Cinnamon Roll Cookies: The Ultimate Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe

Name: Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 17 min
Total time: 42 min
Ingredients: 0.25 cup melted butter; 0.33 cup dark brown sugar; 1.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 0.75 cup room temperature butter; 0.75 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 3 tablespoons heavy cream; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt; 2.25 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons melted butter; 1 tablespoon milk

Introduction to Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Cinnamon roll cookies are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll, bringing the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar into a convenient cookie form. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of coffee in the morning or serving them at a family gathering. With their soft, chewy texture and sweet icing, these cookies are sure to please everyone in the family, especially those who love the cozy taste of cinnamon rolls.

A Personal Story Behind My Cinnamon Roll Cookies Journey

Growing up, my family had a tradition of making cinnamon rolls on special Sunday mornings. The smell of cinnamon and sugar would fill the house, creating warmth and comfort. As I grew older, I wanted to find a way to capture that same joy in a simpler form. That’s when I stumbled upon the idea of cinnamon roll cookies! They not only remind me of those cherished Sunday mornings, but they also save time in the kitchen. Now, I love sharing this recipe with friends and family, as each bite brings back those sweet memories.

What Makes This Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe Special?

What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity and versatility. You can whip up these cookies quickly, with minimal ingredients, and yet they deliver the same rich flavor as traditional cinnamon rolls. The gooey filling and creamy icing create a perfect balance of sweetness. Plus, they are easy to customize! Add your favorite nuts or dried fruits to the filling for an extra touch. It’s a recipe that can be passed down through generations, just like my family’s cinnamon roll tradition.

The Full Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe

Ingredients

Filling:
1/4 cup melted butter
1/3 cup dark brown sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Cookie Dough:
3/4 cup room temperature butter
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 tablespoons heavy cream
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
Icing:
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons melted butter
1–2 tablespoons milk

Instructions

In a medium bowl, mix the melted butter, dark brown sugar, and ground cinnamon for the filling. Set aside.
In the bowl of a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, cream the room temperature butter and granulated sugar together for about 2 minutes until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for a soft cookie texture.

Add the egg, vanilla extract, heavy cream, baking powder, and kosher salt to the butter mixture. Mix for 1 minute, scraping the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing.
Turn the mixer to low and gradually add the all-purpose flour until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can lead to tough cookies.

On a lightly floured piece of parchment paper, press the dough into a rectangle approximately 15×10 inches. Use a rolling pin for an even thickness.
Spread the prepared filling evenly over the dough, leaving about an inch at the edges. This will help seal the roll when you roll it up.
Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Use the parchment paper to help you roll it evenly.

Cut the rolled dough into 10 equal slices. Roll each slice into a ball and place them in the freezer for 20 minutes. This helps them hold their shape while baking.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Place 5 cookie dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there is space between them to allow for spreading. Keep the remaining dough balls chilled until ready to bake.

Bake the cookies for 15-17 minutes or until they are lightly golden around the edges. Remove them from the oven and let them cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
For the icing, whisk together the powdered sugar, melted butter, and 1 tablespoon of milk until smooth. If you prefer a thinner icing, add more milk a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Once the cookies are completely cool, you can either dip them in the icing or drizzle it over the top. Allow the icing to set before serving.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Cinnamon Roll Cookies

These cinnamon roll cookies are delightful on their own, but you can enhance them further! Serve them warm with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat. For a fun twist, consider adding chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the filling for added crunch. You can also mix in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a fruity flavor. If you want to make them festive, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon on top of the icing for a beautiful finish.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough, roll it into a log, and freeze it for up to a month. Thaw it in the refrigerator before slicing and baking.
How do I store leftover cookies?
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Can I use other types of sugar for the filling?
Absolutely! You can substitute light brown sugar or even granulated sugar if that’s all you have on hand.