As I rummaged through my pantry one chilly afternoon, the sweet scent of cinnamon danced through my mind, beckoning me to create something delightful. That’s when the idea hit—Cinnamon Roll Cookies! These gems combine the comforting flavors of classic cinnamon rolls into a soft, chewy cookie that’s sure to lift your spirits. This easy baking adventure is perfect for both seasoned pros and novice bakers, bringing a touch of indulgence to your snack time or brunch table. Imagine a warm cookie, swirled with cinnamon and sugar, satisfying both your sweet tooth and your craving for a homemade treat. Plus, with endless customization options, there’s room to make them truly your own. Ready to roll? You won’t want to miss this delicious transformation!
Why will you love Cinnamon Roll Cookies?
Easy Baking: This recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels, requiring just simple ingredients and straightforward steps to achieve those dreamy cookies.
Endless Customization: Whether you prefer nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits, these cookies can adapt to whatever you have on hand, making them a fun and versatile treat.
Warm, Cozy Flavors: Each bite is infused with the rich, comforting essence of cinnamon that makes them a delightful pairing with your favorite coffee or tea—just like a Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll!
Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies are crowd-pleasers, ideal for brunch, afternoon snacks, or even holiday gatherings. Their familiar taste of cinnamon rolls but in a handy format makes them irresistible!
Nostalgic Appeal: With the comforting familiarity of homemade cinnamon rolls, these cookies bring a sense of warmth and nostalgia to your kitchen, making every moment spent baking worthwhile.
Get ready to indulge in the soft, chewy bliss that is Cinnamon Roll Cookies!
Cinnamon Roll Cookie Ingredients
Get ready for irresistible flavors!
- For the Cookie Dough:
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for loving texture; substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
- Baking Powder – Ensures a light and fluffy treat, making them irresistible.
- Ground Cinnamon – Infuses the cookies with that classic cinnamon flavor; swap for pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist!
- Salt – Balances sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and tenderness; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens your cookies; coconut sugar works well for a healthier option.
- Brown Sugar – Gives depth and moisture to the dough; use extra granulated sugar if brown isn’t on hand.
- Large Egg – Binds ingredients for a soft cookie; replace with a flax egg for a vegan alternative.
- Vanilla Extract – Offers aromatic flavor; it’s essential for depth, but can be skipped if desired.
- For the Filling:
- Brown Sugar – Sweetener to create that lovely filling.
- Ground Cinnamon – Complements the sweetness of the filling and is vital for that warm cinnamon roll essence.
Prepare your ingredients, and get ready to create magic with these Cinnamon Roll Cookies!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for ensuring that the Cinnamon Roll Cookies bake evenly and develop a golden-brown color. While the oven heats, gather your equipment, including baking sheets lined with parchment paper for easy clean-up and cookie placement.
Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. This step is vital for combining the leavening agents and spices evenly throughout the dry mixture. Set this bowl aside, as you’ll be adding it to the wet ingredients shortly.
Step 3: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a separate mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. This process incorporates air into the fats, giving your Cinnamon Roll Cookies a tender and soft texture.
Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla
Next, beat in the large egg and vanilla extract into the creamed mixture until smooth. You’ll want to mix until the ingredients are fully blended, creating a rich and cohesive base for your cookies. The addition of these ingredients enhances the flavor and aids in binding.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix just until the dough comes together—avoid overmixing to keep your Cinnamon Roll Cookies soft and chewy. The dough should be slightly sticky yet manageable for rolling and shaping.
Step 6: Prepare the Filling
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon to create the filling for your cookies. This sweet blend will add that characteristic cinnamon roll flavor to each bite. Set this aside while you prepare the dough for rolling.
Step 7: Roll Out the Dough
On a piece of parchment paper or a clean work surface, spread half of the dough evenly, ensuring it’s about 1/4-inch thick. Sprinkle half of the prepared filling evenly across the dough, creating a delightful cinnamon-sugar layer to infuse into your Cinnamon Roll Cookies.
Step 8: Roll and Slice
Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, using the parchment paper to assist. Once rolled, slice the log into rounds about 1 inch thick. Place these rounds onto the lined baking sheet, ensuring they have enough space to spread while baking.
Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Place your baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes, as you want the centers to remain soft and chewy, just like a perfect cinnamon roll.
Step 10: Cool and Enjoy
After baking, let the Cinnamon Roll Cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help them firm up while retaining their soft and chewy texture. Enjoy them warm for the best experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Roll Cookies are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by refrigerating it, which also enhances the flavors. Simply wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. If you want to go a step further, you can roll and slice the cookies, then freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, place the frozen rounds directly on the baking sheet and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for perfectly soft, chewy cookies that taste just as delightful as fresh ones!
Expert Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cookies
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Butter Temperature: Ensure your unsalted butter is softened to room temperature. This helps achieve a light and airy cookie without lumps.
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Mixing Caution: Avoid overmixing your dough; combine ingredients until just blended to keep your Cinnamon Roll Cookies tender and soft.
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Chill for Flavor: Consider refrigerating the dough for up to 24 hours before baking. This helps develop richer flavors and improves the texture.
