Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies: A Sweet Treat for Any Occasion
These Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies bring the delightful flavors of a traditional cinnamon roll into a fun cookie form. Perfect for cozy Sundays, holiday gatherings, or just a sweet craving, this recipe is a warm embrace in every bite. With fragrant cinnamon and creamy glaze, they effortlessly elevate ordinary moments into something special. Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or your friends, these cookies are sure to impress and delight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What makes these cookies a must-try? First off, they are quick to prepare, making them ideal for any busy baker. With simple ingredients, they are budget-friendly while delivering a comforting flavor that feels like home. Plus, kids love them—these cookies are sure to be a hit at any gathering, making dessert plans a breeze.
“I can’t believe how easy these were to make! They taste just like fresh cinnamon rolls, but in cookie form. A new family favorite!”
How to Make Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies
This cookie recipe is so straightforward you’ll want to make them again and again. Start by preparing the dough, then roll it out, and fill it with cinnamon goodness. After a quick chill, slice them into rounds, bake, and finish off with a sweet glaze. Here’s what you’ll need for these delicious cookies.
Ingredients
To whip up these tasty treats, gather the following items:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute unsalted butter for margarine or use light brown sugar instead of dark.
Directions
Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Next, add the egg and vanilla extract, stirring until well combined.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually incorporate this into the wet ingredients until you achieve a soft dough.
Roll Out: Divide the dough in half and roll each portion into a rectangle approximately ¼-inch thick on a floured surface.
Add Filling: Brush each rectangle generously with the melted butter. Then, sprinkle an even layer of the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture across the dough.
Roll and Chill: Carefully roll each rectangle tightly into a log shape. Wrap each log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour to firm up.
Slice and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once chilled, slice the logs into ¼-inch thick rounds and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Glaze: In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Once the cookies have cooled, drizzle the glaze over them and let it set.
Serve and Enjoy: Store your cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or freeze them for extended enjoyment.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies shine on their own but can also be paired with a glass of milk or a warm cup of coffee. For a special breakfast, serve them alongside fresh fruit or a light yogurt parfait. Alternatively, enjoy them as dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting treat that hits all the right notes.
Storage & Reheating
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to enjoy them later, they freeze exceptionally well. Simply place them in an airtight freezer bag, and they can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to indulge again, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to gently warm them.
Pro Tips
- Chilling is Key: Make sure to chill the dough thoroughly before slicing, as this helps maintain shape and prevents excessive spreading during baking.
- Experiment with Spice: If you love a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to your cinnamon sugar mix for a unique flavor twist.
- Glaze Variations: Feel free to get creative with the glaze! A splash of almond extract in place of vanilla or adding a swirl of cocoa powder for chocolatey goodness can change the experience entirely.
Variations
These delicious cookies are versatile! Try swapping out the cinnamon for pumpkin spice for a seasonal flair, or add chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts to the filling for added crunch. A drizzle of caramel sauce or chocolate ganache instead of glaze can also elevate the flavor profile beyond the classic.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and keep it wrapped in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or in the freezer for up to a month.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?
Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but it may change the texture slightly. Be prepared for a denser cookie.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures 1:1, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
For more delightful treats, check out our Easy Chocolate Chip Cookies and Classic Sugar Cookies!
Print
Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies bring the delightful flavors of a traditional cinnamon roll into a fun cookie form, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, stirring until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually incorporate this into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.
- Divide the dough in half and roll each portion into a rectangle approximately ¼-inch thick on a floured surface.
- Brush each rectangle with the melted butter and sprinkle an even layer of the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture across the dough.
- Carefully roll each rectangle tightly into a log shape. Wrap each log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Once chilled, slice the logs into ¼-inch thick rounds and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Once the cookies have cooled, drizzle the glaze over them and let it set.
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for later enjoyment.
Notes
Chilling the dough is key to prevent spreading. Feel free to experiment with spices or glaze variations.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 30mg