Crispy sesame cookies: Easy homemade recipe with a hint of cinnamon

April 13, 2025

A close-up view of a plate of sesame cookies, surrounded by green plants and a wooden surface.

I have a soft spot for nuts and seeds. I love having them around – walnuts, sesame seeds, hazelnuts, but somehow, they often end up sitting in my pantry longer than they should. Every time I open the cabinet, I see them waiting patiently, and eventually, I decide it’s time to give them the attention they deserve. This time, it was sesame seeds’ turn, and the result? These cookies, I could eat on repeat.
They’re not overly sweet, but they have a lovely crunch and a deep nuttiness that makes them so satisfying. Somewhere along the way, I read that sesame seeds symbolize happiness in Chinese culture. It reminded me of how poppy seeds in Polish tradition represent wealth and abundance—both tiny seeds carrying so much meaning.

So here’s my quiet invitation to you: bake these little cookies of happiness. They’re simple to make, comforting to eat, and maybe they’ll bring a little extra joy to your day too.

Why You’ll Love These Sesame Cookies

Perfectly Balanced: Not too sweet, with just the right amount of nuttiness and crunch.
Simple Ingredients: You probably already have most of what you need in your pantry.

Tips for Perfect Sesame Cookies

Chill the Dough: Letting the dough rest in the fridge helps the cookies hold their shape and enhances their texture.
Mix White & Black Sesame Seeds: It’s not just about flavor; the mix adds a lovely contrast that makes the cookies look extra special.
Optional Sprinkle of Sea Salt: If you enjoy a sweet-salty balance, a pinch of flaky sea salt before baking is a wonderful addition.

A Quiet Moment of Joy

These cookies aren’t flashy or overly indulgent – they’re simple, comforting, and quietly delightful. Perfect with a cup of tea or coffee when you need a little pick-me-up or want to share something thoughtful with loved ones.

So if you have some sesame seeds tucked away in your pantry, this is their moment to shine. Bake these cookies, take that first bite, and let their subtle crunch bring a little happiness to your day.

Sesame cookies

Servings: Makes around 20-30 cookies
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Print

These Sesame Cookies are crispy, nutty, and lightly sweetened with a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for tea time or gifting!

Ingredients

7 tablespoons (100g) unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup white sugar
1/4 cup lightly packed brown sugar
1 large egg
1/4 teaspoon sesame oil, adds a subtle nutty flavor but can be skipped if unavailable
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2/3 cup sesame seeds, white or black, or a mix of both

Directions

In a large bowl, use an electric hand mixer or a stand mixer with a paddle attachment to beat the butter and sugars together until the mixture is pale and fluffy, about 3 to 5 minutes.
Add the egg and beat for 1 minute. Pause to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl, then mix in the vanilla extract and sesame oil on low speed until combined.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon until evenly combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
Fold half of the sesame seeds into the dough until evenly distributed; reserve the remaining seeds for rolling later.
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap, shape into a thick disk, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
Preheat oven to 375°F. Scoop 1-inch balls of dough. Roll each ball in the reserved sesame seeds. Place it on a parchment lined baking sheet leaving 1-2 inch space between. Press the ball light to flatten. Optionally sprinkle with flaky sea salt before baking for extra flavor.
Bake for for 15-20 min until golden around the edges. Remove from the oven and allow to rest on a baking sheet for 10 minutes to set before removing to a wire rack to cool completely. You’ll of course eat one as soon as they’re cool enough to handle. Enjoy

A single sesame cookie on a blue ceramic plate, showing a crispy texture and golden color.

I’d love to hear from you! Did you try this recipe? How did it turn out? Share your thoughts in the comments below or tag me in your photos on social media. Have a great day!