Cinnamon roll cookies bring all the warm, swirling comfort of traditional cinnamon rolls into a convenient, handheld treat that’s perfect for holiday cookie exchanges or afternoon tea. I first created these cookies during a snowy weekend when my kitchen became my sanctuary. The aroma of cinnamon and butter wafting through my home instantly transported me back to Sunday mornings at my grandmother’s house. These cookies capture that same nostalgic feeling while being much simpler to make than traditional cinnamon rolls. Let me show you how to create these irresistible spiral cookies that look as beautiful as they taste.
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Recipe
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Cinnamon Roll Cookies
- Total Time: 37 minutes + chilling
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These cinnamon roll cookies bring all the gooey, swirly sweetness of your favorite breakfast treat into a soft, chewy cookie form. Packed with cinnamon-sugar flavor and topped with vanilla glaze, they’re simply addictive.
Ingredients
**For the Cookie Dough:**
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
**For the Filling:**
1/3 cup brown sugar
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
2 tbsp butter, melted
**For the Glaze:**
1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tbsp milk
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to the butter mixture until a soft dough forms.
5. Divide dough in half. Roll each half into a rectangle (about 1/4 inch thick) between parchment sheets.
6. Mix filling ingredients (brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter), then spread evenly over dough rectangles.
7. Carefully roll up each rectangle into a log. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for 30–45 minutes.
8. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
9. Slice chilled dough into 1/2-inch rounds and place on baking sheet.
10. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
11. Cool cookies completely, then whisk glaze ingredients and drizzle over tops.
12. Let glaze set before serving or storing.
Notes
• Freeze dough logs longer for easier slicing.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg to the filling for extra warmth.
• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days (or freeze unglazed cookies for up to 2 months).
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Perfect Balance of Textures
These cookies offer the most satisfying textural contrast you can imagine. The edges bake up slightly crisp while the centers remain tender and soft, reminiscent of the middle of a perfect cinnamon roll. I’ve tested countless versions to achieve this balance. The key is proper chilling time between rolling and baking. When you bite into one, you’ll experience that delightful resistance followed by a melt-in-your-mouth softness that makes it nearly impossible to eat just one. The thin layer of glaze adds another dimension, creating a cookie that satisfies every texture craving.
Make-Ahead Convenience
One of my favorite aspects of these cinnamon roll cookies is their impressive versatility when it comes to preparation. The dough can be made up to 3 days ahead and kept refrigerated, making them perfect for busy holiday schedules. You can even freeze the rolled, unbaked logs for up to a month! I often prepare several rolls on a quiet Sunday afternoon, then slice and bake them whenever unexpected guests arrive or when I need a quick dessert. The dough actually benefits from resting time, allowing the flavors to develop and making the finished cookies even more delicious.
Essential Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Spiral
Creating that perfect spiral pattern requires a few technique adjustments that took me several batches to master. Roll your dough into a precise rectangle with even thickness—I recommend using guide sticks or a special rolling pin with thickness rings. Chill the dough before adding the filling to prevent tearing. When rolling up the dough, use the parchment paper as a guide, lifting it slowly to create a tight, even cylinder. For clean slices, use a sharp knife dipped in flour or unwaxed dental floss, pulling it tight around the log and crossing the ends to cut through cleanly.
Temperature Control Matters
The secret to cookies that hold their shape lies in temperature management at every stage. Start with butter that’s cool but pliable—not melted or too soft. After rolling the dough into logs, chill them for at least 2 hours or overnight for the best results. When it’s time to bake, slice the cookies while the log is still cold and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. If your kitchen is warm, place cut cookies in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before baking. This prevents spreading and ensures those beautiful spirals stay intact during baking.
Serving Ideas & Creative Variations
Elegant Presentation Options
Transform these humble cookies into showstopping treats with thoughtful presentation. For holiday gatherings, arrange them in concentric circles on a cake stand, dusting with powdered sugar for a snow-kissed effect. For gifting, stack them in clear cellophane bags tied with baker’s twine, or place them in vintage tins lined with parchment paper. I love serving them alongside a creamy vanilla custard for dipping at dessert parties. For brunch, arrange them on a tiered stand with fresh berries scattered between layers for a pop of color.
Flavor Twists and Add-Ins
While traditional cinnamon filling is divine, these cookies welcome creative flavor adaptations. Add orange zest to the dough for a citrus kick or mix cardamom with the cinnamon for a Swedish-inspired version. For texture, sprinkle finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts over the filling before rolling. During the holidays, I add a splash of maple extract to the glaze and a pinch of nutmeg to the filling. For chocolate lovers, try adding mini chocolate chips to the filling or drizzling the finished cookies with melted chocolate instead of the traditional glaze.
Storage & Troubleshooting Guide
Keeping Cookies Fresh
To maintain that perfect texture balance, store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. For longer storage, these cookies freeze beautifully for up to 2 months—just thaw at room temperature for about an hour before serving. I recommend adding the glaze after thawing rather than before freezing for the best appearance. If you notice your cookies softening too much after storage, pop them in a 300°F oven for 3-5 minutes to refresh that slight exterior crispness.
Fixing Common Problems
Even experienced bakers encounter challenges with spiral cookies. If your dough becomes too soft to work with, don’t panic—simply pause and chill. Sticky dough that’s difficult to roll needs 15-20 minutes in the refrigerator. If your spirals unravel during cutting, your log probably needs more chill time. For cookies that spread too much during baking, your oven might be running hot—try reducing the temperature by 25°F. If your filling leaks out during baking, try brushing the dough with a thin layer of egg white before adding the cinnamon mixture to help it adhere.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make cinnamon roll cookies without a stand mixer?
Absolutely! While a mixer makes the process easier, you can use a hand mixer or even mix by hand. Just ensure your butter is properly softened and be prepared for a bit more arm workout when incorporating the flour.
Why did my cinnamon roll cookies unravel during baking?
This typically happens when the dough isn’t chilled enough before baking. After slicing your cookies, refrigerate them for 15-20 minutes before putting them in the oven to help them maintain their shape.
Can I use brown sugar instead of white in the filling?
Yes! Brown sugar creates a more caramel-like flavor in your cinnamon roll cookies. Dark brown sugar will give an even deeper molasses note that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon.
How far in advance can I prepare the dough?
The dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before slicing and baking.
What’s the secret to getting even spirals in my cookies?
Roll the dough into a precise rectangle with even thickness, spread the filling to within ½-inch of edges, and use the parchment paper to help you roll tightly and evenly from the long side.
Final Thoughts
These cinnamon roll cookies have become my signature bake for good reason—they combine nostalgic flavors with elegant presentation in a way that delights everyone who tries them. The beautiful swirls make them visually impressive while their familiar flavor offers comfort in every bite. I hope you’ll try them and perhaps start a new tradition in your own kitchen. Don’t forget to share your creations on Pinterest and tag me so I can see your beautiful spirals! These little treasures prove that sometimes the most satisfying treats come in the most perfectly rolled packages.