Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Cinnamon roll cookies are the ultimate fusion of two classic favorites: soft cinnamon rolls and chewy homemade cookies. With swirls of brown sugar and cinnamon wrapped in buttery dough, these cookies deliver bakery-style flavor in every bite. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or simply a cozy weekend treat, this recipe combines comfort and indulgence in one delicious dessert.

If you’ve ever wished you could enjoy the taste of cinnamon rolls without the wait, these cookies are the answer. They’re quick, easy, and guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the cozy flavors of cinnamon rolls with the convenience of cookies.
• Simple pantry ingredients you probably already have at home.
• Perfect for holiday cookie exchanges, bake sales, or family gatherings.
• Soft, chewy texture with irresistible swirls of cinnamon sugar.
• Easily customizable with glazes, nuts, or even chocolate drizzle.

Ingredients Breakdown

For the Cookie Dough:

• All-Purpose Flour (2 cups): Provides structure and chewiness.
• Baking Powder (1 tsp): Helps the cookies rise slightly and stay soft.
• Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp): Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
• Salt (½ tsp): Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Unsalted Butter (½ cup, softened): Creates richness and tender texture.
• Granulated Sugar (½ cup): Sweetens and lightens the dough.
• Brown Sugar (½ cup, packed): Adds moisture and a subtle caramel note.
• Egg (1 large): Binds the dough and adds richness.
• Vanilla Extract (2 tsp): Enhances the cookie’s sweet aroma.

For the Cinnamon Filling:

• Brown Sugar (½ cup, packed): Creates the signature gooey swirl.
• Ground Cinnamon (2 tsp): Infuses every bite with cozy flavor.

Tips and Tricks

1. Chill the Dough: For cleaner slices and tighter swirls, refrigerate the rolled dough for 20–30 minutes before cutting.
2. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Softened butter and room-temperature eggs help the dough mix evenly.
3. Don’t Overbake: Remove the cookies when the edges are lightly golden. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool.
4. Even Rolling: Roll the dough tightly to prevent gaps in the cinnamon swirl.

Variations and Customizations

• Cream Cheese Glaze: Drizzle with a mixture of cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla for a cinnamon-roll-like finish.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for texture.
• Chocolate Twist: Add mini chocolate chips inside the swirl for a fun variation.
• Maple Flavor: Replace vanilla with maple extract for a cozy autumn-inspired cookie.

Pairing Suggestions

• Beverages: These cookies pair beautifully with hot coffee, chai latte, or a glass of cold milk.
• Dessert Boards: Add them to a cookie platter alongside snickerdoodles and sugar cookies for variety.
• Holiday Parties: Serve with spiced cider or hot cocoa for the ultimate festive treat.

Storage Instructions

• Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing Dough: Roll and slice the dough, then freeze unbaked cookies on a tray. Transfer to a freezer bag and bake straight from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the baking time.
• Freezing Baked Cookies: Keep cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.

Popular Questions

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! The dough can be made and chilled for up to 48 hours before rolling and baking.

Q: How do I get perfect swirls?
Roll the dough evenly and use a sharp knife to slice. Chilling the dough before cutting also helps.

Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture, but margarine can work in a pinch.

Q: Do I need to frost these cookies?
Not at all! They’re delicious plain, but a drizzle of glaze takes them over the top.