Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Delight in soft, gooey Cinnamon Roll Cookies bursting with cinnamon sugar flavor—a perfect treat to satisfy your sweet cravings! These cookies bring together the comforting warmth of classic cinnamon rolls and the convenience of a handheld cookie, making them an irresistible snack anytime you want a cozy, sweet bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly Balanced Flavors: Each cookie delivers just the right amount of cinnamon and sweetness, hitting every cozy comfort note.
• Soft and Gooey Texture: Enjoy that melt-in-your-mouth softness paired with gooey cinnamon sugar swirls in every bite.
• Easy to Make: The recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps, ideal for bakers of all skill levels.
• Great for Sharing: These cookies make wonderful gifts or party snacks and are sure to impress friends and family.
• Customizable: You can easily tailor the recipe with add-ins or variations to match your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Cookies are simple but essential, each playing a key role in creating that signature cinnamon taste, soft texture, and appealing golden-brown color.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the structure and tenderness needed for soft cookies.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps achieve a tender crumb.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the dough while brown sugar brings moisture and deeper flavor.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to the cookies’ softness.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and rounds out the cinnamon flavor.
• Baking powder: Provides lift to keep cookies light and fluffy.
• Cinnamon: The star spice creating that warm, fragrant swirl inside each cookie.
• Brown sugar (for filling): Adds a caramel-like sweetness to the cinnamon sugar swirl.
• Powdered sugar: Optional for glaze to give a sweet, creamy finish.
• Milk or cream: Used sparingly in glaze to create a smooth drizzle.

Variations for Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Feel free to make Cinnamon Roll Cookies your own by experimenting with different flavors and ingredients. These adaptations are easy and let you customize to your heart’s content.

• Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a satisfying crunch.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious wheat-free treat.
• Maple Cinnamon: Swap vanilla extract for pure maple syrup in the dough for extra depth.
• Chocolate Surprise: Include mini chocolate chips in the cinnamon sugar swirl for a melty, decadent touch.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter and flax eggs to keep the cookies tender and dairy-free.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Begin by creaming together softened butter and sugars until fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract, then gradually mix in the dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt—to form a soft dough.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

Combine brown sugar with ground cinnamon in a bowl. This mixture will create the luscious swirl inside each cookie, giving that classic cinnamon roll flavor.

Step 3: Roll and Layer

Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle. Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the dough, then carefully roll it up like a jelly roll, sealing the edge tightly.

Step 4: Slice and Arrange

Cut the rolled dough into evenly sized slices about one inch thick. Place the slices onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them to allow slight spreading during baking.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake in a preheated oven until the cookies are lightly golden and set but still soft in the center. This usually takes 10-12 minutes—watch closely to avoid overbaking.

Step 6: Optional Glaze

While the cookies cool, whisk powdered sugar with milk or cream to create a smooth glaze, then drizzle over the warm cookies for an irresistible finishing touch.

Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Roll Cookies

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for smooth dough consistency.
• Don’t Overbake: Remove cookies as soon as edges are golden to keep them soft and moist inside.
• Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the shaped roll before slicing to maintain clean swirls and prevent spreading.
• Use Fresh Cinnamon: For a vibrant and potent cinnamon flavor, use freshly ground cinnamon rather than pre-mixed blends.
• Customize Sugar Ratio: Adjust brown sugar and granulated sugar amounts to control sweetness and chewiness.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Garnishes

Consider topping the cookies with a light drizzle of cream cheese frosting, chopped toasted nuts, or even a dusting of powdered sugar for extra visual appeal and flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair these sweet treats with a warm cup of coffee, a mug of hot cocoa, or even a spiced chai latte—it enhances the cozy cinnamon notes perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the cookies stacked on a rustic wooden board or lined up on a decorative tray with small bowls of glaze or frosting for dipping. They also make an adorable addition to brunch spreads or dessert tables.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover Cinnamon Roll Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and fresh.

Freezing

Freeze sliced but unbaked dough wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw in the fridge, then bake as usual for fresh-baked goodness anytime.

Reheating

Warm cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a low-temperature oven to restore their soft, gooey texture without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sugar for the cinnamon filling?

Yes, you can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or turbinado sugar for a different flavor and texture, but brown sugar provides the best caramel notes.

Are Cinnamon Roll Cookies suitable for freezing after baking?

Absolutely! Fully baked cookies freeze well when stored in airtight containers, and they can be thawed at room temperature or gently warmed before serving.

How do I prevent the cinnamon sugar filling from leaking out during baking?

Chilling the rolled dough before slicing helps the filling stay in place, and make sure to seal the dough edges tightly during rolling.

Can I make these cookies dairy-free?

Yes, simply swap traditional butter with a plant-based alternative and use flax or chia eggs instead of regular eggs for a vegan-friendly version.

What is the best way to achieve the cinnamon swirl effect?

Roll the dough into an even rectangle, spread the cinnamon sugar fully to the edges, and roll tightly to ensure clear, distinct spirals in every cookie slice.

Final Thoughts

These Cinnamon Roll Cookies are a delightful way to enjoy the classic flavors of cinnamon rolls without the fuss of traditional dough. Whether you’re sharing with loved ones or indulging on your own, they’ll quickly become a favorite go-to recipe in your baking repertoire. Give these irresistible treats a try—you’re going to love every warm, cinnamon-scented bite!

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