When the air turns crisp and cozy, nothing feels more comforting than the sweet smell of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen. These Irresistible Cinnamon Roll Cookies take everything you love about warm cinnamon rolls and transform it into soft, swirled cookies with buttery layers and sweet glaze. They’re simple, beginner-friendly, and use pantry staples you probably already have at home. Perfect for a fall afternoon treat, a holiday cookie tray, or just when you need a little extra comfort with your cup of tea.
Recipe Info:
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dessert | 20 mins | 12–15 mins | 20 cookies | ~150 kcal each |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk
For the cinnamon filling:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (or more for consistency)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Prepare the dough – In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. In a larger mixing bowl, cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, vanilla, and milk until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Roll it out – On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
- Add the cinnamon filling – Brush melted butter over the dough, then sprinkle evenly with brown sugar and cinnamon mixture.
- Roll & chill – Carefully roll the dough into a log, wrap in parchment, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (this helps the cookies hold their swirled shape).
- Slice & bake – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice chilled dough into ½-inch thick rounds and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until lightly golden around the edges.
- Glaze & enjoy – Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for the glaze. Drizzle over slightly cooled cookies before serving.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- For a softer cookie, don’t overbake—remove them when the edges are just turning golden.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days.
- If glaze thickens too much, add a tiny splash of milk until pourable.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly version.
- Nutty Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Add finely chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon sugar filling for extra crunch.
- Lighter Option: Swap half the butter for unsweetened applesauce to reduce fat and keep them soft.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a warm chai latte, hot cocoa, or herbal tea for cozy evenings.
- Serve alongside fresh apple slices or a fruit platter for a light dessert spread.
- Add them to your holiday cookie tray for a fun twist on the classic cinnamon roll.
Conclusion
These Cinnamon Roll Cookies are proof that you don’t need hours in the kitchen to create something special. With their warm cinnamon swirls, soft bite, and sweet glaze, they’re perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying solo with your favorite fall drink. Bake a batch, and let your kitchen fill with cozy vibes!