Name: Cinnamon Roll Cookies that Melt in Your Mouth Every Time
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 62 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Consider using gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.); 2 teaspoons Baking Powder (Make sure it’s fresh for best results.); 0.5 teaspoons Salt (Kosher salt provides a cleaner taste.); 2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon (Use fresh ground for optimal taste.); 0.5 cups Unsalted Butter (Substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.); 0.25 cups Granulated Sugar (Try brown sugar for a caramel-like flavor.); 0.5 cups Brown Sugar (Dark brown sugar enhances the richness.); 1 large Egg (Swap with a flax egg for a vegan option.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Use pure vanilla for the best results.); 0.25 cups Brown Sugar (Pack it tightly for the best results.); 1 tablespoon Ground Cinnamon (Essential for that classic cinnamon roll taste.)

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As I sifted through my spice drawer, the fragrant whiff of ground cinnamon transported me straight to my childhood kitchen, where the sweet scent of baking filled the air. This is the magic behind my Irresistible Cinnamon Roll Cookies—an easy-to-make delight that combines the comforting flavors of traditional cinnamon rolls into a grab-and-go cookie. They’re soft, chewy, and so good that you might find them disappearing faster than you can bake them! Perfect for keeping your sweet tooth satisfied or serving as a cozy afternoon treat, these cookies are also adaptable, allowing you to mix in nuts or chocolate chips for a personalized touch. Ready to fill your kitchen with warmth and nostalgia? Let’s dive into the delightful world of Cinnamon Roll Cookies!

Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?

Mouthwatering Aroma: The heavenly scent of cinnamon and sugar wafts through your kitchen as these cookies bake, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Versatile Options: Feel free to customize! Add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even seasonal spices like pumpkin spice for a unique twist.

Time-Saving Delight: With simple steps and a quick baking time, you’ll have a batch ready in no time, ideal for moments when cravings hit.

Perfect Anytime Treat: They’re great for breakfast, snacks, or dessert; serve them with coffee or tea for that cozy afternoon indulgence, just like with my delicious Cinnamon Roll Muffins.

Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the delightful chewy texture and sweet flavor, making these cookies a hit at family gatherings or casual get-togethers.

Get ready to make memories with these delightful Cinnamon Roll Cookies!

Cinnamon Roll Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cookies; consider using gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
• Baking Powder – A leavening agent that ensures your cookies are light and fluffy; make sure it’s fresh for best results.
• Ground Cinnamon – The warm and sweet spice that gives these cookies their signature flavor; use fresh ground for optimal taste.
• Salt – Enhances the overall flavor balance; kosher salt provides a cleaner taste.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and contributes to a light texture; try brown sugar for a caramel-like flavor.
• Brown Sugar – Increases moisture and adds deeper sweetness; dark brown sugar enhances the richness.
• Large Egg – Binds the ingredients and adds moisture; swap with a flax egg for a vegan option.
• Vanilla Extract – Introduces a sweet, aromatic flavor that elevates the cookies; use pure vanilla for the best results.

For the Filling
• Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture to the filling; pack it tightly for the best results.
• Ground Cinnamon – For that extra punch of warming spice in the filling; essential for that classic cinnamon roll taste in your 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 ensures your Cinnamon Roll Cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden brown color. While the oven warms up, gather your baking sheets and line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Make sure there are no clumps. This step is crucial as it evenly distributes the leavening agent, helping your cookies rise beautifully as they bake.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, and ½ cup of brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for the best results. This step creates a rich base for your Cinnamon Roll Cookies.

Step 4: Incorporate the Wet Ingredients
Add one large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Mix until well combined and smooth, about 1 minute. The egg adds moisture and binds all ingredients together, giving the cookies their delightful chewy texture.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies. This step brings your Cinnamon Roll Cookies dough together, maintaining softness for that perfect bite.

Step 6: Prepare the Filling
In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup of brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon for the filling. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of sweetness and spice. This aromatic filling will create that signature swirl in your cookies, reminiscent of classic cinnamon rolls.

Step 7: Assemble the Cookies
Take half of the cookie dough and spread it out on a floured surface into a rectangle roughly ¼ inch thick. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the dough. Carefully roll the dough tightly, starting from one long side to form a log. Slice the log into rounds, about 1-inch thick, for your Cinnamon Roll Cookies.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Place the cookie rounds on the prepared parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they have enough space between them to spread. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them as they bake; the aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling they’re almost ready!

Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then transfer the Cinnamon Roll Cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps them set up perfectly while maintaining that soft, gooey center.

Make Ahead Options

These Cinnamon Roll Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their deliciousness with minimal effort during busy weeknights! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing it, rolling it into a log, and wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. This keeps the cookies fresh and prevents any browning. When you’re ready to bake, simply slice the dough into rounds and bake for the same 10-12 minutes. Alternatively, you can freeze the assembled cookie rounds for up to three months. Just transfer them directly from the freezer to the oven, adding an extra couple of minutes to baking time, ensuring you enjoy those gooey, cinnamon-swirled treats anytime!

