There’s something magical about a kitchen filled with the aroma of cinnamon and butter. When I first made these cinnamon roll cookies, it reminded me of cozy weekend mornings with warm rolls straight from the oven. But this time, there was a twist: all the flavors of a classic cinnamon roll captured inside a soft, chewy cookie. Each bite brings that rich cinnamon-sugar swirl, creamy frosting, and just the right amount of sweetness. In this article, you’ll learn exactly how to make these irresistible cinnamon roll cookies — step by step — and why they might just become your new baking obsession.
The Story Behind Cinnamon Roll Cookies
The Sweet Origin of a New Favorite
Every baker has that one recipe that feels like a discovery, and for me, it was these cinnamon roll cookies. I had leftover cinnamon sugar from a holiday bake and wondered what would happen if I rolled it into cookie dough instead of doughy rolls. What came out was nothing short of amazing: buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies filled with a cinnamon-sugar spiral that looks as good as it tastes. The contrast between the crisp edges and soft centers gives these cookies a bakery-level finish you’ll crave.
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Cinnamon Roll Cookies
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft, buttery cinnamon roll cookies filled with warm brown sugar cinnamon and topped with cream cheese frosting.
Ingredients
2 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour
1 1/2 cups Cake Flour
2 tsp corn starch
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
1 1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 large egg yolks
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup packed brown sugar
6 Tbsp softened butter
2 Tbsp cinnamon
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 1/2 cups confectioners sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter for filling.
3. Combine dry ingredients in a large bowl.
4. Cream butter and sugar, add eggs and vanilla.
5. Add dry mix gradually to wet mixture.
6. Flatten dough into rectangle, spread filling evenly.
7. Roll dough lengthwise and cut into slices.
8. Form each slice into ball, bake 9–11 minutes.
9. Cool on rack, prepare cream cheese frosting.
10. Spread frosting on cooled cookies and serve.
Notes
For smaller cookies, bake 8 minutes.
Seal edges well to prevent filling leaks.
Store in fridge up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
The Perfect Flavor Fusion
The beauty of the cinnamon roll cookie recipe lies in its balance. You get the nostalgic comfort of a traditional cinnamon roll and the simplicity of a handheld cookie. The combination of all-purpose and cake flour makes them light but sturdy enough to hold that luscious swirl. The brown sugar filling caramelizes just enough to create a warm, cozy cinnamon flavor that feels like a hug in every bite. Pair them with coffee or milk, and you’ve got a treat that satisfies every sweet craving.
Crafting the Cookie Dough for the Perfect Texture
Why Two Flours Make the Difference
Using both all-purpose and cake flour gives these cinnamon roll cookies a bakery-style texture — soft yet structured. The all-purpose flour adds body, while the cake flour brings tenderness. Adding corn starch is the secret to that melt-in-your-mouth consistency without turning crumbly. Baking soda and baking powder work together to help the dough rise just enough, creating that perfect puff that holds the cinnamon swirl.
Creaming Butter and Sugar Correctly
Start by creaming cold, cubed butter and granulated sugar until smooth and pale. This step builds the cookie’s structure by trapping tiny air pockets. It’s essential for that light yet chewy bite. Once the sugar is dissolved and the butter is fluffy, add eggs and yolks for richness. Vanilla extract ties everything together, giving that familiar bakery aroma. Gradually mix in your dry ingredients until a smooth dough forms — one that’s easy to handle but firm enough to roll out.
Building the Signature Cinnamon Swirl
Creating the Filling
The cinnamon-sugar filling is what transforms this recipe from a simple cookie to a cinnamon roll experience. Blend softened butter with brown sugar and cinnamon until smooth and spreadable. When you spread it over the flattened dough, every inch becomes a swirl of warmth and spice. Light or dark brown sugar both work — light gives a gentle sweetness, dark adds deeper caramel tones.
Rolling and Shaping Tips
On a floured surface, press the dough into a rectangle, about the size of a 9×13 dish. Gently spread the filling evenly, leaving a small border along the edges. Roll the dough lengthwise, just as you would a cinnamon roll, sealing the edges to keep the filling inside. Slice the roll into thick rounds — about 10 to 12 pieces. To prevent the filling from leaking during baking, roll each slice into a ball, sealing all sides. This trick keeps the cinnamon center molten and gooey once baked.
Baking and Frosting Like a Pro
Perfect Baking Timing
Bake the cookies at 400°F for 9–11 minutes, depending on size. The edges should be lightly golden, while the centers remain soft. Remember, cookies continue baking on the sheet after you remove them. Let them cool for at least 10–15 minutes before transferring to a rack. The result? Cookies that are thick, chewy, and layered with flavor.
Making the Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting
A cinnamon roll cookie wouldn’t be complete without its signature frosting. Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth, then add confectioners’ sugar, vanilla, and salt. The frosting should be creamy yet firm enough to spread without dripping. Once the cookies are cool, swirl on a generous layer and sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top. This frosting not only adds flavor but also gives the cookies that irresistible bakery look.
Serving, Storing, and Tips for Perfection
Serving Ideas to Impress
These cookies are delicious straight from the oven or chilled from the fridge. Serve them warm for that classic “cinnamon roll fresh” feel, or cold for a cheesecake-like frosting texture. They pair beautifully with coffee, hot cocoa, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert lovers.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
You can store your cinnamon roll cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To freeze, wrap the unfrosted cookies individually in plastic wrap and store for up to two months. When ready to serve, thaw and frost fresh. If you love prepping ahead for holidays, these cookies are perfect — make the dough, freeze the log, and slice before baking for fresh cookies anytime.
FAQ Section
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the dough and keep it tightly wrapped in plastic in the fridge for up to 48 hours. Slice and bake as needed.
Can I skip the cream cheese frosting?
You can, but it’s what gives these cookies their cinnamon roll essence. Try a simple glaze if you prefer something lighter.
Why did my filling leak out?
That usually happens if the dough isn’t sealed properly. Make sure to pinch all edges before baking.
Can I make them smaller?
Definitely. Just reduce baking time to around 8 minutes for smaller cookies.
Conclusion
Cinnamon roll cookies combine the nostalgia of homemade cinnamon rolls with the ease of a cookie recipe. With soft dough, buttery filling, and creamy frosting, each bite tastes like pure comfort. This cinnamon roll cookie recipe is simple enough for beginners but impressive enough to serve at any gathering. So next time you crave something cozy, skip the full roll and bake these cinnamon roll cookies — the sweet twist your kitchen’s been waiting for.
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