Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe

If you love that warm, comforting aroma of cinnamon rolls but want something quicker and perfectly bite-sized, you’re going to fall head over heels for these Cinnamon Roll Cookies. They capture all the cozy cinnamon-sugar goodness of classic cinnamon rolls in a delightful cookie that’s crisp at the edges and tender in the middle. Each bite bursts with the perfect balance of sweet, buttery dough and a cinnamon-sugar swirl that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re baking for breakfast, snack time, or dessert, Cinnamon Roll Cookies are guaranteed to become a go-to treat you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these Cinnamon Roll Cookies, we keep it simple with a few kitchen staples that come together harmoniously. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the tender flakiness the butter brings to the warm spice from the cinnamon, building layers of flavor and texture that make these cookies so special.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives structure and a tender crumb to the cookies.
• 1 tsp baking powder: Helps the cookies rise slightly for a soft, chewy texture.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Infuses warm spice throughout the dough, enhancing the signature flavor.
• ½ tsp salt: Balances flavors, preventing the sweetness from overpowering.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and creates that melt-in-your-mouth softness.
• ½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps with slight crispiness on the edges.
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed: Contributes moisture and a hint of molasses flavor.
• 1 large egg: Binds the dough while adding tenderness.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances sweetness and rounds out the flavor profile.
• ½ cup brown sugar (for filling), packed: For that luscious cinnamon swirl inside every cookie.
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon (for filling): The essential spice for that classic cinnamon roll flavor packed in each bite.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Dry Ingredients

Begin by warming up your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s at the perfect temperature for baking your cookies evenly. Meanwhile, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon in a bowl to evenly distribute the leavening and spice. This step is crucial for that uniform taste and tender texture in each cookie.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter with both the granulated and brown sugars. This process traps air into the mixture, giving your cookies a fluffy, light base. You’ll want to cream until the mixture looks pale and fluffy, which also helps with the cookies’ tender bite.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Next, beat the egg and vanilla extract into the butter and sugar mixture until you achieve a silky smooth batter. These ingredients add moisture and richness, keeping your cookies soft and flavorful through baking.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry ingredient mixture into your wet ingredients, stirring gently until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or you may lose some of that lovely tenderness. The dough should be soft but manageable.

Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon for the filling in a small bowl. This combination creates the sweet, spicy swirl that makes Cinnamon Roll Cookies so addictive. Don’t skimp on the cinnamon here; it’s the star of the show.

Step 6: Shape the Cookie Rolls

Spread half of the cookie dough onto a piece of parchment paper to form a rough rectangle. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar filling evenly over this layer, then carefully roll the dough up as tightly as you can into a log, using the parchment to help guide it.

Step 7: Slice and Bake

Using a sharp knife, cut the dough log into thick slices about ½ inch each. Place these rounds onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving them enough room as they will spread just slightly while baking. Pop them into your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until they turn a lovely golden brown on the edges.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Garnishes

While these Cinnamon Roll Cookies are fantastic on their own, a drizzle of cream cheese glaze or a light dusting of powdered sugar can elevate their presentation and flavor. Freshly chopped nuts like pecans or a sprinkle of coarse sugar can also add a fun crunch and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Pair your cookies with a warm cup of coffee, chai tea, or a creamy latte for the ultimate cozy snack experience. They also make a sweet side for breakfast alongside scrambled eggs or yogurt topped with fresh fruit for a complete morning treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these cookies stacked high on a rustic wooden board or arranged in a pretty tin as a gift. You can also sandwich them with a spread of cream cheese frosting or Nutella to turn them into indulgent sandwich cookies. No matter how you present them, Cinnamon Roll Cookies are bound to impress and delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Cinnamon Roll Cookies fresh by placing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay soft and delicious for up to 3 days, perfect for quick snacks throughout your week.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these treats later, arrange the baked cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bags. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing their delightful texture and flavor.

Reheating

For a just-baked taste, reheat your Cinnamon Roll Cookies in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 5 minutes. This brings back that fresh-baked warmth and slightly crisp edges, making them taste like you just pulled them from the oven.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour for Cinnamon Roll Cookies?

All-purpose flour is recommended for the perfect balance of structure and tenderness, but you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free blends. Just keep in mind the texture and flavor might change slightly.

Is there a way to make these cookies vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, and replace the egg with flaxseed egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) or another egg replacement to keep the dough binding properly.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough, roll it up, and refrigerate it covered for up to 24 hours before slicing and baking. This actually helps develop flavor and makes slicing neater when the dough firms up.

What’s the best way to prevent the cookies from flattening too much?

Make sure your butter isn’t too soft or melted when creaming with sugars. Chilling the sliced cookies for 10-15 minutes before baking can also help them hold their shape better.

Can I add frosting or glaze to Cinnamon Roll Cookies?

Definitely! A simple cream cheese glaze or vanilla icing enhances the cinnamon flavor wonderfully and makes these cookies taste like little hand-held cinnamon rolls.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend these Cinnamon Roll Cookies enough for anyone who loves that classic cinnamon roll flavor but wants an easier, quicker treat. They’re fun to make, delightful to eat, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Give this recipe a try—you just might find your new favorite cookie!

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