The Ultimate Recipe for Irresistible Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

There are certain cookies that instantly evoke warmth, nostalgia, and the comforting spirit of the holidays. Among them, the classic Snowball Cookie known for its delicate, buttery texture and signature snowy dusting stands supreme. But what if we told you that this beloved recipe could be upgraded with a hint of warming spice? Enter the Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies.

These aren’t just your grandmother’s ordinary tea cakes; this recipe transforms the traditional cookie into a flavor powerhouse. By introducing a double roll in a generous, spiced confectioners’ sugar coating, we achieve an unparalleled depth of flavor and an irresistibly beautiful presentation. Each bite delivers a perfect contrast: the rich, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread interior complemented by the crisp, sweet, and fragrant exterior of cinnamon sugar. Whether you call them Mexican Wedding Cookies, Russian Tea Cakes, or simply Snowballs, this cinnamon sugar twist is guaranteed to become a new favorite in your annual baking tradition. If you’re looking to diversify your festive baking repertoire beyond the usual, these delightful treats much like our festive Christmas Thumbprint Cookies are an absolute must-bake.

We will walk you through the essential steps, from selecting the right ingredients to mastering the crucial double-roll technique, ensuring your final batch of Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies is nothing short of perfection. Get ready to bake a cookie that is simple to prepare but sophisticated in flavor.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with These Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

The culinary landscape is crowded with cookies, so why should these Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies earn a permanent spot on your favorites list? The answer lies in their brilliant simplicity and complex texture. These cookies are a masterclass in contrasts, offering something truly special that other shortbread-style treats often miss. They are the epitome of simple elegance, requiring no fancy decorating skills, elaborate frosting, or hard-to-find ingredients, yet they present beautifully on any holiday platter.

The Magic of the Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture

Unlike many drop cookies that rely on leaveners like baking powder or soda, snowball cookies are fundamentally a type of shortbread. This means they are rich in butter and relatively low in gluten development. The result is a crumb that is exquisitely tender. As soon as a warm Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookie hits your tongue, it begins to disintegrate, living up to the promise of its “melt-in-your-mouth” reputation. This signature texture is paramount to the snowball experience.

An Elevated Flavor Profile: Cinnamon Spice

The traditional snowball cookie often relies solely on vanilla and nuttiness for flavor. While delicious, adding cinnamon completely transforms the experience. Cinnamon is inherently warming, providing a comforting, slightly spicy counterpoint to the intense sweetness of the powdered sugar. This blend of rich butter, earthy pecans, and fragrant cinnamon creates a depth of flavor that is surprisingly sophisticated. It’s a delightful seasonal upgrade that makes these cookies taste even more festive.

The Irresistible Double Coating Technique

The visual appeal of snowball cookies is their perfect, snowy white exterior. In this recipe for Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies, we achieve a deeply satisfying texture and appearance by employing a crucial technique: the double roll. The first roll occurs while the cookies are still hot from the oven. The warmth melts the outer layer of the cinnamon sugar mixture just enough to create a thin, adhesive glaze. Once the cookie is completely cool, the second roll allows the dry cinnamon sugar to adhere to that sticky base, resulting in a thick, opaque, and truly snowy coating. This double layer ensures maximum flavor and the perfect signature look.

Furthermore, these cookies are incredibly versatile. They travel well, stack easily, and their flavor seems to improve slightly over a day or two as the spices meld into the buttery base. Whether you need a treat for a cookie exchange, a centerpiece for a festive dessert table, or just a cozy snack next to a warm cup of coffee, the simplicity and charm of these cookies make them utterly irresistible. Their ability to hold their shape and their dense structure also means they are less prone to crumbling than traditional shortbread, making them ideal for shipping to loved ones during the holiday season. The robust flavor of the cinnamon sugar coating stands up beautifully against the subtle vanilla and nuttiness within the buttery core, making these a truly memorable confection.

The Secret History and Delight of Classic Snowball Cookies

The history of the snowball cookie is as rich and global as its flavor profile. This cookie goes by many names Russian Tea Cakes, Mexican Wedding Cookies, Butterballs, or Polvorones and nearly every culture with a strong baking tradition claims a version of this delightful, nutty, shortbread confection. While the names vary, the core concept remains the same: a buttery, crumbly dough heavily dusted in powdered sugar. Our version of Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies builds upon this foundation, offering a familiar yet exciting flavor twist.

