Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies

These Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic dessert. Combining soft cookie dough with a sweet cinnamon sugar filling and a smooth vanilla glaze, these cookies are perfect for any occasion—be it holidays, brunch, or just a cozy treat at home. You’ll love their comforting flavors reminiscent of traditional cinnamon rolls, making them a must-try for cookie lovers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: These cookies come together easily without the need for complex techniques or ingredients.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and vanilla creates an irresistible taste that will please everyone.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for sharing at gatherings, gifting, or enjoying with your morning coffee.
• Soft and Chewy: The texture is soft and chewy, similar to freshly baked cinnamon rolls.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake when you’re ready for fresh cookies.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet
• Plastic wrap

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining wet and dry ingredients efficiently.
• Rolling pin: Helps roll the dough evenly to achieve the perfect thickness.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of cookies from the baking sheet.

Ingredients

To create these delightful Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Cream the butter and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
2. Add in the egg and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix this into the wet ingredients to form a soft dough.

Step 2: Roll Out

1. Divide the dough in half.
2. On a floured surface, roll each portion into a rectangle about ¼-inch thick.

Step 3: Add Filling

1. Brush each rectangle with melted butter.
2. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon; sprinkle this mixture evenly over the dough.

Step 4: Roll and Chill

1. Roll each rectangle tightly into logs.
2. Wrap each log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step 5: Slice and Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice the chilled logs into ¼-inch rounds and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Step 6: Glaze

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Drizzle the glaze over cooled cookies and allow it to set before serving. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage!

How to Serve Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies

These easy cinnamon roll cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or looking for a sweet treat to share, these cookies will delight everyone.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Enjoy these cookies with your favorite coffee or espresso. The warm flavors of cinnamon and vanilla complement the rich taste of coffee perfectly.

At Holiday Gatherings

• Serve these cookies at holiday parties or family gatherings. They add a festive touch and are sure to be a hit among guests of all ages.

As a Dessert Platter

• Include these cookies on a dessert platter alongside other sweets like brownies or fruit tarts. Their unique flavor will stand out among traditional desserts.

With Fresh Fruit

• Pair the cookies with fresh fruit like strawberries, raspberries, or orange slices. The freshness balances the sweetness and enhances the overall experience.

How to Perfect Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies

To ensure your easy cinnamon roll cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use softened butter – This helps create a light and fluffy dough when creaming with sugar.
• Chill the dough – Chilling the rolled logs before slicing makes it easier to cut clean rounds without squishing them.
• Don’t overbake – Keep an eye on the baking time; removing them while they’re still soft ensures they stay tender.
• Adjust glaze consistency – If your glaze is too thick, add more milk gradually until you reach your desired pourable consistency.
• Store properly – Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness for up to 5 days.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies

These easy cinnamon roll cookies can be complemented by a variety of side dishes that enhance their delightful flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a quick and healthy side that balances sweetness.
2. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and complements the rich flavors of the cookies.
3. Cheese Platter – A selection of mild cheeses, like cream cheese or gouda, provides a savory contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
4. Oatmeal Bowl – Serve warm oatmeal topped with nuts, honey, and dried fruits for a cozy breakfast option.
5. Smoothie – Blend your choice of fruits and veggies into a smoothie for a nutritious drink that pairs well with sweet treats.
6. Nut Mix – A mix of salted almonds or walnuts offers crunchiness and balances the soft texture of the cookies.
7. Tea Selection – Offer various herbal teas that can enhance the cinnamon flavors while providing warmth and comfort.
8. Whipped Cream Dip – Create a simple whipped cream dip flavored with vanilla for dipping, adding an extra layer of indulgence when enjoying the cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making these Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies can be a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes can affect the results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not Softening Butter: Using cold butter can lead to a dense dough. Always ensure your butter is softened for the best texture.
• Skipping the Chill: Failing to refrigerate the rolled dough can make it difficult to slice cleanly. Don’t skip chilling; it helps maintain shape during baking.
• Overbaking: Baking cookies too long can dry them out. Keep an eye on them, and remove them when the edges are lightly golden.
• Incorrect Measurements: Not measuring ingredients accurately can lead to inconsistent results. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Neglecting Glaze: Skipping the glaze may result in less sweet, flavorful cookies. The vanilla glaze adds a delicious finishing touch, so don’t miss it!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days to keep them fresh.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies

• Freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for longer storage.

Reheating Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds until warm but not hot.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a non-stick skillet over low heat for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions regarding Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies:

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may result in denser cookies. Adjust the liquid slightly if needed.

How do I make these cookies dairy-free?

To make dairy-free cookies, use plant-based butter and substitute milk with almond or oat milk in the glaze.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Adding nuts or chocolate chips can enhance flavor and texture. Just mix them into the dough before rolling.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is sticky, try adding more flour gradually until it reaches a manageable consistency.

How thick should I roll the dough?

Aim for about ¼-inch thick when rolling out your dough. This thickness helps achieve the right balance of soft and chewy.

Final Thoughts

These Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies offer a delightful twist on traditional cinnamon rolls, making them perfect for any occasion. Their soft texture and sweet glaze make them irresistible! Feel free to customize with your favorite add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips to suit your taste.