Name: Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Sweet & Soft Treats in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 52 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (Can be substituted with gluten-free flour if needed.); 1 tsp baking powder (Helps the cookies rise and become perfectly fluffy.); 1 tsp ground cinnamon (Adds warmth and flavor; try using pumpkin spice for a fun twist.); ½ tsp salt (Enhances the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.); ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (Can be substituted with margarine for a dairy-free option.); ½ cup granulated sugar; ½ cup brown sugar, packed (Adds moisture and a lovely caramel flavor.); 1 large egg (Binds everything together and helps the cookies rise.); 2 tsp vanilla extract (Introduces a sweet, aromatic flavor.); ½ cup brown sugar, packed (Acts as a sweetener for the filling.); 2 tsp ground cinnamon (Intensifies the cinnamon flavor in the filling.)

As I pulled the warm cookies from the oven, the smell of cinnamon and brown sugar wrapped around me like a cozy blanket. It's moments like these that remind me why I love baking. Enter the star of our kitchen today: Cinnamon Roll Cookies, a deliciously simple treat that combines the comfort of cinnamon rolls with the ease of cookies. Not only are these little gems a quick-to-prepare delight that you can whip up in under 30 minutes, but they’re also freezer-friendly, making them the perfect solution for unexpected guests or a late-night craving. Imagine sharing these soft, chewy bites with loved ones, paired with a steaming cup of coffee or tea. Are you ready to fill your kitchen with warmth and sweetness? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why are Cinnamon Roll Cookies a must-try?

Unmatched Convenience: These cookies require no yeast and come together in under 30 minutes, making baking a breeze!

Endless Customization: Feel free to get creative — swap in pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist or mix in your favorite nuts for extra crunch!

Perfect Anytime Treats: Whether it’s a cozy breakfast or a sweet afternoon snack, these cookies are ideal for any occasion.

Freezer-Friendly: Make a batch in advance and store them in the freezer; simply pull them out when you need a quick dessert fix!

Irresistible Aroma: The heavenly scent of cinnamon and brown sugar wafting through your kitchen will have everyone rushing to the table!

This versatility and ease make Cinnamon Roll Cookies a delightful addition to your dessert repertoire. Enjoy them fresh or save some for later, but be prepared for them to disappear fast!

Cinnamon Roll Cookies Ingredients

• Get ready to indulge in these cozy treats!

For the Cookie Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure to the cookies; can be substituted with gluten-free flour if needed.
1 tsp baking powder – Helps the cookies rise and become perfectly fluffy.
1 tsp ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and flavor; try using pumpkin spice for a fun twist!
½ tsp salt – Enhances the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Brings richness and moisture to the dough; margarine can be used for a dairy-free option.
½ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the dough for that delightful taste.
½ cup brown sugar, packed – Adds moisture and a lovely caramel flavor.
1 large egg – Binds everything together and helps the cookies rise.
2 tsp vanilla extract – Introduces a sweet, aromatic flavor that complements the other ingredients.

For the Filling

½ cup brown sugar, packed – Acts as a sweetener for the filling, providing a rich flavor.
2 tsp ground cinnamon – Intensifies the cinnamon flavor in the filling, making your cookies irresistible!

These Cinnamon Roll Cookies are sure to be a hit with family and friends, showcasing the comforting flavors you love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, line your baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cookies later. This preparation step is essential for achieving the perfect golden edges on your Cinnamon Roll Cookies.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. This mixture will provide the foundation for your cookies. Once combined, set it aside so you can focus on creating that rich, buttery dough that makes the Cinnamon Roll Cookies so irresistible.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with the granulated sugar and packed brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Mix for about 3 minutes or until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step creates a rich texture, forming the base flavor profile of your comforting Cinnamon Roll Cookies.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla
After achieving a fluffy consistency, add in the large egg and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat until the ingredients are smoothly combined. The egg acts as a binding agent, helping to bring your Cinnamon Roll Cookies together, while the vanilla enhances their sweet aroma.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies. You want a soft dough that is slightly sticky to the touch, perfect for rolling out later.

Step 6: Prepare the Filling
In a small bowl, combine the packed brown sugar and ground cinnamon to create the sweet filling for your cookies. This delightful blend enhances the classic flavor of Cinnamon Roll Cookies. Make sure to mix thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of the filling throughout the dough.

Step 7: Roll and Fill the Dough
Divide your dough in half and roll the first half into a 9x12-inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Evenly sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar filling over the rolled dough. Carefully roll it up into a log shape, ensuring the filling is tightly encased. Repeat this process with the remaining dough and filling.

Step 8: Chill the Dough Logs
If desired, chill the logs of rolled dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This chilling step makes slicing easier and helps maintain the shape of your Cinnamon Roll Cookies when baking. It’s an ideal time to clean up your workspace and prepare for the next steps!

Step 9: Slice the Cookies
Once chilled, slice the logs into ½ to 1-inch rounds using a sharp knife. Place the sliced cookies on the prepared baking sheets, allowing for some space between each one to allow for spreading as they bake. The perfect size will ensure even baking and that delightful chewy texture.

Step 10: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the baking sheets to the preheated oven and bake the Cinnamon Roll Cookies for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on the edges; they should turn lightly golden while the centers remain soft. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect combination of chewy and crispy in your cookies.

