Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe

Previous Next

Cook Time: 10 minutes

These cinnamon roll cookies are irresistible, with soft, sweet sugar cookies featuring a brown sugar-cinnamon swirl and topped with a rich cream cheese icing. Heres how to make these mouth-watering treats from start to finish.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Cookies

For the cookies: butter, white sugar, brown sugar, salt, eggs, vanilla, all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon or apple pie spice.

For the icing: cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and heavy cream.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1

Beat 1 cup of butter in a large bowl using a stand mixer with the paddle attachment on medium-high speed for about 30 seconds.

Step 2

Add 2/3 cup white sugar and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes, scraping the bowl as needed to ensure everything is mixed well.

Step 3

Beat in 1 large egg and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract until fully combined.

Step 4

On low speed, gradually mix in 2 cups of all-purpose flour until the dough comes together.

Step 5

Remove the dough from the mixer and place it onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Shape the dough into a rectangle, wrap it up, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour until firm and easy to handle.

Step 6

Once chilled, generously flour the dough and roll it out into a 12x10-inch rectangle on a floured piece of parchment paper.

Step 7

Brush the dough with a lightly beaten egg to help the sugar mixture stick.

Step 8

Mix 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar with 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (or apple pie spice) and sprinkle it evenly over the rolled-out dough.

Step 9

Carefully roll the dough up, starting from the long edge, to form a tight log.

Step 10

Wrap the rolled dough in plastic wrap and place it on a baking sheet or tray. Freeze for 30 minutes, or until the dough is firm enough to slice easily.

Step 11

Preheat the oven to 375F (190C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 12

Using a thin-bladed, serrated knife, slice the dough into 1/4-inch thick slices.

Step 13

Place the slices 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly browned on the bottoms.

Step 14

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 1 minute before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 15

While the cookies are cooling, prepare the icing. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1 tablespoon of softened butter.

Step 16

Stir in 3/4 cup of powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream, adding more cream as needed to reach a drizzling consistency.

Step 17

Once the cookies are completely cooled, drizzle the cream cheese icing over the top using a spoon or piping bag.

Storage and Freezing Tips

Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight in a single layer in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing: To freeze the cookies, layer unfrosted cookies between waxed paper in a freezer-safe . They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw and drizzle with icing before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving (1 cookie): 109 calories, 6g fat, 13g carbs, 1g protein.

Description: These cinnamon roll cookies are reminiscent of a classic cinnamon roll with cream cheese icing - irresistable!

History and Origin

The origins of cinnamon rolls date back to Scandinavia, where they are known as "kanelbullar" in Sweden, a beloved pastry often enjoyed with coffee. This sweet treat spread across Europe and later to America, where it became a classic breakfast item, especially in bakeries. The concept of cinnamon roll cookies emerged as a creative fusion of the traditional cinnamon roll and the convenience of cookies. By combining the warm, spiced filling of a cinnamon roll with the crispy texture of a cookie, these treats became a popular option for those who want the flavor of cinnamon rolls but in a more accessible, bite-sized form.

Regional Features

While cinnamon rolls have European roots, the cinnamon roll cookie is a modern American innovation. It combines the best of both worlds by pairing the soft, doughy texture of cinnamon rolls with the compact and crispy characteristics of cookies. In the U.S., this hybrid has become a favorite treat for holidays and special occasions, often served at brunches or family gatherings. The cookies are typically enjoyed in the Midwest and other regions where cinnamon rolls are a staple breakfast item, though the recipe has quickly spread across the country.

Difference from Similar Dishes

Although cinnamon rolls and cinnamon roll cookies share the same main ingredient, the cinnamon filling, they differ significantly in their preparation and texture. Traditional cinnamon rolls are made by rolling dough into a spiral shape, whereas cinnamon roll cookies involve rolling out dough into a rectangle, sprinkling with cinnamon sugar, and then slicing into individual portions. The result is a cookie with a slightly firmer texture compared to the soft, pillowy nature of a full cinnamon roll. Furthermore, cinnamon roll cookies often come topped with a drizzle of cream cheese icing, giving them an added sweetness that is less common in traditional rolls.

Where Cinnamon Roll Cookies are Usually Served

Cinnamon roll cookies are commonly served as a dessert or treat at brunches, holiday gatherings, and special occasions like Thanksgiving and Christmas. They are often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea. Because of their smaller size, they are easy to serve in large quantities at parties or as a snack to accompany morning beverages. They are also a great option for bake sales or as a homemade gift, as their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for sharing.

Fun Facts About Cinnamon Roll Cookies

• The dough for these cookies can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or even frozen for later use, making them a convenient treat to prepare in advance.
• The cream cheese icing can be flavored with vanilla, almond extract, or even maple syrup for a fun twist on the classic recipe.
• Some bakers like to add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon filling to enhance the flavor and make the cookies even more aromatic.
• These cookies are a hit with both kids and adults, thanks to their sweet, comforting flavor and the familiar taste of cinnamon rolls in a new form.
• For a slightly healthier version, some people use whole wheat flour in the dough or replace part of the butter with applesauce to reduce the fat content.

FAQ about Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe

Comments