If you’ve ever found yourself torn between the buttery softness of a sugar cookie and the cozy, spiced swirl of a cinnamon roll, these Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies are absolutely destined for your baking list. Picture golden, tender cookies with irresistible cinnamon-sugar spirals, finished with a sweet vanilla glaze that’s just the right hint of indulgence. They’re equally perfect for weekend treats, holiday trays, or a thoughtful homemade gift—trust me, you’ll want them in your regular rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s something magical about how a handful of pantry staples come together to create these show-stopping Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies. Each ingredient plays a key role in delivering melt-in-your-mouth texture, classic flavor, and that eye-catching swirl everyone adores.
- Unsalted Butter (1 cup, plus 2 tbsp for filling): Be sure it’s softened—this is what makes your cookies lush and helps the cinnamon-sugar filling meld perfectly into every bite.
- Granulated Sugar (¾ cup): For classic sugar cookie sweetness and that delicate crumb.
- Egg (1 large): Acts as the binder, keeping your cookies soft and giving a slight chewiness.
- Vanilla Extract (1½ tsp total): A touch in both dough and glaze brings warmth and rounds out all the flavors.
- All-Purpose Flour (2½ cups): The sturdy backbone of the dough; measure carefully for the ideal tender bite.
- Baking Powder (½ tsp): Gives just enough lift for a soft, thick cookie.
- Salt (¼ tsp): Balances out the sweetness and amplifies the rich, buttery notes.
- Brown Sugar (⅓ cup, for filling): Paired with cinnamon, it creates that signature spiral and gooey sweet middle.
- Ground Cinnamon (1 tbsp, for filling): Don’t be shy—this is the soul of the swirl.
- Powdered Sugar (1 cup, for glaze): Whisked into a glaze for drizzling drama and a silky finish.
- Milk (1–2 tbsp, for glaze): Adjust for your preferred consistency—from thick ribbons to a gentle drizzle.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies
Step 1: Cream Together Butter and Sugar
Start by beating your softened butter together with the granulated sugar until everything looks light and fluffy. This step creates a dreamy cookie base—don’t rush it! Taking that extra minute for creaming means soft cookies with melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 2: Add Egg and Vanilla
Next, beat in your egg and vanilla extract. The mixture will become extra creamy with a sweet aroma. This combo infuses your Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies with fragrant warmth, adding depth to every bite.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients and Combine
Grab another bowl and whisk together your flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix these dry ingredients into your butter mixture. Soon, you’ll have a soft, pliable dough begging to be rolled out. If it seems a little sticky, a very light dusting of flour will help.
Step 4: Shape and Fill the Dough
Divide the dough in half and sandwich each between two sheets of parchment paper. Roll into neat rectangles about ¼ inch thick—go for even thickness so your spirals look picture-perfect. Now, spread a thin layer of softened butter, sprinkle over the brown sugar and cinnamon combo, and admire how instantly inviting it smells!
Step 5: Roll Up and Chill
This is the fun part—gently roll each rectangle up tightly from the long side, creating those signature spirals. Wrap your logs well in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour. The chilling step guarantees those gorgeous, clean cinnamon swirls and keeps your cookies from spreading in the oven.
Step 6: Slice and Bake
When your dough logs are firm, slice them into ¼-inch rounds and lay them out on parchment-lined baking sheets. Leave a bit of space between each—these beauties puff up just a touch! Bake at 350°F for 10–12 minutes, just until the edges get a trace of golden color. They’ll be soft straight from the oven, so let them finish setting up on a wire rack.
Step 7: Glaze the Cookies
Whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until silky-smooth. Drizzle over the completely cooled cookies for that irresistible bakery-style finish! Let the glaze set, and then you’re ready to experience the magic that is Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies
Garnishes
For a showy finish, a dusting of extra cinnamon, a sprinkle of sparkling sugar, or even chopped toasted pecans makes these Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies look as good as they taste. If you want to get fancy for guests, a streak of white chocolate drizzle never hurts!
Side Dishes
These cookies are a match made in heaven alongside a frothy cappuccino, spicy chai, or a tall glass of cold milk. For a cozy weekend brunch, try tucking them between fresh fruit and a bowl of yogurt.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies in a tall, swirled stack on a pretty cake plate, or wrap sets in clear bags tied with twine for delightful holiday gifts. For parties, nestle them among classic sugar cookies and snickerdoodles for the ultimate treat tray.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any extra cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. Stack with parchment between layers to avoid sticking and keep that beautiful glaze intact.
Freezing
You can freeze both unbaked dough logs and fully baked cookies. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and pop it in a freezer bag or container for up to two months. For baked (and glazed) cookies, lay them in a single layer in an airtight container, alternating with parchment—just thaw at room temperature when a craving hits.
Reheating
If you love a fresh-from-the-oven warmth, give your Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies a few seconds in the microwave or a brief stint in a 300°F oven. The glaze may become slightly glossy, but the nostalgia factor is unbeatable.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Definitely! Prepping the dough in advance and refrigerating (or even freezing) the logs not only saves time, but actually improves the flavor and spiral definition. Just slice and bake when you’re ready for some homemade happiness.
How do I get perfect spirals?
The real trick is rolling your rectangles evenly and chilling thoroughly before slicing. Don’t rush the chill time, and use a sharp knife with a gentle sawing motion for neat, bakery-worthy pinwheels.
Can I make these Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite 1:1 gluten-free blend. Check your blend includes xanthan gum for best results, and your cookies will look and taste just as stunning.
What’s the best way to drizzle the glaze?
Use a fork or a small spoon for thin, rustic lines, or transfer the glaze to a zip-top bag and snip a tiny corner for even, bakery-style stripes. Always glaze when the cookies are completely cool so it sets up nicely.
Can I double the recipe for a big batch?
Yes! This dough doubles beautifully—just divide it into four logs for easier handling. Perfect for cookie exchanges, parties, or simply stocking your freezer for future cookie emergencies.
Final Thoughts
Every bite of Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies combines the best of two iconic favorites—soft, buttery dough, a swirl of brown sugar and cinnamon, and a dreamy vanilla glaze. If you’re looking to add something a little extra-special but truly easy to your baking repertoire, you can’t go wrong with these. Gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and let the sweet, spiced aroma fill your kitchen—you’re going to want to share (or maybe not!).
Print
Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 30 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies are a delightful twist on classic sugar cookies, filled with a sweet cinnamon mixture and topped with a vanilla glaze. Perfect for holiday baking or any time you crave a deliciously spiced treat!
Ingredients
Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
Filling:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tbsp milk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Cookies: In a large bowl, cream together butter and granulated sugar. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract. Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Combine wet and dry ingredients to form a dough. Divide, roll, and chill.
- Filling: Spread butter, sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon over dough. Roll up and chill.
- Baking: Slice dough, bake at 350°F, cool on a rack.
- Glaze: Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Drizzle over cookies.
Notes
- Enhance cinnamon flavor with nutmeg or cloves.
- Cookies freeze well before or after baking.
- Chill dough for clean slices.
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