Introduction to Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Cinnamon Roll Cookies are a delightful mash-up that brings all the comforting flavors of your favorite breakfast treat into cookie form. Imagine sinking your teeth into a cookie that melts in your mouth, with warm swirls of cinnamon and a sweet glaze drizzled on top. This dessert isn’t just a cookie; it's a little piece of nostalgia that whisks you back to cozy mornings spent with family, accompanied by the enticing smell of fresh cinnamon rolls wafting through the kitchen.
Why Cinnamon Roll Cookies are the Ultimate Comfort Food?
There's something inherently comforting about the combination of buttery dough and warm cinnamon filling. It’s a delightful balance that appeals to both your taste buds and your heart. These cookies transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary, making them perfect for sharing during the holidays or enjoying on a quiet afternoon. Plus, their beautiful presentation, topped off with a glossy vanilla glaze, makes them visually irresistible.
Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, these cinnamon roll cookies will quickly become a cherished recipe in your repertoire. For more inspirations on delightful desserts, consider checking out Food Network or Bon Appétit for additional recipes.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Making cinnamon roll cookies is a delightful adventure, combining the warmth of cinnamon with the comfort of cookies. Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this delicious treat:
Essential ingredients for the cookie dough
- ½ cup (113.5 g) salted butter, browned and cooled
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- ¼ cup (55 g) brown sugar
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1½ teaspoons (1.5 teaspoons) vanilla (using vanilla paste elevates the flavor!)
- 1½ cups (210 g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon (0.25 teaspoons) baking powder
- ½ teaspoon (0.5 teaspoons) baking soda
- ½ teaspoon (0.5 teaspoons) salt
- ⅛ teaspoon (0.13 teaspoon) nutmeg
Key ingredients for the cinnamon roll filling
- 2½ tablespoons (2.5 tablespoons) softened butter
- ¼ cup (55 g) brown sugar
- 1½ teaspoons (1.5 teaspoons) cinnamon
- 1½ tablespoons (1.5 tablespoons) flour
- Pinch of salt
Ingredients for the sweet vanilla glaze
- ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
- Splash of vanilla
With these ingredients ready to go, you'll be on your way to enjoying warm, gooey cinnamon roll cookies in no time! For more information about the flavors and ratios, you might check out Serious Eats for their baking tips.
Step-by-step Preparation of Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Making cinnamon roll cookies is a delightful experience that brings the warmth of home baking right to your kitchen. The wonderful aroma of brown butter mingling with cinnamon will have everyone eagerly awaiting these decadent treats. Let’s walk through the steps together, ensuring your cookies turn out perfectly every time.
Brown the butter
Begin your journey by browning the butter. In a medium saucepan, melt ½ cup of salted butter over medium heat. Stir continuously as you cook it, allowing it to foam and then develop a rich golden-brown color. This process can take about 5-8 minutes, and trust me, the nutty aroma is worth the wait! Once it reaches that perfect hue, transfer it to a bowl to cool completely. To speed things up, you can pop it in the freezer for about 15 minutes. This step is crucial because browned butter provides a deep flavor that makes these cookies irresistible.
Make the cinnamon filling balls
Next, we’re going to whip up the cinnamon filling. In a medium bowl, combine 2½ tablespoons of softened butter, ¼ cup of brown sugar, 1½ teaspoons of cinnamon, 1½ tablespoons of flour, and a pinch of salt. Mix until it’s well combined and smooth. Scoop the mixture into small, ½ teaspoon-sized balls, and place them on some wax or parchment paper. Freeze these filling balls for about 15 minutes to help them hold their shape when we incorporate them into our dough.
Prepare the cookie dough
Now, let’s get started on the cookie dough! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In your stand mixer, beat together the cooled brown butter and sugars on medium-high speed for about 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy. Then, add in a room-temperature egg and 1½ teaspoons of vanilla extract (this is a great time to use vanilla paste for a richer flavor). Mix on low until everything is well blended.
Incorporate the cinnamon filling into the dough
Carefully mix in 1½ cups of all-purpose flour, ¼ teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon salt, and a pinch of nutmeg. Be cautious not to over-mix; you want your dough to remain tender. After that, take those cinnamon filling balls out of the freezer and gently fold them into the dough. To make things extra special, keep a few balls out to place on top of the cookies before baking.
Scoop and shape the cookies
Using a 3-tablespoon cookie scoop, portion out the dough into large balls on your prepared baking sheet. Don’t forget to press a cinnamon filling ball into the top of each dough ball for that added flavor burst. Leave some space between the dough balls on the sheet—these cinnamon roll cookies will spread while baking!
Bake the cookies
Slide your tray into the preheated oven and bake for 10-13 minutes. You're aiming for a light golden color around the edges. If the cookies look a bit misshapen, just take a spatula and lightly nudge them into form right out of the oven. Magic!
Glaze and cool
Lastly, while your cookies cool, mix together ½ cup of powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon of milk, and a splash of vanilla to create your glaze. Drizzle or brush this sweet goodness over your cooled cookies and let it set for a moment. Then, all that’s left is to enjoy your delicious cinnamon roll cookies with friends or family—if you’re willing to share!
With these simple steps, you'll find that baking these delightful cookies is easier than you might have imagined. Happy baking!

