As winter gives way to spring and Passover approaches, I find myself reminiscing about the beautiful moments shared with family around the festive table. The moment I pull a batch of warm Cinnamon Balls from the oven, the aroma of cinnamon swirling through my kitchen instantly transports me back to my grandmother’s home, where laughter and love filled the air. What’s even more delightful is how effortlessly these gluten-free treats come together, making them a perfect recipe for both seasoned chefs and those just discovering the joy of baking.

These Passover Cinnamon Balls are not only a nostalgic nod to tradition but also an invitation to create new memories with loved ones. With their soft, chewy texture and just the right amount of spiced sweetness, they’re a standout among holiday desserts. Plus, you’ll be pleased to know that they are made without flour, ensuring everyone can indulge without worry. Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into a baking adventure that’s as meaningful as it is delicious!

Why are Cinnamon Balls the perfect treat?

Nostalgic aroma: The warm scent of cinnamon brings back cherished memories of family gatherings.

Easy preparation: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and basic skills, making it approachable for bakers of all levels.

Gluten-free goodness: Made with ground almonds instead of flour, they cater to gluten-sensitive guests without sacrificing flavor.

Crowd-pleaser: These delightful treats are perfect for sharing during Passover celebrations, guaranteed to impress friends and family alike.

Versatile options: Feel free to play around with spice levels or add in chopped nuts for a textural twist—this basic recipe encourages creativity!

Embrace the tradition of baking by trying out these Cinnamon Balls and create sweet moments at your next gathering!

Cinnamon Balls Ingredients

• Prepare to create your own delightful batch of Cinnamon Balls with these essential ingredients!

For the Dough

Egg Whites – Provides structure and aeration; ensure they’re at room temperature for best results.
Caster Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps achieve a glossy finish; you can substitute with powdered sugar for a different texture.
Ground Almonds – Acts as the main dry ingredient, perfectly replacing flour in this gluten-free treat; no direct substitutions are advisable for Passover.
Cinnamon – Offers the warm, rich flavor that defines these cookies; feel free to adjust the amount according to your taste preference.

For Dusting

Icing Sugar – Enhances the visual appeal and adds a touch of sweetness when dusted; this can be omitted if you prefer a less sweet finish.

How to Make Cinnamon Balls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for ensuring that your Cinnamon Balls bake evenly, resulting in that soft yet chewy texture we all love.
Whisk the egg whites in a large bowl using a handheld electric whisk until stiff peaks form. They should stand upright when you lift the whisk—this is key for that airy finish!
Fold in the caster sugar, ground almonds, and cinnamon gently using a spatula or metal spoon. Avoid wooden spoons to keep the mixture fluffy and light.
Wet your hands slightly to prevent the dough from sticking, then roll the mixture into about 20 bite-sized balls. Each one should feel slightly sticky but easy to shape.
Place the rolled balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced evenly. They won’t spread much, so give them a little room!
Bake for approximately 18 minutes, or until the balls feel slightly firm to the touch. The edges may begin to turn a light golden color.
Roll the warm balls in icing sugar while they’re still warm until they’re well coated. This adds a beautiful finish and sweetens them up just the right amount! Allow to cool completely on the baking sheet.

Optional: For an extra touch, sprinkle some finely chopped nuts on top before serving for added crunch!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Balls

Room Temperature: Store your Cinnamon Balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness.

Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, these treats can be refrigerated for up to 5 days. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature before serving.

Freezer: Freeze your Cinnamon Balls for longer storage, keeping them in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating: If desired, reheat the Cinnamon Balls in a warm oven for a few minutes to restore their soft, chewy texture.

Cinnamon Balls Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Cinnamon Balls—there’s always room for improvement or a personal touch!

Nutty Delight: Add finely chopped walnuts or pecans to the mixture for a delightful crunch and deeper flavor. The addition of nuts introduces a lovely texture that beautifully complements the chewy consistency.
Pineapple Twist: Incorporate crushed pineapple (drained) into the dough for a tropical sweetness. Just remember to adjust the sugar accordingly for balance. This twist brings a burst of fresh flavor that’s sure to surprise!
Cocoa Dusting: Swap out icing sugar for unsweetened cocoa powder for a chocolatey version that celebrates rich flavors. Dusting with cocoa gives a lovely contrast to the cinnamon and offers a delightful surprise with each bite.
Spice Medley: Enhance the flavor profile by mixing in a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a warm, spiced kick. The interplay of spices elevates the traditional flavor, providing a cozy warmth that embraces the holiday spirit.
Vanilla Infusion: A dash of vanilla extract in the mix creates a subtle sweetness and aromatic richness that elevates the entire recipe. This simple addition lends a lovely depth, making each bite irresistibly comforting.
Zesty Surprise: Add a bit of lemon or orange zest for a refreshing twist. The bright citrus notes create a delightful contrast to the warm spices, awakening your taste buds with every nibble.
Chili Kick: For those who love heat, try introducing a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy edge. The warmth from the spice is an unexpected but delicious twist that will tantalize adventurous palates.
Homemade Jam Center: For a unique surprise, create an indentation in each ball before baking and fill it with a teaspoon of your favorite jam. As the cinnamon balls bake, the jam will create a gooey center that perfectly complements the soft exterior.

