Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe With Soft Swirls And Sweet Icing

Name: Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Prep time: 2 h 15 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 2 h 26 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups (281g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for rolling; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup (170g or 12 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened; 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar; 1 large egg, room temperature; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons (28g) melted butter, cooled slightly; 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1 cup (120g) confectioners’ sugar; 3 tablespoons (45ml) milk; 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

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Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Cinnamon Roll Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the warm, comforting flavors of classic cinnamon rolls into a convenient cookie form. These soft, swirled delights are perfect for anyone craving a quick bake that’s full of that iconic cinnamon taste without the fuss of making full-sized rolls. Whether you’re a beginner baker or someone who’s tried many recipes, this one stands out for its ease and flavor.

One of the best things about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare, making it ideal for busy days when you still want something homemade. It uses everyday ingredients you likely have in your kitchen, leading to about 36 cookies per batch for sharing or snacking. Plus, the soft texture and sweet icing add a touch of indulgence that feels special every time.

Imagine enjoying these cookies with a cup of coffee on a relaxed weekend morning. They’re versatile enough to adapt to different tastes, and the cinnamon brings subtle health perks like supporting digestion. This recipe truly captures the joy of baking while delivering that perfect balance of spice and sweetness many home cooks adore.

Key Features of This Recipe

First, the ease of preparation makes Cinnamon Roll Cookies a go-to option for busy parents and students. You can whip up the dough quickly and have fresh cookies ready in under an hour of active time, excluding chilling. It’s straightforward enough for baking enthusiasts new to the kitchen, yet satisfying for seasoned pros.

Health benefits come from ingredients like cinnamon, which adds a natural warmth and may help with blood sugar regulation. While these aren’t health foods, using real ingredients keeps them wholesome compared to store-bought options. For diet-conscious individuals, tweaks like using alternative flours make them adaptable.

The versatility shines through in how you can modify this recipe for various needs, such as gluten-free or vegan versions. This ensures everyone from newlyweds to seniors can enjoy them, creating memorable moments around the table as mentioned in Isabella’s blog. Overall, it’s a recipe that brings people together with its distinctive flavor and ease.

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll Cookies
2. Essential Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Cookies
3. How to Prepare the Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Cinnamon Roll Cookies
5. Mastering Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. How to Store Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Best Practices
7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Roll Cookies
8. Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Essential Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making perfect Cinnamon Roll Cookies. This recipe focuses on simple, high-quality items that create a soft, swirled texture with a sweet icing finish. Below, you’ll find a comprehensive list of everything needed, organized by category for clarity. Remember to measure accurately for the best results.

For the Dough

2 1/4 cups (281g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for rolling
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup (170g or 12 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
1 large egg, room temperature
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

For the Filling

2 tablespoons (28g) melted butter, cooled slightly
1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

For the Icing

1 cup (120g) confectioners’ sugar
3 tablespoons (45ml) milk
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

This structured list ensures you have exactly what you need for about 36 cookies. For those exploring cinnamon cookies or cinnamon roll cookies recipe variations, check out our churro-inspired cookie recipes on the blog for more ideas on enhancing your bakes.

How to Prepare the Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Step-by-Step Guide

Creating these Cinnamon Roll Cookies is a fun and rewarding process that results in soft, swirled treats with sweet icing. Start by gathering your ingredients and preheating your oven to make the process smooth. This guide walks you through each step, ensuring even beginners can succeed with this cookie recipe.

Getting Started with the Dough

Begin by whisking together the dry ingredients: 2 1/4 cups (281g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a bowl. This step helps distribute the leavening agents evenly. Next, in a separate bowl, beat the 3/4 cup (170g) softened unsalted butter and 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar until creamy and light this usually takes about 2-3 minutes with a mixer.

Add the 1 large room-temperature egg and 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract to the butter mixture, beating until fully incorporated. Now, gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet on low speed to form a soft dough. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

Shaping and Chilling

Divide the dough in two and roll each portion into a 9×7 inch rectangle about 1/4 inch thick on a floured surface using a silicone mat can make this easier and cleanup quicker. Brush each rectangle with 1 tablespoon of the melted butter, then sprinkle with the sugar and cinnamon mixture.

Tightly roll the dough into 9-inch logs, smoothing any cracks as you go for a neat swirl. Chill the logs in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours; this step is crucial to prevent spreading and achieve that perfect soft swirled cinnamon roll cookies texture.

Baking and Finishing

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Slice the chilled logs into 1/2 inch thick cookies and place them 2 inches apart on the sheets. Bake for 10-11 minutes until the edges are lightly browned, then let them cool on the sheets for a few minutes before moving to a wire rack.

