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If you’re craving the sweet, comforting flavor of cinnamon rolls but want something quick and easy to snack on, this Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. These delightful cookies capture all the warm spices and gooey goodness of a classic cinnamon roll in a perfectly bite-sized treat that’s simple to make and even easier to enjoy. With tender, buttery dough, just the right touch of cinnamon sugar, and a sweet glaze drizzled on top, these cookies are sure to become a staple whenever you need a cozy pick-me-up or a fuss-free dessert that wows every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward ingredients is the key to nailing the perfect texture and flavor in this Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe. Each item plays a vital role, from the creamy butter that gives richness to the dough, to the sparkling granulated and brown sugars which create that luscious cinnamon-sugar swirl inside.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides a tender, rich base for the cookie dough.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a light, fluffy dough texture.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and enriches the dough.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the dough with a warm, inviting aroma.
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: The structure builder for your cookies, ensuring they hold together perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder: Gives a gentle lift for soft, tender cookies.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the sweet flavors.
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed: Brings moisture and deep caramel notes to the cinnamon sugar filling.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: The star spice that delivers that classic cinnamon roll flavor.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Used to brush the dough, helping the cinnamon sugar stick perfectly.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Key ingredient for creating the silky glaze topping.
- 2–3 tablespoons milk: Adjusts the glaze to creamy perfection.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and richness to the glaze.
How to Make Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by creaming together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy; this step is essential because it incorporates air, setting the stage for tender cookies with just the right crumb. Then, mix in the egg and vanilla extract, which add moisture and warm, aromatic flavor.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until a soft dough forms—be careful not to overmix, or your cookies might turn out tough.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Divide your dough in half for easier handling, and roll each portion into a rectangle about a quarter-inch thick on a generously floured surface. This thickness is perfect for rolling the dough without cracking and makes for the ideal cookie size when sliced.
Step 4: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Filling
Brush each dough rectangle with melted butter. This step not only helps the cinnamon sugar mixture adhere but also adds an extra layer of buttery richness. Then sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly over the dough, so every bite gets that signature cinnamon roll sweetness.
Step 5: Roll and Chill the Dough
Carefully roll each rectangle tightly into a log, being mindful to keep the edges neat for uniform slices. Wrap the logs in plastic wrap and refrigerate them for at least one hour. Chilling firms the dough, making it easier to slice and helping the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 6: Slice and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Unwrap the chilled dough logs and slice them into quarter-inch thick rounds. Arrange the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced slightly apart to allow for gentle spreading. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges turn a lovely light golden color, signaling they’re perfectly done.
Step 7: Make and Drizzle the Glaze
While the cookies cool on the rack, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until you have a silky smooth glaze. Drizzle this sweet glaze liberally over your cooled cookies. This final touch truly transforms the cookie, delivering that iconic cinnamon roll finish without any fuss.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once the glaze has set, your Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe is ready to be enjoyed any time your sweet tooth calls. Whether as a cozy afternoon treat or a light dessert after dinner, these cookies never disappoint.
How to Serve Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate these cookies, consider sprinkling a little cinnamon or a few chopped pecans on top of the glaze before it hardens for an extra crunch and a boost in presentation. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also add a snowy, bakery-fresh look that’s hard to resist.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a warm cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a cold glass of milk for a balanced and satisfying snack break. The cookie’s buttery, cinnamon-sweet flavor perfectly complements the comforting warmth or creamy richness of these drinks.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange cookies on a rustic wooden board with small dishes of extra glaze or fresh fruit like sliced apples or berries. You can also gift-wrap a batch in a cute tin or box for a homemade treat that your friends and family will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for up to five days, making them an excellent make-ahead treat for your busy week.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy them longer, these cookies freeze beautifully. Place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. When properly stored, they maintain their flavor and texture for up to two months.
Reheating
To bring your cookies back to fresh-from-the-oven warmth, simply microwave a cookie for 10-15 seconds or warm them in a low oven (around 300 degrees Fahrenheit) for a few minutes. This revives the buttery softness and intensifies the cinnamon aroma.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter if that’s what you have on hand; just reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to keep the flavors balanced.
Is it necessary to chill the dough logs before baking?
Chilling the logs is important as it firms up the dough, making slicing easier and preventing the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
Can I substitute the milk in the glaze?
Absolutely! You can use any milk alternative such as almond, oat, or soy milk to create a glaze that fits your dietary preferences.
How do I store the cookies to keep them soft?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature and consider placing a slice of bread inside the container; it helps maintain moisture and keeps cookies soft.
Can I double the recipe?
Definitely! This recipe scales up easily, so just double all the ingredients and follow the same steps for a larger batch of these irresistible cookies.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about turning the beloved flavors of a cinnamon roll into a quick, easy cookie that you can enjoy anytime. This Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe brings joy to your kitchen and a smile to your face with every bite. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and bake a batch soon—you’ll be so glad you did!
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Print
Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 32 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies capture all the sweet, spicy goodness of classic cinnamon rolls in a bite-sized cookie form. Soft, buttery dough rolled with a cinnamon sugar filling, baked until golden, and topped with a luscious vanilla glaze – perfect for a cozy dessert or snack.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Filling Ingredients
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Glaze Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together in a large mixing bowl until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This helps create a tender cookie texture.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Beat in the large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until fully combined and smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent and salt.
- Form the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Roll Out Dough: Divide the dough in half for easier handling. On a floured surface, roll each half into a rectangle about ¼-inch thick.
- Apply Filling: Brush each dough rectangle evenly with the melted butter. Then sprinkle the cinnamon and brown sugar mixture uniformly across the surface for that classic cinnamon roll sweetness.
- Roll and Chill: Carefully roll each dough rectangle into a tight log, starting at one long edge. Wrap logs tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up for easier slicing.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready once the dough is chilled.
- Slice Cookies: Remove the chilled dough logs from the fridge and slice into ¼-inch thick rounds. Place the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
- Bake Cookies: Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges just start to turn golden brown. This yields soft, gooey centers with slightly crisp edges.
- Prepare Glaze: While the cookies bake, whisk together powdered sugar, 2 to 3 tablespoons milk, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and pourable.
- Glaze Cookies: Once the cookies have cooled completely, drizzle the vanilla glaze over the top and allow it to set for a sweet finish.
- Serve and Store: Enjoy the cookies fresh, or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze and thaw before serving.
Notes
- For easier slicing, ensure the dough logs are well chilled.
- If you prefer a thicker glaze, use less milk; for a thinner glaze, add more milk gradually.
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Use unsalted butter to control salt levels, especially if following a low-sodium diet.
- You can substitute vanilla extract with almond extract for a different flavor twist.
