Cinnamon roll cookies combine the warm, comforting flavors of traditional cinnamon rolls with the delightful ease of cookie-making. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie that carries the essence of a freshly baked cinnamon roll—with a sweet swirl of cinnamon filling and a hint of vanilla. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or simply indulging in a little self-care with a delightful treat.
Why We Love This Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe
There are countless reasons to adore cinnamon roll cookies. Firstly, they bring the joy of cinnamon rolls to your cookie jar without the need for extensive preparation or yeast! You can quickly whip them up and have delicious cookies within the hour. Secondly, they’re incredibly versatile. You can easily modify the recipe with your favorite ingredients, whether you want to add nuts or chocolate chips. Finally, these cookies are perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply enjoying alone with a steaming cup of coffee or tea!
Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Cookies
To create your own batch of these mouthwatering cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed (for filling)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for filling)
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cookies Directions
Making cinnamon roll cookies is a straightforward process, allowing you to savor every step without stress. Let’s break it down:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve the perfect golden color.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. This blend helps achieve the right texture and flavor balance for your cookies.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In another bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat everything until it becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a tender cookie base. Once it reaches that fluffy stage, add in the egg and vanilla extract. Beat until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
- Prepare the Filling: In a separate small bowl, combine the packed brown sugar and ground cinnamon. This filling will give your cookies that classic cinnamon roll flavor.
- Roll the Dough: Spread half of your cookie dough onto parchment paper, shaping it into an even rectangle. Sprinkle your cinnamon filling evenly over the surface. Then, roll the dough tightly, starting from one end to the other, much like you would roll a traditional cinnamon roll.
- Slice and Bake: Once rolled, slice the dough into 1-inch thick rounds. Place these rounds on a lined baking sheet, giving them enough space to spread while baking. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until they are golden brown on the edges.
- Cool and Enjoy: After baking, allow your cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. This step lets them firm up just a bit, making them easier to handle and serve.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Serving cinnamon roll cookies is as simple as enjoying them yourself! However, if you want to make them extra special, here’s how you can elevate your cookie experience:
- With Icing: Drizzle a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk over each warm cookie. This adds an extra hint of sweetness and makes them look even more appealing.
- Pair with Beverages: These cookies pair perfectly with coffee, hot chocolate, or your favorite tea. The warm flavors complement each drink beautifully.
- Garnish Creatively: Sprinkle a bit of powdered sugar on top for a classic, charming presentation. It adds a lovely visual contrast and hints at the sweetness within.
Expert Tips: Cinnamon Roll Cookies
To ensure your cinnamon roll cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these expert tips:
- Cool Your Dough: If your dough feels too soft, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes before rolling. This makes it easier to handle and helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
- Measure Carefully: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for the flour. Too much flour can result in dry cookies.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to mix in additional ingredients such as chopped nuts, raisins, or even a sprinkle of nutmeg for extra flavor dimensions.
- Check for Doneness: Keep a close eye on your cookies in the final minutes of baking. Every oven is different, and cookie dough can go from perfect to too done in mere moments.
How to Store Cinnamon Roll Cookies
To keep your cinnamon roll cookies fresh and delicious:
- Cool Completely: Always allow your cookies to cool completely before storing them. This prevents moisture buildup in the container.
- Use Airtight Containers: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. This will keep them soft for up to a week.
- Refrigeration: If you live in a particularly warm climate or want your cookies to last longer, consider refrigerating them. They can last up to two weeks in the fridge.
- Freezing: For longer storage, wrap individual cookies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. Simply thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy one!
Variations of Cinnamon Roll Cookies
While the classic cinnamon roll cookie is exquisite on its own, there’s so much room for creativity!
- Nutty Cinnamon Rolls: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for added crunch and flavor.
- Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Rolls: Add chocolate chips to the dough or the filling for a delightful chocolate-cinnamon combination.
- Frosted Delight: Create a cream cheese frosting to spread on top once the cookies have cooled. This creamy layer takes your treat to the next level.
- Spiced Delight: Combine cinnamon with additional spices like cardamom or ginger for a unique flavor twist that complements the sweet notes.
- Fruit-Infused: Consider adding dried fruits like cranberries or apricots. Their tartness works well with the sweetness of the cookies.
FAQ
What are cinnamon roll cookies?
Cinnamon roll cookies are a delicious fusion of traditional cinnamon rolls and cookies. They feature a soft, chewy texture and are filled with a sweet cinnamon-brown sugar mixture, offering the same comfort and flavor as classic cinnamon rolls.
How do I get the best texture for my cinnamon roll cookies?
To achieve the best texture, be cautious about how much you mix the dough. Overmixing can create tough cookies. Additionally, chilling your dough can help maintain its shape during baking.
Can I make cinnamon roll cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough, roll it up with the cinnamon filling, wrap it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for a day or two. When ready to bake, slice and bake directly from the fridge.
How can I customize my cinnamon roll cookies?
You can customize your cinnamon roll cookies by adding extras like nuts, chocolate chips, or different spices. Feel free to experiment and make the recipe your own!
Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Equipment
- Oven
- Mixing Bowls
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
Ingredients
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 cup Unsalted Butter Softened
- 0.5 cup Granulated Sugar
- 0.5 cup Brown Sugar Packed
- 1 large Egg
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
- 0.5 cup Brown Sugar Packed (for filling)
- 2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon (for filling)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon.
- In another bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and ground cinnamon for the filling.
- Spread half of the cookie dough onto parchment paper into an even rectangle. Sprinkle the cinnamon filling evenly over the surface, then roll the dough tightly.
- Slice the rolled dough into 1-inch thick rounds and place them on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until golden brown on the edges.
- Allow to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
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