Iced Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe

Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe For Soft Baked Treats

Cinnamon roll cookies combine the best of two beloved dessert worlds in one delightful treat.

Soft, swirly, and utterly charming, these cookies capture the essence of classic breakfast pastries with a playful twist.

Sweet aromas will dance through your kitchen, promising pure comfort and joy.

Bakery-style magic happens when traditional cookie shapes meet the beloved spiral design of cinnamon rolls.

Baking enthusiasts and dessert lovers alike will find themselves drawn to this innovative recipe that breaks delicious boundaries.

Craving something simultaneously familiar and surprising? These cookies deliver a perfect blend of nostalgia and excitement that makes every bite memorable.

Your next baking adventure starts right here with pure deliciousness waiting to happen.

What Makes Cinnamon Roll Cookies A Favorite

What Makes Cinnamon Roll Cookies A Favorite
  • Bakery-Style Treat: Transform classic cinnamon rolls into adorable cookies that deliver all the warm, comforting flavors your family craves without the complex rolling and rising process.
  • Simple Crowd-Pleaser: These cookies are perfect for potlucks, school events, or casual gatherings where you need a dessert that looks impressive but doesn’t require professional baking skills.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate, giving you a stress-free option for satisfying sweet cravings whenever the moment strikes.
  • No-Fuss Comfort: With basic pantry ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies bring the cozy, nostalgic taste of cinnamon rolls to your kitchen with minimal effort.

Which Ingredients Do You Need For Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Dough Ingredients:
  • Unsalted Butter (1 cup): The foundation of your soft, tender cookie that brings rich, creamy flavor.
  • Granulated Sugar (3/4 cup): Adds perfect sweetness and helps create a delightful cookie texture.
  • Large Egg (1): Binds everything together and provides structure to your cookies.
  • Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Delivers a warm, comforting background flavor.
  • All-Purpose Flour (2 1/2 cups): Creates the essential base for your cookie dough.
  • Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the other flavors in your cookie.
  • Baking Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Helps your cookies rise and become wonderfully light.
Cinnamon Filling Ingredients:
  • Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons, melted): Helps spread the sweet cinnamon mixture smoothly.
  • Light Brown Sugar (1/3 cup): Provides a rich, caramel-like sweetness to your filling.
  • Ground Cinnamon (1 tablespoon): Delivers that classic, warm cinnamon roll flavor.
Glaze Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese (2 ounces): Creates a tangy, creamy base for your glaze.
  • Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps smooth out the glaze.
  • Powdered Sugar (3/4 cup): Sweetens and thickens your glaze.
  • Vanilla Extract (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle depth of flavor.
  • Milk (12 tablespoons): Helps adjust the glaze to the perfect drizzling consistency.

Required Kitchen Tools Cinnamon Roll Cookies

  • Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: Your best friend for creaming butter and sugar until they’re perfectly light and fluffy.
  • Large Mixing Bowls: Two separate bowls help keep wet and dry ingredients organized during dough preparation.
  • Rolling Pin: Essential for rolling your dough into smooth, even rectangles at 1/4-inch thickness.
  • Sharp Knife or Dental Floss: Perfect for cleanly slicing cookie logs into precise 1/2-inch rounds.
  • Parchment Paper: Creates a nonstick surface that helps cookies bake evenly and prevents sticking.
  • Baking Sheets: Standard size works great for arranging and baking your cookie slices.
  • Cooling Rack: Allows cookies to cool properly without getting soggy on the bottom.
  • Small Bowl: Handy for mixing cinnamon-sugar filling ingredients.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities for consistent results.

Preparing Cinnamon Roll Cookies Step by Step

Preparing Cinnamon Roll Cookies Step by Step
1

Prepare Cookie Dough

Grab your mixer and cream 1 cup softened butter with 3/4 cup granulated sugar until everything looks super fluffy, which takes about 2-3 minutes. Crack in 1 large egg and pour 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, then mix thoroughly. In another bowl, whisk together:

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Slowly blend dry ingredients into wet mixture until a soft dough forms.

2

Chill Dough

Split the dough into two equal portions and shape each into a rectangle. Wrap them separately and park in the refrigerator for 1 hour to firm up.

3

Create Cinnamon Filling

Stir together in a small bowl:

  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
4

Shape Cookie Logs

Roll out each dough rectangle to 1/4-inch thickness. Spread half the cinnamon mixture across each rectangle. Starting from the long side, carefully roll each into a tight log.

5

Slice Cookies

Cut each log into 1/2-inch thick slices using a sharp knife. Arrange slices on parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving small gaps between them.

6

Bake Cookies

Heat the oven to 350F. Bake cookies for 9-11 minutes until edges turn light golden. Let them rest 5 minutes before moving to a cooling rack.

7

Prepare Glaze

Whip together:

  • 2 ounces softened cream cheese
  • 2 tablespoons softened butter
  • 3/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Add milk as needed to reach drizzling consistency. Decorate cooled cookies with glaze and allow to set.

Key Cooking Insights For Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Key Cooking Insights For Cinnamon Roll Cookies
  • Soften butter at room temperature for easy creaming, ensuring a smooth, light cookie texture that melts in your mouth.
  • Refrigerate dough for exactly one hour to prevent spreading and help cookies hold their gorgeous swirled shape during baking.
  • Use a light touch when rolling dough, and dust your surface with flour to prevent sticking and make the process smoother.
  • Use unflavored dental floss for clean, precise cookie cuts that maintain the beautiful cinnamon roll design.
  • Let cookies cool completely before adding glaze, so it sets perfectly without melting or running off the surface.

