Cinnamon Roll Cookies

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I have always loved the warm aroma of cinnamon drifting from a bakery, so when I first thought about turning cinnamon rolls into cookies, I couldn’t resist the challenge. These Cinnamon Roll Cookies bring together the soft, spiced swirl of classic rolls with the buttery crispness of a cookie. I knew the moment they came out of the oven that I’d created something worth sharing.

Each bite delivers a rich cinnamon-sugar core wrapped in a tender cookie dough, topped with a silky drizzle of cream cheese icing. It’s the perfect marriage of texture and flavor, where nostalgia meets indulgence. My kitchen smelled like a cozy Sunday morning as these baked, and I couldn’t wait to pour myself a coffee and savor one warm from the tray.

What I especially love about these cookies is their crowd-pleasing nature. They look impressive, taste like your favorite breakfast pastry, and are surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a brunch spread, or just because it’s Tuesday, these will get people talking. If you’re into sweet treats that wow without the fuss, you might also like my Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes or the Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies.

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe

These cookies are everything you want in a homemade dessert. They’re simple enough for casual baking days, but elegant enough to bring to a cookie swap. The cinnamon swirl gives that gooey interior reminiscent of a real cinnamon roll, while the cookie shell keeps its shape and bite. The cream cheese glaze isn’t just decoration — it adds a touch of tang and sweetness that pulls the whole treat together.

Ingredients

Flour is essential for building the structure of these cookies, giving them that perfect soft bite.

Butter adds richness and ensures a tender texture, while also helping the cookies spread just right.

Brown sugar brings a deep molasses note that pairs wonderfully with cinnamon in the swirl.

Granulated sugar is used for both the dough and the filling, adding sweetness and balance.

Eggs act as a binder and add moisture, making sure the cookies aren’t dry.

Vanilla extract enhances all the other flavors with its warm undertones.

Ground cinnamon is the star of the show, delivering that iconic spiced swirl we all crave.

Baking powder gives the cookies a bit of lift, keeping them soft and puffy.

Salt balances the sweetness and brings out the depth of the other ingredients.

Cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk make up the luscious glaze that finishes each cookie with a silky touch.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Step 1: Make the Dough

Start by creaming together butter and both sugars until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, beating until well incorporated. Gradually mix in the flour, baking powder, and salt until a smooth dough forms. Chill the dough to make it easier to handle.

Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling

Mix together brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon until well combined. Set this aside — it’ll be the heart of the swirl.

Step 3: Roll and Fill

Roll out the chilled dough into a rectangle. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly across the surface. Starting from the long edge, roll the dough into a tight log. Chill again to firm it up for slicing.

Step 4: Slice and Bake

Once the log is firm, slice it into even rounds and place them on a lined baking sheet. Bake until the edges are just golden and the centers are set.

Step 5: Glaze and Serve

Whisk together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a touch of milk to make a smooth glaze. Drizzle over the cooled cookies and let it set before serving.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you want to mix things up, you can try adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon-sugar filling for a nutty crunch. For a more indulgent flavor, a bit of maple syrup or caramel sauce swirled into the filling works wonders. You could also swap out the cream cheese glaze for a vanilla or almond icing if you prefer a different flavor profile.

Need a dairy-free version? Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use vegan cream cheese in the glaze. Gluten-free flour blends also work, though the texture may vary slightly.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Cinnamon Roll Cookies shine brightest when served warm, perhaps with a steaming mug of coffee or a cold glass of milk. They make a beautiful addition to holiday dessert platters, brunch tables, or afternoon tea spreads.

Pair them with creamy drinks like lattes, chai tea, or hot cocoa for the ultimate cozy treat. They also work wonderfully alongside fruit-based desserts for a contrasting flavor experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, they freeze beautifully (glazed or unglazed) for up to 2 months. Reheat in a microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back that fresh-baked warmth.

To keep the glaze looking neat, store cookies in a single layer or with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

FAQs

How long do Cinnamon Roll Cookies stay fresh?

They stay fresh for about 3 days at room temperature, and up to a week if refrigerated.

Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll Cookies?

Yes, these cookies freeze well for up to 2 months. Just be sure they’re stored in an airtight container.

How do I make Cinnamon Roll Cookies without cream cheese glaze?

You can use a simple powdered sugar and milk glaze or even leave them plain — they’re still delicious.

What’s the best way to roll the dough for Cinnamon Roll Cookies?

Chill the dough first, roll it between two sheets of parchment paper, and keep the edges as even as possible.

Can I make Cinnamon Roll Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough log in advance, refrigerate or freeze it, and bake the cookies when you’re ready.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If these cookies made you swoon, you’ll definitely want to check out Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes. They’re creamy, swirled with cinnamon, and baked into a mini treat that disappears in seconds. Or, indulge your sweet tooth further with these Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies—rich, satisfying, and a perfect match for cookie lovers.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t forget to pin this Cinnamon Roll Cookies recipe to your favorite dessert or cookie board on Pinterest! That way, you’ll have it handy for your next baking day or holiday gathering. Share it with friends and family on social media, or send the link to someone who deserves a sweet treat. You’ll make their day a little warmer and a lot tastier.

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