Name: Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; ½ tsp salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; ½ cup granulated sugar; ½ cup brown sugar, packed; 1 large egg; 2 tsp vanilla extract; ½ cup brown sugar, packed; 2 tsp ground cinnamon

Jump to Recipe

If you adore the cozy, sweet, and spicy allure of classic cinnamon rolls but want an easier, more portable treat, these Cinnamon Roll Cookies are exactly what your kitchen needs. Combining the tender crumb of a cookie with the swirl of cinnamon sugar filling, they capture all the heartwarming flavors in a bite-sized form. With their golden edges and soft centers, Cinnamon Roll Cookies are a delightful snack or dessert that anyone will fall in love with, whether it’s for a casual afternoon or a special occasion.

Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create the perfect balance of flavor and texture in these Cinnamon Roll Cookies. Each component plays a crucial role—from the soft butter that gives richness to the cinnamon that delivers that unmistakable warm spice.

2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that creates structure and chewiness.
1 tsp baking powder: Gives a gentle lift, making the cookies light and airy.
1 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds that signature spicy warmth throughout the dough.
½ tsp salt: Enhances overall flavor by balancing the sweetness.
½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and creates a tender crumb.
½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens while contributing slight crispness.
½ cup brown sugar, packed: Adds moisture and a deep molasses flavor.
1 large egg: Binds the dough for perfect consistency.
2 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses a mellow, fragrant depth to the dough.
For the Filling:
½ cup brown sugar, packed: Provides gooey sweetness in the cinnamon swirl.
2 tsp ground cinnamon: The star spice for the irresistible filling swirl.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Mix Dry Ingredients

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon in a bowl, ensuring the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed. This step guarantees every bite has balanced flavor and perfect texture.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter with both granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is fluffy and light. This creaming method isn’t just about mixing—it’s about incorporating air so your cookies bake up soft and tender, not dense.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Next, beat in the egg and vanilla extract until the dough is smooth and well combined. These ingredients add moisture and a fragrant note that elevates the entire cookie experience.

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix just until everything comes together to avoid overworking the dough, which could make your cookies tough instead of tender.

Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling

Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl to create that classic sweet, spicy filling. This simple combination is the secret to transforming an ordinary cookie into a Cinnamon Roll Cookie sensation.

Step 6: Assemble the Swirl

Spread half of your dough evenly over a piece of parchment paper, creating a thin rectangle. Sprinkle the cinnamon filling over the dough, then carefully roll it up tightly like a little log. This rolling step captures those signature swirls, turning the cookie dough into a miniature cinnamon roll.

Step 7: Slice and Bake

Slice your rolled dough into rounds about half an inch thick and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until golden brown around the edges but still soft in the centers. Let them cool slightly before enjoying!

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Garnishes

While these cookies are fantastic on their own, a light drizzle of cream cheese glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar can elevate them to spectacular. The tang of cream cheese complements the cinnamon sweetness perfectly, making your treat feel even more special.

Side Dishes

Pairing Cinnamon Roll Cookies with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a warm mug of chai tea creates an irresistibly cozy moment. They also go wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert option.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or gift-giving, try stacking a tower of Cinnamon Roll Cookies tied with a rustic twine or nestled in a festive tin. You can even serve them warm with a side of honey butter for guests to spread, turning simple cookies into an unforgettable experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any extra Cinnamon Roll Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. Keeping them sealed preserves their soft texture and those irresistible cinnamon notes.

Freezing

If you want to make these ahead, freeze the rolled dough before slicing. Wrap the roll tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to two months. When ready, thaw in the fridge, slice, and bake fresh whenever the craving strikes.

Reheating

To revive day-old cookies, warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This subtle heat brings back the soft, fresh-baked texture and intensifies the cinnamon aroma, making every bite just as delightful as the first.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour?

All-purpose flour gives the perfect texture for these cookies, but for a slightly nuttier flavor, you could try half whole wheat flour. Just keep in mind the texture may be a little denser.

Is there a way to make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Using a one-to-one gluten-free baking flour blend works well. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or add a small amount separately to help maintain the dough’s structure.

Can I add frosting to my Cinnamon Roll Cookies?

Absolutely! A classic cream cheese frosting or simple vanilla glaze pairs beautifully. Spread or drizzle it over cooled cookies for a decadent twist.

How do I get the cinnamon swirl inside the cookies?

Spreading the dough, sprinkling the cinnamon sugar filling, then rolling it tightly into a log before slicing creates those iconic swirls. It’s easier than it sounds and delivers that cinnamon roll charm in cookie form.

Are these cookies soft or crunchy?

These Cinnamon Roll Cookies have a soft, tender center with lightly crisp edges. Baking for the minimum recommended time helps keep them chewy and moist.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re craving something sweet for morning coffee, a festive treat for friends, or a simple homemade dessert, Cinnamon Roll Cookies are guaranteed to hit the spot with their perfect combination of cinnamon warmth and cookie comfort. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes. Ready to bake a batch and share the love?

Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 8 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 32 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Cinnamon Roll Cookies capture the warm, comforting flavors of classic cinnamon rolls in a convenient, bite-sized cookie form. Soft, buttery, and filled with a sweet cinnamon-sugar swirl, these cookies are perfect for breakfast treats, snack time, or dessert.

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect baking temperature while you prepare the dough.
Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon until well combined to evenly distribute the leavening and spices.
Cream butter and sugars: In a separate large bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter with the granulated sugar and ½ cup packed brown sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender cookie texture.
Add egg and vanilla: Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract to the creamed butter mixture until smooth and fully incorporated, adding moisture and flavor to the dough.
Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overworking the dough and ensuring a tender cookie.
Prepare the filling: In a small bowl, mix the remaining ½ cup packed brown sugar with 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon until evenly blended to create the sweet cinnamon swirl.
Assemble the dough roll: On a piece of parchment paper, spread half of the dough into a rectangle. Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon sugar filling over the dough, then carefully roll it up tightly like a cinnamon roll, ensuring the filling stays inside.
Slice and place on baking sheet: Slice the rolled dough into approximately ½-inch thick rounds and arrange them spaced apart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow even baking.
Bake to perfection: Bake the cookie slices in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until they are golden brown on the edges, then remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use browned butter instead of softened butter in the dough.
Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming and better texture.
Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent cookies from sticking to the baking sheet.
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Optional: drizzle melted cream cheese glaze on top for a decadent finish.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American