Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe

The Coziest Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe For Sweet Moments

Sweet memories often dance around homemade cinnamon roll cookies that blend nostalgic bakery comfort with delightful cookie creativity.

Soft swirls of warm spice weave through each delectable bite.

Childhood kitchen aromas return with these tender, buttery treats that melt instantly.

Rich cinnamon layers promise pure indulgence in every crisp, golden edge.

Baking becomes an intimate celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something magical.

Delicate textures and classic flavors combine to create a dessert that feels both familiar and surprising.

Each cookie invites you to savor a moment of pure, sugary bliss.

FAQs

  • What makes the texture of these cookies unique?

The cookies combine the soft, chewy texture of a classic sugar cookie with the swirled, rolled appearance of a cinnamon roll, creating a unique hybrid dessert that’s both familiar and exciting.

  • Are these cookies difficult to make for beginners?

Not at all! The recipe is straightforward and requires basic baking skills. The key is to roll the dough carefully and slice the log evenly to create uniform cookies.

  • Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before rolling and baking. This can help develop deeper flavors and make the dough easier to handle.

Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Buttery Sweet Swirls

  • Bake with Ease: Perfect for bakers of all skill levels, these cinnamon roll cookies require simple steps and basic ingredients anyone can handle.
  • Create Crowd-Pleasing Treats: Combines the beloved flavors of classic cinnamon rolls with the convenience of cookies, making them irresistible for both kids and adults.
  • Enjoy Versatile Delights: Suitable for multiple occasions like family gatherings, potlucks, bake sales, or as a sweet weekend afternoon snack that everyone will love.
  • Customize Your Comfort: Flexible recipe allows for personal touches like adding nuts, adjusting glaze thickness, or experimenting with different spice combinations to suit individual tastes.
Main Ingredients:
  • Flour: A key component that provides structure and texture to the cookies.
  • Butter: Adds richness and creates a soft, tender base for the cookies.
  • Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps in creating a golden color.
  • Brown Sugar: Brings a deep caramel-like flavor to the filling.
  • Egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
Spice and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Cinnamon: Delivers a warm, classic spice that defines the cinnamon roll flavor.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and complexity to the overall taste.
Baking and Finishing Ingredients:
  • Baking Powder: Helps the cookies rise and become light and fluffy.
  • Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
  • Powdered Sugar, Milk: Create a smooth, sweet glaze that adds a finishing touch to the cookies.
  • Parchment Paper: Ensures easy removal and prevents sticking during baking.

Bake Up Buttery Swirl Cookies

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 350F (175C).

Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Blend Dry Ingredients

Grab a mixing bowl and whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until they’re perfectly combined.

Step 3: Create Creamy Base

In a separate large bowl, whip the softened butter and granulated sugar until they transform into a light, fluffy cloud.

Crack in the egg and splash of vanilla extract, mixing until everything looks smooth and dreamy.

Step 4: Merge Ingredients

Slowly fold the dry ingredient mixture into the butter mixture.

Gently stir until a soft, pillowy dough forms.

Step 5: Roll Out the Magic

Dust your work surface with a light sprinkle of flour.

Using a rolling pin, stretch the dough into a wide, even rectangle.

Step 6: Prepare Cinnamon Swirl

In a small bowl, mix together:
  • Brown sugar
  • Ground cinnamon

Sprinkle this fragrant mixture evenly across the rolled-out dough.

Step 7: Create Cookie Spirals

Start from one long edge and tightly roll the dough into a perfect log.

Slice the log into rounds about 1/2 inch thick.

Step 8: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the cookie rounds on the prepared baking sheet, giving each one some breathing room (about 2 inches apart).

Step 9: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes.

Look for golden-brown edges that signal deliciousness.

Step 10: Whip Up Sweet Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together:
  • Powdered sugar
  • Milk

Stir until the mixture becomes silky smooth.

Step 11: Add the Finishing Touch

Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm cookies.

Let them cool for a few minutes before diving in and enjoying your homemade treats.

  • Refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before rolling to prevent spreading and maintain crisp cookie edges.
  • Use a light touch when rolling the dough to keep it tender and prevent tough cookies.
  • Slice cookies evenly to ensure uniform baking and prevent some cookies from burning while others remain undercooked.
  • Let cookies cool slightly before adding glaze so it sets beautifully without melting completely.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their soft, fresh texture.
  • Gluten-Free Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Replace wheat flour with almond or gluten-free blend for a celiac-friendly version that maintains the same delicious flavor profile.
  • Vegan Cinnamon Swirl Cookies: Swap butter with coconut oil, use a flax egg instead of regular egg, and create plant-based cream cheese glaze using cashew cream for a dairy-free alternative.
  • Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the cinnamon sugar filling before rolling to add extra richness and chocolatey depth to the classic recipe.
  • Maple Pecan Variation: Replace white sugar with maple syrup in the dough and add chopped pecans to the cinnamon filling for a nutty, autumn-inspired cookie experience.
  • Festive Brunch Companion: Pair these cinnamon roll cookies with a steaming cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a delightful morning treat.
  • Sweet Dessert Platter: Arrange the cookies on a beautiful serving plate alongside fresh berries, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an elegant dessert presentation.
  • Party Favor Potential: Package these cookies in small clear bags with a ribbon, creating charming homemade gifts for holidays, birthdays, or special gatherings.
  • Afternoon Tea Delight: Serve these cookies on a tiered stand with other small pastries during an afternoon tea, offering guests a delectable sweet bite.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and maintain their delicate shape.
  • Wrap cookies individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before enjoying.
  • Warm cookies at 300F for 3-5 minutes to restore their soft texture and revive the cinnamon aroma. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
  • Warm cookies for 10-15 seconds on low power. Check frequently to avoid making them tough or dry.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe

Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 19 reviews

  • Total Time: 37 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Indulgent Cinnamon Roll Cookies blend classic pastry charm with cookie simplicity, creating a sweet sensation that melts in your mouth. Buttery dough swirled with warm cinnamon and sweet glaze promises delightful moments of pure comfort you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg

Filling Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Additional Ingredients:

  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven at 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for optimal cookie baking.
  2. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl, thoroughly whisking to ensure even distribution of dry ingredients.
  3. Cream butter and granulated sugar in a separate large bowl until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color. Incorporate egg and vanilla extract, blending until smooth and uniform.
  4. Gradually fold dry ingredients into the butter mixture, stirring gently until a cohesive, soft dough forms without overmixing.
  5. Transfer dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll into a thin, even rectangular shape using a rolling pin.
  6. Create the cinnamon filling by mixing brown sugar and ground cinnamon, then evenly distribute the mixture across the rolled-out dough surface.
  7. Carefully roll the dough from one long edge to another, forming a tight, compact log. Slice the log into uniform rounds approximately 1/2 inch thick.
  8. Arrange cookie rounds on the prepared baking sheet, maintaining adequate spacing to allow for slight spreading during baking.
  9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, monitoring until cookie edges turn golden brown and centers appear set.
  10. Prepare glaze by whisking powdered sugar and milk until achieving a smooth, drizzle-able consistency.
  11. Once cookies have slightly cooled, generously drizzle glaze over the tops, allowing it to set before serving.

Notes

  • Chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling to prevent sticking and make handling easier.
  • Use room temperature butter for smoother creaming and better cookie texture.
  • Adjust cinnamon quantity based on personal preference for a more or less intense flavor.
  • Swap wheat flour with gluten-free blend for celiac or gluten-sensitive diets without compromising taste.
  • Reduce sugar slightly if you prefer less sweetness, maintaining cookie’s soft consistency.
  • Line baking sheet with silicone mat for even browning and easier cookie removal.
  • Try alternative spices like cardamom or nutmeg for unique flavor variations.
  • Store cookies in airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 215 kcal
  • Sugar: 19 g
  • Sodium: 75 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 29 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
Nathaniel Brooks

Nathaniel Brooks

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Farm-to-table cuisine, Seasonal recipe development, Culinary storytelling

Education

Ivy Tech Community College – Indianapolis, IN
Culinary Arts / Hospitality Administration & Events
Focused on hands-on training in classical and modern culinary techniques. ​


Nathaniel’s story starts in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, where farm stands, backyard gardens, and old family recipes shaped his love for real food. After graduating from Ivy Tech Community College in Indianapolis, he spent years working in farm-to-table kitchens, learning how to turn local, seasonal ingredients into something memorable.
Today, Nathaniel pours that same spirit into every single recipe on Aspiring Culinarian – recipes that feel real, comforting, and connected to the land. When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll find him foraging wild herbs, chasing sunsets with his camera, or writing about the flavors that shaped his roots.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star