If you’ve ever wished you could enjoy the cozy, comforting flavor of a cinnamon roll without the time-consuming prep, this Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe is your dream come true. Each bite delivers warm cinnamon sweetness with a tender, buttery texture, all topped with a luscious cinnamon-spiked glaze. It captures everything you love about cinnamon roll pastries in a fun, easy-to-make cookie form that’s perfect for sharing or savoring solo with your favorite cup of coffee or tea.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly simple yet essential to create the perfect harmony of flavor and texture in this Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe. Each element plays its part—flour for structure, cinnamon for that unmistakable warmth, butter for richness, and the glaze to bring it all together with a touch of sweetness.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of your cookies, providing just the right chewiness and body.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda: Helps the cookies rise a little for a soft, tender bite.
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon: Infuses the dough with that signature cinnamon roll flavor.
- 1/2 cup butter, softened: Adds richness and a melt-in-your-mouth softness.
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed: Sweetens naturally while giving a subtle molasses undertone.
- 1 egg: Binds all the ingredients, creating a cohesive dough.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings out the warmth in the cinnamon and sweetness of the cookies.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze): Essential for that smooth, sweet drizzle topping.
- 1 tbsp milk (for glaze): Blends with powdered sugar to create just the right consistency for glazing.
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (for glaze): Adds a burst of extra cinnamon punch to finish off the cookies beautifully.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick, making clean-up super easy.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. This blend forms the flavorful base of your cookie dough, ensuring that every bite has a gentle cinnamon touch.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy and light. This step is key to creating a tender and moist cookie. Then, add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is smooth and perfectly combined.
Step 4: Combine the Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix here—you want the dough to hold together without becoming tough.
Step 5: Scoop and Space the Dough
Use a tablespoon to scoop balls of dough and place them on your prepared baking sheet. Space each about 2 inches apart because these cookies will spread a bit as they bake.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake your cookies for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges turn a beautiful golden brown. The aroma that fills your kitchen at this stage is absolutely irresistible!
Step 7: Make and Add the Glaze
While your cookies cool, mix together powdered sugar, milk, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon until smooth. Then drizzle this glaze generously over the cookies, giving them that signature cinnamon roll finish that takes these cookies to the next level.
Step 8: Enjoy!
Once glazed, your Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe is ready to be enjoyed. They’re best savored after the glaze sets slightly, offering a soft yet slightly crispy texture with every bite.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
If you really want to dazzle your guests, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon or some finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top of the glaze before it sets. Even a dusting of flaky sea salt can add an unexpected twist that highlights the sweetness beautifully.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair dreamily with classic breakfast beverages—think creamy lattes, rich hot chocolate, or a simple cup of black coffee. For an afternoon treat, try them alongside a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these cookies stacked on a vintage plate tied with a cinnamon stick for a charming rustic look. Another fun idea is to present them in clear jars or cellophane bags with ribbon—perfect for gifting or party favors that your friends will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll keep their freshness and soft texture for up to 4 days, making it easy to enjoy a sweet bite whenever the craving strikes.
Freezing
If you want to extend the life of your baked goodness, freeze the baked cookies in a sealed freezer-safe container or bag. They can last up to 3 months this way. Just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to indulge again.
Reheating
For that freshly-baked warmth, pop your cookies in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5 minutes. The glaze will soften, and the aroma will fill your kitchen just like the first time you baked them.
FAQs
Can I use brown sugar substitutes in this Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe?
Yes! You can use coconut sugar or a light molasses sugar substitute if you want a slightly different caramel flavor. Just keep in mind that texture might vary slightly.
What if I don’t have powdered sugar for the glaze?
Powdered sugar is best for that smooth glaze texture, but you can make your own by blending granulated sugar until fine. It won’t be as silky but will work in a pinch.
Can I add nuts or raisins to the cookie dough?
Absolutely! Adding chopped pecans, walnuts, or even raisins can bring extra texture and flavor, making these cookies even more delightful.
Is this Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! These cookies have a sweet, gentle cinnamon flavor that most kids love, and the small size makes them perfect for little hands.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix. Just make sure the mix includes xanthan gum for the best texture results.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe is one of those magical recipes that brings warmth, joy, and deliciousness all in one bite. Whether you’re baking for loved ones, for a special occasion, or just to brighten your own day, these cookies never fail to delight. Give them a try and watch how quickly they become a treasured treat in your baking repertoire!
Print
Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in the flavors of cinnamon rolls in cookie form with these easy-to-make Cinnamon Roll Cookies. Soft, buttery dough flavored with cinnamon and brown sugar is baked to perfection and topped with a sweet cinnamon glaze, making them a perfect treat for any time of day.
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 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.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon until evenly combined.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and packed brown sugar together until the mixture is fluffy and well combined. Then, add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet butter mixture, stirring until a uniform dough forms.
- Form Cookies: Use a tablespoon to scoop dough balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown around the edges.
- Prepare Glaze: While cookies cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon in a small bowl until smooth.
- Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the cinnamon glaze over the cooled cookies, then serve and enjoy the delightful cinnamon roll-inspired flavors.
Notes
- Ensure butter is softened, not melted, for perfect cookie texture.
- Spacing cookies 2 inches apart is important to prevent them from merging during baking.
- Allow cookies to cool completely before glazing to avoid melting the glaze.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- For a stronger cinnamon flavor, consider adding a pinch more cinnamon to the dough or glaze.
