Are you ready to indulge in a sweet treat that’s both fun to make and eat? My Cinnamon Roll Cookies are an easy twist on a classic favorite. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you’ll create warm, gooey cookies that burst with cinnamon flavor. Follow my easy recipe, and I promise your kitchen will smell heavenly. Dive in now, and let’s turn your afternoon into a delightful baking adventure!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The combination of cinnamon and cookie dough creates a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll.
- Easy to Make: This recipe simplifies the process of making cinnamon rolls into a quick and fun cookie form.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies are great for holiday gatherings, parties, or just a cozy afternoon treat.
- Customizable: You can easily add nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup powdered sugar (for drizzling)
- 2 tablespoons milk (for drizzling)
To make these cinnamon roll cookies, you need a simple list of ingredients. Start with 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour for the base. The flour gives the cookies structure. You will also need 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. These help the cookies rise and balance the sweetness.
Next, grab 1 cup of unsalted butter. It must be softened for easy mixing. You will need both 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 cup of packed brown sugar. The granulated sugar makes the cookies sweet and light, while brown sugar adds moisture and flavor.
You will also use 2 large eggs for binding and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract for a rich taste. To give it that classic cinnamon roll flavor, be sure to have 3 tablespoons of ground cinnamon. Lastly, for the icing, you will need ¼ cup of powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of milk. These ingredients make a smooth drizzle that will top your cookies.
With these ingredients ready, you will create delicious cinnamon roll cookies that everyone will love!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Overview
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This helps keep cookies from sticking.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine 2 ½ cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients well, then set them aside.
Creaming Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 cup of packed brown sugar. Mix until the mixture is creamy and light. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
Incorporating Eggs and Vanilla
Add 2 large eggs one at a time. Mix well after each addition. Then, stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. This gives the cookies a nice flavor.
Combining Mixtures
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Creating Cinnamon Paste
In a small bowl, mix 3 tablespoons of ground cinnamon with a tablespoon of the dough. This creates a cinnamon-filled paste. Separate the cookie dough into two equal parts. Mix the paste into one part of the dough until evenly combined.
Forming Cookies
Take a tablespoon of each dough, plain and cinnamon. Roll them together to form a round ball. Place these dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between them.
Baking Process
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. The edges should be lightly golden while the centers stay soft. They will firm up as they cool.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Cookie Texture
To get the best cookie texture, make sure your butter is softened, not melted. Softened butter mixes well with sugar to create a fluffy base. If the butter is too warm, the cookies will spread too much. Always take the butter out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you start.
Avoiding Overmixing
Mix the dough until just combined. Overmixing can make your cookies tough. A soft, tender cookie comes from gentle mixing. Once you add the dry ingredients, stop mixing as soon as you no longer see flour. This simple step is key for a perfect cookie.
Cooling Techniques
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes. This helps them set up and become easier to move. If you transfer them too soon, they might break apart. After a brief cooling, move them to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows air to circulate and keeps them soft.
Pro Tips
- Chill the Dough: For a firmer dough that’s easier to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before shaping the cookies.
- Use Fresh Cinnamon: Ensure your ground cinnamon is fresh for the best flavor. Old spices can lose potency and affect the taste of your cookies.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking; they should be lightly golden around the edges and soft in the center for the perfect texture.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and freeze it. Just thaw and bake when you’re ready for fresh cookies!

Variations
Adding Nuts or Chocolate
You can make these cookies even better! Just add chopped nuts or chocolate chips. Walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch. Chocolate chips give a sweet surprise. Mix in about a cup of your choice into the dough. This makes each bite extra special.
Different Glaze Options
The glaze doesn't have to be just powdered sugar. You can try maple syrup or cream cheese frosting. For a fun twist, blend cocoa powder into the glaze. This adds a rich, chocolatey taste. You can also try lemon juice for a zesty flavor. Choose what you love to make the cookies yours.
Seasonal Flavors
Seasonal flavors can change the game! Add pumpkin spice or nutmeg for a warm taste. You can mix in a teaspoon or two to the dough. This brings out cozy vibes, especially in fall. For winter, a hint of peppermint extract works wonders. Each season brings new tastes to explore!
Storage Info
Best Storage Practices
To keep your cinnamon roll cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps to keep them soft and chewy. Layer parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking. Keep the container in a cool place, away from sunlight. Avoid storing cookies in the fridge, as this can dry them out.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to freeze your cookies, let them cool completely first. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. After that, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. You can freeze them for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Shelf Life
At room temperature, these cookies stay fresh for about five days. After that, they may start to lose their softness. For the best taste, enjoy them within the first few days. If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as a strange smell or mold, discard them right away.
FAQs
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these cookies ahead of time. You can prepare the dough and store it in your fridge for up to three days. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. When you are ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This helps the dough soften. You can also freeze the dough for up to three months. Just cut it into balls before freezing. When you want to bake, let them thaw and bake as normal.
How do I achieve a chewier texture?
To get chewier cookies, try these tips. Use more brown sugar than white sugar. Brown sugar has more moisture. You can also add an extra egg yolk to your dough. This adds fat, making cookies softer. Bake the cookies for a little less time. Check them around 9-10 minutes. They should look soft but not wet. They will firm up while cooling.
What can I use instead of unsalted butter?
If you need a butter substitute, try these options. You can use coconut oil instead of butter. It gives a nice flavor. Unsalted margarine works well too. If you want a dairy-free option, use vegan butter. Applesauce is another choice for a lower-fat option. Just use half the amount of applesauce as the butter in the recipe.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double this recipe easily. Just multiply each ingredient by two. Make sure you have enough space on your baking sheets. You may need to bake in batches. Keep an eye on the baking time. It might take a minute or two longer. Enjoy sharing these cookies with everyone!
This post covered all you need for baking chocolate chip cookies. We went through the main ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for perfecting texture. You also learned variations to make cookies your own, storage methods, and answers to some common questions.
Baking cookies can be fun and rewarding. With these tips, you can enjoy fresh, tasty cookies anytime. Happy bakin