Variations on Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Add-ins to Enhance the Flavor
While the original cinnamon roll cookies recipe is already a delight, feel free to customize it with some tasty add-ins! Consider adding:
- Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
- Chocolate chips to introduce a rich sweetness that pairs wonderfully with cinnamon.
- Dried fruit like cranberries or raisins for a chewy contrast.
These variations not only amp up the flavor but also create a delightful treat that reflects your personal taste.
Alternate Glazes for Variety
Changing the glaze can transform your cinnamon roll cookies experience! Try these alternatives:
- Maple glaze: Swap vanilla for maple syrup for a cozy, autumnal vibe.
- Cream cheese frosting: For a tangy twist, mix powdered sugar with softened cream cheese and a splash of vanilla.
- Coffee glaze: Blend powdered sugar with brewed coffee for a richer flavor profile.
Experimenting with glazes allows you to tailor the sweetness to your liking, making each batch unique and exciting!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Cinnamon Roll Cookies
How to achieve the best cookie texture
To ensure your cinnamon roll cookies come out perfectly textured, aim for light and fluffy cookie dough. When measuring flour, lightly spoon it into the cup instead of scooping—this helps prevent a dense result. Keep the filling bits tucked inside; they’re buttery and may melt out if exposed. Also, consider using a cookie scoop for uniform sizes, so they bake evenly!
Storing and reheating tips
Store leftover cinnamon roll cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for the best taste. For longer storage, freeze them with parchment paper between layers. When you're ready to indulge again, simply thaw and warm them in the microwave for about 10 seconds. Enjoy that delicious gooeyness! For additional tips on cookie storage, check out this guide.

Serving Suggestions for Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Pairing Cookies with Beverages
Enhance your cinnamon roll cookies experience by pairing them with the right beverages. A warm cup of coffee or tea complements the sweet, buttery flavors beautifully. Try a bold dark roast coffee for a delightful contrast, or a soothing herbal tea for a lighter touch. For a fun twist, serve them alongside hot cocoa—the chocolatey goodness pairs wonderfully with cinnamon!
Creative Ways to Serve Cookies at Gatherings
When hosting a gathering, wow your guests with creative presentations for your cinnamon roll cookies. Create a charming dessert table with a rustic wooden platter, adorned with fresh flowers or seasonal fruits. You can also offer a cookie bar, allowing guests to drizzle their cookies with extra glaze or sprinkles. Don't forget to set up a tasting flight of beverages next to your cookies, making it easy for everyone to find their perfect pairing! For more ideas on entertaining, check out The Kitchn.
Time Breakdown for Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Preparation Time
Begin your delightful journey with these cinnamon roll cookies by setting aside 15 minutes to prepare your ingredients and make the dough. This includes browning the butter, mixing the filling, and preparing your baking sheet.
Baking Time
Once your cookie dough is ready, pop those luscious balls into the oven for about 10-13 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they transform into golden mounds of cinnamon goodness!
Total Time
In just 55 minutes, you'll have a batch of cinnamon roll cookies ready to share with friends or enjoy all by yourself. Grab a cup of coffee or tea, and get ready to indulge in warm bites of cinnamon bliss!
For more tips on cookie baking, check out resources from the Joy of Baking or BBC Good Food.
Nutritional Facts for Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Calories per cookie
Each cinnamon roll cookie has approximately 272 calories. This makes for a satisfying treat without going overboard, perfect for a sweet snack during your busy day!
Sugar content
These delightful cookies contain about 26 grams of sugar each. While they’re a treat, it’s always good to enjoy them in moderation, balancing sweetness with nutritional choices.
Key nutritional highlights
- Fat: 12 grams (including healthy fats from butter)
- Protein: 3 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
These cinnamon roll cookies not only satisfy your sweet cravings, but they also provide some energy and a touch of protein. For more nutritional insights, check out resources like the USDA FoodData Central for a deeper dive into ingredient compositions.
FAQs about Cinnamon Roll Cookies
What's the secret to making soft cookies?
To achieve those melt-in-your-mouth cinnamon roll cookies, the key is to avoid over-mixing your dough and to bake them just until they’re lightly golden around the edges. Browning your butter not only adds a nutty flavor but also contributes to a softer, richer texture. Remember, the cookies will continue to cook a bit from residual heat after coming out of the oven, so don’t let them bake too long!
Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re out of brown sugar, you can use coconut sugar or a mix of granulated sugar and molasses. For a dairy-free version, replace the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative. Just keep an eye on the consistency, as these substitutions can slightly alter texture.
How do I store leftover cookies?
To keep your cinnamon roll cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage — just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking! Want to learn more about storing baked goods? Check out this guide for more tips.
Conclusion on Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Why you should try making these cookies today!
These cinnamon roll cookies are a delightful fusion of flavors, perfectly blending the comforting essence of cinnamon rolls with the convenience of cookies. With a quick prep time and mouthwatering results, there’s no better way to treat yourself and your loved ones. Try making them today and bring warmth and joy into your kitchen!
Whether you're indulging during a cozy evening or sharing with friends, these cookies are sure to impress. Get ready to enjoy every delectable bite!

Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Stand Mixer
- baking sheet
- parchment paper
- cookie scoop
Ingredients
Cinnamon Roll Filling
- 2.5 tablespoons softened butter
- 0.25 cup brown sugar
- 1.5 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1.5 tablespoons flour
- pinch of salt
Cookie Dough
- 0.5 cup salted butter, browned and cooled
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 0.25 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg room temperature
- 1.5 teaspoons vanilla use vanilla paste
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 0.25 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.125 teaspoon nutmeg
Glaze
- 0.5 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
- splash of vanilla
Instructions
Preparation
- Brown the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until golden brown and nutty.
- In a bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, flour, and salt for the filling. Freeze small balls.
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix butter and sugars in a stand mixer until light and fluffy, then add egg and vanilla.
- Slowly mix in flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg without over mixing.
- Fold in frozen cinnamon filling bits into the dough, keeping some for the tops.
- Scoop large balls of dough and place a cinnamon ball on top of each.
- Bake cookies for 10-13 minutes or until golden brown on edges.
- Prepare glaze and drizzle over cooled cookies, allowing it to harden.





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