Have you ever craved the warm, comforting essence of cinnamon rolls but found yourself short on time? Cinnamon Roll Cookies are the delightful solution! These treats capture the familiar spiral goodness of traditional cinnamon rolls, but they’re transformed into convenient, bite-sized cookies. Perfect for a cozy weekend brunch or a sweet afternoon snack, these cookies are a fun and simple way to indulge your sweet tooth.
Why you’ll love this dish
These Cinnamon Roll Cookies marry the best parts of two beloved treats—the tender, buttery cookie paired with a gooey cinnamon filling. They’re quick to prepare, making them an excellent choice for busy bakers who still want to whip up something special. Whether you’re impressing guests at a gathering or treating yourself at home, these cookies are sure to delight everyone. Plus, they’re kid-approved, making them a perfect baking project to enjoy with your little ones!
“These cookies remind me of cozy Sunday mornings at my grandmother’s house. They are heavenly and disappear quickly!” – A satisfied baker
The cooking process explained
Making Cinnamon Roll Cookies is a straightforward and enjoyable process. The combination of soft dough and a rich cinnamon filling creates layers of flavor that are simply irresistible. Here’s how the magic happens: you’ll start by preparing the dough, blending in the essential flavors, rolling it out with the filling, and slicing into rounds before baking. In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a batch of delightful cookies to share!
What you’ll need
For this recipe, gather the following 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
These common pantry staples blend perfectly to create a flavor that pairs beautifully with coffee or tea.
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Prepare the filling by combining brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
- On a piece of parchment paper, spread half of the dough, sprinkle the cinnamon filling evenly over it, and roll it up tightly into a log.
- Slice into rounds and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cookies are golden brown.

Best ways to enjoy it
These Cinnamon Roll Cookies are delightful on their own, but they can be elevated even further. Consider drizzling a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the top for added sweetness. They pair wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee or chai tea, making them a perfect treat for breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up. For a festive touch, serve them with fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your Cinnamon Roll Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them later, they can be frozen for up to three months. Just be sure to place them in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. To revive their texture, simply reheat them in the oven for a few minutes or pop them in the microwave for a quick warm-up.
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing—this ensures a smooth and creamy dough.
- If the dough feels sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes before rolling it out.
- Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips to the filling for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Creative twists
Cinnamon Roll Cookies are incredibly versatile! Consider adding a healthy twist by using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. You can also experiment with the filling by including nuts, chocolate, or even a touch of cream cheese for a richer flavor. Try adding a sprinkle of pumpkin spice for a seasonal spin or use different extracts, such as almond or maple, to change the flavor profile.
Your questions answered
What is the prep time for Cinnamon Roll Cookies?
- It takes about 15 minutes to prepare the dough and filling. Baking adds another 10-12 minutes.
Can I substitute the butter?
- Yes! You can use margarine or a dairy-free butter alternative if needed.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
- They should be golden brown on the edges and slightly soft in the center.
Can I freeze these cookies?
- Absolutely! They freeze well for up to three months, making them a great make-ahead snack.
With these delicious Cinnamon Roll Cookies, you can enjoy the warmth and flavor of cinnamon rolls without all the fuss. Perfect for any occasion, they’re quick to make and even quicker to disappear!
Print
Cinnamon Roll Cookies
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful bite-sized cookies that capture the warm essence of cinnamon rolls, perfect for brunch or an afternoon snack.
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
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until creamy and smooth.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Prepare the filling by combining brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
- On a piece of parchment paper, spread half of the dough, sprinkle the cinnamon filling evenly over it, and roll it up tightly into a log.
- Slice into rounds and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cookies are golden brown.
Notes
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American