Cinnamon Roll Cookies have officially stolen my heart! I remember the first time I tried to recreate that magical cinnamon roll flavor in a cookie. My kitchen filled with the warm, comforting aroma of brown sugar and cinnamon, and I knew I was onto something special. These aren’t just any cookies; they’re like little bites of pure joy, offering all the gooey, spiced goodness of a classic cinnamon bun but in a perfectly portable cookie form. If you’ve ever wished you could have cinnamon rolls anytime, anywhere, then you’re going to adore these cookies that taste like cinnamon rolls. Get ready to impress yourself and everyone you share them with. Let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Get ready to fall in love with this incredible treat! These cookies are a dream for anyone who adores cinnamon rolls but wants a quick, portable option.
- You get all the comforting flavors of a classic cinnamon roll in every bite.
- They are incredibly soft cinnamon roll cookies, with a delightful chewiness that’s simply irresistible.
- This is a truly easy cinnamon roll cookies recipe, perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- The beautiful swirl pattern makes them as pretty as they are delicious.
- They bake up quickly, making them a fantastic last-minute dessert idea.
- The combination of brown sugar and cinnamon is pure bliss.
- They’re perfect for sharing at parties, bake sales, or just enjoying with your morning coffee.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Gather these goodies for the most delightful brown sugar cinnamon cookies. The combination of ingredients ensures a perfect texture and flavor that truly captures the essence of cinnamon rolls.
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – the foundation for our cookie dough
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – helps them spread and get that perfect chew
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness and enhances flavor
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – crucial for a tender cookie texture
- 1 cup granulated sugar – provides sweetness and structure
- 1 large egg – binds everything together
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – adds warmth and depth
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional) – for a gourmet touch
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling) – creates a rich, spreadable cinnamon layer
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed (for filling) – essential for that classic caramel-like sweetness and moisture
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for filling) – the star spice that makes these taste like cinnamon rolls
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze) – the base for our sweet, simple topping
- 2-3 tablespoons milk (for glaze) – to achieve the perfect drizzling consistency
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze) – adds a touch of flavor to the glaze
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Ready to learn how to make cinnamon roll cookies that taste just like the real deal? It’s easier than you think! We’ll start by getting our oven nice and warm.
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Set this dry mixture aside for now.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, beat the 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened and 1 cup granulated sugar together until they become light and fluffy. This creaming step is key for a tender cookie.
- Step 4: Add the 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (if using) to the butter mixture. Mix until everything is well combined and looks smooth.
- Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients from Step 2 to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined to form the cookie dough. Be careful not to overmix!
- Step 6: For the cinnamon filling, combine 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened, 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed, and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon in a small bowl until smooth. The aroma at this stage is heavenly!
- Step 7: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the cookie dough into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Step 8: Evenly spread the prepared cinnamon filling over the rolled-out dough, making sure to get it all the way to the edges.
- Step 9: Starting from one long side, carefully roll up the dough into a log. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This chilling step makes slicing easier and helps maintain the swirl.
- Step 10: Once chilled, remove the log from the refrigerator. Slice it into 1/2-inch thick rounds to create your beautiful cinnamon swirl cookies.
- Step 11: Arrange the cookie slices on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Step 12: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. You want them cooked through but still slightly soft in the center.
- Step 13: While the cookies bake, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 2-3 tablespoons milk, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth to make the glaze. Adjust milk for desired drizzling consistency.
- Step 14: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Step 15: Once the cookies are completely cool, drizzle the prepared glaze over the top of your delicious cinnamon roll inspired cookies.
- Step 16: Serve these delightful cookies that taste like cinnamon rolls warm or at room temperature. Enjoy every bite!
Pro Tips for the Best Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Want your cookies to be absolutely perfect? I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that make these cinnamon roll cookies truly special. Follow these tips for the best results!
- Make sure your butter is softened, not melted, for both the dough and the filling. This is key for the right texture.
- Don’t skip chilling the dough log! It makes slicing much cleaner and helps the gorgeous swirls hold their shape.
- Bake them just until the edges are golden. Overbaking will make them dry, and we want that soft, chewy center.
- Let the cookies cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting off.
What’s the secret to perfect Cinnamon Roll Cookies?
The secret lies in the technique: chilling the dough log before slicing and not overbaking. This ensures you get those beautiful, distinct swirls and a perfectly soft, chewy texture in your homemade cinnamon roll cookies.
Can I make Cinnamon Roll Cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare the dough log, slice the cookies, and store them on the baking sheet in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just ensure they are covered. For more easy family dinners, check out our other recipes.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Cinnamon Roll Cookies?
The main pitfalls are overmixing the dough and overbaking the cookies. Overmixing develops gluten, making them tough. Overbaking dries them out, losing that signature moist texture. For more baking tips, explore our copycat recipes guide.
Best Ways to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cookies
These delightful treats are fantastic on their own, but serving them just right can elevate the experience even further. Imagine a warm mug of coffee or tea alongside these sweet swirls – pure bliss!
