Name: Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies - Soft, Sweet, and Irresistible
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 37 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Softened); 1 cup Granulated Sugar; 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (Packed); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 tbsp Baking Powder; 2 tbsp Cornstarch; 1/2 tsp Salt; 1 whole Eggs; 1 yolk Egg Yolk; 1 tsp Vanilla Extract; 2 tbsp Cinnamon; 2 tbsp Softened Butter; 1/2 cup Brown Sugar; 1 cup Powdered Sugar (For dusting); Glaze (For drizzling)

As I pulled the warm cookies from the oven, the delightful aroma of cinnamon and sugar wrapped around me like a cozy blanket. These Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies are the perfect solution for anyone craving the nostalgic taste of cinnamon rolls without the lengthy preparation time. Rich and buttery, they melt in your mouth while delivering that irresistible swirl of cinnamon sweetness in every bite. Plus, they come together in a flash, making them an ideal crowd-pleaser for gatherings or a cozy night in. Imagine treating yourself to these easy-to-make delights that will bring smiles all around; are you ready to indulge your senses and elevate your dessert game?

What makes these cookies so special?

Simplicity at Its Finest: Effortlessly whip up a batch of these Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies in no time—no complicated steps or specialized skills required!

Deliciously Unique Flavor: The delightful blend of cinnamon swirls within the buttery cookie captures the essence of traditional cinnamon rolls in each bite.

Soft and Tender Texture: Enjoy a beautifully chewy cookie that melts in your mouth, bringing together the best of both worlds— cookies and cinnamon rolls!

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a busy brunch or a cozy afternoon coffee break, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family. Pair them with your favorite hot beverage for the ultimate treat!

Make Ahead with Ease: Prep the dough days in advance, or freeze individual cookie dough balls for a last-minute sweet craving without any hassle. You’ll find these cookies irresistible enough to be your go-to dessert! If you love easy recipes, don’t miss out on my Thumbprint Cookies Melt and Luscious Lemon Cookies ideas as well!

Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies Ingredients

For the Dough

Unsalted Butter – Use softened butter for easy creaming and a rich flavor.
Granulated Sugar – This sugar adds sweetness and contributes to a tender texture.
Brown Sugar – Its molasses content enhances the flavor and moisture of the cookies.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; for gluten sensitivities, a gluten-free blend works well.
Baking Powder – Ensures your cookies rise beautifully for a light texture.
Cornstarch – A secret ingredient that adds an extra layer of tenderness.
Salt – Balances the sweetness, enhancing all the delicious flavors.
Eggs – One whole egg and one yolk bind everything together, creating richness.
Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and a delightful sweetness to the cookies.

For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

Cinnamon – The star of the show, this spice brings the iconic flavor of cinnamon rolls to life!
Softened Butter – Used for making the filling savory and easy to spread.
Brown Sugar – Complements the cinnamon and adds that perfect sweetness.

Optional Topping

Powdered Sugar – Dust over the cooled cookies for a sweet finishing touch.
Glaze – Drizzle over cookies for added sweetness and a beautiful presentation.

Dive into baking these Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies, and enjoy every soft, sweet, and cinnamon-filled bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Filling
In a medium bowl, mix together softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until well combined. This mixture should be smooth and spreadable. Once mixed, place the bowl in the freezer for about 10 minutes, allowing the filling to firm up slightly, making it easier to spread later.

Step 2: Make Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 2-3 minutes. Add in one whole egg, one egg yolk, and vanilla extract, mixing well to incorporate all ingredients. The dough should be creamy and smooth, creating a perfect base for your Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cornstarch, and salt until evenly blended. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients in the mixing bowl, mixing on low speed. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should just come together, resulting in a soft and tender cookie base that will beautifully showcase the cinnamon swirls.

Step 4: Layering Dough
Divide the cookie dough into two equal halves. In the mixing bowl, layer one half of the dough, followed by spreading half of the chilled cinnamon sugar filling over it. Then, add the second half of the dough on top and spread the remaining filling. Gently fold everything together to create swirls without fully combining; this will give your Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies their delightful cinnamon pattern.

Step 5: Form Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough into balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Once shaped, pop the cookie dough balls in the freezer for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial for preventing excessive spreading during baking, ensuring your cookies stay thick and fluffy.

Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the dough has chilled, remove the baking sheet from the freezer and bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re ready when the edges are golden brown and the centers look slightly soft and puffy. The aroma of warm cinnamon and sugar will fill your kitchen.

