Cinnamon Sugar Chips (5 minutes to make)
Cinnamon Sugar Chips (5 minutes to make) is a easy Mexican-American recipe that serves 1. 200 calories per serving. Recipe by I'm Hungry For That on YouTube.
Prep: 6 min | Cook: 1 min | Total: 12 min
Cost: $3.66 total, $3.66 per serving
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons Granulated Sugar (measure level)
- 0.5 tablespoon Ground Cinnamon (freshly ground if possible)
- 1 piece Mini Flour Tortilla (approximately 6‑inch diameter)
- as needed Cooking Spray (non‑stick spray, preferably olive‑oil based)
Instructions
Combine Sugar and Cinnamon
In a small mixing bowl, add 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 0.5 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Stir until evenly blended.
Time: PT1M
Spray the Tortilla
Place the mini tortilla on a clean surface and spray both sides lightly with cooking spray.
Time: PT1M
Add Cinnamon‑Sugar Coating
Sprinkle the cinnamon‑sugar mixture over both sides of the tortilla, turning it to coat evenly.
Time: PT1M
Cut Into Triangles
Using a sharp knife on a cutting board, cut the coated tortilla into eight equal triangles.
Time: PT2M
Arrange on Paper Towels
Lay a sheet of paper towels on a microwave‑safe plate and place the tortilla triangles in a single layer.
Time: PT1M
Microwave
Microwave the plate on high for 1 minute. Watch closely; the chips should puff slightly and become firm.
Time: PT1M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 200
- Protein
- 2g
- Carbohydrates
- 48g
- Fat
- 2g
- Fiber
- 1g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Can be made vegan with a plant‑based cooking spray
Allergens: Wheat, Soy
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Granulated Sugar: Brown Sugar, Coconut Sugar
- Instead of Ground Cinnamon: Pumpkin Pie Spice, Apple Pie Spice
- Instead of Mini Flour Tortilla: Mini Corn Tortilla, Whole Wheat Mini Tortilla
- Instead of Cooking Spray: Light oil brushed with pastry brush, Butter melted and brushed
Equipment Needed
- Small Mixing Bowl
- Spoon
- Cooking Spray Bottle
- Cutting Board
- Sharp Knife
- Plate
- Paper Towels
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Spraying both sides of the tortilla evenly
- Cutting the tortilla before microwaving
- Microwaving for exactly 1 minute
Chef Tips from the Video
- For extra crispness, let the chips cool on a wire rack after microwaving.
- Use a non‑stick cooking spray for an even coating without excess oil.
- If you like extra flavor, add a pinch of sea salt to the cinnamon‑sugar mixture.
Troubleshooting
Chips are soggy after microwaving.
Make sure the paper towels fully absorb moisture, and let the chips rest for a minute to crisp up. If still soggy, reduce the spray amount and microwave an additional 10‑15 seconds.
Chips burn or turn dark brown.
Microwave for a shorter time (45‑50 seconds) and monitor closely. Different microwaves have varying power levels.
Storage
Refrigerator: Not necessary; store at room temperature in an airtight container.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture will become soggy after thawing.
Room temperature: Store in a sealed container for up to 2 days; keep away from humidity.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the cinnamon‑sugar blend in a small jar and store for up to a month.
- You can spray and coat multiple tortillas, then freeze them on a tray; microwave from frozen for 1 minute.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of cinnamon sugar tortilla chips in Mexican-American cuisine?
Sweet tortilla chips are a modern twist on traditional Mexican tostadas, often enjoyed as a dessert snack at fairs and family gatherings. The addition of cinnamon and sugar reflects the influence of Spanish colonial sweets, creating a simple yet beloved treat in Mexican‑American households.
What are traditional regional variations of sweet tortilla chips in Mexican cuisine?
In some regions of Mexico, tortillas are brushed with butter and sprinkled with piloncillo (unrefined cane sugar) and cinnamon, while others use honey or chocolate drizzles. The basic concept of a sweet‑coated tortilla remains consistent, but the toppings vary by state.
How are sweet tortilla chips traditionally served in Mexico?
They are typically served warm as a dessert or snack, often accompanied by a cup of café de olla (spiced coffee) or hot chocolate. They may be presented on a simple plate or in a paper bag for street‑food style serving.
What occasions or celebrations are sweet tortilla chips associated with in Mexican culture?
Sweet tortilla chips are popular during Día de los Muertos, family picnics, and holiday gatherings such as Christmas and New Year's Eve, where they are offered as a quick, festive bite alongside other sweets.
How does this cinnamon sugar tortilla chip fit into the broader Mexican snack tradition?
It follows the Mexican tradition of turning staple corn or flour tortillas into versatile snacks, whether savory (like traditional chips) or sweet. The quick microwave method modernizes the preparation while keeping the snack rooted in Mexican culinary heritage.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for sweet tortilla chips versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic ingredients include a plain flour or corn tortilla, piloncillo or granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Acceptable substitutes are brown sugar for piloncillo, a mini wheat tortilla for corn, and pumpkin‑pie spice in place of pure cinnamon.
What other Mexican dishes pair well with cinnamon sugar tortilla chips?
They pair nicely with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, fresh fruit salsa, or a drizzle of cajeta (goat‑milk caramel). They also complement a cup of Mexican hot chocolate or café de olla for a balanced sweet‑savory snack.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making five minute cinnamon sugar tortilla chips?
Common errors include over‑spraying the tortilla, which makes the chips soggy, cutting the tortilla after microwaving (which can cause uneven pieces), and microwaving for too long, which burns the sugar. Follow the exact timing and cut before cooking for best results.
How do I know when the tortilla chips are done cooking in the microwave?
The chips should puff slightly, become firm to the touch, and have a light golden‑brown color. After the 1‑minute timer, let them sit for 30 seconds; they will crisp up further as they cool.
What does the YouTube channel I'm Hungry For That specialize in?
The YouTube channel I'm Hungry For That focuses on ultra‑quick, budget‑friendly recipes that can be made with minimal equipment, often featuring microwave hacks and pantry staples for busy home cooks.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
