Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies

Cinnamon roll sugar cookies always make me think of one rainy weekend when I was craving cinnamon rolls but didn’t want to wait for dough to rise so I started playing around in the kitchen and decided to swirl that same cozy cinnamon sugar flavor into a soft sugar cookie then the first batch came out warm and buttery with gooey cinnamon filling so I drizzled a quick glaze on top and took a bite then I danced around my kitchen because they tasted exactly like a mini cinnamon roll in cookie form so I knew right away they would become a favorite in my house.

Now every time I bake these cinnamon roll sugar cookies I feel like I’m bringing that bakery magic into my own home so they’re perfect for holiday cookie trays, brunch spreads, or just as a sweet treat to brighten a chilly afternoon then the soft, chewy sugar cookie base mixed with the cinnamon swirl and finished with that sweet glaze makes each bite feel like a warm hug so they never last long when I share them with friends and family.

Ingredients

• Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
• All-purpose flour – Forms the base structure and keeps the cookies soft yet sturdy.
• Baking powder – Helps the cookies puff up slightly and stay light.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor.
• Unsalted butter – Adds richness and creates that soft, tender crumb.
• Granulated sugar – Sweetens the dough and gives it classic sugar cookie flavor.
• Egg – Binds the dough and keeps it moist.
• Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth to the cookie dough.
• Brown sugar – Sweetens the cinnamon filling and gives it a caramel-like note.
• Cinnamon – Provides that signature cozy, spiced swirl.
• Powdered sugar – Creates the sweet finishing glaze.
• Milk – Helps make the glaze smooth and easy to drizzle.

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls – For combining the dough and the cinnamon filling.
• Electric mixer or hand mixer – To cream the butter and sugar until fluffy.
• Rolling pin – To roll out the dough evenly for swirling.
• Baking sheet – For baking the cookies evenly.
• Parchment paper – Keeps the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Knife – To cut the rolled dough into slices.
• Whisk – To make the glaze smooth.

Instructions

Step 1: Make the dough

I start by creaming the butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy then I beat in the egg and vanilla extract so everything becomes smooth. I whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in another bowl then I slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Prepare the cinnamon filling

I mix brown sugar and cinnamon together in a small bowl so it’s ready to sprinkle over the dough.

Step 3: Roll and fill

I roll out the dough into a rectangle on a lightly floured surface then I sprinkle the cinnamon sugar filling evenly over it so every bite gets that warm flavor.

Step 4: Roll up and slice

I carefully roll the dough up into a log, wrap it in plastic, and chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes so it’s easier to slice. Once chilled I cut the log into slices about 1/2 inch thick.

Step 5: Bake

I arrange the slices on a lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes until the edges are just golden so they stay soft and chewy.

Step 6: Make the glaze

While the cookies cool I whisk together powdered sugar and milk until smooth so it’s ready to drizzle.

Step 7: Glaze and finish

Once the cookies are completely cool I drizzle the glaze over each swirl so it sets into that perfect sweet finish.

Tips

If you want to make them extra festive I sometimes add a dash of nutmeg or cardamom to the filling so it gives a little twist. You can also use cream cheese frosting instead of the glaze for a more classic cinnamon roll flavor. Chilling the dough before slicing is key so the cookies hold their shape beautifully.

Ways to Serve

I love serving these cinnamon roll sugar cookies warm with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy afternoon treat. They’re also fantastic for cookie exchanges, holiday gift boxes, or as a sweet addition to a brunch buffet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make cinnamon roll sugar cookies ahead of time?

Yes! You can chill the rolled dough log for up to two days so just slice and bake when ready.

Can I freeze cinnamon roll sugar cookies?

Absolutely! You can freeze the baked cookies or the sliced raw dough so they’re ready to bake fresh anytime.

Do I have to use a glaze for cinnamon roll sugar cookies?

No! You can skip the glaze or use a different frosting so it depends on your taste and preference.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give these cinnamon roll sugar cookies a try soon! They’re one of my favorite cozy treats, and I’d love to hear how they turn out for you. Share your photos or tag me when you bake them so I can see your beautiful swirls! And don’t forget to save this recipe for your next sweet baking day.

Happy Cooking!

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