Flavorful Options For Cinnamon Roll Cookies

  • Gluten-Free Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Swap wheat flour with almond or gluten-free blend, ensuring your cookies stay soft and tender while meeting dietary needs.
  • Dairy-Free Delight: Replace butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free cream cheese alternative for the glaze, keeping the classic cinnamon roll flavor intact.
  • Vegan Cookie Version: Substitute egg with flax egg and use plant-based butter and cream cheese to create a cruelty-free treat that everyone can enjoy.
  • Nutty Cinnamon Cookies: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts inside the filling for extra crunch and a rich, toasted flavor that complements the sweet cinnamon.

How To Share Cinnamon Roll Cookies

  • Serve with Afternoon Tea: Brew a warm cup of Earl Grey or chamomile tea to complement these sweet, spiced cookies. The soft, buttery texture pairs perfectly with a relaxing tea break.
  • Portion Size for Sharing: Cut each cookie into smaller bite-sized pieces for a party platter. These cookies look adorable when arranged on a decorative plate, making them great for gatherings.
  • Storing for Later: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain their delicate texture.
  • Wine Pairing Option: Serve alongside a glass of sweet dessert wine like Riesling or Moscato. The cookie’s cinnamon flavor beautifully matches the wine’s fruity notes.

Best Storage Practices For Cinnamon Roll Cookies

  • Refrigerate the wrapped dough logs in a sealed container for up to 3 days before you plan to bake them, keeping them fresh and ready whenever your cookie craving hits.
  • After completely cooling the baked cookies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 4-5 days, layering with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • Freeze the unglazed baked cookies in a flat, single layer inside a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months – just thaw and add glaze when you want a sweet treat.
  • Transfer the prepared glaze to a sealed container and refrigerate for 3-4 days, bringing it to room temperature before drizzling over your cookies when needed.

Cinnamon Roll Cookies FAQs

FAQ

Why roll the dough from the long side?

Rolling from the long side helps create more compact, tighter rolls that look like miniature cinnamon rolls, giving your cookies that classic swirled appearance.

FAQ

Can cream cheese be replaced in the glaze?

Mascarpone cheese works perfectly as a substitute if cream cheese isn’t available, maintaining a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor.

FAQ

How thin should the dough be rolled?

Aim for a consistent 1/4-inch thickness to ensure even baking and the right balance between cookie and filling in each slice.

FAQ

What if the dough gets too soft while working?

Pop it back in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to firm up, making it easier to handle and roll without sticking.

FAQ

Does dental floss really help when slicing?

Unflavored dental floss cuts through the dough cleanly without squishing the log, creating perfect, neat cookie slices every time.

FAQ

Can these cookies be frozen before baking?

Absolutely! Prepare the logs, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before slicing and baking.

Print
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Iced Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe

Iced Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe


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4.8 from 36 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hours 32-34 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Cinnamon roll cookies blend the best of two beloved treats into one delightful dessert. Swirling sweet cinnamon through buttery cookie dough creates a nostalgic snack perfect for sharing with friends and family.


Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients:

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

Filling Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ⅓ cup light brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Glaze Ingredients:

  • 2 ounces cream cheese
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ¾ cup powdered sugar
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 12 tablespoons milk

Instructions

  1. Grab a mixing bowl and cream 1 cup softened butter with ¾ cup granulated sugar until the mixture becomes airy and pale, about 2 minutes using an electric mixer. Your goal is a fluffy texture.
  2. Crack 1 large egg into the butter mixture and pour in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until completely incorporated.
  3. In a separate bowl, sift 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour with ¼ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon baking powder. Gradually fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a soft dough forms.
  4. Divide the dough into two equal portions. Shape each into a rectangular block, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 hour to firm up.
  5. Melt 2 tablespoons butter and mix with ⅓ cup packed brown sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon in a small bowl to create the filling.
  6. Roll out one dough rectangle to ¼-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface. Spread half the cinnamon mixture evenly across the dough.
  7. Carefully roll the dough from the long side into a tight log. Repeat the process with the second dough portion.
  8. Slice each log into ½-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss.
  9. Arrange cookie rounds on parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them 1 inch apart. Bake at 350°F for 9-11 minutes until edges turn golden.
  10. Remove cookies from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  11. Beat 2 ounces softened cream cheese with 2 tablespoons softened butter and ½ teaspoon vanilla until smooth.
  12. Gradually mix in ¾ cup powdered sugar. Add milk 1 tablespoon at a time until the glaze reaches your desired drizzling consistency.
  13. Once cookies are completely cool, drizzle glaze generously over the tops. Allow glaze to set for 15-20 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Roll the dough between two sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even thickness.
  • Use unflavored dental floss to slice cookies cleanly without squishing the rolled log.
  • Chill the dough thoroughly to prevent spreading and maintain the swirled pattern during baking.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute vegan butter and cream cheese alternatives in the recipe.
  • Prep Time: 1 hour 23 minutes
  • Cook Time: 9-11 minutes
  • Category: Cookies
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 10 g
  • Sodium: 60 mg
  • Fat: 11 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 19 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
Logan Lemaster

Logan Lemaster

Founder & Culinary Innovator

Expertise

Recipe Development and Innovation, Menu Design and Optimization, Fine Dining Techniques, Ingredient Pairing and Flavor Science

Education

Metropolitan Culinary Arts Institute

  • Degree: Associate of Occupational Studies in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Advanced culinary techniques, kitchen management, and diverse cuisine mastery.

Logan’s culinary journey kicked off in his vibrant Chicago family kitchen, where fresh, seasonal ingredients and bold flavors were always front and center.

After graduating from the Metropolitan Culinary Arts Institute in Arlington, Virginia, and honing his skills in renowned restaurants, Logan mastered the art of blending classic techniques with exciting, modern twists.

His kitchen is a dynamic lab for flavor exploration. Through Yum Utopia, Logan aims to empower you to cook with both confidence and creativity, turning simple ingredients into spectacular meals.

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