Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you love the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls but are looking for a quicker, simpler option, this recipe is for you. The cinnamon sugar swirl inside the soft, chewy sugar cookies makes for the perfect balance of sweet and spicy. They are easy to make, versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser, making them perfect for a quick dessert or a holiday treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup salted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl: Beat softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth. Chill the mixture in the fridge for 15 minutes.
- Make the Cookie Dough: Cream together granulated sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Add flour, baking soda, and salt, and mix until dough forms.
- Assemble the Cookies: Roll the cinnamon swirl into small marble-sized balls and fold them into the dough.
- Shape the Cookies: Use a cookie scoop to portion out dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool. Optionally drizzle with a glaze or cream cheese frosting.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 30 cookies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 8-10 minutes
- Chill Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Cream Cheese Frosting: Top with a simple cream cheese frosting for extra flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Add-ins: Mix in chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added texture.
Storage/Reheating
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. You can also freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave for a few seconds to bring back the soft, warm texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sugar?
Yes, you can use white sugar or coconut sugar instead of brown sugar, but the flavor and texture may differ slightly.
Do I need to chill the cinnamon swirl?
Yes, chilling helps the cinnamon mixture firm up, ensuring it integrates well into the dough.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Margarine can be used, but the flavor and texture may be slightly different.
How do I know when my cookies are done?
The cookies should be golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center when done.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I use non-dairy butter for a dairy-free version?
Yes, non-dairy butter works well as a substitute in this recipe.
Are these cookies soft?
Yes, these cookies are soft with a chewy texture thanks to the cinnamon swirl.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge before baking.
Can I add nuts to the dough?
Yes, chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts would be a great addition.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
You can make them vegan by using a dairy-free butter substitute and an egg replacer.
Conclusion
These Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies are a perfect combination of two classic treats—cinnamon rolls and sugar cookies—offering a quick, satisfying dessert that’s easy to make and sure to be loved by everyone. Whether served warm or cold, with or without frosting, they’re a must-try recipe that brings the delightful flavors of cinnamon rolls in a simpler, more accessible form.
Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe
These Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies bring the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls into a quick and simple cookie form. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you’ll enjoy the sweet and spicy cinnamon swirl inside soft, chewy sugar cookies. Perfect for a quick dessert or holiday treat, these cookies are a crowd-pleasing favorite that requires no rolling or rising time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 30 cookies
- Category: Dessert, Cookie
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup salted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl: Beat softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon together until smooth. Chill the mixture in the fridge for 15 minutes to firm up.
- Make the Cookie Dough: Cream granulated sugar and butter together until light and fluffy. Add flour, baking soda, and salt, and mix until a dough forms.
- Assemble the Cookies: Roll the cinnamon swirl mixture into small marble-sized balls and gently fold them into the dough.
- Shape the Cookies: Use a cookie scoop to portion out dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes until the cookies are golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center.
- Cool and Serve: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool. Optionally drizzle with a glaze or cream cheese frosting for extra flavor.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, top the cookies with cream cheese frosting.
- Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version of these cookies.
- Add-ins like chocolate chips, raisins, or chopped nuts can be mixed in for added texture.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Freeze for up to 3 months for longer storage. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy them soft and warm.
