Easy Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips in Under 20 Min

Craving a sweet, crunchy treat that comes together in a flash? Look no further than homemade cinnamon sugar tortilla chips! This delightful snack transforms humble tortillas into an irresistible indulgence, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth any time of day. Imagine warm, crispy chips dusted generously with the comforting aroma of cinnamon and the perfect touch of sweetness. Whether you enjoy them as a quick breakfast bite, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a crowd-pleasing dessert, these chips are guaranteed to be a hit. Best of all, they're incredibly simple to make, often ready from start to finish in under 20 minutes!

If you're a fan of cinnamon rolls, churros, or anything adorned with that magical cinnamon-sugar blend, then preparing these easy homemade chips will become your new obsession. They offer that satisfying crunch of a tortilla chip with a heartwarming, sweet twist. Plus, they are an excellent way to use up those few leftover tortillas lingering in your fridge, transforming them into something truly special. Get ready to embark on a delicious journey that proves making gourmet-level snacks at home doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. You'll soon be joining the ranks of those who can't get enough of sweet & crunchy cinnamon sugar tortilla chips.

Why You'll Love Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips

There are countless reasons why these cinnamon sugar tortilla chips deserve a permanent spot in your snack rotation. Their appeal lies in a combination of convenience, versatility, and undeniable deliciousness:

Unbeatable Speed and Simplicity: The promise of "under 20 minutes" isn't an exaggeration. With just a few pantry staples and minimal effort, you can whip up a batch of these crave-worthy chips. It's the ultimate quick fix for a sweet craving.
Incredible Versatility: These aren't just for snacking! Serve them plain, or elevate them into a stunning dessert with various dips and toppings. They're perfect for game day gatherings, spontaneous parties, or as an impressive (yet easy) appetizer. Kids absolutely adore them as an after-school snack, and even adults can appreciate them as a light dessert or a unique breakfast treat.
Economical and Resourceful: Do you often find yourself with a few tortillas left in a package? This recipe is your solution! It’s a fantastic and flavorful way to transform leftover tortillas into something extraordinary, reducing food waste and saving you money.
Customizable to Your Taste: While perfect on their own, these chips are a blank canvas for culinary creativity. Pair them with fresh fruit, chocolate drizzles, creamy dips, or turn them into elaborate dessert nachos.
Fun for All Ages: Making cinnamon sugar tortilla chips can be a delightful activity to share with children. From brushing on the butter to dusting with cinnamon sugar, kids will love being involved in creating their own tasty treats.
Freshness You Can't Beat: Unlike their store-bought counterparts, homemade chips offer unparalleled freshness and crispness, with control over the ingredients and quality.

Essential Ingredients & Tools for Perfect Chips

One of the beauties of this recipe is its reliance on humble, everyday ingredients and basic kitchen tools. You likely have most of what you need already!

Gathering Your Simple Ingredients

Tortillas: The foundation of your chips! While you can use homemade flour or corn tortillas, store-bought varieties work perfectly. Many find that flour tortillas tend to yield a slightly softer, chewier interior with a crisp exterior, which is often preferred for these sweet chips. However, corn tortillas will give you a more traditional "chip" texture if that's what you're after. This recipe is ideal for using up those remaining 3 or 4 tortillas from a pack.
Cinnamon: The undeniable star! Use good quality ground cinnamon for the best flavor. While most recipes use common Cassia cinnamon, a dash of more nuanced Ceylon cinnamon can add an extra layer of aromatic complexity if you have it on hand.
Sugar: Regular granulated white sugar is all you need for that classic sweet crunch. For a slightly different flavor profile, you could experiment with light brown sugar for a hint of caramel, or even coconut sugar for a more unrefined sweetness.
Fat: This is crucial for crispness and for the cinnamon sugar to adhere properly.
- Butter: Unsalted or salted butter both work wonderfully. If using salted, you might slightly reduce any additional salt you're adding to the mix (though it's usually not required for this recipe).
- Oils: For a dairy-free or lighter option, avocado oil, olive oil (light-flavored), or melted coconut oil are excellent substitutes. Margarine or cooking spray can also be used. The goal is a light, even coating.

Tools of the Trade

You won't need any fancy gadgets for these cinnamon sugar tortilla chips:

Basting Brush: Essential for evenly coating your tortillas with melted butter or oil.
Small Bowls: One for melting butter, another for mixing your cinnamon sugar.
Pizza Roller or Sharp Knife: For quickly and efficiently cutting your tortillas into chip-sized pieces. A pizza roller is especially handy for even triangles.
Sheet Pan(s): For baking your chips in the oven. You might need two depending on how many tortillas you're making.
Parchment Paper or Silicone Mat: Line your sheet pan to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This is a game-changer for non-stick baking!

