Cinnamon Roll Cookies: 10 Irresistible Soft Treats

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Cinnamon Roll Cookies combine the soft, spiced flavors of classic cinnamon rolls with the convenience of a cookie. These delightful treats are rolled in cinnamon sugar, baked to golden perfection, and topped with a creamy cinnamon cream cheese frosting. They’re perfect for breakfast or dessert, bringing the warmth of freshly baked cinnamon rolls to your kitchen in a fraction of the time. Let’s get started on this delicious journey!

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll Cookies

This recipe for Cinnamon Roll Cookies is not just about the taste; it’s about the experience. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore them:

They’re incredibly easy to make, perfect for even beginner bakers.
The combination of soft cinnamon cookies and creamy frosting is heavenly.
They capture the essence of traditional cinnamon rolls without the fuss.
These cookies are versatile; you can customize them with nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips.
They are perfect for holiday baking or as a delightful treat any time of year.
Storing and serving them is a breeze, making them great for meal prep.
They can be enjoyed warm or chilled, adapting to your preferences.
Perfect for sharing with friends and family, making you the star baker!

Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Gather these items:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar (can substitute half with brown sugar)
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (more if needed)
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Cinnamon sugar, for rolling (optional)
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1-2 teaspoons milk or cream, as needed
Ground cinnamon, for sprinkling

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cookies Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
Step 2: Incorporate the eggs one at a time followed by the vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition.
Step 3: Combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and sea salt in a separate bowl, then gradually add to the wet mixture.
Step 4: Cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
Step 5: Preheat your oven to 375ºF and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 6: Roll the dough into one-inch balls and optionally roll in cinnamon sugar, then flatten each ball.
Step 7: Bake for 7 to 8 minutes, or until the bottoms are barely golden. Remove from oven and cool on racks.
Step 8: Beat the softened cream cheese and butter until light and fluffy, then gradually beat in powdered sugar.
Step 9: Pipe the frosting onto the cooled cookies and sprinkle with ground cinnamon or cinnamon sugar.
Step 10: Store the frosted cookies in a covered container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Keep these in mind:

Chill the dough to make it easier to handle.
Do not overbake to keep cookies soft.
Use a piping bag for neat frosting application.
Consider adding nuts or raisins for added texture.
Try experimenting with different types of sugars for rolling.

Best Ways to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Here are a few enjoyable ways to serve your cookies:

Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Share them during holiday gatherings or bake sales for a crowd-pleaser.

How to Store and Reheat Cinnamon Roll Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in a covered container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to enjoy them warm later, you can reheat them in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes. This is also a great option for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Roll Cookies

What’s the secret to perfect Cinnamon Roll Cookies?

The secret lies in not overbaking them! You want the centers to remain soft and chewy, which is the hallmark of a great cookie. Using chilled dough also helps maintain their shape during baking.

Can I make Cinnamon Roll Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. This makes it a convenient option for holiday baking or last-minute gatherings.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cinnamon Roll Cookies?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure that your butter is softened but not melted. Also, measure your flour accurately to prevent dry cookies. Lastly, always check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer for the best results.

Variations of Cinnamon Roll Cookies You Can Try

If you want to switch things up, here are some fun variations:

Try adding chopped nuts or raisins for an extra crunch and flavor.
Make Cinnamon Roll Biscotti by baking the cookies longer for a crunchy texture.
For a chocolate twist, mix in chocolate chips into the dough.
Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom alongside the cinnamon for a unique flavor profile.

For more delicious recipes, check out our Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken or Apple Bundt Cake Recipe. You might also enjoy Creamy Italian Meatball Soup for a comforting meal.

For tips on baking, refer to this baking tips guide for expert advice.