Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Introduction

Cinnamon Roll Cookies are the ultimate combination of a soft, chewy cookie with the irresistible flavors of a cinnamon roll. These cookies bring the warm, cozy taste of cinnamon, sugar, and butter, all wrapped up in a pillowy soft cookie dough. With a delightful swirl of cinnamon sugar running through each bite and a light glaze on top, these cookies are sure to become your new favorite treat.

I remember the first time I made these, and the aroma that filled the kitchen was nothing short of heavenly. The cinnamon sugar swirl combined with the buttery dough creates the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth. Every bite is a cozy, melt-in-your-mouth experience that transports you straight to a bakery.

What’s amazing about these cookies is how easy they are to make. You get all the comfort of a freshly baked cinnamon roll, but without the effort of rolling out dough and waiting for it to rise. They’re perfect for brunch, holiday gatherings, or just a sweet treat whenever you’re craving something special.

These Cinnamon Roll Cookies are perfect for anyone who loves the classic cinnamon roll but wants the convenience of a cookie. You can enjoy them with a cup of coffee, share them with family, or savor them all on your own—either way, they’re guaranteed to be a hit!

Perfect for:

• Brunch or breakfast gatherings
• Holiday baking
• Gift-giving
• Afternoon tea
• Cinnamon lovers

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Here’s why Cinnamon Roll Cookies will become your go-to cookie recipe:

• Cinnamon Roll Flavor: These cookies taste just like your favorite cinnamon rolls, with the perfect combination of warm cinnamon and sugary sweetness.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: The cookie dough is soft and chewy, giving it that melt-in-your-mouth quality you love in cinnamon rolls.
• Easy to Make: No yeast, no rising time—these cookies are quick and simple to make while still delivering that cinnamon roll taste.
• Versatile and Customizable: The basic recipe is great as is, but feel free to experiment with different glazes or add-ins, like nuts or raisins, to make them your own.
• Perfectly Balanced Sweetness: The glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the cinnamon flavor.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
• Servings: 24 cookies
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150-170 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 2g, Carbs: 23g, Fat: 7g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Cinnamon Roll Cookies:

For the Cookie Dough:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon heavy cream (or milk)

Cinnamon Sugar Swirl:

• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• ½ cup granulated sugar

Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Ingredient Highlights

• Butter: Butter makes these cookies rich and tender, contributing to their soft, chewy texture.
• Cinnamon: The warm, spicy cinnamon is the star of this recipe, giving the cookies that classic cinnamon roll flavor.
• Sugar: Both granulated and powdered sugar add sweetness and texture, with granulated sugar creating the swirl and powdered sugar used for the glaze.
• Heavy Cream: Heavy cream ensures that the dough is rich and soft, helping to give these cookies their melt-in-your-mouth quality.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Cinnamon Roll Cookies:

Prepare the Cookie Dough:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for easy cleanup.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth and well-combined.
5. Add the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Add the heavy cream and mix until the dough is soft but not too sticky.

Make the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl:

6. Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, mix together the cinnamon and sugar for the swirl. Set aside.

Shape and Bake the Cookies:

7. Roll the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out into a rectangle, about ½ inch thick.
8. Add the Cinnamon Sugar: Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the entire surface of the dough, pressing gently to make sure it sticks.
9. Roll Up the Dough: Starting from one edge, carefully roll the dough up into a log, like a cinnamon roll, making sure it’s tight but not too tight. Use a sharp knife to slice the dough into 1-inch rounds.
10. Place on Baking Sheets: Arrange the dough rounds on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
11. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the cookies are set.
12. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Glaze:

13. Prepare the Glaze: While the cookies are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Cinnamon Roll Cookies are perfect for a variety of occasions and can be served in many ways:

• For Breakfast or Brunch: Serve these cookies alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a sweet start to the day.
• As a Dessert: Add these cookies to your dessert table or serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
• For Holiday Gatherings: These cookies are great for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any special occasion when you want a warm, comforting dessert.
• Gift-Giving: Pack these cookies in a pretty tin or jar to give as homemade gifts to friends and family.
• With a Hot Beverage: Pair these cookies with a cup of hot chocolate or coffee for a cozy, comforting treat.

