Cinnamon Roll Cookies

There’s something undeniably comforting about cinnamon rolls—that warm, sweet aroma, the soft dough, the cinnamon-sugar swirl. Now imagine all that goodness in a soft, chewy cookie that’s easy to bake, portable, and perfect for breakfast, snack time, or dessert. That’s exactly what these Cinnamon Roll Cookies deliver.

Every bite reveals a tender cookie with a luscious swirl of cinnamon and brown sugar, evoking the same indulgence as a traditional cinnamon roll—but without the extra steps of yeast dough and long rising times. These cookies are quick to prepare, visually stunning, and utterly satisfying for anyone craving a cozy, sweet treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cinnamon Swirl Delight: Each cookie features a perfect spiral of cinnamon-sugar, capturing the essence of a classic cinnamon roll.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: The combination of butter, sugars, and egg ensures a tender, melt-in-your-mouth bite.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for last-minute treats.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet swirls, and adults can’t resist them either.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them fresh from the oven or save some for later indulgence.
• No Yeast or Rising Required: Skip the complicated steps of traditional cinnamon rolls without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s everything you’ll need to make about 24 delicious Cinnamon Roll Cookies.

Cookie Dough

• 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 packed brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

Cinnamon Filling

• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon

Serving Size: 1 cookie (34g)
Yield: Approximately 24 cookies

Tools & Equipment Needed

To make this cookie-baking process smooth, you’ll need:

• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Whisk
• Hand or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet
• Sharp knife or bench scraper (for slicing rolls)

Having these ready will ensure a stress-free baking experience and evenly baked cookies.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and ensures even baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking powder, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, and ½ tsp salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together ½ cup softened butter, ½ cup granulated sugar, and ½ cup packed brown sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes 2–3 minutes using a hand or stand mixer.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in 1 large egg and 2 tsp vanilla extract until smooth and fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure tender cookies.

Step 6: Prepare Cinnamon Filling

In a small bowl, combine ½ cup packed brown sugar and 2 tsp ground cinnamon. This mixture will create the classic cinnamon-sugar swirl inside each cookie.

Step 7: Assemble the Rolls

• Spread half of the cookie dough evenly on a sheet of parchment paper into a rough rectangle.
• Sprinkle the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.
• Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from one edge to create a spiral effect.

Step 8: Slice and Bake

• Slice the log into approximately 1-inch rounds using a sharp knife.
• Place the slices on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm for maximum enjoyment, or store for later indulgence.

Tips & Variations

• Extra Cinnamon Swirl: Sprinkle a little more cinnamon on top before baking for a bolder flavor.
• Icing Drizzle: Drizzle a simple glaze of powdered sugar and milk for an extra sweet touch.
• Mini Cookies: Slice thinner for bite-sized cookies, perfect for parties.
• Vegan Option: Replace butter with plant-based margarine and use a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) instead of a regular egg.
• Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon filling for added texture.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

These cookies are warm, sweet, and slightly spiced with the comforting aroma of cinnamon. The buttery, chewy base perfectly complements the sugary swirl, making them irresistible.

Suggested Pairings

• A steaming cup of coffee or chai tea
• Warm milk for kids or cozy mornings
• Fresh fruit, like sliced apples or berries, for a light balance

Nutritional Overview (Per Cookie)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	145 kcal
Sugar	9 g
Fat	6 g
Saturated Fat	4 g
Unsaturated Fat	2 g
Sodium	80 mg
Carbohydrates	20 g
Fiber	<1 g
Protein	<1 g
Cholesterol	20 mg

Dietary Notes: Nut-free, can be adapted for vegan diets with substitutions.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Dough Preparation: Roll the dough and cinnamon filling log ahead of time and refrigerate for 30 minutes before slicing.
• Storage: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days.
• Freezing: Slice logs before baking and freeze the rounds for up to 2 months; bake directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

FAQs

1. Can I make these cookies without brown sugar?
Brown sugar is essential for the caramel-like flavor in the filling. Substituting with white sugar will change the texture slightly.

2. Can I use a stand mixer?
Yes, using a stand mixer to cream the butter and sugars makes the process faster and ensures a smooth batter.

3. Why aren’t my cookies soft?
Overbaking can make them firmer. Bake just until edges are golden and centers are set.

4. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Use multiple baking sheets and bake in batches for even results.

5. Can I make them gluten-free?
Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binder for proper texture.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Step	Time
Prep	15 mins
Bake	10–12 mins
Total Time	27 mins

Serving Suggestions

Serve slightly warm for that fresh-out-of-the-oven experience. Arrange on a platter for brunch, coffee hour, or a dessert table. Drizzle with glaze or sprinkle with extra cinnamon for a professional bakery look.

Recipe Variations

1. Cinnamon Roll Cookie Bars: Bake the log as a whole and slice into bars after baking.
2. Chocolate Cinnamon Swirl: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the filling before rolling.
3. Apple Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Add finely chopped apple pieces to the cinnamon filling for a fruity twist.
4. Maple Glaze Finish: Drizzle a mixture of maple syrup and powdered sugar over the baked cookies.

Ingredient Spotlight: Cinnamon & Butter

• Cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth of flavor. Use fresh ground cinnamon for the best aroma.
• Butter: Key to a tender, chewy cookie texture. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easier mixing.

Pro Baking Tips

• Even Rolls: Use a ruler or template to roll the dough evenly for uniform cookies.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined to maintain softness.
• Slicing Tip: Chill the rolled log slightly before slicing to avoid squishing the swirl.
• Storage: Layer cookies with parchment paper to prevent sticking when storing multiple layers.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Baked Cookies: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days.
• Unbaked Logs: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months; slice and bake directly from frozen.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to refresh softness.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Cookie)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	145 kcal
Fat	6 g
Saturated Fat	4 g
Carbohydrates	20 g
Sugar	9 g
Protein	<1 g
Fiber	<1 g
Sodium	80 mg

Expanded Conclusion

These Cinnamon Roll Cookies are the ultimate cozy treat—soft, chewy, and brimming with cinnamon-sugar swirls that make every bite a delight. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, they combine the charm of traditional cinnamon rolls with the convenience of a cookie.

Whether you’re serving them at a brunch, gifting them to friends, or indulging yourself, these cookies are sure to impress and satisfy. Easy to make, visually appealing, and packed with flavor, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your baking rotation.

Give this recipe a try, savor the cinnamon goodness, and watch as your family and friends reach for seconds (or thirds!) without hesitation.

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