There’s something magical about the aroma of cinnamon winding its way through a warm kitchen—like a sweet whisper of autumn even on a cool spring day. These Cinnamon Roll Cookies feel like life’s coziest hug in edible form. They’re whisper-soft, gorgeously swirled, and oh-so-satisfyingly doughy—without requiring a full day in the kitchen. Whether you’re craving a morning pick-me-up or a heartfelt treat for family movie night, these cookies bring comfort, sweetness, and that familiar cinnamon-roll joy—no elaborate baking required.
Recipe Info
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dessert | 15 minutes | 12 minutes | About 24 cookies | ~145 per cookie |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- For the filling:
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C). This ensures every cookie bakes evenly and emerges with that perfect golden edge.
- Mix dry ingredients. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon until evenly blended—this gives every teaspoon a little cinnamon sparkle.
- Cream the butter and sugars. Using a hand mixer or spoon, beat the softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 3 minutes. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
- Add the egg and vanilla. Beat them in until the batter looks smooth and inviting—like something you want to dive into head first.
- Combine dry and wet. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, gently stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing—you’re aiming for tender, not tough.
- Prepare the filling. In a small bowl, stir together the brown sugar and extra cinnamon—this will be the gooey, cinnamon-kissed heart of your cookie rolls.
- Roll it up. On parchment paper, shape half the dough into a rectangle, sprinkle with the filling, then roll it up tightly—like a sleepy burrito of cinnamon goodness.
- Slice and bake. Cut into 1-inch rounds and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10–12 minutes—or until the edges are just golden and your kitchen smells like comfort.
- Enjoy warm (highly recommended!). Let them cool for a minute or two—then savor that warm, doughy swirl with a cup of your favorite drink.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Chill if needed. If your dough feels too soft or sticky, pop it in the fridge for 15–30 minutes to make rolling easier.
- Even slices every time. A sharp knife or dental floss pulled taut gives cleaner cuts and prettier spirals.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To refresh, microwave briefly (10–15 seconds) for that just-baked softness.
- Measure spice to taste. Prefer more cinnamon warmth? Add an extra ½ teaspoon to the dough. Lighten it up? Reduce to ¾ teaspoon.
Recipe Variations
- Nutty crunch: Sprinkle finely chopped pecans or walnuts onto the filling before rolling for a surprising crunch.
- Chocolate swirl: Add a handful of mini chocolate chips into the filling or drizzle melted chocolate on top after baking.
- Fruit twist: Mix finely chopped dried apples or raisins into the filling for a fruity-warm spin.
And if you want a lighter take—swap half the butter for unsweetened applesauce or use light brown sugar for a gentle sweetness without losing that comforting chew.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies pair beautifully with a steaming mug of coffee, chai tea, or hot cocoa for a snug afternoon snack. Serve alongside a creamy vanilla yogurt or a small bowl of fresh fruit to balance their sweetness. For an extra indulgence, warm and top with a simple glaze—powdered sugar mixed with a little milk or cream—and maybe a dusting of extra cinnamon.
Conclusion
These Irresistible Cinnamon Roll Cookies are a reminder that warmth, sweetness, and love can come in cookie form. Pull them out fresh—or pack a few for sweet surprises throughout the week. Whether it’s a quiet moment on the couch or a casual gathering with loved ones, may these cozy treats bring you comfort, smiles, and more than a few delicious memories. Happy baking, and enjoy every warm, cinnamon-sweet bite!