Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Introduction

There’s something magical about the combination of cinnamon and sugar. It’s warm, comforting, and immediately brings to mind cozy mornings spent with a hot cup of coffee. Now, imagine turning that comforting cinnamon roll into a cookie. Welcome to the world of Cinnamon Roll Cookies—a sweet, cinnamon-filled treat that will make your kitchen smell like a bakery and leave you craving more.

These cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with the signature cinnamon swirl, topped with a simple glaze that takes them to the next level. If you love cinnamon rolls but don’t want to wait for dough to rise or deal with the mess of rolling and shaping, these cookies are your new best friend. They’re super easy to make and come together in about 30 minutes (minus chilling time), making them perfect for a weekend treat or even a quick dessert after dinner.

I first stumbled upon this recipe during a weekend baking spree, looking for something quick and easy to satisfy my cinnamon cravings. One bite, and I was hooked! They’ve since become a family favorite, often requested for special occasions like birthdays or lazy Sundays. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just for yourself (because hey, who’s judging?), these cookies will quickly become a staple in your recipe box. Plus, they’re so fun to make—you’ll love seeing the cinnamon swirl inside each cookie as it bakes.

Ready to make your kitchen smell like cinnamon heaven? Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are just a few reasons why these Cinnamon Roll Cookies are an absolute must-try:

• Easy to make: Unlike traditional cinnamon rolls, these cookies don’t require any yeast or rise time. Just mix, roll, slice, and bake! You’ll be enjoying these in no time.
• No fuss: These cookies deliver all the flavor of a cinnamon roll without the work. They’re less messy than the traditional dough-making process and so much quicker.
• Perfect texture: Each bite is soft, chewy, and filled with that irresistible cinnamon-sugar swirl. They almost melt in your mouth, making them a comforting treat for any time of day.
• Family-friendly: Kids love these cookies! They’re easy to eat, and the sweet glaze adds an extra touch of sweetness that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy.
• Customize the glaze: You can add a simple glaze or go wild with a cream cheese frosting if you want to give them that true cinnamon roll feel. Either way, they’re delicious.

These cookies are a great way to enjoy a classic flavor in a new form. If you’re craving something sweet that’s still familiar yet exciting, these Cinnamon Roll Cookies will do the trick every time!

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 45 minutes (plus chilling time)
• Servings: 24 cookies

Nutrition Facts (per serving):
Calories: 180,
Protein: 2g,
Carbs: 30g,
Fat: 8g,
Fiber: 1g

Ingredients

cookies:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 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 cup sour cream (adds extra moisture and richness)

cinnamon filling:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

glaze (optional but highly recommended):

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk (add more for desired consistency)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Why these ingredients work:

• All-purpose flour: Forms the base of the dough, creating the perfect structure for these soft, chewy cookies.
• Sour cream: Adds richness and moisture, ensuring the cookies stay tender and soft.
• Cinnamon and brown sugar: These ingredients are the stars of the show! They give the cookies that classic cinnamon roll flavor we all love.
• Powdered sugar and milk: These make the glaze perfectly smooth and shiny, giving the cookies a beautiful finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1st Step: Prepare the dough

• Mix dry ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
• Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This will take about 2-3 minutes.
• Add egg and vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
• Add sour cream: Stir in the sour cream, which will keep the dough soft and tender. Mix until smooth.
• Combine with dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.

2nd Step: Make the cinnamon filling

• Melt the butter: In a small bowl, melt the butter in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Mix cinnamon and sugar: Stir together the brown sugar and cinnamon in another bowl.
• Combine: Once the butter is melted, mix it with the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Set this filling aside.

3rd Step: Roll out the dough

• Chill the dough: Divide the dough into two portions and wrap them in plastic wrap. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps the dough firm up and makes it easier to roll out.
• Roll out the dough: Once the dough is chilled, place one portion on a floured surface and roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick.
• Spread the cinnamon filling: Brush the melted cinnamon-sugar butter mixture over the rolled-out dough, spreading it evenly all over. Leave a small border around the edges.

4th Step: Shape the cookies

• Roll up the dough: Starting from one of the long sides, carefully roll the dough into a log. Be gentle to prevent the filling from spilling out.
• Slice the dough: Using a sharp knife, slice the dough into 12 equal pieces. These will form your cookies.
• Place on a baking sheet: Arrange the cookie slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Make sure to space them out evenly.

