Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies

These Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies combine the best of two worlds: the buttery sweetness of cookies and the warm spiciness of cinnamon rolls. Perfectly swirled with a cinnamon-brown sugar center, these cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Warm and Comforting: Filled with cozy cinnamon and brown sugar, these cookies taste just like a cinnamon roll in cookie form.
• Simple to Make: With basic ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these cookies easily.
• Perfect for Sharing: Great for cookie exchanges, holidays, or just sharing with friends and family.
• Customizable: Add a drizzle of icing or use different spices for a personal twist.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Filling

• 6 tablespoons butter, softened
• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 ½ tablespoons cinnamon

For the Cookie Dough

• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup butter, softened
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 ⅔ cups granulated sugar
• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
• 1 ½ teaspoons cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ¾ teaspoon salt

Optional Topping

• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 1 ½ tablespoons ground cinnamon

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling

1. Beat 6 tablespoons of softened butter until creamy. Add brown sugar and cinnamon, mixing until smooth.
2. Roll the filling mixture into marble-sized balls and place them on a lined baking sheet.
3. Freeze for 20 minutes or refrigerate for 1–2 hours until firm.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. In a large bowl, beat 1 cup of softened butter until smooth. Add sugar and beat until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the eggs and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Gradually add the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. Mix gently, being careful not to over-mix.

Step 3: Incorporate the Cinnamon Filling

1. Fold in the frozen cinnamon filling balls with a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Shape and Bake

1. Form the dough into 2-inch balls. Roll each ball in the optional cinnamon-sugar mixture for added flavor.
2. Place the cookies on prepared baking sheets, leaving 2 inches of space between each one.
3. Bake for 11–12 minutes. The edges should be firm but not golden, and the tops should appear matte.
4. Immediately after baking, use spoons to reshape the cookies if needed.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Enjoy your warm, cinnamon-filled cookies!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 30 cookies
• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 11 minutes
• Total Time: 36 minutes

Variations

• Icing Drizzle: Add a glaze made with powdered sugar and milk for a true cinnamon roll experience.
• Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon filling for added crunch.
• Pumpkin Spice: Replace some of the cinnamon with pumpkin spice for a fall-inspired twist.
• Mini Cookies: Make smaller cookies for bite-sized treats; adjust the baking time accordingly.

Storage

• At Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. What is cream of tartar, and can I omit it?

Cream of tartar helps give the cookies a chewy texture. If omitted, the texture may differ slightly.

3. Can I use pre-made cookie dough?

Pre-made dough works, but the flavor and texture may not match homemade dough.

4. How do I ensure the filling doesn’t melt out?

Ensure the filling balls are well-frozen before incorporating them into the dough.

5. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, this recipe doubles easily for larger batches.

6. What type of cinnamon works best?

Ground Saigon or Ceylon cinnamon provides the best flavor for baking.

7. How can I make the cookies softer?

Do not overbake, and store them with a slice of bread in the container to retain moisture.

8. Are these cookies freezer-friendly?

Yes, freeze baked cookies or cookie dough balls for up to 3 months.

9. Can I add chocolate chips?

Sure! Adding white or dark chocolate chips can create a unique flavor combination.

10. Do I need to chill the dough?

Chilling is optional but can help prevent spreading if the dough is too soft.

Conclusion

Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies are the perfect treat for any cinnamon lover. With their buttery dough and sweet, spiced filling, they deliver all the comfort of a cinnamon roll in a bite-sized cookie. Great for holidays, parties, or a cozy day at home, these cookies are sure to impress!

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