Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Picture this: the warm aroma of cinnamon swirling through your kitchen while the soft, buttery scent of fresh-baked cookies teases your senses. That’s the magic of cinnamon roll cookies, a delightful treat that combines the nostalgia of cinnamon rolls with the convenient charm of cookies. I came up with this recipe after countless mornings spent deciding between bites of soft cinnamon rolls and warm, gooey cookies. Why not have both? Whipped up in no time, these cookies are bound to become a treasured recipe in your house, just as they are in mine.

The ingredients create a symphony of flavors and textures—imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie with a swirl of sweet filling, reminiscent of a bakery delight. Whether you’re cozying up with a cup of coffee or sharing them with loved ones during the holidays, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Plus, they’re shockingly easy to whip up, making them an excellent choice for both baking novices and seasoned pros. Let’s dive in and discover why you’ll be falling in love with these cookies!

What makes this recipe special

This recipe is a game-changer for anyone who adores cinnamon rolls but may not have the time or patience for yeast and lengthy proofing. These cookies deliver all the comforting flavors without the fuss quite literally rolled into one! With a simple dough that comes together quickly and a filling that brings that cinnamon roll essence straight to your palate, you can enjoy the best of both worlds in less than 30 minutes of hands-on time.

And here’s a bonus: they’re visually stunning, boasting lovely cinnamon swirls peeking out from the edges. They don’t just taste great; they look festive, making them perfect for gatherings or just a fun snack on a rainy afternoon. They’ll have both kids and adults reaching for more—trust me!

Ingredients overview

Ready to get baking? Gather these essential ingredients, and let’s embark on a delicious journey!

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your cookies, providing structure. For a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• 1 tsp baking powder: This little powerhouse helps our cookies rise and become deliciously fluffy. Don’t swap it for baking soda here; we need that light texture!
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon: The essence of these cookies! Freshly grated cinnamon (if you can find it) adds an extra depth of flavor.
• ½ tsp salt: A trusty friend to enhance all the sweetness and flavors in this cookie. It’s an unsung hero you wouldn’t want to skip!
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides a rich, tender base for your cookies. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• ½ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that lovely, tender cause. White sugar is best, but you could swap half for brown sugar for extra moisture.
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed: Brings depth and a hint of caramel flavor—essential for that warm cinnamon roll vibe!
• 1 large egg: Acts as a binder, making everything come together beautifully. In a vegan version, you could use a flax egg as a substitute.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract: Provides a warm, inviting aroma that enhances the sweetness of the cookie. Go for pure vanilla for a richer flavor!
• For the filling:
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed: This is what gives that beautiful swirl in the cookie.
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon: Because more cinnamon is always better!

Preparing Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Alright, let’s get to the heart of the matter: making these delightful cookies! Here’s how to create your very own batch of cinnamon roll cookies:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, gather your baking sheets—don’t forget that parchment paper for easy clean-up!
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This is the dry team, and they should mingle well before meeting the wet team.
3. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until it’s light and fluffy. You want it to look like whipped clouds—trust me, it makes all the difference!
4. Now, beat in that egg and vanilla extract until everything is combined and happy. Just like a good friendship, it’s all about harmony!
5. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Don’t overmix; we want our cookies to be tender, not tough!
6. In a small bowl, combine your brown sugar and cinnamon—this is your filling! It’s like creating a secret potion, and it’s going to be fabulous.
7. Now, take half of the dough and spread it onto a sheet of parchment paper. Sprinkle that sweet filling evenly on top, and roll it up tightly like a little cinnamon scroll.
8. Slice your roll into 1/2 inch thick rounds—these are going to be your cookies! Place them onto a baking sheet lined with parchment, leaving some space between them.
9. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. You’ll know they’re done when they fill your kitchen with heavenly smells!
10. Let them cool on the pan for a few minutes before gently transferring them to a wire rack. Patience, my friend!

Best way to enjoy it

These cinnamon roll cookies shine in so many ways! They’re wonderful on their own, but if you’re feeling indulgent, consider a drizzle of icing on top. A simple mix of powdered sugar, a splash of vanilla, and a drop of milk can elevate the experience to a next-level delight.

Pair them with a warm beverage—a steaming cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or even chai tea; it’s like snuggling into a cozy blanket. You could even serve them at brunch or with afternoon tea to impress your guests!

Storing your cookies

Now, if you have any leftovers (which is rare, I assure you), these cookies keep surprisingly well! To store them, simply place them in an airtight container for up to a week. If you wish to keep them longer, you’ve got options! Lay them in a single layer between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to a month. When you crave a sweet treat, just pop them in the oven for a few minutes to warm them back up. No one will know they were ever in the freezer!

Helpful cooking tips

Want to make your cinnamon roll cookies even better? Here are some insider tips:

• When creaming the butter and sugars, let your butter soften at room temperature for the best texture—about 30 minutes should do.
• If you want to take it up a notch, consider adding chopped nuts or raisins to the filling for more texture and flavor!
• Try experimenting with spices—nutmeg or even a pinch of cardamom will add an interesting twist.
• Measure your flour by spooning it into the cup and leveling it off. You’ll thank yourself later as it prevents dense cookies!

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are some delightful variations you can try:

• Add a glaze: Mix powdered sugar and a bit of milk or cream for a sweet topping.
• Nutty goodness: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for an extra crunch!
• Choco-twist: Drizzle melted chocolate on top or fold in chocolate chips into the dough for a chocolate-cinnamon fusion.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• For the filling:
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon

Directions to follow

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
3. In another bowl, cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until combined.
5. Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
6. In a small bowl, combine the filling ingredients: brown sugar and cinnamon.
7. Spread half the dough onto parchment paper, sprinkle filling over it, and roll up tightly.
8. Slice into rounds about 1/2 inch thick and place on a lined baking sheet.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
10. Let cool on the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Your questions answered

• Can I use whole wheat flour? Sure! Just be aware that it may change the texture a bit, and you might need to add a touch more moisture.
• Can these cookies be frozen? Yes! Just store them in an airtight container with parchment between layers.
• What’s the best way to reheat these cookies? Warm them in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F, and they’ll be just like fresh!
• Can I replace the egg? Absolutely! A flax egg works well if you’re going for vegan.
• How can I make these gluten-free? Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend, and you’ll still enjoy a yummy cookie!

With each bite of these cinnamon roll cookies, you’ll be treated to chewy goodness infused with nostalgic flavors that make you feel right at home. I encourage you to immerse yourself in the process, play with the ingredients, and enjoy the lovely scent wafting through your kitchen. It’s about creating memories as much as it is about baking. So, let your creativity flow, share your variations in the comments, and, most importantly, savor every bite of this delightful treat!

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