Cinnamon Roll Cookies: A Family Favorite
Hello there, fellow comfort seekers! Isn’t it amazing how food can bring us right back to those warm, fuzzy feelings? I’m so excited to share one of my family’s absolute favorites: Cinnamon Roll Cookies. These little bites of heaven combine the irresistible cinnamon roll flavor with the ease of a cookie.
I first started making these Cinnamon Roll Cookies during a particularly hectic holiday season. The pressure was on to bake all the traditional treats, but I was craving something simpler. I wanted all the comfort of cinnamon rolls, but without the fuss of yeast and rising times. Plus, who doesn’t love cookies?
My kids went absolutely wild for them. It was a dinnertime win. The sweet cinnamon swirl and the creamy frosting made them an instant hit. Now, whenever I need a quick pick-me-up or a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, Cinnamon Roll Cookies are my go-to.
They bring that cozy cinnamon roll flavor in such an accessible way. This Cinnamon Roll Cookies recipe has become a cherished part of our family’s cozy chaos. For similar flavor profiles, you could also try Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies | Dessert Now Dinner Later.
I’m all about simple comfort food that brings families together without stressing out the cook. If you’re a busy mom looking for a sweet treat that’s easy to make and even easier to love, then you’ve come to the right place. Let’s dive into this sanity-saving, simple twist on Cinnamon Roll Cookies!
INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:
Trust me, this Cinnamon Roll Cookies ingredient list is simple because busy moms need comfort without complexity! You can find these simple ingredients at your regular grocery store. Plus, this Cinnamon Roll Cookies proves delicious doesn’t mean expensive…

- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: Gives our cookies that rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Sweetness is a must for a comforting treat!
- 2 large eggs: Binds everything together and adds richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a touch of warmth and enhances the other flavors.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the base of our cookies. No worries if you don’t have all-purpose flour – I use gluten-free flour for extra comfort in my Cinnamon Roll Cookies.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and become nice and fluffy.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- ½ cup packed brown sugar: Adds a molasses-like flavor that’s perfect for cinnamon rolls. My family gets extra comfort when I add a tablespoon of molasses for extra depth.
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon: The star of the show!
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened: Adds a tangy, creamy base to the frosting.
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened: Makes the frosting smooth and spreadable.
- 2-3 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting to the perfect consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the frosting.
Here’s a Cinnamon Roll Cookies comfort hack that changed our family’s dessert time: I sometimes add a pinch of nutmeg to the dough. It adds a warm, cozy flavor that complements the cinnamon perfectly. I also use store bought frosting if I’m in a pinch!
Let’s get baking!
Let’s Make it Happen!
Here are the step-by-step directions on how to create these delicious Cinnamon Roll Cookies.
- Cream Together: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. In my busy kitchen, this comforting Cinnamon Roll Cookies usually takes me about 15 minutes to prep, not including baking time.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the baking soda and salt are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Gradually Add to Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough.
- Prepare Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon. This is going to create that amazing cinnamon roll flavor. While your Cinnamon Roll Cookies dough is resting, take a moment to appreciate creating comfort for your family!
- Roll Out the Dough: Divide the dough in half. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one half of the dough into a rectangle about 12×8 inches.
- Spread Cinnamon Mixture: Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough.
- Roll Up and Slice: Starting from one of the long edges, roll the dough up tightly into a log. Slice the log into ½-inch thick rounds.
- Repeat: Repeat steps 6-8 with the remaining dough and cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Bake: Place the Cinnamon Roll Cookies rounds onto ungreased baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Your Cinnamon Roll Cookies should smell amazing by now! Perfect time to prep tomorrow’s lunch!
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Frosting: While the cookies are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually beat in the powdered sugar until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. Stir in the vanilla extract. Don’t worry if your Cinnamon Roll Cookies look slightly imperfect – homemade is best!
- Frost: Once the cookies are completely cool, frost them generously with the cream cheese frosting. Here’s where I used to struggle with my Cinnamon Roll Cookies – I often frosted them while they were still warm, and the frosting would melt. Learn from my experience!
This comforting Cinnamon Roll Cookies recipe reminds me of another family favorite, Cinnamon Roll Protein Crepes!
How We Love to Eat This!
These Cinnamon Roll Cookies are so versatile. My kids devour this comforting Cinnamon Roll Cookies when I serve it with a glass of cold milk. It’s the perfect after-school snack.
We also love to enjoy these Cinnamon Roll Cookies during our weekend brunch. They pair perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea. For a fun twist, try crumbling them over vanilla ice cream! It adds a delicious cinnamon swirl cookies crunch.
