Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of having the cozy, warm flavor of cinnamon rolls in a perfectly bite-sized treat, you need this Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe in your life. These cookies capture all the comforting spices and tender, pillowy texture you love about cinnamon rolls but come together quicker and are easier to share at any gathering or just as a satisfying snack. From the buttery dough to the luscious cinnamon-sugar swirl, every bite feels like a little moment of joy. Let’s dive into making these irresistible soft cinnamon roll cookies that will quickly become your go-to comfort cookie.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe is a simple staple that brings something special to these soft cinnamon roll cookies. Together, they create a cookie with tender, rich dough and that classic cinnamon sweetness swirled through each bite.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Gives the dough richness and helps create that tender crumb.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with that light, fluffy texture when creamed with butter.
• 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and contributes to the cookie’s soft structure.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings depth and warmth to the flavor profile.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the cookie giving it structure, not too dense or too cakey.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise just enough for softness without spreading too much.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar: Mixed with cinnamon, it creates that deliciously aromatic swirl.
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon: The star spice that gives the cookies their signature warm, cozy flavor.
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted: Brushed on the dough to help the cinnamon-sugar stick and add extra buttery goodness.

How to Make Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it reaches the perfect temperature so your cookies bake evenly. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean-up a breeze.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter together with the granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This creaming step is key to getting that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture in the cookies.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Mix in the egg and vanilla extract thoroughly with the creamed butter and sugar. These ingredients work together to bind the dough and bring a lovely aromatic note that compliments cinnamon perfectly.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk your flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the leavening agent and salt are evenly distributed for consistent texture and flavor throughout the dough.

Step 5: Form the Dough

Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until everything just comes together. Overmixing can make cookies tough, so aim for a soft but manageable dough.

Step 6: Make the Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture

In a small bowl, stir together light brown sugar and cinnamon. This fragrant, sweet swirl is what transforms these cookies into little cinnamon roll wonders.

Step 7: Roll Out the Dough

Sprinkle a bit of flour on your work surface, and roll the dough out to approximately 1/4 inch thickness. This thickness hits the sweet spot between tender and sturdy for rolling.

Step 8: Butter and Sprinkle

Brush the melted butter evenly over the rolled dough to create a sticky base, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture across the surface. This step ensures every bite is bursting with that classic cinnamon roll flavor.

Step 9: Roll Into a Log

Starting from one of the long edges, carefully roll the dough into a tight log shape. This rolling technique is what gives the cookies the perfect cinnamon swirl design inside.

Step 10: Slice the Cookies

Cut the dough log into roughly 1/2 inch thick slices. Place each slice on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space for slight puffing as they bake.

Step 11: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges start turning a gentle golden color. This ensures the cookies are soft but slightly set on the outside for a perfect bite.

Step 12: Cool Before Enjoying

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet a few minutes before moving them to a wire rack. Cooling helps them firm up just enough while staying delightfully soft inside.

How to Serve Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of cream cheese glaze takes these cookies from lovely to utterly decadent. The glaze adds a tangy creaminess that pairs beautifully with cinnamon’s warmth.

Side Dishes

Serve these cookies alongside a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a glass of cold milk. Their soft texture makes them perfect for dunking, and the warmth of your drink complements the cinnamon notes wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the cookies on a tiered dessert stand for a brunch spread or pop them in a pretty tin as a thoughtful gift. You can also sandwich a bit of cream cheese frosting between two cookies for a delightful cookie sandwich twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They maintain their soft texture best when shielded from air, so a resealable container or cookie jar works perfectly.

Freezing

You can freeze the unbaked dough log wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Slice and bake directly from frozen, adding a minute or two if needed. Baked cookies freeze well too — store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To refresh cookies, warm them in a preheated 300°F oven for about 5 minutes or microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This quick step revives that soft, just-baked feel we all crave.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, you can, but reduce or omit the additional salt in the recipe to prevent the cookies from being too salty. Unsalted butter gives you more control over the saltiness.

What if I don’t have light brown sugar?

Dark brown sugar works just as well and adds a richer molasses flavor. You could also make your own by mixing granulated sugar with a bit of molasses.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

This recipe as written uses regular all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free. You could try substituting a gluten-free flour blend, but textures may vary.

Why are my cookies not soft?

Make sure not to overbake. Even a minute or two too long can dry them out. Also, proper creaming of butter and sugar contributes greatly to softness.

Can I add nuts or raisins?

Absolutely! Adding chopped pecans or walnuts adds a nice crunch, while raisins contribute a pleasant chewiness. Just fold them in after combining the wet and dry ingredients.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a warm, comforting treat that brings the best of cinnamon rolls into a cookie form, this Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe is your new best friend. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and full of heartwarming flavor. Trust me, once you take your first bite, you’ll be hooked. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and fill your kitchen with the irresistible scent of these soft, cinnamon-swirled delights.

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