These Easy cinnamon roll cookies are a delicious combination of soft cookie dough, sweet cinnamon sugar filling, and a smooth vanilla glaze. They bring all the comforting flavors of classic cinnamon rolls into a portable, cookie-sized treat that’s perfect for holiday baking, brunch, or an anytime indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Combines the best of cookies and cinnamon rolls in one bite-sized treat.
Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients.
Perfect for gifting or adding to a holiday cookie tray.
Versatile and customizable with your favorite spices or toppings.
Stays soft and delicious for days, making them a great make-ahead option.
Ingredients
For the cookie dough:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 ¼ cups all-purpose flou
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
For the cinnamon sugar filling:
½ cup brown sugar, packed
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Make the Dough:
In a large bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a soft dough forms.
Roll Out the Dough:
Divide the dough in half. On a floured surface, roll each portion into a rectangle about ¼-inch thick.
Add the Cinnamon Sugar Filling:
Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Brush the rolled dough with melted butter and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the top.
Roll and Chill:
Roll the dough into a tight log starting from the long edge. Wrap each log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Slice and Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Slice the chilled dough into ¼-inch thick rounds and place them on the prepared sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Make the Glaze:
Combine powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth and drizzle over the cooled cookies.
Serve and Enjoy:
Allow the glaze to set before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 24 cookies
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 1 hour
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 32 minutes
Variations
Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the filling for a spiced twist.
Swap out the vanilla glaze for a cream cheese glaze for a richer flavor.
Roll the dough in finely chopped nuts before slicing for added texture.
Add a touch of maple extract to the glaze for a maple-inspired treat.
Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version (adjust liquid as needed).
Storage/Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To freeze, arrange them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Let frozen cookies thaw at room temperature before serving.
To reheat, warm them in a microwave for a few seconds to restore their soft texture.
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FAQs
How can I make the dough easier to roll?
Chilling the dough slightly before rolling can help prevent sticking and make it easier to handle.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, the dough logs can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Slice and bake directly from the fridge or freezer, adjusting baking time as needed.
Can I use a different type of sugar for the filling?
Yes, you can substitute dark brown sugar for a deeper molasses flavor or use coconut sugar for a more natural option.
What’s the best way to drizzle the glaze?
Use a small spoon or a piping bag with a fine tip for more precise drizzling.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe scales well, so feel free to double it for larger batches. Just make sure to work in manageable portions when rolling and filling the dough.
Conclusion
These easy cinnamon roll cookies are a must-try for anyone who loves the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls but craves the convenience of cookies. Whether for a holiday party or a simple family treat, they’re sure to delight everyone. Make a batch today and enjoy a little piece of cinnamon roll heaven in every bite!
📖 Recipe:
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Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies
- Total Time: 1 hour 32 minutes (including chill time)
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These easy cinnamon roll cookies combine soft cookie dough, sweet cinnamon sugar filling, and a smooth vanilla glaze, creating a portable treat perfect for holidays, brunch, or any occasion. Delightfully soft and packed with the comforting flavors of classic cinnamon rolls, these cookies are a must-try!
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough:
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
For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling:
½ cup brown sugar, packed
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- Cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the egg and vanilla extract.
- Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in another bowl. Gradually mix into the wet ingredients to form a soft dough.
- Roll Out:
- Divide the dough in half and roll each portion into a rectangle about ¼-inch thick on a floured surface.
- Add Filling:
- Brush each rectangle with melted butter.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly across the dough.
- Roll and Chill:
- Roll the dough tightly into logs. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Slice and Bake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the chilled logs into ¼-inch rounds and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- Glaze:
- Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Drizzle over cooled cookies and let the glaze set.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add nutmeg or cardamom to the filling.
Cream cheese glaze can be substituted for a richer flavor.
Gluten-free flour can be used, but adjust liquids if needed.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24 cookies
- Calories: 140 kcal per cookie