This Cinnamon Roll Cookies is perfect for those busy weeknights when we need comfort food fast! I usually make a double batch on the weekend so we have some on hand for the week. For another twist on the classics, try these Frosted Cinnamon Roll Cookies
For a festive touch, I sometimes add sprinkles to the frosting, especially during the holidays. It makes them even more appealing to the kids. Try using seasonal sprinkles to match the occasion.
Leftover Cinnamon Roll Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They are usually gone way before then in my house! You can also freeze them for longer storage.
My neighbor tried these Cinnamon Roll Cookies last week and said they were the best cookies she had ever tasted. That was a dinnertime win! She even asked for the recipe. I served this Cinnamon Roll Cookies with a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
I know you have questions about this Cinnamon Roll Cookies recipe, so let’s tackle some common concerns! Here are some questions I have been asked over time, and I’m here to help!
- Is this Cinnamon Roll Cookies really filling enough for growing kids?
Yes! These Cinnamon Roll Cookies are surprisingly satisfying. The dough is rich and the frosting adds extra sweetness and creaminess. I often serve them with a side of fruit to make it a more complete snack.
- What if my picky eater won’t try this Cinnamon Roll Cookies?
Ah, the picky eater challenge! I get it. Sometimes, I’ll make a smaller batch without the frosting to see if they prefer that. You can also try cutting the cookies into fun shapes to make them more appealing.
- Can I meal prep this Cinnamon Roll Cookies for busy weeks ahead?
Absolutely! You can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. You can also bake the cookies and freeze them. When you’re ready to serve, just thaw and frost.
- Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can! I often use gluten-free all-purpose flour with great results. Just be sure to follow the package instructions for any adjustments needed.
- What if I don’t have cream cheese for the frosting?
No problem! You can use a simple buttercream frosting instead. Just cream together softened butter and powdered sugar, then add a splash of vanilla extract.
- Can I add nuts to the dough?
Definitely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would add a nice crunch and nutty flavor to these Cinnamon Roll Cookies. Just add about ½ cup to the dough before rolling it out.
- How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking?
Make sure your butter is not too soft. It should be softened but still slightly firm. Also, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before rolling it out can help prevent spreading. For more simple comfort food ideas for busy families, check out Halloween Crinkle Cookies!
Final Thoughts:
These Cinnamon Roll Cookies are more than just a recipe; they’re a way to bring a little bit of comfort and joy into your family’s life. It brings family comfort without the chaos! They are a perfect dessert to serve and share. If you are looking for inspiration check out Cinnamon Roll Cookies – A baJillian Recipes.
My Cinnamon Roll Cookies Comfort Hacks
- Use store-bought frosting: I always keep a tub of cream cheese frosting on hand for quick and easy frosting.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg: It adds a warm, cozy flavor that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
- Freeze the dough: Make a double batch and freeze half for later.
Here are a few family-tested variations that you might enjoy:
- Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Add chocolate chips to the dough for a chocolatey twist.
- Apple Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Add diced apples to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a fall-inspired treat.
- Lemon Glazed Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Skip the cream cheese frosting and top with a simple lemon glaze.
My daughter loves the chocolate chip version, while my son prefers the classic with extra frosting. Experiment and find what your family loves best! You can even create your own Cinnamon Sugar Cookies bar!
I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your family as it has to mine. Remember, cooking is about creating memories and sharing love through food. Embrace the cozy chaos and make these Cinnamon Roll Cookies your own.

You and your family are going to love these easy to make cinnamon swirl cookies. I’m confident that you’ve got this! You’re not just making cookies; you’re creating a moment of connection and comfort for your loved ones. Enjoy the process and savor every bite of these satisfying Cinnamon Roll Cookies! If your kids love this hearty recipe, they’ll go crazy for Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies! Plus, these are perfect for easy snacks!
Cinnamon Roll Cookies
These Cinnamon Roll Cookies capture the irresistible flavor of cinnamon rolls in a convenient, bite-sized treat. Soft, chewy, and coated in a sweet glaze, they’re perfect for a quick dessert or brunch.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for cinnamon mixture)
- For the Glaze:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 3-4 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Make the Cinnamon Filling: In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar.
- Assemble the Cookies: Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Press your thumb into the center of each cookie to create a well. Fill each well with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Make the Glaze: While the cookies are baking, whisk together the melted butter, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk if needed to reach desired consistency.
- Glaze and Serve: Let the cookies cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies. Serve immediately.
Notes
For an extra touch, add a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon-sugar mixture. You can also add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling.

