pineapple and the warm, aromatic flavor of cinnamon. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a simple afternoon snack.

Try this recipe today and enjoy a tropical escape with every bite!