Cinnamon Roll Cookies
There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of baked goods wafting through the house, and when it comes to that experience, Cinnamon Roll Cookies are the epitome of cozy. I remember the first time I baked these; it was a chilly Saturday morning, and I had a craving for something sweet. I decided to combine my love for cookies with the delightful flavors of classic cinnamon rolls. The result? A batch of warm, gooey, and utterly irresistible cookies that filled my home with the essence of cinnamon and sugar. Each bite was a soft, buttery delight, making the whole process worth every second spent in the kitchen.
What I love most about Cinnamon Roll Cookies is their versatility. Whether you’re preparing for a festive gathering, a cozy movie night, or simply treating yourself on a quiet afternoon, these cookies fit the bill perfectly. They are not just cookies; they are little bites of happiness, reminiscent of lazy Sunday brunches and family gatherings. The combination of flavors and textures makes them an instant favorite among friends and family. Plus, they are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll, perfect for those days when you want to indulge without the fuss of rolling dough and waiting for yeast to rise.
From the first moment you bite into one of these warm cookies, with the sweet glaze dripping down the sides, you’ll understand why I can’t help but share this recipe. It’s a celebration of flavors that can easily brighten up any day, making it a treat worth baking again and again.
Recipe Snapshot
1 hr 30 mins
80 mins
10 mins
Hard
120 kcal
1 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
6 g
Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Blender, Food Processor
Why You Need This Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Let me tell you why Cinnamon Roll Cookies are not just your average cookie. First, the flavor profile is an absolute winner! The rich, buttery taste of the cookie paired with the warm spices of cinnamon gives you the same comforting feeling as a classic cinnamon roll. You’ll hardly believe they come from a cookie!
Perfect for Any Occasion
These cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a birthday party, or just a casual afternoon snack, they always impress. I’ve brought them to potlucks, and they disappear in minutes! The joy of seeing others enjoy your baking is irreplaceable.
Easy to Make
If you think baking is a daunting task, think again! The Cinnamon Roll Cookies require straightforward steps that can be handled by anyone, regardless of their baking skills. You’ll find that the ingredients come together beautifully, making it a fun activity to do with family or friends.
Customizable
What’s more, they can be customized to suit your taste! You can add nuts, swap the glaze for a chocolate drizzle, or sprinkle in some raisins for an extra treat. The possibilities are as endless as your creativity!
Kid-Friendly
If you’re looking for a way to get your kids involved in the kitchen, these cookies are a fantastic choice. They can help mix, roll, and even decorate with glaze. It’s a perfect bonding experience, and who doesn’t love sharing a delicious treat afterward?
Delicious Leftovers
Another great feature of Cinnamon Roll Cookies is how well they store. You can bake a batch and have delicious cookies ready to go for days. Just be sure to keep them stored properly!
What to Buy for Cinnamon Roll Cookies

When it comes to whipping up a batch of Cinnamon Roll Cookies, the ingredients play a crucial role in achieving that perfect flavor and texture. Each ingredient is carefully selected to create a rich, buttery cookie infused with the warm spices of cinnamon. Let’s explore these key players that come together to make this treat irresistible.
- ¾ cup softened butter: The base for our cookie, providing a rich flavor and tender texture.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps create a light and fluffy texture.
- ¼ cup powdered sugar: Adds subtle sweetness and helps achieve a smooth glaze.
- 2 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together, ensuring a moist cookie.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of our dough, giving structure to the cookies.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- 4 tablespoons softened butter: Used for spreading on the dough, adding richness.
- ½ cup brown sugar: Provides a deeper sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: The star spice that gives these cookies their signature flavor.
- 2 tablespoons softened cream cheese: Adds creaminess to the glaze.
- 2 tablespoons softened butter: Another layer of richness in the glaze.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the glaze, making it a perfect finishing touch.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla: Adds flavor to the glaze.
- 1-2 tablespoons milk: Adjusts the glaze’s consistency for perfect pouring.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Making Cinnamon Roll Cookies is an enjoyable and rewarding process! It all starts with creaming together the butter and sugars, which creates a light and fluffy base. As you add in the eggs and vanilla, you’ll see the mixture transform into a rich batter. Follow these steps to create your very own batch of these delightful cookies.
- In a large bowl, cream together ¾ cup softened butter, ¾ cup granulated sugar, and ¼ cup powdered sugar for about three to four minutes. The mixture should become light and fluffy, so keep mixing until you see the volume increase.
- Next, add 2 large eggs and ½ teaspoon vanilla into the bowl. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully combined. You’ll notice a smooth consistency as everything blends together.
- Now, it’s time to incorporate the dry ingredients. Add 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt into the mixture. Gently mix until just incorporated. The dough should be smooth and soft without any visible flour.
- Flatten the dough into a thick disk and wrap it in plastic wrap. Chilling is essential, so place the wrapped dough in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This step enhances the flavors and makes the dough easier to handle.
- While the dough chills, prepare the filling. In a small bowl, combine ½ cup brown sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. This mixture will provide that mouthwatering cinnamon flavor in every bite.
- Once the dough is chilled, separate it into two pieces. Work with one half at a time. Roll it out on a floured surface to about ¼-inch thick, aiming for a rectangle of approximately 15 inches by 4 inches.
- Take 4 tablespoons softened butter and gently spread half of it on top of the rolled-out dough. Ensure even coverage for added richness.
- Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered dough, making sure to cover the surface evenly. Lightly press the sugar mixture into the dough to help it stick.
- Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. This creates that beautiful swirl effect that we all love. Repeat this process with the second piece of dough.
- Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, slice the rolled dough into 1-inch pieces, aiming for about 15 cookies per log. Place the cookies two inches apart on very lightly greased baking sheets.
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake the cookies for 9 to 11 minutes, just until they’re set but not overbaked. They should remain pale in color for the perfect texture.
- After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 1 to 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial to ensure they don’t crumble.
- To make the glaze, mix 2 tablespoons softened cream cheese, 2 tablespoons softened butter, and 1 cup powdered sugar in a bowl until thick and smooth. You can use a mixer or a blender for this.
- Add ½ teaspoon vanilla and 1-2 tablespoons milk, adjusting until the glaze reaches a thick but pourable consistency. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies for that finishing touch.
- Finally, store any leftover cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and ready to enjoy!
Things Worth Knowing
- Chilling the dough: This step is essential for achieving the perfect texture. Chilling helps the flavors meld and makes the dough easier to handle.
- Rolling Technique: When rolling out the dough, be gentle. Too much pressure can lead to tough cookies. Aim for an even thickness for consistent baking.
- Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated before baking to ensure even cooking. An oven thermometer can help maintain accurate temperatures.
- Storage: To keep the cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. They can also be frozen for later enjoyment; just thaw before serving!
Variations to Try

