Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe

There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a warm, cinnamon-spiced treat that captures the essence of a classic cinnamon roll—but with the convenience of a cookie. This Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe delivers exactly that cozy flavor you crave, wrapped up in a perfectly soft, spiral cookie. I love this recipe because it skips the fuss of yeast dough and rising time, making it a go-to when you want that comforting cinnamon roll vibe without the wait.

You’ll find that these cookies work beautifully for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even as a delightful addition to holiday cookie trays. The soft dough combined with a cinnamon and brown sugar swirl inside makes every bite a small celebration. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to prepare, which means you get more time enjoying and less time stressing in the kitchen.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients here are simple pantry staples that work in harmony to create that delicious cinnamon roll flavor. When shopping, pick good-quality butter and fresh cinnamon to really boost the flavor in your Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe.

• All-purpose flour: The base for your cookie dough, providing structure and softness.
• Baking powder: Helps give the cookies a slight lift and light texture.
• Ground cinnamon: The star spice that gives these cookies their iconic warm, cozy flavor.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• Unsalted butter: Softened butter keeps the dough tender without adding extra salt.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create the soft cookie texture.
• Brown sugar: Packed brown sugar adds moisture and deep caramel notes, essential for that cinnamon roll taste.
• Large egg: Binds everything together and adds richness.
• Vanilla extract: A subtle background note that rounds out the sweetness.
• Filling – brown sugar & cinnamon: This simple combo creates the iconic swirl and gooey center.

Variations

One of the best things about this Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe is how easy it is to make your own. I often customize mine depending on the season or my mood—adding different nuts, or switching up the spices.

• Nutty Twist: Adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling gives a nice crunch and extra flavor—I love this for holiday baking.
• Spiced Up: Try mixing a pinch of ground nutmeg or cardamom with your cinnamon for a more fragrant, warm cookie.
• Gluten-Free Version: I’ve had success swapping all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking mix—just be sure to check the blend for xanthan gum to keep cookies tender.
• Sugar Swap: Using coconut sugar instead of brown sugar creates a richer flavor, though the cookies might bake up a little darker.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon in a medium bowl. This helps evenly distribute the leavening and spices, so you don’t get any clumps or uneven pockets of flavor in your cookies. I always sift or whisk my dry ingredients first—it’s a small step that really makes a difference.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

Next, grab a larger bowl and beat the softened butter with the granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes. This creaming step is key to giving your cookies a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Don’t rush it; the fluffier it gets, the better your cookie dough will behave.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. These ingredients bring structure and moisture to the dough without weighing it down. If your egg is cold, I like to take it out of the fridge a few minutes before starting so it mixes in more evenly.

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Don’t overmix here—you want the dough to be soft and just joined. Overworking the dough can make your cookies tough instead of tender.

Step 5: Prepare the Filling and Assemble

In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon for the filling. Spread half of the dough evenly on a piece of parchment paper, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over it. Here’s a trick I picked up: use the parchment paper to help you roll the dough tightly into a log shape, making it easier to slice later without squishing your beautiful spiral.

Step 6: Slice and Bake

Slice the rolled dough into rounds about 1/2 inch thick and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them out slightly. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown but the centers remain soft. Keep a close eye the first time you bake them—you want a soft cookie, not a crispy one.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

I usually enjoy these cookies just as they are, but sometimes I drizzle a tiny bit of cream cheese glaze for that classic cinnamon roll finish. A light dusting of powdered sugar also works beautifully if you want subtle sweetness and a pretty look.

Side Dishes

Pair cinnamon roll cookies with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea for the ultimate cozy combo. They’re also a fun addition alongside a bowl of warm apple cider or even vanilla ice cream if you’re feeling indulgent.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like arranging these cookies in a circular pattern on a pretty platter to mimic a giant cinnamon roll—that always gets compliments! Wrapping a few in clear cellophane tied with twine also makes for lovely homemade gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, store your cinnamon roll cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. I’ve found they stay soft and delicious for about 3-4 days this way, perfect for keeping snacks handy without fuss.

Freezing

These cookies freeze wonderfully! After slicing but before baking, I place the cinnamon roll rounds on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a sealed bag. When I want fresh cookies, I pop them right onto the baking sheet and bake with a minute or two added to the time.

Reheating

I reheat leftover cookies in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes to soften up. This little step revives their fresh-baked softness and just feels like a warm hug in cookie form.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it captures that warm cinnamon roll essence in an easy, handheld form. Whether you’re baking for loved ones or just treating yourself, these cookies bring comfort and happiness in every bite. Give them a try—I promise once you’ve made them, they’ll become a beloved staple in your recipe box just like they are in mine.

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