There’s just something magical about the smell of warm cinnamon drifting through the kitchen. These easy cinnamon roll cookies are the best of both worlds – the cozy swirl of a cinnamon bun wrapped up in a soft, bite-sized cookie. They’re simple to make, use everyday ingredients, and are perfect for sharing with loved ones on chilly mornings or as an after-dinner treat.
Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned cookie lover, this recipe will make your home smell incredible and your cookie jar impossible to keep full!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the cinnamon filling:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the glaze (optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Cream the butter & sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This creates a soft cookie base. - Add egg & vanilla
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined. - Combine dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add this to the wet mixture until a dough forms. - Chill the dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes. This makes rolling and slicing much easier. - Prepare the filling
Stir together the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until evenly mixed. - Roll & fill
Roll the dough into a rectangle (about ¼ inch thick). Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough. - Roll & slice
Starting with the long edge, roll the dough into a log. Use a sharp knife to slice into ½-inch thick cookies. - Bake
Place cookies on a lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–14 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden. - Glaze (optional)
Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Chilling matters – Don’t skip chilling the dough, it keeps the swirl neat and prevents spreading.
- Storage – Store in an airtight container at room temp for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Sweeter glaze – Add extra powdered sugar for a thicker drizzle if you like.
Recipe Variations
- Cream cheese glaze – Swap the simple glaze with a tangy cream cheese frosting for an authentic cinnamon roll vibe.
- Whole wheat option – Use half whole-wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and more fiber.
- Nutty twist – Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for crunch.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a warm mug of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate on a cozy morning.
- Add them to a holiday cookie platter for a festive treat.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Recipe Info
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dessert | 20 mins | 12–14 mins | 24 cookies | ~120 kcal each |
Conclusion
These soft and sweet cinnamon roll cookies are a simple yet special way to bring a little warmth into your kitchen. Whether you’re baking them for your family, sharing with friends, or keeping a stash for yourself, they’re sure to become a go-to cozy favorite. Bake a batch, pour yourself something warm, and enjoy the moment.