Name: Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-486087H48M19S
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Softened unsalted butter; Brown sugar; All-purpose flour; Ground cinnamon; Pinch of salt; Unsalted butter; Granulated sugar; Eggs; Vanilla extract; All-purpose flour; Baking powder; Salt

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I adore how these cookies combine the best aspects of cinnamon rolls and sugar cookies. The rich cinnamon flavor paired with the soft, chewy texture creates a treat that’s both nostalgic and satisfying. Plus, the recipe uses simple pantry staples, making it easy to whip up whenever the craving strikes.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Unsalted butter
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Ground cinnamon

Directions

Prepare the cinnamon filling: I mix softened butter, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until combined. Then, I place this mixture in the freezer for several minutes to firm up.
Make the sugar cookie dough: In a separate bowl, I cream together butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. I add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well. Then, I incorporate the flour, baking powder, and salt until a soft dough forms.
Assemble the dough: I divide the cookie dough in half. I press one half into the bottom of the mixing bowl, then scatter small pieces of the chilled cinnamon mixture over it. I layer the remaining dough on top and add the rest of the cinnamon pieces.
Swirl the dough: Using a rubber spatula, I gently fold the dough a couple of times to create swirls of cinnamon throughout, being careful not to overmix.
Scoop and chill: I scoop the dough into 2-tablespoon portions and place them on a plate. I freeze the dough balls for 10 minutes to prevent excessive spreading during baking.
Bake: I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. I place the chilled dough balls on the sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set and the centers look slightly underbaked.
Shape the cookies: Immediately after removing the cookies from the oven, I use a round cookie cutter or the rim of a glass to gently reshape any misshapen cookies, ensuring a uniform appearance.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies. The total time required is about 45 minutes, including preparation, chilling, and baking.

Variations

Glaze: I sometimes drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk over the cooled cookies for added sweetness.
Nuts: For a crunchy texture, I add finely chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon filling.
Spices: I occasionally enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon mixture.

Storage/Reheating

I store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, I freeze them in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe bag, where they keep well for up to 2 months. To enjoy, I thaw them at room temperature or warm them briefly in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. I let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly before scooping and baking.

Do I need to chill the dough before baking?

Chilling the dough helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much and maintains their shape. I recommend freezing the scooped dough balls for 10 minutes prior to baking.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While margarine can be used, I find that butter provides a richer flavor and better texture in these cookies.

How do I prevent the cookies from becoming too hard?

I ensure not to overbake the cookies; I remove them from the oven when the centers still look slightly underbaked. They continue to set as they cool, resulting in a soft, chewy texture.

Can I add raisins or other fillings?

Absolutely! I sometimes add raisins or mini chocolate chips to the cinnamon filling for extra flavor and texture.

Conclusion

These Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls with the ease of a cookie. With their soft, chewy texture and swirls of cinnamon sugar, they’re perfect for any occasion. I enjoy making them for gatherings, holidays, or simply as a sweet indulgence to brighten my day.