If you love the cozy warmth and sweet swirls of a classic breakfast treat but want to enjoy it in cookie form, then you are going to adore this Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies Recipe. These cookies capture the irresistible flavors of cinnamon roll dough rolled with a rich cinnamon-sugar filling and finished with a delightful vanilla glaze. They bake up soft, buttery, and perfectly spiced, making them the ultimate treat to share with friends or indulge in anytime you crave a little sweet comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients for this recipe are pantry staples that you probably already have on hand. Each one is carefully chosen to lend the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and sweetness to these delightful cookies.
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure to keep cookies soft yet sturdy enough to hold the cinnamon filling.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Adds just enough lightness to keep the cookies tender and slightly fluffy.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened): Creates a luscious, rich base and tender crumb.
- 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps create a delicate crisp edge.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and contributes to the cookie’s moist texture.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds depth and a warm aroma that complements the cinnamon.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): For the cinnamon filling, providing a luscious, buttery spread.
- ⅓ cup brown sugar: Brings a rich molasses flavor and caramel notes to the cinnamon swirl.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: The star spice that delivers that iconic cinnamon roll taste.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: For the glaze, ensuring a smooth, sweet finish on top.
- 2–3 tablespoons milk: To thin the glaze to a perfect drizzling consistency.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze): Enhances the glaze’s flavor with a touch of warmth.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by whisking together the dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, and salt—in a medium bowl. This ensures even distribution of the leavening and salt so your cookies bake consistently. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and creamy. This step is key to achieving that tender crumb. Then, beat in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is well combined and smooth. Gradually add your dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix gently until a soft dough forms. The dough should come together nicely but remain pliable and easy to roll.
Step 2: Roll Out and Add the Cinnamon Filling
Divide your dough into two equal portions for easier handling. Roll each half between two sheets of parchment paper into roughly a 9×12 inch rectangle. This ensures an even thickness and prevents sticking. Next, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl until smooth. Spread this fragrant cinnamon mixture evenly over each dough rectangle, being sure to cover every inch to get that signature swirl in every bite.
Step 3: Roll Up and Chill the Dough
Starting from the long edge, carefully roll each dough rectangle into a tight log, just like you would a classic cinnamon roll. Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap to hold their shape and pop them into the refrigerator. Chilling for at least one hour is crucial—it firms up the dough, making it much easier to slice into neat rounds without losing their swirl.
Step 4: Slice and Bake
Once your dough logs are chilled and firm, preheat your oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Slice the logs into ½-inch thick rounds, spacing them about 2 inches apart on the baking sheets to allow for gentle spreading. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cookies turn lightly golden around the edges. The inside should remain soft and tender, giving you that marvelous cinnamon roll cookie texture. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet briefly before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Drizzle the Vanilla Glaze
Whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. Adjust the milk for your preferred consistency—thicker for a heavier drizzle or thinner for a more delicate touch. Generously drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies, letting it set just long enough to add a sweet, glossy finish that melts perfectly when you bite in.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon on top of the glaze before it sets adds an extra layer of spice and visual appeal. For a decadent touch, you can also crumble some toasted pecans or walnuts over the glaze to introduce a pleasant crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cookie.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or a creamy chai latte to complement the cinnamon and vanilla flavors. For a cozy brunch, serve them alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream to extend the indulgent vibe.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies Recipe on a festive platter sprinkled with cinnamon sticks and star anise for holiday gatherings. You could also stack them in a tiered dessert stand or wrap them individually with twine and a cinnamon stick as adorable edible gifts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep their softness intact. If your kitchen is warm, placing the container in a cool spot helps maintain the perfect texture without the glaze getting sticky.
Freezing
The dough logs freeze beautifully wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before slicing and baking as directed. You can also freeze fully baked cookies in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.
Reheating
Reheat cookies slightly in a warm oven (around 300°F) for 5 minutes to refresh that soft, just-baked quality. Just be careful not to overheat, or the glaze might melt away entirely.
FAQs
Can I substitute butter with margarine or oil?
Butter provides both flavor and texture that are key to this recipe, so while margarine might work in a pinch, oils are not recommended as they can alter the dough’s consistency and the final cookie’s buttery richness.
How can I make the cinnamon flavor stronger?
For a more intense spice profile, add a pinch of nutmeg or ground clove to the cinnamon filling. This combination will deepen the warm aroma and taste while keeping the cookies balanced.
Can I use a different type of sugar?
Granulated sugar is best for the dough to create the right texture, but you can experiment with light brown sugar for a slightly moister cookie. For the cinnamon filling, brown sugar is preferred for its molasses flavor, which is essential.
Are these cookies suitable for freezing after baking?
Absolutely! Once baked and cooled, let the cookies freeze in an airtight container with layers of parchment paper to prevent sticking. Thaw at room temperature and refresh in the oven if desired.
What is the best way to slice the dough logs without squishing them?
Make sure your dough logs are well chilled and firm before slicing. Use a sharp knife and slice slowly in a gentle sawing motion—this helps maintain the dough’s shape and visible cinnamon swirls perfectly intact.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about sinking your teeth into a soft, cinnamon-swirled cookie that tastes just like a warm cinnamon roll. This Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies Recipe is a surefire way to bring that magic into your kitchen with ease and joy. Whether for holidays, special occasions, or simply a sweet treat to brighten your day, these cookies are guaranteed to become a beloved favorite. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy every delicious moment!
Print
Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies combine the tender, buttery texture of sugar cookies with a delightful cinnamon swirl, reminiscent of classic cinnamon rolls. Perfectly soft and topped with a sweet glaze, they make an irresistible treat for holidays or any cozy occasion.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Cinnamon Filling
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and seasoning.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, ensuring a tender texture for the cookies.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract into the creamed butter mixture, beating until well combined for flavor and structure.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms without overworking to keep the cookies tender.
- Roll Out Dough: Divide the dough into two equal parts, then roll each between parchment paper into a 9×12-inch rectangle, preparing for the cinnamon filling.
- Prepare Cinnamon Filling: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well mixed for a sweet, spiced spread.
- Spread Filling and Roll Dough: Spread the cinnamon mixture evenly over each dough rectangle, then carefully roll each from the long edge into a tight log to create the cinnamon swirls.
- Chill Dough Rolls: Wrap the logs in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up the dough for slicing.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Slice and Bake: Slice the chilled dough rolls into ½-inch rounds and place them 2 inches apart on the baking sheets. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- Cool Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet briefly, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely for proper glazing.
- Make and Apply Glaze: Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle this over the cooled cookies and allow it to set before serving.
Notes
- For a stronger cinnamon flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or clove to the cinnamon filling.
- The dough logs can be made ahead and frozen for up to 2 months; thaw before slicing and baking.
- Ensure dough is well chilled to achieve clean slices and better cookie shape.
- Adjust milk quantity in glaze to achieve desired consistency.