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Proper Slicing: Use a sharp knife to slice logs into rounds, ensuring even baking. This prevents flat or misshapen cookies and ensures consistent cooking.
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Watch the Bake: Keep a close eye on the cookies during the last few minutes in the oven. Remove them when golden at the edges but still soft in the center for ultimate chewiness.
What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Indulging in the warm, cinnamon-infused bliss of these cookies opens up a world of delightful pairings that elevate your snacking experience.
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Freshly Brewed Coffee: The rich, bold flavors of coffee beautifully complement the sweet softness of Cinnamon Roll Cookies, creating a perfect harmony of taste.
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of ice cream alongside your cookie adds a cool contrast and extra indulgence that’s simply irresistible.
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Fruit Salad Medley: A bright, refreshing fruit salad brings a juicy burst to your palate, balancing the sweet, warm flavors of the cookies effortlessly.
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Hot Cocoa with Marshmallows: Pair these cookies with a cup of hot cocoa, and you’ll experience the ultimate cozy treat on a chilly day.
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Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices in a chai latte blend perfectly with the cozy cinnamon flavors, enhancing the overall aroma and taste.
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Maple Glaze Drizzle: Elevate your Cinnamon Roll Cookies by drizzling warm maple glaze over them, adding a sweet and sticky finish that’s delightful.
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Whipped Cream Topping: Light and airy whipped cream served alongside your cookies creates a dreamy addition, making each bite feel extra special.
These pairings not only enhance the cinnamon cookie experience but also bring joy to every moment spent in the kitchen!
Cinnamon Roll Cookies Variations
Feel free to take these lovely Cinnamon Roll Cookies to delightful new heights with your personal touches!
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Nuts: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. The contrast of textures makes each bite more exciting!
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Chocolate Chips: Incorporate semisweet or dark chocolate chips into the dough for a sweet, melty surprise. Who doesn’t love chocolate with cinnamon?
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Dried Fruits: Toss in raisins or chopped apples for a fruity twist. This addition brings a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon.
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Spice Swap: Experiment with nutmeg or ground ginger alongside the cinnamon for a unique flavor profile. It’s like a warm hug of spices in every bite.
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Frosting Drizzle: Top the cooled cookies with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk. A sweet drizzle elevates these cookies to bakery-level treats! Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon delight.
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Pumpkin Twist: Substitute pumpkin puree for some butter for a seasonal variation. It’s a delightful way to bring the beloved flavors of fall to your kitchen!
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Coconut Sugar: Swap granulated sugar for coconut sugar for a richer flavor and a touch of healthier sweetness in your cookies. It adds depth and a hint of caramel notes.
Don’t forget to check out our Pumpkin Sugar Cookies for another delicious twist, or try adding chocolate chips like in our Pumpkin White Cookies. Enjoy experimenting!
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep your Cinnamon Roll Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This preserves their softness and flavor, making them ready for snacking anytime!
Refrigerator: If you prefer longer freshness, store the cookies in the fridge for up to 10 days. Just ensure they’re sealed well to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: To extend their shelf life, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the frozen cookies in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warm. This will revive their soft, chewy bliss, making them taste freshly baked!
Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my ingredients are ripe or suitable?
Absolutely! For the best results, use fresh ingredients. Your all-purpose flour should be free from clumps and have a fresh aroma. Butter should be softened but not melted, and spices should be aromatic and stored in a cool, dark place to maintain potency. When using eggs, ensure they’re fresh; check the expiry date on the carton for peace of mind.
What is the best way to store Cinnamon Roll Cookies?
Very! To keep your Cinnamon Roll Cookies at their best, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them soft and delightful. If you live in a humid climate, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to 10 days. Just make sure they are properly sealed to prevent drying out!
How do I freeze Cinnamon Roll Cookies for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze your delicious Cinnamon Roll Cookies, first let them cool completely. Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Whenever you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds!
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, don’t worry! Simply add a tablespoon of flour at a time while mixing until you reach a manageable consistency. It’s vital to avoid adding too much flour at once to prevent the cookies from becoming dry. When rolling them out, you can also dust your surface with a little flour to make it easier to handle.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
Very! To create a vegan version of Cinnamon Roll Cookies, you can replace the large egg with a flax egg. To make a flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let this sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes gelatinous. You can also use coconut or vegan butters for added flavor while keeping them entirely plant-based.
Are there any allergy considerations I should keep in mind?
Indeed! When making Cinnamon Roll Cookies, consider common allergens such as gluten in the flour and dairy in the butter. For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, and for dairy-free, utilize vegan butter. Always double-check labels on all packaged ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs!
Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Soft, Chewy Bliss in Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Set aside.
- In a separate mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract into the creamed mixture until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until the dough comes together.
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon to create the filling for your cookies. Set aside.
- On parchment paper, spread half of the dough evenly to about 1/4-inch thick. Sprinkle half of the prepared filling across the dough.
- Roll the dough into a tight log and slice into rounds about 1 inch thick. Place rounds onto a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft.
- Let cookies cool for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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