H3: Understanding the Shortbread Base

The defining characteristic of any great snowball cookie is the use of high-quality butter and powdered sugar in the dough itself. Unlike granulated sugar, which can cause cookies to spread and become crisper, powdered sugar contains a small amount of cornstarch, which helps tenderize the dough and prevents excessive spreading. This ensures the cookies remain dense, yet tender, holding their signature spherical shape and providing that wonderful melt-in-your-mouth experience. This technique, common across many festive holiday treats, is essential for textural success.

H3: Why the Cinnamon Sugar Upgrade Matters

While Mexican Wedding Cookies often include a hint of almond or vanilla, and Russian Tea Cakes focus purely on the butter and pecans, the addition of cinnamon elevates the Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies into a distinct category. Cinnamon is a powerful spice that complements the richness of the butter and the earthy flavor of the nuts perfectly. When you integrate cinnamon into the massive powdered sugar coating, the simple white cookie transforms into something warmly aromatic and deeply comforting. This spiced exterior adds a layer of complexity that is particularly welcome during autumn and winter months.

H3: Nut Choices: Pecans vs. Walnuts

Traditionally, these cookies use pecans or walnuts, lending a rustic crunch and depth of flavor. Pecans tend to be slightly sweeter and more buttery, while walnuts offer a more robust, slightly bitter earthiness. Whichever you choose for your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies, ensure they are very finely chopped. If the nuts are too large, they will make the dough difficult to roll into smooth balls and can cause the cookies to crack during baking. For the smoothest possible texture, some bakers even pulse the nuts in a food processor until they resemble coarse meal. The presence of nuts is not just for crunch; they provide the essential structure that allows the high-fat dough to hold together without relying on eggs or chemical leaveners.

This recipe doesn’t just recreate a classic; it enhances it, making the process of baking simple and the result spectacular. The beauty of these cookies lies in their tradition, but the excitement is in their spiced innovation.

Essential Ingredients and Tools for Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

Achieving the perfect batch of snowball cookies starts long before the oven is preheated. Success hinges on precise measurements, using quality ingredients, and employing the right kitchen tools. This section details why each component is vital for the texture, flavor, and overall snowy presentation of your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies.

Detailed Ingredient Breakdown

Every ingredient in this list plays a specific, non-negotiable role in ensuring these buttery cookies melt properly and hold their shape.

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) Unsalted Butter, Softened: Use unsalted butter so you can control the salt content. The temperature is crucial; the butter must be truly softened (room temperature). If it’s too cold, it won’t cream properly, resulting in a dense cookie. If it’s melted or greasy, the dough will be too soft and the cookies will spread excessively while baking.
• ½ cup Powdered Sugar (Confectioners’ Sugar): This is the only sugar used in the dough itself. As mentioned, the cornstarch content in powdered sugar aids in structure and tenderness, resulting in that signature crumbly texture. Do not substitute this with granulated sugar, or your cookies will be tough and flat.
• 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract: Vanilla is essential for enhancing the buttery flavor. Use pure extract, not imitation, for the best taste profile.
• 2 cups All-Purpose Flour: Standard AP flour works perfectly here. Measuring correctly is vital spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off. Too much flour will result in dry, crumbly dough that is difficult to roll.
• ¼ teaspoon Salt: Even though this is a sweet cookie, salt is necessary to balance the richness of the butter and the sweetness of the sugar, making the flavors pop.
• 1 cup Finely Chopped Pecans or Walnuts (Optional but Recommended): Finely chopping the nuts is key. They add essential flavor and a pleasant textural element without making the cookies difficult to roll. We find that the pecans, in particular, pair beautifully with the cinnamon coating. If you use pecans, you might also enjoy our recipe for Chewy Pecan Pie Cookies for another nutty delight.

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

The coating mixture is what truly defines these as Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies.

• 2 cups Powdered Sugar (Confectioners’ Sugar): You need a substantial amount for the double rolling process. We highly recommend sifting this sugar, especially if it’s been sitting in your pantry for a while, to prevent clumps and ensure a perfectly smooth coating.
• 2 tablespoons Ground Cinnamon: This provides the signature spice. Use freshly ground, good-quality cinnamon for maximum aroma and flavor impact. Adjust this amount slightly if you prefer a less intense spice, but 2 tablespoons is ideal for a noticeable cinnamon presence.

Recommended Kitchen Utensils and Tools

While this is a straightforward recipe, having the right equipment ensures ease of preparation and professional results.