Step 7: Cool and Garnish
Allow the baked Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, you can dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle with a sweet glaze for an extra special touch.

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies

Softened Butter: Ensure your unsalted butter is truly softened to room temperature for easy creaming. This creates a light, fluffy cookie.
Avoid Overmixing: After adding the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense cookies.
Chill the Dough: Don’t skip chilling your cookie dough balls before baking; this prevents excessive spreading and keeps the cookies thick and chewy.
Freezing Flexibility: If you want to bake later, shape the cookie dough into balls and freeze. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the bake time.
Storage Tips: Keep your Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their softness for up to 3-4 days.

What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies

There’s nothing like a warm cookie paired with delightful flavors that elevate a cozy gathering or sweet indulgence.

Rich Hot Chocolate: The creamy chocolate complements the sweet cinnamon flavors, creating a cozy dessert experience that warms the heart.
Smooth Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of rich vanilla ice cream atop a warm cookie creates a heavenly combination that melts in your mouth.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits like berries and bananas provide a refreshing contrast to the rich cookies, balancing flavors perfectly.
Spiced Chai Tea: The aromatic spices of chai echo the warm cinnamon in the cookies, offering a comforting and festive drink pairing.
Creamy Coffee: A cup of brewed coffee enhances the buttery cookie flavor, making for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up or post-dinner treat.
Sweet Glaze Drizzle: A light glaze adds extra sweetness and shine, elevating the presentation of the cookies for gatherings or celebrations.
Nutty Granola Parfait: Layer these cookies in a parfait with yogurt and granola for a fun, dessert-inspired breakfast.
Caramel Sauce Dip: Dip the cookies in warm caramel sauce for an indulgent treat that turns every bite into a rich experience.

How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to keep them soft and delicious.

Fridge: If you prefer a colder treat, store them in the fridge for up to a week, but allow them to return to room temperature before serving to enhance their flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra minute to the baking time.

Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, microwave them for 10-15 seconds or pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for a few minutes to rejuvenate their softness.

Make Ahead Options

These Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy days! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance by mixing it and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Alternatively, shape the dough into balls and freeze them for up to 2 months. This way, you can enjoy freshly baked cookies whenever the craving strikes! When ready to bake, simply preheat your oven, bake the frozen dough directly for an extra minute or two, and indulge in soft, warm cookies that are just as delicious as when freshly made. Don’t forget to enjoy these delightful cookies with your favorite coffee or tea!

Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies Variations

Feel free to add your personal twist to these delicious cookies and explore flavors that excite your taste buds!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-sensitive version that still tastes amazing.
Dairy-Free: Replace unsalted butter with coconut oil or vegan butter, and use a plant-based milk in the dough for a dairy-free treat.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the dough for a delightful warmth; these spices elevate the cinnamon flavor beautifully.
Nutty Twist: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough for an added crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cookie texture.
Citrus Burst: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the dough for a refreshing twist that brightens the flavor profile, creating a fun take on classic cinnamon rolls.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for a rich, decadent finish; chocolate adds a delightful flair that pairs wonderfully with cinnamon.
Fruity Surprise: Add dried cranberries or raisins to the dough for a pop of sweetness and a chewy surprise with every bite.
For More Flavor Options: If you’re eager to try more delectable recipes, don’t miss my Orange Creamsicle Cookies and Hawaiian Roll French ideas—they’re packed with flavor, too!

Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of butter should I use for the cookies?
You should use unsalted butter for these Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies. It provides richness and moisture, which is essential for a soft cookie texture. Ensure it’s softened to room temperature to make the creaming process easy and effective.

How should I store these cookies, and how long do they last?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. This will maintain their soft and delicious texture. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week; just remember to let them come back to room temperature before enjoying for the best flavor.

Can I freeze the cookie dough beforehand?
Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. Just shape the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, you can bake them directly from frozen by adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

What do I do if my dough is too sticky or too dry?
If your dough is too sticky, it may need more flour. Gradually add small amounts, about a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a workable consistency. If it’s too dry, you can incorporate a little bit of milk (start with one teaspoon) until the dough comes together. Remember, the goal is a soft yet manageable dough.

Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Yes! For those with gluten sensitivities, you can easily substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Additionally, check your cinnamon for any added allergens if you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions. For a vegan option, you can replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use flax eggs.