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun variations you can try with Cinnamon Roll Cookies. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Nutty Addition: Add chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, into the dough or sprinkle them with the cinnamon-sugar mixture for an extra crunch.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Swap the glaze for a rich chocolate drizzle. Melt chocolate chips and drizzle over the cookies for a decadent touch.
- Raisin Twist: Add raisins into the dough for a chewy texture that complements the cinnamon flavors.
- Apple Cinnamon Version: Incorporate finely chopped apples into the dough or filling for a fruity twist.
- Glaze Variations: Experiment with flavored glazes by adding orange or lemon zest to the icing for a refreshing change.
- Mini Cookies: Make smaller versions of these cookies for bite-sized treats. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.
- Stuffed Cookies: Try stuffing the cookies with cream cheese filling or chocolate ganache for a gooey center.
What to Pair With Cinnamon Roll Cookies
If you’re wondering what to serve alongside your freshly baked Cinnamon Roll Cookies, I’ve got you covered! These cookies are versatile and pair beautifully with various treats:
- Hot Beverages: Serve these cookies warm with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa. The warmth complements the sweetness perfectly.
- Ice Cream: Try serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
- Fruit Compote: A dollop of homemade fruit compote can add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies.
- Brunch Spread: Include them in your brunch spread with other pastries, muffins, and fresh fruits for a delightful assortment.
- Picnic Treat: Pack them in your picnic basket as a sweet treat that everyone will love, making your outing even more enjoyable.
- Seasonal Pairings: During the holidays, consider serving with spiced cider or peppermint hot chocolate for a festive touch.
FAQ
Conclusion
In summary, Cinnamon Roll Cookies bring together the best of two worlds: the soft, comforting texture of cookies and the warm, inviting flavor of cinnamon rolls. If you haven’t tried making them yet, I highly encourage you to give them a try. They’re not just cookies; they’re a delicious experience waiting to happen. Enjoy them on their own or share them with friends; either way, they’re sure to be a hit!

Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- For the cookies, in a large bowl cream together ¾ cup softened butter, ¾ cup granulated sugar, and ¼ cup powdered sugar for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add 2 large eggs and ½ teaspoon vanilla and mix well.
- Add 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt, and mix just until the flour is incorporated and the dough is smooth and soft.
- Flatten the dough into a thick disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.
- For the filling, combine ½ cup brown sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon in a small bowl.
- Separate the dough into two pieces working with one half at a time, and roll it out to about ¼-inch thick and about 15 inches by 4 inches (doesn't have to be exact).
- Gently spread half of the 4 tablespoons butter on top of the dough.
- Sprinkle with half of the cinnamon sugar mixture and lightly press the sugar mixture into the dough.
- Starting with one long edge, roll the dough into a tight log.
- Repeat the process with the second piece of dough.
- Using a sharp knife (I like to use a pizza cutter) slice the dough into 1-inch pieces, making about 15 cookies per log.
- Place the cookies 2 inches apart on very lightly greased baking sheets.
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake the cookies for 9-11 minutes until set but not overbaked (they should still be pale in color).
- Let the cookies cool for 1-2 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the glaze by mixing 2 tablespoons softened cream cheese, 2 tablespoons softened butter, and 1 cup powdered sugar until thick and smooth.
- You can do this with an electric mixer or use a blender. Add ½ teaspoon vanilla and 1-2 tablespoons milk. Continue adding milk, ½ tablespoon at a time, until the glaze is thick but pourable.
- Drizzle glaze over cooled cookies. Store chilled in an airtight container.
Notes
- Tip 1: Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
- Tip 2: You can freeze the cookies for later enjoyment; just thaw before serving.
- Tip 3: Try adding nuts or chocolate chips for a fun twist.
- Tip 4: Share them at gatherings; they’ll be a hit!
- Tip 5: Enjoy them warm for the best flavor.