1. Electric Mixer (Stand or Handheld): Essential for creaming the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. A stand mixer with a paddle attachment makes this task effortless.
2. Rubber Spatula/Scraper: Needed frequently to scrape down the sides of the mixing bowl and to gently fold in the dry ingredients and nuts.
3. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is paramount in baking, especially with shortbread-style cookies.
4. Large Mixing Bowls (2): One for the wet ingredients and one for whisking the dry ingredients and preparing the coating.
5. Baking Sheets: Two large baking sheets are ideal for batch baking.
6. Parchment Paper or Silicone Mats: This prevents sticking, ensures even baking, and makes cleanup simple. Silicone mats also provide slightly better insulation, which can prevent over-browning on the bottoms of the cookies.
7. Cookie Scoop (1 tablespoon size): Using a scoop ensures all your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are uniformly sized, guaranteeing even baking times. Consistency is key to the perfect batch.
8. Wire Cooling Rack: Absolutely necessary for cooling the cookies evenly after the first roll, ensuring the steam doesn’t make the bottoms soggy.
9. Shallow Dish or Bowl: A wide, shallow dish is best for rolling the cookies in the generous cinnamon sugar coating.

Proper preparation of both the ingredients and the environment ensures that the baking process for your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies is smooth, stress-free, and successful. Remember the most important tool of all: patience, especially when chilling the dough!

Detailed Recipe Steps: Mastering the Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

The beauty of this recipe lies in following the process precisely. Pay close attention to temperature, timing, and the crucial chilling and double-rolling phases. This detailed guide ensures your cookies achieve that perfect balance of shortbread tenderness and sweet, spiced coating.

Phase 1: Creating the Buttery Dough

This phase is all about achieving the right consistency for a buttery, tender shortbread base. Do not rush the creaming process.

1. Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for baking the cookies through without browning the tops. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. Set them aside for immediate use after chilling.
2. Cream the Fats and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine the 1 cup of softened butter and the ½ cup of powdered sugar. Using an electric mixer or stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream these two ingredients together on medium speed. This process should take about 2 to 3 minutes. The mixture is ready when it is noticeably lighter in color (pale yellow) and fluffy in texture. Proper creaming incorporates air, which helps keep the final cookie tender.
3. Add Flavoring: Beat in the 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract until just combined. Use your rubber spatula to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are incorporated evenly.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the 2 cups of all-purpose flour and the ¼ teaspoon of salt. Whisking ensures the salt is distributed evenly throughout the flour.
5. Mix Dough: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on the lowest speed possible. Mix only until the dough just comes together. It will be stiff and crumbly at first, but should form a cohesive mass by the time you stop. Overmixing develops gluten, leading to tough cookies, which we absolutely want to avoid with Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies.
6. Fold in Nuts (if using): If using pecans or walnuts, gently fold the finely chopped nuts into the dough using a rubber spatula until they are evenly distributed. Overmixing during this step is also a risk, so keep it brief.
7. Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is absolutely mandatory. Chilling solidifies the butter, which prevents the cookies from spreading into flat puddles during baking and helps them maintain their lovely, rounded snowball shape. If your kitchen is warm, you can chill for up to 1 hour.

Phase 2: Baking and the Signature Double Roll

The double-rolling process is the secret sauce for achieving the signature snowy look and the intense cinnamon sugar flavor of these cookies.

8. Shape the Cookies: Remove the chilled dough. Using a 1-tablespoon cookie scoop (or just measuring spoons), portion out the dough. Roll each portion firmly between your palms to form smooth, uniform balls about 1 inch in diameter. Pressure is important here to ensure the balls hold together well during baking. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
9. Bake: Bake the cookies for 12 to 15 minutes. Keep a close eye on them. The key to successful snowball cookies is ensuring they do not brown on top. They are done when the bottoms are very lightly golden brown. The cookies should still appear pale white on the surface.
10. Prepare Coating: While the cookies are baking, prepare the cinnamon sugar coating. In a shallow dish or bowl (wide enough for rolling), whisk together the 2 cups of powdered sugar and the 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon until fully combined. Ensure there are no streaks of unmixed cinnamon. This mixture provides the ultimate snowy, spiced exterior for your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies.
11. First Roll (Warm): Immediately upon removing the cookies from the oven, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for just 2 to 3 minutes. This allows them to firm up slightly without cooling down entirely. While they are still very warm, gently roll each cookie entirely in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated. The warmth is essential here, as it slightly melts the outer sugar layer, creating a sticky base. Return the coated cookies to the baking sheet or transfer them to a wire rack.
12. Cool Completely: Allow the cookies to cool completely, about 30 to 45 minutes, on a wire rack. They must be completely cool before the final roll.
13. Second Roll (Cool): Once the cookies are completely cool, roll them a second time in the cinnamon sugar mixture. This ensures a thick, opaque, snowy, and sweet coating, providing the signature snowball look and maximizing the intense cinnamon flavor. Gently tap off any excess powder.