5th Step: Bake the cookies

• Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake the cookies: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on your oven.

6th Step: Make the glaze

• Prepare the glaze: While the cookies are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Add more milk if necessary to reach your desired consistency. The glaze should be smooth and pourable.

7th Step: Drizzle the glaze

• Cool the cookies: Allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes before drizzling the glaze over them.
• Serve and enjoy: Drizzle the glaze generously over the cookies and enjoy the perfect combination of cinnamon sweetness and creamy glaze.

How to Serve

These Cinnamon Roll Cookies are perfect for:

• Coffee or tea: Enjoy with your favorite hot beverage for the ultimate cozy treat.
• Breakfast or brunch: Serve them alongside scrambled eggs or fresh fruit for a weekend breakfast that feels extra special.
• Dessert: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert.

They also make for an amazing gift for friends and family. Simply stack them in a cute tin, add a bow, and you’ve got the perfect homemade gift for any occasion.

Additional Tips

1. Chill the dough: Don’t skip this step! Chilling the dough helps the cookies hold their shape while baking and keeps them soft.
2. Use room temperature butter: Softened butter is key to achieving that creamy dough texture. If you forget to take it out ahead of time, place it in the microwave for a few seconds to soften it up.
3. Roll the dough evenly: Try to roll the dough evenly, so your cookies bake uniformly. If it’s too thick in some places, they may not cook properly.
4. Check the cookies early: Oven temperatures vary, so start checking your cookies around the 10-minute mark. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are lightly golden.
5. Make ahead: You can prepare the dough a day or two ahead and keep it wrapped tightly in the fridge. Just slice and bake when you’re ready for fresh cookies!

Recipe Variations

1. Add nuts: If you love a bit of crunch, try adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon filling for extra texture and flavor.
2. Make them gluten-free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to check the consistency of the dough, as gluten-free flour can be a bit drier.
3. Go chocolatey: For an extra indulgent treat, add some mini chocolate chips to the dough. Chocolate and cinnamon are a match made in heaven!
4. Use maple syrup in the glaze: Instead of milk, use maple syrup to give the glaze a warm, fall-inspired flavor.
5. Add a sprinkle of sea salt: A light dusting of flaky sea salt over the glaze will give these cookies a touch of salty sweetness that will have you coming back for more.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these Cinnamon Roll Cookies with:

• Ice cream: Vanilla, caramel, or cinnamon ice cream would be divine with these cookies.
• A warm drink: Serve with a cozy latte, hot chocolate, or even a spiced cider for a perfect pairing on chilly days.
• A side of fruit: For a lighter option, serve alongside a bowl of fresh fruit—strawberries, apples, or even a citrus salad would balance out the sweetness.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They’ll stay soft and delicious for several days, but they’re best when fresh.
• Freezing: Freeze the cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes for a freshly-baked taste.
• Freezing dough: You can also freeze the dough before baking. Roll the dough into logs, wrap in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, slice and bake straight from the freezer (add a few extra minutes to the baking time).

Special Equipment

• Baking Sheet: A standard baking sheet is perfect for this recipe. Line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Rolling Pin: A rolling pin helps you roll out the dough evenly. You can also use your hands if you don’t have one.
• Sharp Knife: To slice the cookie dough log into even pieces, a sharp knife will give you the cleanest cuts without squishing the dough.

FAQ Section

Can I use store-bought cinnamon roll filling?
Yes! If you’re in a pinch, you can use store-bought cinnamon roll filling. Just be sure to spread it evenly and gently.

How can I make these ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to two days. Slice and bake when you’re ready. You can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months.

What can I do if I don’t have sour cream?
You can substitute with plain yogurt or even buttermilk if you don’t have sour cream on hand.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, but the flavor and texture may vary slightly. I recommend using real butter for the best taste and texture.

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Conclusion

I can’t wait for you to try these Cinnamon Roll Cookies—they’re seriously one of my favorite treats to make and share. Whether you’re baking for yourself or treating your family to something special, these cookies are bound to be a hit. The sweet cinnamon swirl, the soft, chewy texture, and the drizzle of glaze all come together to make the perfect bite. Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I love seeing your creations! And, if you’ve got any tips or variations of your own, leave them in the comments. Happy baking!