If you’ve ever wished your favorite cinnamon roll could come in a bite-sized, handheld form, you’re going to adore this Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe. These cookies capture all the warm, spicy sweetness of classic cinnamon rolls with a soft, chewy texture and a drizzle of cinnamon glaze that makes every bite feel like a little celebration. Perfect for sharing, gifting, or treating yourself, this recipe turns simple pantry staples into a cozy, irresistible treat that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward baking these delightful cookies. Each component plays an essential role—flour gives structure, cinnamon adds that signature warmth, and the glaze delivers the perfect sweet finish.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough, providing just the right texture for soft cookies.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda: Helps the cookies rise slightly for a light, tender crumb.
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon: Infuses the dough with the classic spice that defines the flavor.
- 1/2 cup butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture, ensuring each cookie is melt-in-your-mouth good.
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed: Brings sweetness and a subtle caramel note that complements the cinnamon.
- 1 egg: Binds the ingredients together and contributes to the cookie’s chewy texture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances all the other flavors with its warm aroma.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze): Creates a sweet, smooth glaze that contrasts beautifully with the spice.
- 1 tbsp milk (for glaze): Thins the powdered sugar to a perfect drizzle consistency.
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (for glaze): Sprinkled in the glaze to echo the cookie’s cinnamon spice perfectly.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dry Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and ready by the time your dough is mixed. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Then, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon in a bowl. This dry mixture forms the aromatic base of your cookies, setting the tone for that quintessential cinnamon roll flavor.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is important because it introduces air into the dough, helping your cookies rise beautifully while giving them an irresistibly tender bite.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Next, add the egg and vanilla extract to your creamed butter and sugar mixture. Mix well to combine everything until smooth and homogenous. The egg acts as a binder, and the vanilla adds a subtle depth that enhances the cinnamon notes in the cookies.
Step 4: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, blending just until combined. Be careful not to overmix as you want your cookies to stay tender and soft, mimicking the cozy feel of an authentic cinnamon roll.
Step 5: Shape and Bake the Cookies
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto your parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart to allow for gentle spreading. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges turn a lovely golden brown, signaling that the cookies have reached their perfect balance of chewiness and slight crispness.
Step 6: Prepare and Drizzle the Glaze
While the cookies cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon until smooth. Drizzle this luscious glaze over the cooled cookies, adding that signature cinnamon roll finish that turns these cookies into a nostalgic treat you’ll want to make again and again.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of charm, sprinkle a little extra ground cinnamon or a pinch of finely chopped pecans on top of the glaze. This not only adds a beautiful visual but also complements the warm flavors perfectly.
Side Dishes
These cookies shine best with a warm mug of coffee, tea, or even a splash of milk. If you’re serving them at a brunch or afternoon gathering, pair them with fresh fruit or a bowl of whipped cream to round out the experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the cookies in a rustic basket lined with a cinnamon-dusted linen napkin for an inviting display. Or, arrange them on a pretty platter with tiny bowls of extra glaze and cinnamon sugar so guests can customize their treats. Presentation can turn an already delightful cookie into a centerpiece conversation starter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your Cinnamon Roll Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Doing this keeps them soft and chewy while preserving the beautiful glaze.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these cookies later, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep well for up to 2 months and thaw beautifully without losing their texture.
Reheating
To bring frozen or leftover cookies back to their fresh-from-the-oven vibrancy, warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or pop them into a 300°F oven for 3 to 5 minutes. This trick revives that soft, gooey cinnamon roll feel everyone loves.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sugar instead of brown sugar?
While you can substitute granulated sugar, brown sugar adds moisture and a rich caramel undertone that really defines the Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe’s flavor. Using brown sugar is highly recommended for the best results.
What if I don’t have powdered sugar for the glaze?
The glaze depends on powdered sugar for its smooth texture. You could try making your own by grinding granulated sugar in a blender, but for the easiest and most consistent glaze, stick with powdered sugar.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
This recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can experiment with gluten-free all-purpose flour blends. Just ensure they include xanthan gum or a similar binding agent for the texture to hold up well.
Can I add nuts or raisins to the dough?
Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts would add a pleasant crunch, and raisins would introduce a chewy sweetness that complements the cinnamon beautifully. Toss them into the dough before baking for a tasty twist.
How do I make the cookies more cakey or crisp?
For cakier cookies, try adding a bit more flour or a teaspoon of baking powder. For crisper cookies, bake them a minute or two longer and reduce moisture slightly. But the beauty of the Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe lies in their perfect chewy balance.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe is a true gem that brings the heartwarming taste of cinnamon rolls into a simple, quick cookie form. It’s perfect for those moments when you want a comforting treat without the fuss. I hope you enjoy baking and sharing these as much as I do — they’re sure to become a beloved favorite in your kitchen!
Print
Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cinnamon Roll Cookies capture the irresistible flavors of classic cinnamon rolls in a quick, easy-to-make cookie form. Soft, flavorful dough is spiced with cinnamon and brown sugar, then baked to golden perfection and topped with a sweet cinnamon glaze for a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Glaze
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon to evenly distribute the spices and leavening agent.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which helps create a tender cookie texture.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat the egg and vanilla extract into the butter mixture until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually mix the dry flour mixture into the wet butter mixture, stirring until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Form Cookies: Using a tablespoon, scoop dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
- Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown, indicating they’re perfectly baked.
- Prepare Glaze: While the cookies cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon in a small bowl until smooth.
- Glaze Cookies: Drizzle the cinnamon glaze over the cooled cookies to add a sweet and spicy finishing touch.
- Serve and Enjoy: Allow the glaze to set slightly, then serve these delicious cinnamon roll-inspired cookies for a delightful treat.
Notes
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming with sugar.
- For softer cookies, do not overbake; remove them as soon as edges turn golden.
- You can substitute milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free glaze.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For an extra cinnamon kick, sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top before baking.