This attention to detail in the baking and coating process is what separates an average snowball cookie from a spectacular Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookie. The robust coating stands up beautifully and provides that delightful, spiced crust.

Phase 3: Serving and Storage

Once cooled and double-rolled, your Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are ready to be the star of the show.

14. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the cookies immediately alongside tea, coffee, or a cozy mug of slow cooker hot chocolate.
15. Storage: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Because they are butter-based, they will keep well for up to one week. The flavor actually deepens slightly after a day or two. If you plan to freeze them, freeze the dough balls before baking, or freeze the baked, unsugared cookies. Roll in the cinnamon sugar after thawing and slightly warming them.

Tips, Troubleshooting, and Delicious Variations

While the recipe for Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies is straightforward, a few expert tips can ensure foolproof results. We also offer several delightful variations to customize this classic treat for any dietary need or preference.

Troubleshooting Common Snowball Cookie Issues

• My cookies spread too much: This is almost always due to butter that was too warm or dough that wasn’t chilled long enough. Ensure your butter is softened, but not greasy or melting. If your kitchen is very warm, try chilling the dough for an hour, or chill the rolled dough balls briefly before baking. Also, ensure you used powdered sugar, not granulated sugar, in the dough.
• The sugar coating won’t stick: If the coating doesn’t stick after the first roll, it means you let the cookies cool too long. The first roll must happen when the cookies are still very warm (about 2-3 minutes out of the oven) so the residual heat creates a slightly sticky base. The second roll, done when completely cool, then adheres perfectly to this base layer.
• The cookies are too crumbly: If they fall apart easily, you might have added too much flour, or the dough was handled too much after adding the flour. Remember to spoon and level the flour and mix the dry ingredients only until just combined.
• The cookies are difficult to roll: If the dough is too soft, chill it for an additional 15–20 minutes. If the dough is too dry, try squeezing it firmly in your hand; the warmth from your palm usually helps it adhere.

Delicious Variations for Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

The core recipe is flexible, allowing for wonderful customization:

• Go Gluten-Free: These cookies translate beautifully to gluten-free baking. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum. You may need to slightly increase the chill time, but the resulting texture will be nearly identical to the original.
• Nut-Free Option: Simply omit the pecans or walnuts entirely. The cookies will still be wonderfully buttery and tender. You might consider adding a pinch more salt (⅛ teaspoon) to compensate for the flavor loss from the nuts.
• Extract Variations: Instead of pure vanilla, try using 1 teaspoon of almond extract for a marzipan-like flavor, or a combination of ½ teaspoon vanilla and ½ teaspoon maple extract for a cozy twist.
• Spiced Coating Alternatives: If cinnamon isn’t your only favorite spice, consider adding a pinch (about ½ teaspoon) of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar coating for a more complex holiday flavor.
• Making Them Vegan: Snowball cookies are easy to make vegan! Simply substitute the unsalted dairy butter with a high-quality, plant-based stick butter (ensure it has a high fat content for best results).

For more baking inspiration and delightful festive recipes, don’t forget to check out our collection of recipes on our dedicated Pinterest board. Follow our Pinterest page here for daily ideas on how to elevate your home cooking and baking, including many treats perfect for holiday gatherings.

Nutritional Insight: Understanding Your Holiday Treat

When indulging in festive cookies like Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies, it’s helpful to understand the basic nutritional components they contribute to your diet. While specific counts vary based on ingredient brands and exact portion sizes, we can provide a general overview of these buttery, nutty treats.

Estimated Nutritional Breakdown (Per 1 Cookie Serving, based on 36 total cookies)

Please note: These figures are estimates and should not replace professional nutritional guidance. They are calculated based on standard ingredients and assumed serving sizes.

