The cozy aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through the air can transport you to a warm, inviting kitchen. That’s exactly what I experienced when I first made these Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies. This delightful recipe perfectly marries the cherished flavors of classic cinnamon rolls with the soft, sweet comfort of sugar cookies, creating a treat that’s both familiar and extraordinary. With minimal prep time and the ability to win over any crowd, these cookies are my secret weapon for satisfying dessert cravings. They effortlessly offer that melt-in-your-mouth texture that keeps you coming back for more. Curious about how to whisk up a batch of these irresistible delights? Let’s dive into the details!
Why Are Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies So Special?
Irresistible aroma: The rich scent of cinnamon will fill your kitchen, making it feel like a cozy bakery.
Melt-in-your-mouth: These cookies deliver a soft and chewy texture, ensuring every bite is pure bliss.
Easy to make: Perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs, with a simple process that doesn’t require fancy techniques.
Versatile treat: Enjoy them warm with coffee, or use them to create delicious ice cream sandwiches—endless possibilities await! You might also want to try these Cinnamon Roll French delights for a fun breakfast twist.
Delightful for gatherings: Whether it’s a family get-together or a coffee date, these cookies are bound to impress your guests.
Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies Ingredients
• Dive into crafting these delightful cinnamon roll sugar cookies with the following ingredients!
For the Cookie Base
- Unsalted Butter (softened) – Ensures a rich, tender texture; for a dairy-free option, you can use margarine.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and contributes to a wonderfully light texture; best not to substitute for this recipe.
- Brown Sugar (packed) – Elevates moisture and flavor depth; can be substituted with light brown sugar or coconut sugar if needed.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the cookie structure; a gluten-free blend can easily stand in here.
- Egg – Acts as a binder while adding moisture; substitute with flaxseed meal for a vegan alternative.
- Egg Yolk – Enhances the cookie’s tenderness; you can use another whole egg or flaxseed meal for vegan options.
- Vanilla Extract – Complements cinnamon perfectly; consider almond extract for a delightful twist.
For the Cookie Fill
- Baking Powder – Provides necessary leavening; if you have only baking soda, a splash of vinegar can work as a substitute.
- Cornstarch – Softens the cookie’s texture, giving that melt-in-your-mouth feel; arrowroot powder is a great alternative.
- Salt – Vital for boosting the flavors; it’s essential to the recipe.
- Ground Cinnamon – The star spice that infuses warmth and nostalgia; swap for nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a seasonal vibe.
Now that you have gathered your ingredients, get ready to whisk up a batch of cinnamon roll sugar cookies that are sure to be a hit!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by blending 4 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter with 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar in a medium bowl until creamy and smooth. Gradually mix in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to achieve a thick, spreadable consistency. Set this filling aside while you move on to the cookie dough.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Next, beat in 1 egg, 1 additional egg yolk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ensuring they are well incorporated before proceeding to the dry ingredients.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of cornstarch, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this will help keep your cinnamon roll sugar cookies soft and chewy.
Step 4: Roll the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the cookie dough into a rectangle approximately 1/4 inch thick. Use a rolling pin for even thickness and aim for a uniform rectangle so that the filling can be evenly distributed. This step captures the classic cinnamon roll essence in cookie form.
Step 5: Spread Filling and Roll
Evenly spread your prepared cinnamon filling across the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Carefully roll the dough into a log shape, starting from one long side to the other. Once rolled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up the dough.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough chills. Once ready, remove the log from the fridge and slice it into ½-inch rounds. Place the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet with a little space between them. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft.
Step 7: Cool the Cookies
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This resting time is crucial as it helps the cookies firm up a bit while still retaining their chewy texture. Enjoy the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen as your cinnamon roll sugar cookies cool!
Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your cinnamon roll sugar cookies to match your taste preferences!
- Nutmeg or Pumpkin Spice: Swap ground cinnamon for nutmeg or pumpkin spice to bring a seasonal warmth to your cookies. Imagine the cozy aroma enveloping your home as they bake.
- Chocolate Chip Delight: Fold in a cup of chocolate chips into the dough for a sweet and rich twist. The blend of chocolate and cinnamon will surely make your taste buds dance.