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips

Ready to transform your kitchen into a sweet-smelling bakery? Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of irresistible cinnamon sugar tortilla chips.

Preparation is Key

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensure your oven rack is in the middle position for even baking. If using an air fryer, you'll generally preheat to a slightly lower temperature, around 350°F (175°C), depending on your model.
Melt the Fat: Place your butter or chosen oil in a small, microwave-safe bowl and melt it. This usually takes just 15-30 seconds in the microwave. Alternatively, you can melt it gently on the stovetop in a small pot, or even in an oven-safe bowl placed in the oven while it preheats.
Create the Cinnamon Sugar Mix: In a separate small bowl, combine your granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Stir well with a spoon to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the sugar. A good ratio to start with is 1/4 cup sugar to 1-2 teaspoons of cinnamon, but feel free to adjust to your personal preference!
Prep Your Pan: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will prevent your chips from sticking and make cleanup effortless.

Assembling Your Chips

Prepare Tortillas: Lay one or two tortillas flat on your prepared baking sheet. Using your basting brush, lightly and evenly coat one side of each tortilla with the melted butter or oil. Don't drench them; a thin, even layer is perfect for crispness and adherence.
Cut into Chips: Using a pizza cutter or a sharp knife, cut each buttered tortilla into 6-8 equal-sized triangles (like cutting a pizza) or into strips. For visual appeal and easier handling, consistent sizes are best.
Arrange and Sugar: Spread the cut tortilla pieces in a single layer on the baking sheet. They can be close but try to avoid significant overlap, as this can lead to uneven baking. Generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the buttered side of all the chips. For an extra boost of flavor, you can flip them and lightly brush and sugar the other side too, though it’s not strictly necessary.

Baking to Perfection (Oven Method)

Pop your baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 8-12 minutes, or until the chips are lightly golden brown and appear crispy. Keep a close eye on them, especially during the last few minutes, as they can go from perfectly golden to burnt very quickly due to the sugar content. The edges might brown faster than the centers. Once baked, remove the tray from the oven and let the cinnamon sugar tortilla chips cool on the pan for a few minutes. They will crisp up even further as they cool. Transfer to a wire rack for complete cooling if you want them extra crunchy.

Air Fryer Alternative

If you're making a smaller batch or prefer not to turn on your oven, the air fryer is a fantastic option! Follow the same preparation steps for buttering and sugaring the tortillas. Cut them into chips. Place a single layer of chips in your air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, flipping halfway through. Air fryer times can vary, so monitor closely until they are golden and crispy. Repeat in batches until all your chips are cooked.

Creative Ways to Enjoy Your Homemade Chips

While delicious on their own, cinnamon sugar tortilla chips truly shine when paired with other ingredients. Here are some ideas to inspire your next snack or dessert experience:

Simple Snacking: There's no shame in just enjoying them straight off the pan. Their sweet crunch is perfectly satisfying all on its own.
Fruity Dips & Toppings:
- Fresh Berries: Serve alongside a bowl of fresh diced strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries.
- Fruit Salsa: A colorful fruit salsa made with mango, pineapple, kiwi, and a hint of lime juice is a refreshing accompaniment.
- Yogurt Dip: Mix Greek yogurt with a touch of honey and vanilla extract for a creamy, tangy dip.
Creamy & Indulgent Pairings:
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream takes these chips to dessert heaven.
- Cream Cheese Frosting Dip: Whisk together softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and a splash of milk for a decadent dip.
- Ice Cream: Use them as "spoons" for your favorite vanilla or cinnamon-flavored ice cream.
Chocolate Lover's Dream:
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some chocolate chips (milk, dark, or white) and drizzle artfully over the cooled chips.
- Chocolate Dipping Sauce: A simple chocolate ganache or fudge sauce makes for an irresistible dip.
Dessert Nachos Extravaganza: Layer your cinnamon sugar tortilla chips on a platter. Drizzle with chocolate sauce and caramel, sprinkle with mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, fresh fruit (like banana slices or berries), and top with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream. It's a show-stopping dessert that's surprisingly easy to assemble!

Whether it's a quick treat for the kids, a festive addition to a party spread, or a cozy dessert for a quiet evening, these homemade cinnamon sugar tortilla chips are incredibly versatile and always a crowd-pleaser.

Conclusion

From their speedy preparation to their incredible versatility, homemade cinnamon sugar tortilla chips are a true kitchen marvel. In under 20 minutes, you can transform simple tortillas into a sweet, crispy, and utterly addictive snack that rivals any store-bought treat. They're perfect for reducing food waste, a joy to make with kids, and a delightful canvas for endless dessert creations. So, the next time you're craving something sweet and satisfying, skip the complicated recipes and embrace the magic of cinnamon and sugar. You'll be amazed at how such a simple recipe can bring so much joy and flavor to your day!