When I first pulled these Cinnamon Roll Cookies from the oven, the intoxicating aroma of cinnamon and butter instantly filled my kitchen. You’d never guess that something so indulgently soft and chewy could be so easy to make! Blending the familiar comforts of classic cinnamon rolls with the delightful ease of cookies, these treats have become my go-to dessert. Each bite reveals a stunning swirl of sweet cinnamon goodness, perfectly balancing that warm, gooey texture we all crave.
Perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon indulgence, these cookies feel like a cozy hug on a plate. If you’re tired of the same old fast-food desserts and looking for a homemade treat that will impress friends and family without any fuss, you’ve found your answer. Plus, they’re make-ahead friendly and freezable, so you can always keep a beloved batch on hand for whenever you need a little pick-me-up. Grab your apron, and let’s dive into this scrumptiously simple recipe!
Why are Cinnamon Roll Cookies a must-try?
Irresistible flavor: The combination of cinnamon and sugary sweetness creates a dessert that’ll have you coming back for more.
Easy to make: Even beginner bakers can whip these up without breaking a sweat—perfect for a fun weekend project.
Make-ahead friendly: Freeze your dough or baked cookies for a delicious treat any time you need a quick dessert fix.
Versatile options: Customize with nuts, chocolate chips, or seasonal spices like pumpkin spice to cater to your cravings.
Perfect for sharing: Bring these cookies to gatherings, and watch as they disappear in no time—everyone will want the recipe!
Cinnamon Roll Cookies Ingredients
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For the Dough
• All-Purpose Flour – Essential for structure and that classic cookie body.
• Baking Powder – Helps the cookies rise, creating that light and airy texture.
• Ground Cinnamon – The star flavor that brings warmth and sweetness.
• Salt – Enhances sweetness andbalances the flavors beautifully.
• Unsalted Butter (softened) – Adds richness and tenderness to the dough.
• Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and helps achieve a slight crispiness.
• Brown Sugar (packed) – Contributes moisture and that chewy goodness we love.
• Large Egg – Binds everything together while adding moisture.
• Vanilla Extract – Elevates the flavor with its warm aroma. -
For the Filling
• Brown Sugar (packed) – Creates a sweet, caramelized base for the filling.
• Ground Cinnamon – Elevates the filling with its spicy-sweet goodness.
Notes/Substitutions:
- Experiment with pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon for a seasonal twist.
- Don’t forget to add nuts for that delightful crunch if desired.
- For a sweet surprise, mix in chocolate chips or dried fruit—your Cinnamon Roll Cookies can get even more exciting!
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cookies
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden finish.
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Whisk the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. This helps distribute the leavening agent and spices evenly throughout the dough.
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Cream the Butters and Sugars: In a separate bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. This step is key to achieving that tender texture!
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Mix in Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract, whisking until smooth and creamy. The vanilla adds a wonderful aroma to the cookies.
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Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this could lead to tougher cookies.
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Prepare the Filling: In another bowl, mix together the packed brown sugar and ground cinnamon until well blended, creating a sweet filling that enhances each cookie’s flavor.
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Form the Cookies: Roll out half of the dough on a piece of parchment paper into a flat rectangle. Sprinkle the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough and tightly roll it up like a burrito.
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Slice the Dough: Cut the rolled dough into 1-inch thick rounds and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving them space to expand while baking.
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Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. Look for a golden brown edge while the centers should remain soft and chewy.
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Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool slightly before indulging. Drizzle with optional icing if desired for extra sweetness, then enjoy warm!
Optional: Drizzle with a simple glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Room Temperature: Store baked Cinnamon Roll Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in individual freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Make sure to label and date your packages!
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to restore their gooey goodness.
Dough Storage: If you want to prepare ahead, the cookie dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully.
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Roll Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it, helping to deepen the flavors and saving you time on busy days. Simply follow the recipe instructions until the dough is formed, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out. Additionally, you can freeze the formed cookie slices for up to 3 months; just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw—just pop them in the oven straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time. This way, you can enjoy fresh, soft, and chewy Cinnamon Roll Cookies with minimal effort any time you desire!
Cinnamon Roll Cookies Variations
Explore delightful twists on the classic Cinnamon Roll Cookies that will tempt your taste buds and spark your creativity in the kitchen!
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Pumpkin Spice: Swap cinnamon for pumpkin spice for a charming autumnal flavor that brings warmth and nostalgia to every bite.