Step 11: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This cooling period helps them set before you transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. The warm, comforting aroma of your fresh Cinnamon Roll Cookies will fill the air, inviting everyone to indulge!

How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them soft and fresh for delicious snacking.
Fridge: For extended freshness, you can refrigerate the Cinnamon Roll Cookies in a sealed container for up to 1 week. Allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezer: If you’d like to save some for later, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply pop frozen cookies in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warm. Enjoy that freshly baked flavor again!

What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Indulging in cinnamon roll cookies evokes a warmth that calls for comforting pairings to enhance every delightful bite.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery texture complements the sweetness of the cookies, creating a delightful contrast that rounds out a comforting meal.
Warm Chai Tea: A spiced chai perfectly balances the sweetness, the hints of cardamom and cinnamon harmonizing beautifully with your baked treats. Imagine cozying up with a large mug in hand!
Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold, creamy vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast that melts beautifully against the warm cookies, creating a dessert experience you won't want to miss.
Fruit Salad: Fresh, vibrant fruits offer a refreshing, tangy contrast to the sweet richness of the cookies, cleansing the palate after each sweet indulgence.
Maple Glazed Carrots: The sweet and earthy flavors of maple-glazed carrots can create an unexpected and delightful pairing with the cinnamon flavor of the cookies during a cozy family dinner.
Espresso: A strong shot of espresso brings a bold richness that complements the sweetness of the cookies, creating a perfect way to finish off a meal or afternoon snack.
Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: Drizzling some warm chocolate sauce over the cookies elevates the indulgence, transforming each bite into a decadent treat that satisfies the sweet tooth.

These pairings will enhance your experience of cinnamon roll cookies, making it even more special and enjoyable!

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Room-Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming. This can prevent a dense texture in your Cinnamon Roll Cookies.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix until just combined to keep your cookies tender and chewy. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Uniform Slicing: Slice the logs evenly for consistent baking results; larger pieces may bake slower and affect texture.
Chill for Control: Chilling the dough makes it easier to slice and helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
Add a Glaze: For extra flavor, drizzle with a cream cheese glaze after baking. This adds an authentic cinnamon roll finish to your Cinnamon Roll Cookies.

Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Delightful Customizations

Feel empowered to make these Cinnamon Roll Cookies uniquely yours, filling your home with your favorite flavors and textures!

Pumpkin Spice: Swap out ground cinnamon for pumpkin spice for a cozy autumn flavor that will reminisce of festive gatherings.
Nutty Crunch: Mix in finely chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and a delightful crunch in every bite. This gives the cookies an exciting twist that's simply irresistible!
Chocolate Swirls: Incorporate chocolate chips into the dough for a sweet surprise. The richness of chocolate combined with cinnamon is a match made in heaven.
Cream Cheese Drizzle: Drizzle a simple cream cheese glaze on top after baking for that classic cinnamon roll finish. It enhances the sweetness and creaminess, making each cookie even more special.
Mini Treats: Roll the dough into smaller logs for bite-sized cookies, perfect for parties or snacking. They’re just right for sharing or savoring with a cup of coffee.
Spicy Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the filling for a surprising kick. The heat beautifully balances the sweetness and adds depth to every bite.

Feel free to explore these variations to create your perfect Cinnamon Roll Cookies! If you love getting creative in the kitchen, you might also enjoy these delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll recipes that bring seasonal flavors to life! Happy baking!

Make Ahead Options

Cinnamon Roll Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy freshly baked treats with minimal fuss! You can prepare the dough logs up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain their freshness. For even easier planning, these logs can be frozen for up to 2 months — just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When it's time to bake, slice the chilled or frozen logs into rounds and place them on your baking sheet; if frozen, allow them to thaw for about 10 minutes before baking. Enjoy the amazing aroma and comforting taste of these delightful cookies, effortlessly made whenever you need a sweet treat!

Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I know when my cinnamon is ripe for baking?
Absolutely! When selecting cinnamon for your Cinnamon Roll Cookies, look for ground cinnamon that is aromatic and has a warm, sweet scent. If using sticks, they should be brittle and snap easily. Freshly ground cinnamon can significantly enhance flavor, so consider grinding your own from whole sticks for the best results.

What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
For optimal freshness, store your Cinnamon Roll Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to a week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before indulging!

Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll Cookies?
Yes, you can! To freeze your cookies, first, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy, just microwave for 15-20 seconds for that fresh-baked warmth!

What if my cookie dough is too sticky?
Very common! If your dough is too sticky to roll out, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps firm up the dough, making it easier to handle. Alternatively, dust your rolling surface with a little extra flour to help reduce stickiness, ensuring your Cinnamon Roll Cookies turn out beautifully!

Are these cookies safe for pets or people with allergies?
It's always best to be cautious! Cinnamon is generally safe for dogs, but the other ingredients like butter and sugar can cause issues. Regarding allergies, ensure to substitute any allergens (like gluten) with appropriate alternatives, such as gluten-free flour. Always check labels if you’re unsure about packaged ingredients used in the recipe.

Can I customize the filling for these cookies?
Absolutely! You can easily customize the filling to suit your taste. For example, you could substitute the ground cinnamon with pumpkin spice to give a seasonal twist, or mix in finely chopped nuts for added texture. Feel free to explore these delightful variations to make each batch unique!