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There’s a certain warmth that fills my kitchen when the aroma of cinnamon and sugar wafts through the air. You know that feeling when you catch a whiff of something delightful and instantly feel at home? That’s what these Cinnamon Roll Cookies do! I’ve created this recipe as a sweet solution for those days when you crave the gooey goodness of cinnamon rolls but want the convenience of cookies.

With their soft and chewy texture, each bite unravels a beautiful swirl of cinnamon and sugar that dances on your taste buds. Perfect for a cozy brunch with loved ones or a quiet evening treat while curled up with a book, these cookies are not only simple to whip up but also guaranteed to impress. Grab your apron and let’s dive into the comforting world of these irresistible Cinnamon Roll Cookies!

Why are Cinnamon Roll Cookies so irresistible?

Soft, Chewy Texture: Each cookie perfectly balances the tenderness of a classic cookie with the rich, gooey essence of a cinnamon roll.
Aromatic Delight: The heavenly scent of cinnamon and sugar fills your kitchen, instantly creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Quick to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy these delicious treats in under 30 minutes, saving you time without sacrificing flavor.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for gatherings or brunch, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends alike.
Versatile Options: Customize your cookies by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even swapping in seasonal spices—there’s no limit to your creativity!

Cinnamon Roll Cookies Ingredients

Elevate your baking with these comforting delights!

For the Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the cookies; use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Baking Powder – A leavening agent for rising; avoid substitutions unless necessary.
Ground Cinnamon – Essential for flavor; increase for a richer cinnamon experience.
Salt – Enhances overall flavor; never skip it to balance the sweetness.
Unsalted Butter – Adds moisture and richness; margarine or coconut oil can substitute for a dairy-free option.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and aids browning; swap with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Brown Sugar – Contributes to a chewy texture and caramel notes; use dark brown sugar for richness.
Egg – Binds ingredients and is key for texture; a flax egg works as a vegan alternative.
Vanilla Extract – Adds depth and sweetness; almond extract can offer a lovely twist.

For the Filling

Brown Sugar – Needed for sweetness in the filling.
Ground Cinnamon – Blends with brown sugar to create that iconic swirl flavor.

Embrace the charm of homemade Cinnamon Roll Cookies—you won’t regret it!

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Preheat Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C), creating the perfect environment for even baking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon until well combined. This step ensures your cookies rise beautifully.
Cream Butter and Sugars: In a separate bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. This adds air and results in a tender texture.
Incorporate Egg and Vanilla: Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until the batter is smooth and fully combined. This will provide your cookies with a rich flavor.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as gentle folding helps maintain a soft texture.
Prepare Filling: In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon together. This aromatic filling will create those iconic swirls.
Shape Cookies: Spread half of the dough onto a sheet of parchment paper. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the top, then roll the dough tightly into a log and slice it into rounds.
Bake: Place the cookie rounds on a lined baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to achieve that perfect balance of softness and snap.

Optional: Drizzle with a simple icing for extra sweetness after they cool slightly.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Cookies?

There’s something truly magical about pairing these delightful treats with the perfect accompaniments, enhancing their warm, gooey goodness.

Rich Coffee: The robust flavor of freshly brewed coffee beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the cookies, making it a classic pairing.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy, cold ice cream drizzled over warm cookies creates a delightful melty experience—pure bliss!
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries add a fresh, fruity burst that complements the cinnamon flavor while balancing sweetness.
Milk: Classic and comforting, a glass of cold milk provides the perfect sip alongside your sweet cinnamon delights.
Spiced Chai Tea: This aromatic beverage enhances the cinnamon flavor and spices, making each bite more comforting on chilly days.
Cream Cheese Glaze: Drizzling a tangy cream cheese icing over the cookies elevates their flavor while adding a luscious texture.
Nutty Granola: A light sprinkle of nutty granola on top adds a crunchy texture that contrasts wonderfully with the cookie’s softness.
Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of warm caramel not only enhances sweetness but also introduces a rich, buttery flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing side of mixed fruit provides a great texture contrast and a palate cleanser between bites of sweetness.

Cinnamon Roll Cookies Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you make these cookies uniquely yours!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or dairy-free margarine in place of unsalted butter for a delightful vegan version that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for a heartier texture and rich flavor that compliments the cinnamon swirl.
Chocolate Delight: Fold in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a decadent twist that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon.
Seasonal Spice: Swap ground cinnamon with pumpkin spice for a fall-inspired flavor that warms both heart and home.
Fruity Additions: Toss in raisins or diced apples into the filling for a fruity burst that adds freshness to each bite.
Extra Sweetness: Drizzle a simple icing made of powdered sugar and milk over cooled cookies for an extra layer of sweetness.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes into the cinnamon mixture for a surprising hint of heat that intrigues the palate.

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your unsalted butter is at room temperature for optimal creaming. This will trap air and create a light, fluffy texture.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies—nobody wants that with their Cinnamon Roll Cookies!
Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Remove them from the oven when the edges are golden brown to maintain that perfect soft center.
Chill the Dough: For a neater roll and easier slicing, chill the dough for about 30 minutes after mixing. This helps prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.
Creative Fillings: Experiment with flavors! Add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even a dash of nutmeg for a unique twist on these classic Cinnamon Roll Cookies.

Storage Tips for Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Room Temperature: Store Cinnamon Roll Cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This keeps them fresh and allows the flavors to develop beautifully.
Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Just allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying.
Freezer: These cookies freeze wonderfully! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds for a warm treat.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm again, simply pop the cinnamon roll cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.

Make Ahead Options

Cinnamon Roll Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without compromising on flavor! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and shaping it into a log. Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. For optimal freshness, keep the filling separate until you are ready to bake; simply sprinkle it on before rolling and slicing. When you’re ready to enjoy these delicious cookies, slice them straight from the fridge and bake as directed—from fridge to oven, they will come out just as delightful as if baked fresh!

Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe FAQs

What kind of flour should I use for Cinnamon Roll Cookies?
I recommend using all-purpose flour for the best texture in your Cinnamon Roll Cookies. If you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, a gluten-free flour blend works well, but make sure it’s one that includes a binding agent like xanthan gum.

How do I store Cinnamon Roll Cookies?
Cinnamon Roll Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them soft and maintains their delightful flavor. If you’d like, you can also refrigerate them for up to 7 days for a firmer texture. Allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying!

Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze your Cinnamon Roll Cookies, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight freezer bag or container. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds for a warm treat.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your cookie dough feels excessively sticky, it might be due to the butter being too soft or the flour measurement being off. You can sprinkle in a little extra flour, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough is manageable. Be cautious not to add too much flour, as this can affect the cookie’s texture!

Can I make these cookies dairy-free?
Yes! To make Cinnamon Roll Cookies dairy-free, you can substitute unsalted butter with margarine or coconut oil. Additionally, ensure that your chocolate chips (if you’re adding them) are dairy-free as well. This way, you can enjoy the comforting flavors without the dairy.

How can I tell if my cookies are done baking?
You’ll want to remove your cookies from the oven when the edges are golden brown. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will continue to firm up as they cool. This will ensure you have soft and chewy Cinnamon Roll Cookies, just like you want!