Serve your freshly baked glazed cinnamon roll cookies warm from the oven for the ultimate gooey experience. They pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk, making them a hit with kids and adults alike. For a more gourmet touch, consider serving them with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. They also make a beautiful addition to any dessert platter, offering a unique flavor profile that guests will adore. For other easy dessert recipes, visit our collection.
Nutrition Facts for Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Let’s take a look at the nutritional breakdown for these delightful cinnamon roll inspired cookies. While they’re a treat, knowing the estimates helps you enjoy them mindfully. For more insights on healthy eating, consider these 3 foods you should eat less of to stay healthy.
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 15g
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your cookie cinnamon roll recipe.
How to Store and Reheat Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Properly storing your delicious cinnamon roll cookies ensures they stay fresh and delightful for days. Once they’ve cooled completely on a wire rack, it’s time to think about preservation. For the best results in your cookie cinnamon roll recipe storage, I recommend an airtight container. This keeps out moisture and prevents them from drying out.
If you plan to enjoy them within 3-4 days, simply place them in your container and store them at room temperature. For longer enjoyment, these cookies freeze beautifully! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. To reheat, you can gently warm them in a low oven (around 250°F or 120°C) for a few minutes until they’re just warmed through, or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. They’ll taste almost as good as freshly baked!
Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Roll Cookies
What are cinnamon roll cookies?
Cinnamon roll cookies are a delightful baked treat that captures the irresistible flavors and appearance of classic cinnamon rolls but in a convenient, bite-sized cookie form. They typically feature a soft, chewy cookie dough swirled with a spiced cinnamon-sugar filling and often finished with a simple glaze. They’re a fantastic way to enjoy the essence of cinnamon rolls without the fuss of rolling and proofing dough.
Are these the best cinnamon roll cookies?
I certainly think so! My goal was to create the best cinnamon roll cookies by balancing that perfect soft, chewy texture with a rich, gooey cinnamon swirl, all topped with a sweet glaze. They deliver that comforting flavor profile that reminds you of a warm bakery treat, making them a favorite for many. The balance of spices and sweetness is key to their deliciousness.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free or vegan?
While this recipe is for traditional cookies, you can adapt it! For gluten-free, I’d recommend a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. For vegan versions, you’ll need to substitute the butter with plant-based butter sticks and the egg with a flax egg or applesauce. The filling and glaze can also be made vegan using plant-based butter and milk alternatives.
How do I get the cinnamon swirl to show up clearly?
The key to a visible cinnamon swirl is to chill the rolled-up dough log before slicing. This firming step prevents the filling from smearing too much when you cut your cookies. Also, ensure you spread the filling evenly to the edges of the dough rectangle before rolling it up. This ensures a beautiful spiral in every slice of your cinnamon bun cookies.
Variations of Cinnamon Roll Cookies You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic cinnamon roll cookies, why stop there? These variations add exciting new twists to the beloved flavor profile, perfect for any craving.
- Spiced Cinnamon Cookies: Amp up the spice by adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to your cinnamon filling. This gives your cinnamon scroll cookies a deeper, more complex flavor that’s perfect for fall.
- Chocolate Swirl: For a decadent twist, add a few tablespoons of cocoa powder to the cinnamon filling. You can even add mini chocolate chips to the cookie dough itself for an extra chocolatey surprise within your cinnamon bun cookies.
- Gluten-Free & Vegan Options: Easily adapt this recipe! Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend for a GF version, or swap butter for vegan butter sticks and eggs for a flax egg to create delicious vegan cinnamon roll cookies.
- Nutty Crunch: Fold finely chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon filling before spreading it onto the dough. This adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the sweet spice beautifully.
Cinnamon Roll Cookies: 15 Amazing Bites
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy Cinnamon Roll Cookies, a delightful treat that captures the essence of classic cinnamon rolls in a convenient cookie form. These cookies are soft, chewy, and swirled with a sweet cinnamon-sugar filling, finished with a simple glaze. They are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- For the Cookies:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- For the Cinnamon Filling:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) to the butter mixture. Mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined to form the cookie dough.
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until smooth and well blended for the cinnamon filling.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the cookie dough into a rectangle (about 1/4 inch thick).
- Evenly spread the cinnamon filling over the rolled-out dough.
- Starting from one long side, carefully roll up the dough into a log. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm up.
- Once chilled, remove the log from the refrigerator and slice it into 1/2-inch thick rounds to create your cinnamon swirl cookies.
- Arrange the cookie slices on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- While the cookies are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth to make the glaze. Adjust consistency as needed.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Once the cookies are completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top of your cinnamon roll inspired cookies.
- Serve the finished cinnamon roll cookies warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- For added texture, incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon filling.
- Experiment with nutmeg or ginger in the filling for a unique twist.
- Add chocolate chips to the dough for a chocolatey cinnamon roll cookie variation.
- Store Cinnamon Roll Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the cookies, tightly wrapped, for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
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