Parmesan Cinnamon Recipe

Preheat and prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. If you want easier transfer, place a second sheet of parchment under the first to prevent sticking.

Combine dry ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the grated Parmesan, ground cinnamon, freshly ground black pepper, smoked paprika (if using), and the tablespoon of flour (if using). Toss with a fork or your fingers until evenly distributed. The flour helps the crisps hold together; omit for a purer cheese crisp.

Optional: add fat and sweet note

If using, stir the melted butter and 1/2 teaspoon of maple syrup or honey into the mixture until evenly moistened. This will create slightly more golden, richer crisps and subtly emphasize the cinnamon note. The mixture should still be fairly dry but cohesive when pressed.

Portion and shape

Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, place heaping tablespoons of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches (5 cm) apart to allow spreading. For uniform rounds, flatten each mound gently with the back of the spoon to about 2 to 2.5 inches (5–6 cm) diameter and roughly 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick.

Bake

Bake one sheet at a time in the preheated oven for 6–9 minutes, or until the edges are deep golden brown and the centers are set. Watch carefully after 6 minutes — Parmesan can go from golden to burnt quickly. Rotate the pan once halfway through for even color.

Finish and cool

Remove crisps from the oven. Immediately sprinkle a very light pinch of coarse sea salt or Maldon flakes on each crisp. If you want herb garnish, sprinkle the thyme or rosemary now so it adheres while warm. Let crisps cool on the baking sheet for 3–4 minutes to firm up, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. They will crisp further as they cool.

Storing

Store cooled crisps in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If they soften, re-crisp on a baking sheet in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 4–6 minutes.

Arrange Parmesan Cinnamon Crisps on a platter with a small bowl of plain Greek yogurt or crème fraîche for dipping and fresh apple or pear slices alongside. The combination of savory, nutty cheese with warm cinnamon and a touch of sweetness pairs well with fruit and a tangy dip.

For a composed bite: spread a little yogurt on a crisp, top with a thin apple slice and a light drizzle of honey if desired.