Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies Recipe

If you love the warm, comforting flavors of freshly baked cinnamon rolls but crave the convenience and fun of a cookie, then you are going to adore this Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies Recipe. These cookies perfectly capture that tender, buttery texture combined with a sweet cinnamon swirl and a drizzle of vanilla glaze, making every bite feel like a cozy celebration. They’re irresistibly soft yet crisp at the edges, delivering all the best parts of a cinnamon roll in an easy-to-handle sugar cookie form that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family or treating yourself anytime.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Keeping the ingredient list simple yet purposeful makes this recipe straightforward and approachable. Each ingredient plays a key role—from the rich, softened butter that ensures moistness and flavor, to the cinnamon and brown sugar that bring the signature swirl to life. Together, they create a harmonious balance of taste, texture, and color that’ll have your kitchen smelling heavenly.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides a creamy base and tender crumb for the cookies.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps achieve the perfect cookie texture.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add richness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances flavor with a warm, subtle aroma.
• 3 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for structure and chewiness.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Gives the cookies a light lift without puffing them up too much.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and brings out all the flavors.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Creates the luscious cinnamon swirl filling.
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar: Adds deep, molasses-like sweetness to the filling.
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: The star spice that gives these cookies their signature flavor.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: Used to make a smooth, sweet glaze.
• 2 tablespoons milk: Thins the glaze for easy drizzling.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and come off the sheet effortlessly, preventing any sticking or burning.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light, creamy, and fluffy—this is crucial for creating the soft texture your Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies Recipe is known for.

Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Next, incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating each thoroughly before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract for that warm, inviting aroma and delicate flavor kick.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until you have a smooth dough without overworking it so the cookies stay tender.

Step 5: Shape the Cookie Dough

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, giving them a uniform size for consistent baking. Place them on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room as they expand.

Step 6: Create the Cinnamon Swirl Filling

Mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl until well combined. This luscious filling is what will give the cookies their iconic cinnamon roll taste and appealing swirl.

Step 7: Add the Cinnamon Swirl to Each Cookie

Using the back of a spoon or your thumb, gently press an indentation into the center of each dough ball. Spoon the cinnamon swirl mixture into these wells, making sure it’s evenly distributed for that perfect cinnamon roll effect inside every cookie.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set but still soft. The baking time is key to achieving that tender-but-sturdy texture that makes these cookies stand out.

Step 9: Cool Before Icing

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step prevents the icing from melting too much when applied.

Step 10: Glaze and Finish

Whisk together the powdered sugar and milk to make a smooth glaze. Drizzle this over the completely cooled cookies for a sweet, glossy finish that mimics the classic cinnamon roll icing.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra-touch of charm, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or crushed pecans over the glaze before it sets. A light dusting of powdered sugar right before serving also adds an elegant, snowy effect that’s perfect for cozy gatherings.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a hot beverage like chai tea, freshly brewed coffee, or rich hot chocolate. The warm spices and sweetness beautifully complement creamy drinks, making them a fantastic accompaniment for breakfast or an afternoon treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies Recipe on a rustic wooden platter or a vintage cake stand for a charming presentation. You can also stack a few and tie them with a ribbon to create adorable edible gifts that anyone would love to receive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and flavorful for about 3 to 4 days, making them perfect for enjoying across several days.

Freezing

If you want to prepare these treats well in advance, you can freeze the baked cookies in a sealed freezer bag or container. They endure freezing well and can be kept for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked warmth, pop a cookie or two in the microwave for about 10 seconds or warm them briefly in the oven at 300°F. This revives their softness and enhances the cinnamon aroma, making them taste freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I substitute the butter with margarine or oil in this Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies Recipe?

Butter is recommended here for its rich flavor and texture, but margarine can be used if needed. However, oil is not ideal because it changes the dough’s consistency and can make the cookies greasy rather than tender.

Is it possible to make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. Keep in mind that baking times might need slight adjustments, and texture could be a bit different but still delicious.

How do I get the cinnamon swirl into the cookie perfectly?

The key is making a small indentation in each dough ball before adding the cinnamon mixture. Using your thumb or the back of a spoon gently ensures the filling sits nicely without spilling over during baking.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be made up to 24 hours in advance. Chill it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. This resting period can even help improve the cookie’s texture and deepen flavors.

What if I want to make the glaze thicker or thinner?

The glaze thickness is easy to control by adjusting the milk quantity. Add milk a teaspoon at a time for a thinner glaze perfect for drizzling, or less milk for a thicker, more spreadable icing. Just mix until you get your desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the nostalgia of cinnamon rolls with the fun of cookies, this Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies Recipe is an absolute must-try. With straightforward ingredients and steps, it’s a crowd-pleaser and a perfect way to add some warmth to your baking routine. I promise, once you bake a batch, these little bites of cinnamon-sugary joy will become a cherished favorite you’ll want to make again and again.

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