Additional Tips for Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Here are some tips to ensure your Cinnamon Roll Cookies turn out perfect every time:

• Use Room Temperature Butter: Be sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and the best texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix just until the ingredients are combined to avoid dense cookies. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
• Chill the Dough (Optional): If you find the dough difficult to roll, chill it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before shaping and slicing.
• Roll Evenly: Try to roll the dough evenly so that the cinnamon sugar is spread throughout the cookie, giving each bite the perfect swirl of flavor.
• Adjust the Glaze Consistency: If your glaze is too thick, add a tiny bit more milk. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.
• Store in an Airtight Container: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days to keep them soft and fresh.

Recipe Variations for Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Here are 10 variations you can try for Cinnamon Roll Cookies:

• Maple Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Add 2 tablespoons of maple syrup to the dough for a warm, maple flavor to complement the cinnamon.
• Caramel Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Add caramel bits or a swirl of caramel sauce inside the dough for a sweet, chewy surprise.
• Pecan Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Add chopped pecans to the dough for extra crunch and a nutty flavor.
• Cream Cheese Frosted Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Top the cookies with a cream cheese frosting instead of a glaze for a tangy, rich flavor.
• Apple Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Add diced apples to the dough for a fruit-filled twist on classic cinnamon rolls.
• Cinnamon Roll Bites: Make smaller, bite-sized cookies by cutting the dough into smaller pieces and reducing the baking time.
• Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Add mini chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet, melty addition to the cinnamon flavor.
• Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Add a small amount of sourdough starter to the dough for a tangy twist on the cinnamon roll flavor.
• Churro Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Roll the cookies in cinnamon sugar before baking for a crunchy cinnamon sugar exterior.
• Gluten-Free Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free without compromising on taste or texture.

Freezing and Storage for Cinnamon Roll Cookies

• Freezing: You can freeze these cookies before or after baking. To freeze the dough, roll it into a log, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Slice and bake as usual. For baked cookies, freeze in a single layer and transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
• Storage: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. They can also be stored in the fridge for up to a week.

Special Equipment for Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Cinnamon Roll Cookies easier:

• Electric Mixer: Use an electric mixer to cream the butter and sugar to the perfect texture.
• Rolling Pin: A rolling pin will help you roll the dough out evenly and to the perfect thickness.
• Cookie Cutter or Knife: Use a sharp knife to slice the dough into neat, even rounds.
• Baking Sheets: Use parchment-lined or non-stick baking sheets for easy cookie removal.
• Wire Rack: A cooling rack lets the cookies cool evenly, preventing them from becoming soggy.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure precise measurements for the best results.
• Glaze Drizzler or Spoon: A spoon or drizzle bottle helps apply the glaze evenly to the cookies.

Frequently Asked Questions for Cinnamon Roll Cookies

1. Can I make these cookies without the glaze?
   Yes, if you prefer a less sweet cookie, you can skip the glaze and enjoy the cinnamon-sugar swirl on its own.
2. Can I use a different type of sugar for the cinnamon sugar swirl?
   Yes, brown sugar works great for a richer flavor and extra moisture in the swirl.
3. Can I freeze the dough?
   Yes, the dough can be frozen before baking. Roll it into a log, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.
4. Can I make these cookies without cinnamon?
   Yes, you can experiment with other spices like nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for a different flavor.
5. How do I know when the cookies are done?
   The cookies should have golden edges, and the center should feel set but soft to the touch.

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Conclusion

Cinnamon Roll Cookies are the ultimate way to enjoy the irresistible taste of cinnamon rolls in a bite-sized form. These soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookies feature a perfect swirl of cinnamon sugar, creating that warm, cozy flavor we all love. Topped with a sweet glaze, they offer the perfect balance of sweetness and spice in every bite.

Whether you’re making them for a holiday gathering, a cozy afternoon treat, or just because, these cookies will surely bring smiles to everyone who tastes them. Their comforting flavor and pillowy texture make them the ideal snack for any occasion.

I’d love to see how your Cinnamon Roll Cookies turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy baking!