Delightful Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract for glaze

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  2. In a separate bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar together until creamy. Add the egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and continue to beat until well combined.
  3. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture and stir until a dough forms.
  4. Roll out the dough into a rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
  5. In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon and brown sugar. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the rolled out dough.
  6. Tightly roll the dough into a log, starting from the long side. Wrap the log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
  7. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  8. Unwrap the dough log and cut it into 1/4 inch thick slices. Place the slices on the prepared baking sheet.
  9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
  10. While the cookies are cooling, make the glaze by mixing together the powdered sugar, milk, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth.
  11. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies. Allow the glaze to set before serving.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Replace the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
  • Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the cinnamon and brown sugar mixture for added crunch.
  • Add 1/2 cup of raisins or dried cranberries to the dough for a fruity twist.
  • Swap the vanilla extract with almond extract for a different flavor profile.
  • Add a cream cheese filling by spreading a thin layer of softened cream cheese over the dough before rolling it into a log.
  • Sprinkle a handful of chocolate chips over the cinnamon and brown sugar mixture for a chocolatey twist.
  • For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
  • Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon and brown sugar mixture for enhanced flavor.
  • Replace the milk in the glaze with orange juice for a citrusy touch.
  • For a vegan option, substitute the butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based milk in the glaze.

Recipe overview

Indulge your sweet tooth with our delightful Cinnamon Roll Cookies! These treats combine the comfort of a warm cinnamon roll with the convenience of a cookie. The process is simple and fun, making it a perfect baking project for any level of experience. You'll start by creating a rich, buttery dough, which will be spread with a sweet cinnamon and brown sugar filling. The dough is then rolled, chilled, and sliced into individual cookies. Each cookie bakes to a perfect golden brown, filling your home with a wonderful aroma reminiscent of a cozy bakery. But the fun doesn't stop there! Once cooled, each cookie is drizzled with a sweet vanilla glaze, adding another layer of flavor and a beautiful finish. The end result is a batch of cookies that are not only visually appealing, but also bursting with sweet and spicy flavors. Whether you're looking for a new addition to your holiday cookie lineup or just wanting to try a fun twist on a classic treat, our Cinnamon Roll Cookies won't disappoint. Happy baking!

Common questions

  1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter? Yes, you can use salted butter instead of unsalted butter. However, it is recommended to use unsalted butter to have better control over the saltiness of the cookies.
  2. Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour? Yes, you can substitute all or a portion of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Keep in mind that the texture and taste of the cookies may slightly differ.
  3. Can I make the dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight? Yes, you can make the dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. You may need to let it soften slightly at room temperature before slicing and baking.
  4. Can I freeze the baked cookies? Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies. Once they are fully cooled, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
  5. Can I add nuts or raisins to the cinnamon roll cookies? Yes, you can add nuts or raisins to the cinnamon roll cookies if desired. Simply mix them with the cinnamon and brown sugar mixture before sprinkling it over the dough.
  6. Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe if you want to make a larger batch of cookies. Just make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly and use a larger baking sheet or bake in batches if needed.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing bowls - Use multiple mixing bowls to separate ingredients and mix the dough.
  • Whisk - Use a whisk to combine the dry ingredients and to mix the glaze.
  • Measuring cups and spoons - Use these to accurately measure the ingredients for the recipe.
  • Rolling pin - Use a rolling pin to roll out the dough into a rectangle.
  • Plastic wrap - Wrap the dough log in plastic wrap before chilling it in the refrigerator.
  • Baking sheet - Use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to bake the cookies.
  • Cooling rack - Use a cooling rack to cool the cookies before adding the glaze.
  • Spatula - Use a spatula to transfer the cookies from the baking sheet to the cooling rack.
  • Piping bag or Ziploc bag - Use a piping bag or a Ziploc bag with the corner snipped off to drizzle the glaze over the cookies.

Origin stories

Cinnamon roll cookies, while not having a definitive origin story, wonderfully blend the traditions of two beloved baked goods: the cinnamon roll and the sugar cookie. Originating from the Swedish kanelbulle, cinnamon rolls found their way into the hearts and households of Americans during the 18th century through waves of Swedish immigrants. Meanwhile, sugar cookies, an essential part of American baking, trace back to the 1700s Pennsylvania Dutch. These cookies are a testament to the blending traditions, cultures, and flavors, and they represent the best of both worlds. So when you bake a batch of these delightful treats, relish the fact that you are in essence, indulging in a delicious part of culinary history.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.