Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies

by

Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies combine the beloved flavors of traditional cinnamon rolls with the convenience of cookies. These delightful treats offer the perfect balance of cinnamon spice and sweet dough, making them ideal for holiday baking, potlucks, or a cozy afternoon snack. The recipe is straightforward, requiring simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. With their swirled cinnamon-sugar filling and sweet glaze, these cookies are sure to become a family favorite.

Why You Will Love Making This Recipe

  1. Simple Ingredients: Most of the ingredients needed are pantry staples, making this recipe easy to prepare without a trip to the store.
  2. Delicious Flavor: The combination of buttery cookie dough and cinnamon-sugar filling creates an irresistible treat.
  3. Fun to Make: Rolling the dough and creating the cinnamon swirl is a fun activity, especially for baking with kids.
  4. Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack, these cookies fit any occasion.
  5. Great for Gifting: These cookies look beautiful when packaged, making them an excellent homemade gift for friends and family.

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

Directions & Instructions

  1. Prepare Dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix well.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  4. Roll Out Dough: Divide the dough in half. Roll each half into a rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
  5. Add Filling: Sprinkle the dough with brown sugar and cinnamon.
  6. Form Cookies: Roll the dough into a log, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  7. Slice and Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the chilled dough into 1/4-inch thick cookies and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
  8. Cool and Glaze: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Drizzle with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk if desired.

Nutritional Information

Per Cookie (approx. 24 cookies)

  • Calories: 140 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg
  • Sodium: 80mg
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 10g

Variations

  • Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon-sugar filling for added texture and flavor.
  • Spiced Up: Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom into the filling for a more complex spice profile.
  • Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze the dough? Yes, the dough can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before slicing and baking.

How long do these cookies stay fresh? Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be refrigerated for extended freshness.

Can I make the dough ahead of time? Absolutely! The dough can be prepared and refrigerated up to 24 hours in advance.

Pro Tips By Emma

  • Chill the Dough: Ensure the dough is well chilled before slicing to maintain the shape and prevent spreading during baking.
  • Uniform Slices: Use a sharp knife to achieve even cookie slices, which ensures consistent baking.
  • Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on the cookies and remove them from the oven once the edges are just golden to maintain a soft and chewy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies are best enjoyed with a cup of hot coffee or tea. They also pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk. Serve them at breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful dessert after dinner. For a festive touch, arrange them on a holiday platter with other favorite cookies.