The warm and inviting aroma of cinnamon fills the kitchen as these soft and chewy Cinnamon Roll Cookies bake to perfection. With their beautiful swirls of cinnamon and sugar, these cookies are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, surprising someone with a sweet gift, or simply indulging in a cozy treat at home, these cookies are guaranteed to bring smiles all around. The creamy icing drizzle adds the perfect finishing touch, making them both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (or as needed for consistency)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until creamy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Divide the dough in half and roll out each half on a floured surface into a ¼-inch thick rectangle.
- Mix the cinnamon and brown sugar together and sprinkle evenly over the rolled dough.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour.
- Slice the dough into ¼-inch thick rounds and place on prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prepare the icing by mixing powdered sugar with milk until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies and let set before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 32 minutes (including chilling)
Kcal: 140 kcal per cookie | Servings: 24 cookies
The Irresistible Charm of Cinnamon Roll Cookies
When you think of comfort food, two classic desserts often come to mind: cinnamon rolls and cookies. Now imagine blending the best qualities of both into one delightful treat—this is where Cinnamon Roll Cookies take center stage. These cookies are a delightful twist on traditional cookies, combining the soft, buttery texture of a classic sugar cookie with the warm, spicy-sweet filling of a cinnamon roll. The result? A treat that’s perfect for every occasion, from casual coffee breaks to elegant holiday spreads.
A Recipe Rooted in Tradition
The inspiration behind Cinnamon Roll Cookies lies in the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls, a dessert that has warmed hearts for centuries. Cinnamon rolls, believed to have originated in Sweden (where they are known as “kanelbullar”), became a worldwide sensation due to their irresistible combination of soft dough, buttery cinnamon-sugar filling, and sweet glaze. These cookies borrow from that legacy, packaging the essence of a cinnamon roll into a smaller, more portable form.
This recipe was crafted to maintain the nostalgic flavors of cinnamon rolls while offering the convenience of a quick-baking cookie. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, these cookies are simple to make and yield stunning results every time.
Why Cinnamon Roll Cookies Stand Out
1. Aesthetic Appeal:
The swirl of cinnamon and sugar within each cookie isn’t just delicious—it’s also visually stunning. The golden-brown spirals evoke a sense of homemade charm, making these cookies Instagram-worthy and perfect for gifting.
2. Versatility:
Cinnamon Roll Cookies are adaptable to your preferences. Want a stronger cinnamon flavor? Increase the spice. Prefer a softer texture? Slightly underbake them. These cookies can also be customized with additions like chopped nuts, raisins, or even a hint of nutmeg.
3. Family-Friendly:
This recipe is a fantastic activity for families. Kids love rolling out the dough, sprinkling the cinnamon-sugar mixture, and watching their creations come to life in the oven. It’s a great way to spend quality time together.
4. Quick Gratification:
Unlike traditional cinnamon rolls, which require hours of proofing and baking, these cookies come together in under two hours. The chilling step is optional for those who can’t wait, making them an excellent choice for spontaneous baking sessions.
5. Healthier Option:
By controlling the amount of sugar and using quality ingredients, you can make this recipe a lighter treat compared to traditional cinnamon rolls. You can even experiment with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and additional fiber.
The Benefits of Cinnamon
Cinnamon isn’t just a delicious spice—it also offers numerous health benefits:
- Rich in Antioxidants: Cinnamon is packed with powerful antioxidants that protect the body from free radical damage.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Regular consumption of cinnamon may help reduce inflammation in the body.
- Blood Sugar Control: Cinnamon has been shown to lower blood sugar levels and improve sensitivity to insulin, making it a great addition to balanced diets.
Incorporating cinnamon into your baking not only enhances flavor but also offers these subtle health benefits, giving you more reasons to enjoy these cookies guilt-free.
Perfect Occasions for Cinnamon Roll Cookies
These cookies are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed at:
- Holiday Parties: The warm flavors of cinnamon make these cookies an instant holiday favorite.
- Breakfast or Brunch: Serve them with coffee or tea for a delightful morning treat.
- Gifting: Pack these cookies in a decorative tin or wrap them in cellophane with a festive ribbon—they make a thoughtful homemade gift.
- Potlucks and Gatherings: Their portable size and stunning presentation make them ideal for sharing with a crowd.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Cinnamon Roll Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider the following tips:
- Chill the Dough: Chilling helps the dough maintain its shape, making the rolling and slicing process easier.
- Even Thickness: Roll the dough evenly to ensure consistent baking. Uneven dough can result in some cookies being overbaked while others are underbaked.
- Don’t Overbake: These cookies are best when they’re slightly soft in the center. Remove them from the oven as soon as the edges turn golden brown.
- Customize the Glaze: The glaze is optional but highly recommended. Add a touch of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the icing for extra flavor.
Storing and Freezing
These cookies are perfect for make-ahead baking. Once baked and cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also freeze beautifully—simply place the baked cookies in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature and drizzle with fresh icing if needed.
For an even fresher option, you can freeze the rolled dough log before slicing and baking. This way, you can bake fresh cookies on demand whenever the craving strikes.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Roll Cookies have a universal appeal that transcends age. Adults love their nostalgic flavors, while kids are drawn to their sweet taste and fun spiral design. They’re the perfect treat for bringing people together, whether you’re baking with family, hosting friends, or sharing with neighbors.