Embrace the joy of baking by playing with these variations, and watch as your Cinnamon Balls become a new favorite in your household!

Make Ahead Options

These Cinnamon Balls are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can mix the dough up to 24 hours ahead of time; simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness. If you’d rather roll them into balls, you can prepare them and refrigerate for up to 3 days before baking—just be sure to keep them spaced apart on a baking sheet to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy these delightful treats, simply bake them as directed and roll in icing sugar while still warm for that irresistible finish. This way, you’ll have a fantastic homemade dessert ready with minimal last-minute effort and just as delicious as freshly made!

What to Serve with Cinnamon Balls?

As you indulge in these delightful treats, consider pairing them with complementary options to create a memorable meal experience.

Coffee or Tea: The warm, spiced flavors of cinnamon balls are beautifully enhanced when enjoyed alongside a steaming cup of coffee or aromatic tea.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cinnamon balls, providing a burst of brightness and texture.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling a rich chocolate sauce over the balls adds a decadent touch, creating an indulgent dessert that’s hard to resist.
Dairy-Free Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light, creamy contrast to the chewy texture of the cinnamon balls, making each bite even more delightful.
Nutty Biscotti: Serve alongside crunchy biscotti for an unforgettable combination of textures—perfect for those who enjoy a little crunch with their sweet treats.
Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream pairs wonderfully, creating a delightful dessert that’s both warm and cold, perfect for satisfying those sweet cravings.
Sparkling Water with Citrus: For a refreshing beverage, serve cinnamon balls with sparkling water infused with fresh citrus, brightening up the flavor profile of your treat.

Let your imagination guide you as you craft a full meal experience around these delightful cinnamon balls!

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Balls

Use Room Temperature Eggs: Ensuring egg whites are at room temperature before whisking is essential for achieving maximum volume and fluffy texture in your Cinnamon Balls.
Fold Gently: When incorporating the dry ingredients, be gentle! Overmixing will deflate the airy egg whites and lead to denser balls.
Prevent Sticking: Wet your hands while rolling the dough; this simple trick helps to easily shape the balls without making a sticky mess.
Watch Baking Time: Since every oven is different, keep an eye on your Cinnamon Balls as they bake. They should be firm but not overly hard when you take them out.
Storing Wisely: For the best flavor and texture, store your Cinnamon Balls in a sealed container at room temperature, where they’ll maintain their delightful moisture.

Cinnamon Balls Recipe FAQs

What kind of egg whites should I use?
It’s best to use fresh egg whites at room temperature for optimal results. This ensures maximum volume when whisking. If you need to separate the yolks, make sure no yolk gets into the whites, as even a small amount of fat can hinder the whipping process.

How do I store my Cinnamon Balls?
Store your Cinnamon Balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to stay longer fresh, refrigerate them for up to 5 days, but keep in mind they are best enjoyed at room temperature.

Can I freeze Cinnamon Balls?
Absolutely! You can freeze your Cinnamon Balls in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge or at room temperature. To restore their chewiness, you can warm them in the oven for a few minutes.

What can I do if my egg whites don’t whip up to stiff peaks?
If your egg whites aren’t forming stiff peaks, it might be due to trace amounts of fat or moisture. Ensure your bowl and whisk are completely clean and dry. You can also add a pinch of cream of tartar to help stabilize the egg whites as they whip.

Are these Cinnamon Balls safe for those with nut allergies?
Since the main ingredient is ground almonds, those with nut allergies should avoid this recipe. For a nut-free alternative, you may want to explore flour alternatives that suit your dietary needs, like sunflower seed flour, but this may alter the texture and flavor.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Cinnamon Balls?
There’s always room to switch things up! Consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra depth or finely chopped nuts for additional texture. You might even enjoy a hint of nutmeg or cloves alongside the cinnamon for a unique twist.