Name: Deliciously Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies Your Family Will Love
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Flour (Substitute with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version); 1 cup Sugar (Use brown sugar for a richer flavor); 1 tbsp Baking Powder (Check the expiration date for freshness); 0.5 tsp Salt (Just a pinch balances sweetness perfectly); 0.5 cup Butter (Dairy-free options include margarine or coconut oil); 2 large Eggs (Replace with flaxseed meal for vegan option); 2 tbsp Cinnamon (The star ingredient for flavor); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Optional if in a pinch); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Mix with milk to achieve drizzle consistency); 2 tbsp Milk (Non-dairy alternatives like almond milk work fine)

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The aroma of fresh-baked cookies wafting through the house can instantly elevate any gathering, and these Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies are the perfect way to make that happen. Combining the classic flavors of beloved cinnamon rolls with the convenience of a cookie, this delightful treat is a game-changer for your holiday baking. Soft, chewy, and infused with warm cinnamon-sugar swirls, they bring a cozy charm that’s hard to resist. What’s more, they’re incredibly simple to prepare using pantry staples, making them ideal for both seasoned bakers and kitchen novices alike. Whether you’re sharing them with family, enjoying them during a cozy afternoon treat, or serving them at your next festive gathering, they are sure to become a cherished family favorite. Curious about how to whip up these scrumptious cookies? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Are Cinnamon Roll Cookies So Popular?

Deliciously soft: These Cinnamon Roll Cookies transport you to a warm bakery with their soft, chewy texture and inviting aroma.

Effortless baking: With simple steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers who wish to indulge in a homemade treat quickly.

A family favorite: Kids and adults alike will adore the cozy flavors, making them a hit at holiday gatherings or family movie nights.

Versatile options: Elevate your cookies by adding nuts or chocolate chips to the filling for extra flavor.

Perfect pairing: Enjoy them with a hot cup of coffee or tea, creating the ultimate snack for relaxation or entertaining.

Cinnamon Roll Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• Flour – Provides the structure to the cookies; substitute with a gluten-free blend for a delightful gluten-free version.
• Sugar – Adds sweetness and complements the cinnamon; use brown sugar for a richer flavor.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent, ensuring your cookies rise beautifully; always check the expiration date for freshness.
• Salt – Enhances flavor; just a pinch balances the sweetness perfectly.
• Butter – Contributes moisture and richness; for a dairy-free option, margarine or coconut oil works well.
• Eggs – Binds everything together, lending moisture; replace with flaxseed meal for a vegan-friendly alternative.
• Cinnamon – The star ingredient, giving these cookies their warm, unmistakable flavor.
• Vanilla Extract – Elevates overall taste; optional if you’re in a pinch.

For the Glaze
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and adds a lovely finish to the cookies; mix with milk to achieve the perfect drizzle consistency.
• Milk – Incorporates into the glaze for a smooth texture; non-dairy alternatives like almond milk work just fine.

These Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies are not just a treat; they’re a delicious way to bring warmth and joy to your home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This simple step ensures your Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies will bake evenly and come out golden brown.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Use a whisk to blend these dry ingredients thoroughly, ensuring there are no lumps. This mixture forms the foundation of your cookies, providing structure and taste.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and the brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes with a hand mixer or stand mixer. This step adds richness and incorporates air to make your cookies tender and delightful.

Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, beating until well combined. This should take another minute. The eggs contribute moisture and binding power, while the vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile of your Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually pour the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring with a wooden spoon until a soft dough forms. Be sure not to overmix; just incorporate until everything is well combined. You’ll notice the dough becoming easier to handle and ready for rolling.

Step 6: Roll Out the Dough
Lightly flour a clean surface and transfer the dough onto it. Roll the dough out into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Use even pressure to ensure consistent thickness, which will help your cinnamon swirls look beautiful in each cookie.

Step 7: Add the Cinnamon-Sugar Filling
Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar filling over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Press the mixture gently into the dough to ensure it adheres well. This step is crucial as it creates that delightful swirl in each Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookie.

Step 8: Roll and Slice the Dough
Starting from one edge, tightly roll the dough into a log shape. Use a sharp knife to slice the rolled dough into equal pieces, about 1 inch thick. Place each slice on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they have space to spread while baking.

Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Slide your baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake the cinnamon roll cookies for 10-12 minutes until they are lightly golden and set. Keep an eye on them during the last couple of minutes, as you want them soft yet firm in the center.

Step 10: Cool and Glaze
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. While they cool, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a splash of milk. Drizzle the glaze over the warm cookies to finish them off beautifully.

