Cinnamon rolls and cookies are two of the most beloved treats in the world of baking. What happens when you merge the two into one irresistible dessert? You get Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies, a delightful combination of the rich, spiced flavor of cinnamon rolls and the soft, chewy texture of cookies. These cookies bring the warm, comforting taste of cinnamon swirls with a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth bite, making them perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a sweet ending to any meal.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- For the Cookie Dough:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Directions:
- Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl:
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
- Add the brown sugar and ground cinnamon; mix until well combined.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator until firm, then roll into small marble-sized balls. Set aside.
- Make the Cookie Dough:
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Assemble the Cookies:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Take a portion of the dough and flatten it slightly in your hand.
- Place a cinnamon swirl ball in the center and fold the dough around it, rolling gently to form a ball.
- Place the cookies onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Prep Time: 25 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 37 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 150 kcal per cookie | Servings: Makes about 30 cookies
The Perfect Cookie for Any Occasion
One of the best things about Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies is their versatility. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a special occasion, or simply craving a homemade treat, these cookies fit the bill. The swirls of cinnamon-sugar goodness not only create a beautiful visual appeal but also pack a punch of flavor that makes each bite a little piece of heaven.
These cookies are perfect for sharing. They make fantastic additions to holiday cookie platters, gift boxes, or bake sales. Their soft and chewy texture, combined with a buttery richness, makes them a favorite among both kids and adults alike. Pair them with a cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or a glass of milk for the ultimate indulgence.
Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Roll Cookies
- Easy to Make: Unlike traditional cinnamon rolls that require yeast, proofing, and rolling, these cookies come together quickly with just a few simple steps.
- Irresistible Flavor: The classic cinnamon-sugar filling is rich and aromatic, delivering the warmth and comfort of a fresh-baked cinnamon roll in cookie form.
- Perfectly Soft and Chewy: The buttery cookie dough bakes up soft and tender, making every bite a delight.
- Great for Any Season: While cinnamon is often associated with fall and winter, these cookies are delicious year-round. Their warm, comforting flavor makes them a cozy treat in any season.
The Secret to the Best Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Achieving the perfect Cinnamon Roll Cookie requires attention to a few key details. Here are some expert tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfect every time:
1. Use High-Quality Ingredients
Since this recipe relies on simple pantry staples, using high-quality butter, fresh cinnamon, and pure vanilla extract makes a noticeable difference in flavor. Freshly ground cinnamon has a more vibrant and robust taste than pre-ground varieties that have been sitting in the pantry for too long.
2. Chill the Dough
For best results, chilling the cookie dough before rolling it out is essential. This prevents the cookies from spreading too much in the oven and helps maintain the beautiful cinnamon swirl pattern. It also allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.
3. Don’t Overbake
These cookies are meant to be soft and chewy, so be sure to watch the baking time closely. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center when removed from the oven. Remember that cookies continue to bake slightly from residual heat even after they are taken out of the oven.
4. Customize to Your Taste
While the classic cinnamon-sugar filling is delicious on its own, you can take these cookies to the next level by adding nuts, raisins, or even a cream cheese glaze on top. For an extra indulgent twist, drizzle them with a simple powdered sugar glaze to mimic the icing found on traditional cinnamon rolls.
The Aroma and Taste of Warm Cinnamon Cookies
One of the best things about baking these Cinnamon Roll Cookies is the incredible aroma that fills your kitchen. As they bake, the warm scent of cinnamon and butter wafts through the air, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. It’s the kind of smell that makes you want to grab a blanket, pour yourself a warm drink, and savor the moment.
When you take a bite, the balance of flavors is perfection. The soft, buttery cookie dough melts in your mouth, while the cinnamon-sugar filling adds a touch of warmth and sweetness. Each bite brings a nostalgic taste of homemade comfort food, making these cookies an instant classic.
A Fun Baking Activity for All Ages
Baking these cookies is not just about the end result—it’s about the joy of the process. This recipe is a fun activity to do with family or friends. Kids will love rolling the dough and shaping the cookies, while adults will appreciate how easy and foolproof the recipe is. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is approachable and rewarding.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are incredibly delicious on their own, but you can elevate them even further with a few serving suggestions:
- Drizzle with Icing: A simple powdered sugar glaze made with milk and vanilla adds extra sweetness and mimics the classic cinnamon roll frosting.
- Pair with Ice Cream: Serve warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Enjoy with Coffee or Tea: These cookies make a delightful companion to a morning cup of coffee or an afternoon tea break.
- Gift Them in Cookie Jars: Pack these cookies in a decorative tin or mason jar and give them as thoughtful homemade gifts during the holidays or special occasions.
Storing and Freezing Tips
To keep these Cinnamon Roll Cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to enjoy them later, they also freeze beautifully. Place the cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, with parchment paper between layers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Simply thaw at room temperature or warm them up slightly in the microwave before serving.
Conclusion
Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies are the perfect marriage of two classic baked goods. They bring the comforting, spiced flavor of cinnamon rolls into an easy-to-make, soft, and chewy cookie form. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, sharing with friends and family, or treating yourself to a cozy dessert, these cookies are guaranteed to be a hit. Their simplicity, versatility, and irresistible taste make them a must-try recipe for any home baker. Once you make them, they are sure to become a new favorite in your cookie collection!