The Role of Key Ingredients

Fats (Butter and Nuts)

The high fat content comes primarily from the butter, which is essential for achieving the signature shortbread texture. Butter provides richness and mouthfeel. However, the inclusion of pecans or walnuts adds healthier monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. Pecans and walnuts are also excellent sources of Omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and minerals like magnesium and zinc. While these cookies are a treat, the nuts incorporated into the Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies provide a small boost of beneficial nutrients and help increase the satiety factor.

Carbohydrates (Powdered Sugar and Flour)

The dominant macronutrient in these cookies is carbohydrates, derived mainly from the all-purpose flour and the substantial amount of powdered sugar used both in the dough and the coating. Since powdered sugar is the main component of the exterior, the sugar content per cookie is relatively high. These cookies are definitely meant to be an indulgence, often reserved for holidays or special occasions. Given the dense nature of the shortbread base, they offer quick energy.

Benefits of Cinnamon

Beyond its wonderful flavor, the ground cinnamon used in the coating is a well-known spice with powerful antioxidant properties. Cinnamon has been traditionally used to help manage blood sugar levels and contains anti-inflammatory compounds. While the quantity used in a single Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookie is small, the spice contributes significantly to the overall nutritional value and flavor complexity, proving that even a small addition can make a difference in your baking. The blend of butter, nuts, and spice makes these treats not only delicious but complex in flavor, ensuring that a small portion provides maximum satisfaction.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies

Conclusion: The Ultimate Holiday Treat That Delivers Every Time

The Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies recipe is more than just a sweet treat; it’s an invitation to elevate a classic tradition. We’ve covered every detail, from the crucial temperature of the butter and the necessity of chilling the dough, to the essential double-roll technique that gives these cookies their signature snowy appearance and intensely spiced flavor. By utilizing powdered sugar both in the dough and the coating, and enriching the experience with warming cinnamon, we transform a simple butterball into a truly sophisticated confection perfect for any occasion.

These cookies offer unparalleled texture a beautiful crunch from the spiced exterior followed by a rich, buttery interior that truly melts on your tongue. They are ideal for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or simply enjoying with a quiet cup of tea on a chilly evening. They ship well, store easily, and are forgiving to bake, provided you remember the fundamental rules of shortbread: don’t overmix and don’t skip the chill time!

We encourage you to try this recipe for Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies and share the delightful results with your friends and family. The aroma alone, filling your kitchen with the scent of butter, vanilla, and warm spice, is enough to lift the spirits. If you loved this spiced shortbread recipe, be sure to explore our site for other comfort food classics and holiday favorites. Happy baking!

Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies (Mexican Wedding Cookies)

These delightful holiday cookies melt in your mouth, featuring a buttery, nutty base rolled twice in a thick, snowy coating of cinnamon-spiced powdered sugar.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 36 cookies

Course: Cookie, Dessert

Cuisine: American, Holiday

Calories: 115

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Cookies

• 1 cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature
• ½ cup powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts optional, but recommended

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

• 2 cups powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar) plus additional for the final roll
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

Equipment

• Stand Mixer or Electric Mixer
• Large Baking Sheets
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Mats
• Wire Cooling Rack

Method

 

Phase 1: Preparing the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and the ½ cup of powdered sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy (about 2 to 3 minutes). Beat in the vanilla extract.
3. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until the dough just comes together. Do not overmix.
4. Gently fold the finely chopped nuts (if using) into the dough until evenly distributed. Cover the bowl and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial for texture and shape.

Phase 2: Baking and Rolling

1. Remove the chilled dough and roll rounded tablespoons of dough firmly between your palms to form smooth, uniform balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them onto the prepared baking sheets.
2. Bake the cookies for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the bottoms are very lightly golden brown. The cookies should still appear pale white on top.
3. While the cookies are baking, prepare the coating: In a shallow dish, whisk together the 2 cups of powdered sugar and the 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon.
4. First Roll (Warm): Immediately upon removing the cookies from the oven, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 2 to 3 minutes. While still warm, gently roll each cookie in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated. Set them on a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Second Roll (Cool): Once the cookies are completely cool (30-45 minutes), roll them a second time in the cinnamon sugar mixture. This ensures the maximum 'snowball' coating effect.

Phase 3: Serving and Storage

1. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Do not refrigerate the finished cookies, as this can cause the coating to absorb moisture.

Notes

For best results, ensure the butter is truly soft for creaming. If you skip the chilling step, your cookies may flatten significantly while baking. If you are baking in batches, ensure the baking sheets cool slightly between uses.