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough for a satisfying crunch and an extra layer of flavor with each cookie.
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Chocolate Delight: Stir in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a chocolatey surprise that complements the cinnamon in an indulgent way.
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Fruity Twist: Incorporate dried fruit like raisins or chopped apples for a burst of fruitiness that adds texture and sweet juiciness.
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Maple Glaze: Drizzle with a simple maple glaze instead of icing for a unique flavor that enhances the sweetness while embracing that cozy vibe.
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Coconut Flakes: Mix in unsweetened shredded coconut for a chewy texture and tropical flair that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
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Spicy Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the dough for those who like a little extra kick to balance the sweetness.
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Cheesecake Swirl: Introduce a layer of cream cheese mixed with a bit of sugar and vanilla for a creamy filling that elevates your cookies to decadent levels.
These variations are sure to bring excitement and personalization to your baking experience!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Cookies?
Experience the delightful balance of flavors and textures when pairing these cookies with the perfect accompaniments.
- Freshly Brewed Coffee: The rich bitterness of coffee complements the sweet cinnamon flavor, creating a comforting breakfast experience.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a luscious, cold contrast to the warm, gooey cookies—an indulgent treat!
- Warm Milk: A classic pairing that enhances the cozy vibes; the warmth of the milk brings out the cinnamon sweetness beautifully.
- Fruit Salad: Juicy, vibrant fruits provide a fresh contrast, making it a light and refreshing side to these rich cookies.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: A drizzle enhances the sweetness while adding a hint of earthy flavor, perfectly harmonizing with the cookies’ taste.
- Nutty Granola: The crunch from granola adds texture, while its natural sweetness balances the warm, soft chewiness of the cookies.
- Herbal Tea: Pair these cookies with a soothing cup of herbal tea for a relaxing afternoon break; the flavors meld harmoniously.
- Chocolate Milk: The chocolatey richness complements the cinnamon swirl beautifully, making this a kid-friendly and nostalgic pairing.
Tips for the Best Cinnamon Roll Cookies
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Cream Thoroughly: Make sure to cream the butter and sugars until fluffy to incorporate air and achieve the tender texture of your Cinnamon Roll Cookies.
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Careful Mixing: Avoid overmixing the dough after adding dry ingredients; this keeps your cookies soft and chewy, preventing them from becoming tough.
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Tight Rolling Matters: Roll the dough tightly to create a pronounced swirl; this enhances the visual appeal and flavor in every cookie slice.
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Watch the Bake Time: Remove cookies from the oven when the edges are golden but the centers remain soft to ensure they maintain that gooey texture.
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Chill for Flavor: Chill the dough for up to 24 hours before baking; this can deepen the flavors and improve the overall taste of your cookies.
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Storage Tip: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature; they can last for up to 5 days or be frozen for later enjoyment.
Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of flour should I use for Cinnamon Roll Cookies?
Absolutely, all-purpose flour is your go-to for these cookies! It provides the right structure and texture. If you want an alternative, whole wheat flour can be used, but your cookies might turn out a bit denser.
How should I store my Cinnamon Roll Cookies?
Store your baked Cinnamon Roll Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them soft and chewy. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option too!
Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll Cookies?
Yes, you can freeze your cookies! Simply place them in individual, freezer-safe bags or containers, making sure to label and date them. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to revive that gooey texture!
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky, don’t worry! Simply add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it reaches your desired consistency. It’s important not to add too much at once, as this can alter the cookie’s texture.
Can I use substitutions for the ingredients?
Very! You can easily swap cinnamon for pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist. Additionally, if anyone in your household has nut allergies, feel free to leave out any nuts or use chocolate chips instead for added sweetness. Just keep in mind that these cookies are flexible, and your creativity is always welcome!
How can I ensure my cookies don’t turn out dry?
To keep your Cinnamon Roll Cookies perfectly moist, it’s crucial to watch the baking time. Remove them from the oven when the edges are golden brown and the centers still look soft. Overbaking is the culprit behind dry cookies!
Cinnamon Roll Cookies: The Ultimate Indulgence You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just incorporated.
- In another bowl, mix together the packed brown sugar and ground cinnamon for the filling.
- Roll out half of the dough into a flat rectangle and sprinkle the filling over it, rolling it tightly.
- Cut the rolled dough into 1-inch thick rounds and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until golden brown at the edges but soft in the center.
- Allow the cookies to cool slightly before serving, and drizzle with icing if desired.