What to Serve with Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies

The warm scent of cinnamon and sugar fills the air, inviting delightful pairings that elevate your baking experience.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of berries and citrus adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the rich sweetness of the cookies wonderfully.
Coffee Delight: Brew a pot of strong coffee for a classic pairing; the bitterness beautifully complements the sugary flavors and creates a cozy atmosphere.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream serves as a delicious contrast to the warm, soft cookies, creating a comforting dessert experience.
Spiced Chai Latte: With its aromatic spices, a spiced chai latte enhances the cinnamon flavors in your cookies, making every bite feel luxurious.
Cream Cheese Frosting: For a decadent twist, drizzle some cream cheese frosting on top; its tanginess perfectly offsets the sweetness of the cookies.
Warm Milk: Simple yet effective, a glass of warm milk soothes and complements the cookies, invoking nostalgic memories of childhood treats.

These ideal pairings will not only satisfy your taste buds but also create a warm atmosphere for sharing love and joy with others.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking, ensuring that you can enjoy fresh cookies with minimal effort. To do this, follow the recipe up until rolling the dough, then tightly wrap it in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. You can also slice the rolled dough into individual cookies and freeze the pieces for up to three months; just thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before baking. When you’re ready to bake, add a minute or two to the baking time, and you’ll have warm, delightful cinnamon roll cookies, just as delicious as if they were made fresh!

Cinnamon Roll Cookies Variations

Feel free to personalize these delightful cookies to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!

Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a crunchy texture that complements the soft, chewy cookie.
Chocolate Lovers: Swirl in chocolate chips into the dough or sprinkle on top of the glaze for an indulgent twist on classic flavors. Their rich sweetness will elevate the experience tremendously!
Flavored Extracts: Swap vanilla with almond or maple extract for a fun flavor twist. A simple change can transform the entire cookie experience!
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate those with dietary restrictions while maintaining the yummy taste. You’ll be surprised by how good they turn out!
Spicy Kick: Experiment by adding a pinch of ginger or nutmeg to the cinnamon-sugar filling for a cozy, warm spice profile. This subtle change can surprise your guests with an unexpected depth of flavor.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute to make your cookies dairy-free, so everyone can enjoy them. They’ll still be just as soft and delightful!
Fruity Addition: Toss in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries to the dough for a chewy bite of flavor that’s reminiscent of a cinnamon roll. This adds a lovely tart sweetness with each mouthful!
Homemade Glaze: Enhance the glaze with a splash of orange juice or zest for a refreshing citrus twist. It’s like a new dimension to the familiar sweetness!

Feel inspired? As you bake, ensure your home fills with the irresistible aromas of freshly baked treats. And if you’re looking for more cookie inspirations, check out my recipes for Tiramisu Cookies Melt or Lemon Raspberry Cookies – both are equally delightful!

How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain their delightful softness and flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, store your cinnamon roll cookies in the fridge for up to 2 weeks; just ensure they are well-sealed to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: Freeze cookies for up to 3 months; place them in a single layer in a zip-top bag or airtight container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying again.
Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, microwave them for about 10-15 seconds or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Chill the Dough: Keeping the dough chilled before slicing helps maintain its shape during baking, resulting in perfectly swirled cookies.
Tight Rolling: When rolling out the dough, make sure to roll it tightly to achieve those beautiful, crisp cinnamon swirls that everyone loves.
Don’t Overbake: Watch your cookies closely during the last few minutes. They should be soft in the center and will firm up as they cool, so take them out just before they look finished.
Correct Measuring: For the best results, use the spoon-and-level method when measuring flour to avoid dry, crumbly cookies.
Storage Tips: Store your cinnamon roll cookies in an airtight container for up to a week to keep them soft and fresh; they also freeze well for longer storage.

Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I know when the cinnamon roll cookies are perfectly baked?
The key to perfect cinnamon roll cookies is to bake them for 10-12 minutes until they are lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet, so be careful not to overbake!

Can I substitute the flour to make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to make these cinnamon roll cookies gluten-free. Just be sure to check that your blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately according to package instructions, as it helps the cookies maintain structure.

What is the best way to store cinnamon roll cookies?
To keep your cinnamon roll cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, they can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just ensure they are well-sealed to avoid drying out.

Can I freeze the cookies and how do I do it?
Yes! You can freeze cinnamon roll cookies for up to 3 months. To freeze, layer them in a single layer in a zip-top bag or an airtight container, placing parchment paper between layers if necessary to avoid sticking. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before enjoying, or warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
These cookies contain common allergens such as eggs and gluten. For a vegan option, you can replace eggs with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg). Additionally, you can use dairy-free margarine and plant-based milk for the glaze to accommodate dairy sensitivities.

What if my dough is too crumbly?
If your dough is crumbly, it may be due to too much flour. Next time, try using the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour to ensure accuracy. If you’re in a pinch, you can add a splash of milk or water to bring the dough together without compromising its texture.