- Cream Cheese Glaze: Top your cookies with a luscious cream cheese glaze for a delightful finishing touch that adds creaminess and tang. Drizzle it on while the cookies are warm for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Maple Syrup: Replace granulated sugar with pure maple syrup in the dough for a deeper, more complex sweetness that pairs beautifully with cinnamon. You’ll find the flavors becoming a comforting hug in every bite!
- Oreo Crumble: Crushed oreo bits can be mixed in or used as a topping for an exciting crunch factor. This adds both texture and a little extra chocolatey goodness, perfect for cookie lovers!
- Coconut Sugar: Switch out brown sugar for coconut sugar to give your cookies a unique caramel-like flavor while sticking to a more natural sweetener. You might even discover a new favorite!
- Chili Spice Cookies: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a slight kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies. Exploring this spicy-sweet combination can lead to an unexpected culinary adventure!
Ready for more baking inspiration? Check out these delicious Twix Cookies Chewy or try your hand at some irresistible Oreo Cheesecake Cookies!
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies
-
Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature, not melted, for the perfect texture in your cookies.
-
Don’t Overmix: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix until just combined to keep your cinnamon roll sugar cookies tender and chewy.
-
Center Check: The cookies should look slightly underbaked when you take them out; they’ll firm up as they cool while staying soft in the center.
-
Resting Time: Allow cookies to rest for a few hours after baking to enhance flavor; the magic happens as they cool down.
-
Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the rolled log ensures clean slices and helps maintain their shape while baking. It’s a game-changer!
What to Serve with Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies
Elevate your cookie experience with delightful pairings that will make every bite even more special.
- Freshly Brewed Coffee: A classic companion, its rich flavors perfectly complement the cinnamon, enhancing the warm aromas.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and cool, it creates an irresistible contrast with the warm cookies, making for an indulgent treat.
- Hot Chocolate: Cozy and comforting, this sweet drink wraps you in warmth, complementing the cookies’ soft indulgence beautifully.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of berries and citrus adds a vibrant touch and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
- Milk: Whether whole, almond, or oat milk, the creaminess enriches each bite, making your cookie experience even sweeter.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: Drizzling this tangy-sweet glaze over your cookies elevates them to a whole new level of delight!
- Spiced Chai: With its fragrant spices, chai pairs beautifully with the cinnamon, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
Don’t forget to gather your loved ones around, as these pairings turn your cookie moment into a heartwarming gathering!
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and fresh.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can keep them in the fridge for up to a week; just seal them well to maintain their chewy texture.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked cookie dough logs wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before slicing and baking.
Reheating: Reheat cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm, gooey experience that brings back that melt-in-your-mouth sensation!
Make Ahead Options
These Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by rolling it into a log, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerating. If you’re planning even further ahead, the rolled dough can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before slicing and baking. To maintain their soft texture, ensure the cookies cool completely before storing in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy these delicious cookies, simply slice and bake as instructed, achieving that delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience with minimal effort!
Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my cinnamon is fresh?
To ensure your ground cinnamon is fresh, check for fragrance. If it lacks a strong smell or has lost its aroma, it may be time to replace it. Fresh cinnamon should have a warm, sweet, and spicy scent that can invigorate your baking!
Can I store the cookies in the fridge, and for how long?
Absolutely! You can store the cookies in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure to place them in an airtight container to keep them from drying out and losing their delightful chewy texture.
What’s the best way to freeze these cinnamon roll sugar cookies?
To freeze, roll your cookie dough into logs and wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped logs in a resealable freezer bag and store them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, slice, and bake as directed.
Are these cookies safe for pets?
While these cinnamon roll sugar cookies are delicious for humans, they contain ingredients like butter, sugar, and chocolate which are not suitable for pets. Always keep treats like these out of reach from our furry friends to ensure their safety!
Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies that Melt in Your Mouth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Blend 4 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter with 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar until creamy and smooth. Mix in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
- Cream together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Beat in 1 egg, 1 yolk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla until well incorporated.
- Whisk together 1 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of cornstarch, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture, stirring until combined without overmixing.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread the filling evenly across the rolled-out dough, leaving a border. Roll the dough into a log shape and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the log into ½-inch rounds and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
- Cool cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.