If you’ve ever wished you could enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls in a quick, bite-sized form, you’re absolutely going to love this Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe. These delightful cookies perfectly capture the sweet swirl of cinnamon and sugary goodness, wrapped in a soft, buttery dough that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re baking for a cozy afternoon treat or a festive gathering, these cookies deliver that classic cinnamon roll magic without the fuss of yeast or waiting for dough to rise. Let’s dive in and create a batch that will quickly become your new favorite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for these cookies are wonderfully simple, yet each one plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the soft butter that keeps things tender, to the cinnamon that brings that quintessential warm spice, everything works together beautifully to make this Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe sing.
- 6 tablespoons butter (softened): This is for the cinnamon swirl, providing richness and helping the cinnamon and sugar meld into a smooth paste.
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar: Adds moisture and deep caramel notes that complement the cinnamon perfectly.
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cinnamon: The star spice responsible for that classic, irresistible cinnamon roll flavor.
- 2 large eggs: They bind the dough and give the cookies structure while keeping them soft.
- 1 cup butter (softened): Combined with sugar to make the cookie dough rich and tender.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds a lovely depth and sweetness to the dough.
- 1 2/3 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps achieve a crisp but tender crumb.
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled): The base of the dough, giving structure and softness.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cream of tartar: Helps to keep the cookies soft and gives them a slight tang.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Leavens the dough, producing a lighter texture.
- 3/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar: Used for the optional topping, adding extra crunch and sweetness.
- 1 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon: Also part of the topping mix to intensify cinnamon flavor on top.
How to Make Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Make the Cinnamon Swirl
Start by combining the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Mix everything thoroughly until it turns into a smooth, spreadable cinnamon swirl that will form the heart of each cookie. Setting this aside allows the flavors to meld while you prepare the dough.
Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which is key for that soft crumb. Then add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure the dough emulsifies fully. Stir in the vanilla extract for a subtle background sweetness that enhances the cinnamon beautifully.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Whisk the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. This ensures the leaveners and salt distribute evenly, so your cookies rise uniformly and have perfect flavor balance. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the dough, which could make the cookies tough.
Step 4: Assemble the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep cookies from sticking. Take about a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball, then gently flatten it with your fingers or palm. Place about a teaspoon of the cinnamon swirl mixture right in the center of the flattened dough.
Step 5: Form the Cinnamon Roll Cookie Shape
Fold the dough over the cinnamon swirl filling and carefully roll it back into a ball, fully enclosing the cinnamon mixture. This is where the magic happens—each bite captures that swirl of cinnamon and sugar surrounded by tender dough.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Arrange the cookie balls on your lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart so they have room to spread without sticking together. For an extra special touch, mix granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl and lightly sprinkle it on top of each cookie before baking.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cookies are just set and lightly golden on the edges. These cookies pull out perfectly soft with a slight crumble—exactly how cinnamon roll flavors should be enjoyed in cookie form.
How to Serve Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a simple glaze of powdered sugar and milk can elevate these cookies instantly, making them look like a bakery treat. Freshly chopped nuts or a light dusting of cinnamon sugar add delightful texture and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a cozy cup of coffee or a creamy chai latte to bring out the warm spices. They also work beautifully alongside vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a comforting dessert spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these cookies stacked on a charming platter lined with parchment paper and a few cinnamon sticks for a rustic feel. You can also wrap them in cellophane bags tied with twine as thoughtful homemade gifts during holidays or any special occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This maintains their soft texture and keeps the cinnamon flavor fresh without drying them out.
Freezing
You can freeze baked cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze well for up to 3 months and thaw quickly at room temperature.
Reheating
Warm cookies in a 300°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes to refresh that just-baked softness and melt the cinnamon swirl inside. Avoid microwaving to keep the texture perfect and avoid chewiness.
FAQs
Can I use softened margarine instead of butter?
Butter is recommended because of its rich flavor and texture, but margarine can work in a pinch. Just be aware the taste and texture might be slightly different, often less rich and fragrant.
Why is cream of tartar used in this recipe?
Cream of tartar helps keep the cookies tender and contributes to the slight tang that complements the sweetness and cinnamon spice beautifully.
Can I make the cinnamon swirl ahead of time?
Absolutely! Making the cinnamon swirl a day in advance can actually help deepen its flavor. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the cookies.
What if I don’t have parchment paper?
Greasing your baking sheet well works as an alternative, but parchment paper is best to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Can I double the recipe easily?
Yes, this recipe doubles beautifully. Just make sure to mix in larger batches carefully and bake in separate batches to avoid overcrowding your oven.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe offers everything you love about cinnamon rolls wrapped up in a quick and simple cookie form. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just craving a sweet, spiced treat, these cookies bring cozy comfort and smile-inducing flavor to your kitchen. Grab your ingredients and enjoy the joyful process of making, sharing, and savoring these delightful bites!
Print
Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies capture the sweet, comforting flavors of classic cinnamon rolls in a quick, bite-sized cookie form. Soft and tender with a cinnamon-sugar swirl center and an optional cinnamon sugar topping, these cookies are perfect for breakfast or a delightful snack.
Ingredients
For the Cinnamon Swirl
- 6 tablespoons butter, softened
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cinnamon
For the Cookie Dough
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 2/3 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
For the Optional Topping
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Make the Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix well until smooth and set aside.
- Prepare the Cookie Dough: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Form Dough Balls: Take about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Then flatten the dough ball slightly.
- Add Cinnamon Swirl Center: Place about 1 teaspoon of the cinnamon swirl mixture in the center of the flattened dough. Fold the dough over the swirl and roll it back into a ball again.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
- Add Optional Cinnamon Sugar Topping: If desired, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl and sprinkle generously over each cookie before baking.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the cookies are set. Remove from the oven and cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Do not overmix the dough once you add the dry ingredients to keep cookies tender.
- Use parchment paper for easy cookie removal and clean-up.
- The cinnamon swirl can be adjusted to your taste by increasing or decreasing the cinnamon and sugar amounts.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