Once cooled, whisk together the icing ingredients: 1 cup (120g) confectioners’ sugar, 3 tablespoons (45ml) milk, and 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract. Drizzle the icing over the cookies for that sweet finishing touch. For more baking inspiration, like our zesty lemon oatmeal cookies, visit the blog to explore other roll cookies options.

Step	Time Estimate	Tips
Mixing Dough	10 minutes	Use room-temperature ingredients for better creaming
Rolling and Chilling	20 minutes prep + 2 hours chill	Smooth cracks gently for a tight swirl
Baking	10-11 minutes	Watch closely to avoid overbaking

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Making Cinnamon Roll Cookies adaptable means everyone can enjoy them, whether you’re a busy parent or a diet-conscious individual. This section covers easy swaps to fit various needs, keeping the essence of these soft swirled cinnamon roll cookies intact. Experimenting with substitutions adds fun while maintaining that delicious flavor.

For protein and main component alternatives, substitute the egg with a flaxseed mixture for vegan options. Use coconut oil instead of butter to keep it plant-based, and opt for gluten-free flour blends to cater to those with sensitivities. These changes ensure the cookies remain tasty and texturally pleasing.

Enhance flavor with nutmeg or cardamom as alternative spices.
Add finely chopped nuts like pecans for extra crunch and nutrition.
Use maple syrup as a natural sweetener alternative.
Incorporate a dairy-free frosting for an indulgent twist.

For more ideas on customizing baked goods, check out external resources like Sally’s Baking Addiction for additional tips on variations.

Mastering Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Advanced Tips and Variations

Taking your Cinnamon Roll Cookies to the next level involves some pro techniques and creative twists. Chilling the dough before baking is essential to prevent spreading and achieve a thicker, chewier texture the key to those perfect soft swirled cinnamon roll cookies. Using parchment paper ensures even baking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Flavor and Presentation Ideas

Experiment with flavors by adding orange zest or espresso powder to the dough for a unique twist. Swirl in a cinnamon glaze or drizzle with dark chocolate to enhance indulgence, turning your cinnamon cookies into something extraordinary. For presentation, serve them warm with a light dusting of sugar and pair with coffee for a cozy treat.

Make-ahead options include preparing the dough in advance and refrigerating it for up to 48 hours or freezing for up to 3 months. This is great for working professionals who want fresh cookies on demand. Additionally, as per cinnamon’s benefits from reliable sources, it can add a healthful boost to your baking.

Roll on a silicone mat for easy cleanup.
Adjust icing thickness by adding more milk if needed.
Freeze dough logs for extending shelf life.
Add nuts or spices to the filling for more flavor.

How to Store Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Best Practices

Proper storage keeps your Cinnamon Roll Cookies fresh and delicious for days. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their soft texture. For longer freshness, refrigeration works well, holding them for a week without losing that sweet icing appeal.

Freezing is another great option place cookies in a single layer on a sheet before bagging them for up to three months. When you’re ready, reheat in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes to restore warmth and flavor. These methods ensure your treats stay enjoyable, whether you’re batch-baking for the week or saving some for later.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Can I use oil instead of butter when making cinnamon roll cookies?

Butter is preferred in cinnamon roll cookie recipes because it’s solid at room temperature, allowing it to be creamed with sugar to create the right texture. While solid coconut oil can sometimes be used as a substitute, it may change the cookie’s flavor and consistency. Using liquid oils is not recommended, as they won’t provide the necessary structure for the dough.

Is it okay to replace granulated sugar with brown sugar in the cinnamon filling?

Yes, you can substitute brown sugar for granulated sugar in the cinnamon filling using the same amount. Brown sugar adds moisture and a richer flavor, giving the filling a deeper caramel-like taste that complements the cinnamon well.

Can I chill or freeze the dough before baking cinnamon roll cookies?

Yes. You can chill the rolled dough in the refrigerator for a couple of days before slicing and baking. For longer storage, freezing the dough logs is also a good option. When ready to bake, simply slice the frozen dough and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Does the icing on cinnamon roll cookies harden enough for stacking?

The icing typically sets to a soft but firm consistency that allows you to stack and transport the cookies without them sticking together or getting damaged. For firmer icing, you can refrigerate the cookies briefly after icing.

Should the dough be chilled before rolling it out and shaping the logs?

Chilling the dough before rolling helps make it easier to handle and prevents sticking. After shaping the dough into logs, chilling again is important to firm them up, which makes slicing cleaner and helps the cookies keep their shape during baking.

Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe With Soft Swirled Cinnamon and Sweet Icing