Cinnamon roll cookies are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll, combining the best aspects of both worlds into a delicious treat that is easy to make and hard to resist. These cookies feature a soft and chewy texture with a rich cinnamon flavor that evokes the warmth of fresh-baked goods right out of the oven. Imagine the aroma of cinnamon and sugar wafting through your home as you prepare this sweet indulgence. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or for dessert, cinnamon roll cookies are sure to bring a smile to your face and a sweet taste to your palate.
Why We Love This Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe
What makes cinnamon roll cookies so beloved? The answer lies in their perfect balance of flavors and textures. They offer the beloved taste of traditional cinnamon rolls but come in a convenient cookie form, making them easy to enjoy any time of day. The soft, chewy cookie base combined with the sweet cinnamon filling creates a flavor explosion that is truly irresistible. Plus, they’re quick to make and don’t require any complicated techniques or specialized equipment, allowing you to whip up a batch whenever a craving strikes. Whether for a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or simply a cozy evening at home, these cookies are sure to impress.
Ingredients about Cinnamon Roll Cookies
To create your own batch of these mouthwatering cinnamon roll cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed (for filling)
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon (for filling)
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cookies Directions
Making cinnamon roll cookies is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the proper temperature while you prepare the dough.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. This step helps combine the dry ingredients evenly and prepares them to blend seamlessly into your wet mixture. Next, you’ll want to move to a larger bowl where you’ll cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Use an electric mixer or a sturdy spatula to beat the mixture until it is light and fluffy. This process typically takes about 2 to 3 minutes and is key to achieving a great texture for your cookies.
Once your butter and sugars are well blended, add in a large egg and the vanilla extract. Beat this mixture until it is smooth and creamy. At this point, you can gradually add the dry ingredients mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want your dough to remain tender and soft.
For the filling, combine the remaining ½ cup of brown sugar and the 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon in a small bowl, mixing them together until they are fully incorporated. Now, it’s time to shape your cookies! Prepare a clean working surface or a sheet of parchment paper and take half of the dough. Roll it out into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling mixture evenly over the surface of the dough.
Start at one end of the rectangle and roll the dough tightly into a log shape, being careful not to squeeze too hard, which can make the filling ooze out. Once you have your log, use a sharp knife to slice it into ½-inch rounds. Place these cookie slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each one to allow for spreading while baking.
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are a light golden brown. The kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma as these cookies bake, promising a delicious treat. Once they’re done, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save them for later—a delicious cookie is always a welcome treat!
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cookies
These cinnamon roll cookies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate your serving experience with a few simple additions. Try glazing them with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk. Just whisk together about a cup of powdered sugar with a couple of tablespoons of milk until you reach your desired consistency, then drizzle it over the cooled cookies for an extra touch of sweetness.
Another delightful option is to serve these cookies with a side of your favorite hot beverage. A warm cup of coffee, chai tea, or hot chocolate pairs perfectly with the flavors of cinnamon and sugar. You could even consider plating them with a few fresh fruit slices to add a burst of color and freshness. If you’re hosting a gathering or a family brunch, arrange the cookies on a beautiful platter for a tempting display that invites everyone to indulge.
Expert Tips: Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Creating the perfect cinnamon roll cookies is all about the details. Here are some expert tips to ensure your cookies come out delicious every time:
- Measure Your Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, so use a kitchen scale for precise measurements. If you’re using measuring cups, spoon the flour into the cup and level it off to avoid packing it down.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure that your butter and egg are at room temperature. This helps them mix better, resulting in a smoother cookie dough.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
- Chill the Dough: If your dough feels too sticky or soft to handle, consider chilling it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This makes it easier to roll and slice.
- Variations: Feel free to customize the filling by adding chopped nuts or raisins for more texture. You can also experiment with different spices, like nutmeg or cardamom, to create your unique flavor profile.
- Keep an Eye on the Baking Time: Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking your cookies a minute or two early to ensure they don’t overbake.
How to Store Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Keeping your cinnamon roll cookies fresh and delicious is simple. Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing them. You can store them at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week. If you’d like them to last longer, consider placing them in the refrigerator, which can help maintain their softness.
For extended storage, you can freeze the cookies. Layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container or Ziplock bag, and they will last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up.
Variation of Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Cinnamon roll cookies can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences or to incorporate seasonal ingredients. Here are some delicious variations you might consider:
- Maple Pecan Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Add chopped pecans to the filling for a crunchy texture and drizzle some maple syrup over the baked cookies for a sweet finish.
- Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Mix in chocolate chips into the cookie dough for a delightful sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon flavor.
- Apple Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Incorporate diced apples into the filling for an apple pie-inspired twist. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor.
- Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Substitute half of your flour with pumpkin puree, and add pumpkin pie spice to the filling for a cozy autumn treat.
- Lemon Glaze on Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Create a citrusy glaze by mixing powdered sugar with lemon juice, giving your cookies a refreshing zest that complements the cinnamon nicely.
- Dried Fruit and Spice Blend: Consider adding dried cranberries or blueberries to the filling, along with a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg, for a fruity spin.
FAQ
What are cinnamon roll cookies?
Cinnamon roll cookies are a hybrid treat that combines the soft, chewy texture of cookies with the rich, aromatic flavors of traditional cinnamon rolls. They are made with a simple cookie dough rolled with a sweet cinnamon sugar filling.
How do I make cinnamon roll cookies?
You start by preparing a cookie dough with ingredients like flour, butter, and sugars. After mixing, you roll out the dough, sprinkle on a cinnamon-sugar filling, roll it up into a log, slice it, and then bake.
How long do cinnamon roll cookies last?
When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, cinnamon roll cookies can last for up to a week. To extend their shelf life, you can freeze them for up to three months.
Can I freeze cinnamon roll cookies?
Yes, cinnamon roll cookies freeze very well. Make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in an airtight container, layering them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
What can I serve with cinnamon roll cookies?
These cookies are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with a drizzle of icing, alongside coffee or hot chocolate, or even with fresh fruits for a balanced treat.
Can I customize the filling of my cinnamon roll cookies?
Absolutely! You can personalize the filling by adding nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate chips to create unique flavors that suit your palate.
Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Ingredients
For the cookie dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
For the filling
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined.
Filling and Shaping
- In a small bowl, mix the remaining ½ cup of brown sugar with the 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon.
- Roll half of the dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
- Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the rolled dough.
- Starting from one edge, roll the dough tightly into a log shape and slice into ½-inch rounds.
- Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are light golden brown.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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