Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe

If you adore the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls but want something quicker and perfectly portable, these Cinnamon Roll Cookies are your new best friend. Packed with the fragrant spice of cinnamon and swirls of sweet brown sugar, these cookies capture everything you love about cinnamon rolls in a delicate, buttery cookie form. They bake up soft around the edges with just the right hint of chewiness, making them an irresistible treat that’s easy to whip up for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each playing a key role in creating the perfect Cinnamon Roll Cookies. From the tender crumb of the flour to the rich sweetness of both sugars, every item helps bring that cozy cinnamon roll flavor into a delightful cookie.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and soft texture you want in a cookie.
• 1 tsp baking powder: Adds just enough lift to keep the cookies light and fluffy.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Brings the signature warm spice that defines these cookies.
• ½ tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Gives buttery richness and tender crumb to the cookies.
• ½ cup granulated sugar: Adds classic sweetness and helps with the cookie’s texture.
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed: Gives depth, moisture, and a hint of caramel flavor.
• 1 large egg: Binds ingredients together and adds moisture.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances sweetness and rounds out the cinnamon notes beautifully.
• For the filling: ½ cup brown sugar, packed: The sugary center of the cinnamon swirl, adding gooey sweetness.
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon: Extra cinnamon spice concentrated for that perfect filling twist.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the perfect baking temperature, so your Cinnamon Roll Cookies come out golden and tender all over.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon in a bowl. Combining these dry ingredients first helps distribute the cinnamon evenly, making sure every bite bursts with that warm spice.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter with both granulated and brown sugars until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial—it incorporates air for a tender cookie and blends the caramel notes from the brown sugar seamlessly.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract into the creamed butter mixture until smooth. The egg gives structure while the vanilla lifts the flavors, making each cinnamon roll cookie irresistible.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mix into the wet mixture gently, stirring just until everything comes together. Overmixing can toughen the cookies, so keep it light!

Step 6: Prepare the Filling

Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl—this is what gives the cookies their signature swirl full of gooey, spicy goodness.

Step 7: Assemble the Cookies

Spread half of the dough evenly over a piece of parchment paper, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar filling across the top. Carefully roll the dough tightly, creating a log that will give your cookies their beautiful spiral pattern.

Step 8: Slice and Bake

Cut the rolled dough into rounds and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until they’re a lovely light golden brown. The smell coming from your oven will be pure comfort in cookie form.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Garnishes

You can drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over your Cinnamon Roll Cookies for a sweet finishing touch. A sprinkle of chopped nuts or a light dusting of cinnamon powder adds texture and visual appeal too.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a cozy cup of coffee, chai tea, or even warm milk. They make an easy but special addition to brunch spreads or afternoon tea time.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange Cinnamon Roll Cookies in a circular pattern on a pretty platter to show off their spiral design, or stack them in a tall jar for a charming kitchen display. Gift them in a colorful tin or wrap them with a ribbon for a homemade treat that feels extra personal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Cinnamon Roll Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This helps maintain their soft texture without drying out.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, these cookies freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To enjoy them fresh, pop frozen Cinnamon Roll Cookies in a warm oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes or microwave for about 15 seconds. This will revive their soft, tender texture and warm the cinnamon scent just like fresh-baked.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour?

All-purpose flour is ideal for the right texture in Cinnamon Roll Cookies, but you can try whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor, though the cookies may be a bit denser.

What if I don’t have brown sugar for the filling?

You can substitute white sugar mixed with a tiny pinch of molasses or honey for a similar effect, but brown sugar offers the best caramel notes.

Can these cookies be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend, but be mindful of texture differences—sometimes the cookies might be a bit crumblier.

How long do Cinnamon Roll Cookies keep fresh?

Stored properly at room temperature in an airtight container, they stay fresh and delicious for 3 to 4 days. Beyond that, freezing is your best bet.

Is there a way to make these cookies vegan?

Yes, swap butter with a plant-based alternative and use a flax egg or commercial egg replacer. The texture will be slightly different but still tasty!

Final Thoughts

These Cinnamon Roll Cookies are a heartwarming twist on a classic favorite that’s sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re looking for a quick sweet boost or something special to share, they hit all the right notes with cinnamon spice and buttery sweetness. Give this recipe a try and watch these little spirals of joy make any day better!

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