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Butter Consistency: Ensure your butter is softened, not melted. This will help achieve a light and fluffy texture for your cookies.
Mix with Care: Avoid overmixing the dough when combining wet and dry ingredients; this keeps your Cinnamon Roll Cookies tender and soft.
Chill for Shape: Let the cookie dough rest in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before slicing. This helps maintain their shape during baking.
Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking; they should be lightly golden around the edges for that perfect chewy texture.
Cool Before Icing: Allow cookies to cool completely before drizzling with icing. This prevents the icing from melting and ensures a beautiful finish.

How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your cinnamon roll cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their soft texture.

Fridge: If you’d like them to last a bit longer, you can keep them in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just ensure they’re in a sealed container to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cinnamon roll cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a cozy treat.

Reheating: If you enjoy your cookies warm, reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to restore their gooey goodness.

Cinnamon Roll Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with these Cinnamon Roll Cookies and tailor them to your taste buds!

Nuts: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and added texture. They complement the chewy cookies beautifully, enhancing each bite.
Pumpkin Spice: Swap out traditional spices with pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal twist. You’ll get that warm fall essence in each cookie.
Chocolate Chips: Fold in some semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a heavenly chocolate-cinnamon fusion. The melty chocolate adds decadence, making your cookies irresistible!
Fruity Additions: Toss in some raisins or chopped apples for fruitiness. This tangy twist brings freshness to the soft, sweet cookie base.
Swirl Variations: Use Nutella or peanut butter instead of the cinnamon-sugar filling. Spread it on the dough before rolling for a deliciously rich treat.
Coconut: Incorporate shredded coconut into the dough for a tropical flavor. It pairs beautifully with the cinnamon, creating an exotic cookie experience.
Gluten-Free Option: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for gluten-free Cinnamon Roll Cookies. They will be just as delightful!
Low-Sugar: Substitute with a sugar alternative, like monk fruit sweetener, to make a lower-sugar version without sacrificing sweetness. Perfect for those mindful of their sugar intake.

Don’t forget to enjoy these cookies fresh with a cup of coffee or tea, just like my indulgent Cinnamon Roll Muffins or my delightful Cheese Salami Roll. Happy baking!

What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Indulge in a delightful spread that perfectly complements the warm flavors and textures of your cinnamon roll cookies.

Creamy Coffee: A cup of velvety coffee enhances the cookie’s sweetness while balancing the spices, creating a soothing pairing for your afternoon break.
Fluffy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold creaminess of vanilla ice cream contrasts wonderfully with the warm, chewy cookies, providing a decadent twist on dessert.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Light and refreshing, a fruit salad offers a burst of freshness that brightens each bite, making for a well-rounded meal or snack.
Chocolate Milkshake: Rich, thick, and indulgent, a chocolate milkshake adds a playful touch, evoking nostalgic flavors that everyone loves to experience together.
Maple Glaze: Drizzling a homemade maple glaze over your cookies takes them to the next level of sweetness and elevates their cozy charm, perfect for special gatherings.
Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea echo the flavors of the cookies, creating a comforting fusion that invites you to savor each sip alongside a cookie.
Homemade Cinnamon Roll Muffins: Why not go all out? Serve your cookies alongside these scrumptious muffins for a delightful spread that highlights your cinnamon obsession, perfect for brunch.
Warm Lemonade: A citrusy, warm lemonade adds a refreshing zing that cuts through the sweetness, making for a delightful contrast.
Nutty Granola: Combine crunchy granola with a touch of yogurt for a wholesome option that balances the richness of your cookies with satisfying textures.

Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe FAQs

What kind of flour should I use for the Cinnamon Roll Cookies?
It’s best to use all-purpose flour, as it provides the right structure for the cookies. However, if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just make sure it has a binding agent included for the best outcomes!

How should I store my Cinnamon Roll Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to retain their delightful softness. If you’re in a humid environment, you might want to sneak a layer of parchment paper between the cookies to help absorb any excess moisture.

Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll Cookies? How do I do that?
Absolutely! To freeze, first let the cookies cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, ensuring they don’t touch to prevent sticking. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the oven.

What if my cookies are too dry or tough?
If your cookies turn out dry, it might be due to overmixing the dough or using too much flour. I recommend spooning your flour into the measuring cup and leveling it off rather than packing it in. Remember to mix until just combined; this keeps them soft and chewy!

Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Yes! If you’re accommodating dietary restrictions, you can easily make these cinnamon roll cookies vegan by replacing the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for 5 minutes) and using coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative instead of regular butter.

Can I add other ingredients to the Cinnamon Roll Cookies?
The more the merrier! You can customize your cookies by adding nuts like chopped pecans or walnuts, chocolate chips for a sweet twist, or even raisins for a fruity addition. Just be mindful of how much you add, as too many extras can affect the texture of the cookie dough.