There’s something magical about combining the nostalgic warmth of cinnamon rolls with the buttery sweetness of sugar cookies. These Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies bring the best of both worlds, offering swirls of cinnamon sugar tucked inside soft cookie dough, finished with a delicate drizzle of glaze. Perfect for cozy mornings with coffee, holiday dessert platters, or an afternoon pick-me-up, these cookies strike the perfect balance of indulgent and comforting. They look as good as they taste, making them a showstopper for bake sales, festive gatherings, or simply spoiling yourself at home.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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½ teaspoon salt
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1 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 cup granulated sugar
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1 large egg
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2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Filling:
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
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½ cup light brown sugar, packed
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1 ½ tablespoons ground cinnamon
Glaze:
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1 cup powdered sugar
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2 tablespoons milk
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½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
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In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
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In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix until fully combined.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until dough forms. Divide dough in half, shape into discs, and wrap in plastic. Chill for at least 1 hour.
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Roll out one disc of dough into a rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Brush with melted butter, then sprinkle evenly with brown sugar and cinnamon mixture.
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Carefully roll the dough into a log, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes. Repeat with the second disc.
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
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Slice chilled dough logs into ½-inch slices and place them on prepared baking sheets.
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Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden. Remove and cool on wire racks.
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Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle glaze over cooled cookies before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Chilling Time: 1.5 hours | Baking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
Kcal: 165 kcal | Servings: 24 cookies
The Story Behind Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies
Cinnamon rolls have long been cherished as a comforting breakfast treat, while sugar cookies are one of the most versatile and beloved desserts in the baking world. By combining the two, you get a recipe that feels both nostalgic and new. Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies bring together the cozy flavors of cinnamon and brown sugar swirled into soft, buttery sugar cookie dough. Topped with a delicate glaze, they mimic the classic cinnamon roll while being portable and perfectly portioned like a cookie.
This recipe is inspired by the desire to merge two favorites into one delicious creation. Many bakers love the taste of cinnamon rolls but find the process of making yeast doughs time-consuming. With this cookie version, you can capture that cinnamon roll flavor without the long wait for proofing or rising. It’s a shortcut to comfort that still feels special and indulgent.
Why Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies Stand Out
What makes this recipe exceptional is its ability to balance flavors and textures. The base is a tender sugar cookie dough that is easy to roll out and work with. Once filled with melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon, the cookies bake into beautiful swirls that look just as enticing as they taste. The glaze drizzled over the top adds a sweet finish that ties everything together.
Unlike plain sugar cookies, these offer a burst of warm spice in every bite. Unlike traditional cinnamon rolls, they are faster and easier to make, without compromising on flavor. They are also more versatile because they can be served as a snack, dessert, or festive addition to a holiday cookie tray.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These cookies are the kind of treat that fits seamlessly into many occasions. They can be baked for casual family gatherings, holiday cookie swaps, bake sales, or even as a sweet surprise in a lunchbox. Their swirled appearance makes them visually striking, so they easily stand out on dessert tables.
During the holidays, they bring comfort and nostalgia, reminding everyone of cozy mornings with cinnamon rolls while providing the convenience of a handheld cookie. They also pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or hot cocoa, making them an excellent afternoon treat.
The Health and Comfort Benefits
While these cookies are certainly a sweet indulgence, they offer emotional comfort that goes beyond nutrition. Cinnamon is known for its warming, aromatic properties and has been used for centuries in baking to evoke feelings of coziness and contentment. Brown sugar enhances the depth of flavor, making the cookies taste rich and satisfying.
Another benefit is that these cookies are portion-controlled. Instead of having a large cinnamon roll, you can enjoy just one or two cookies to satisfy your cravings. This makes them a more balanced choice when you want to indulge without overdoing it.
Tips to Make Them Perfect Every Time
For best results, always chill the dough before rolling. This ensures the cookies hold their shape while baking and the swirls remain distinct. Using high-quality cinnamon will make a noticeable difference in flavor, as its aroma and depth will shine through.
When drizzling the glaze, wait until the cookies have completely cooled. This allows the glaze to set properly without melting into the cookie. For a festive touch, you can even add a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top of the glaze for extra flavor and decoration.
Variations to Try
This recipe is highly adaptable. You can experiment by adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for extra crunch. If you’re a fan of cream cheese frosting on cinnamon rolls, you can replace the simple glaze with a cream cheese-based one for a richer flavor.
For a holiday twist, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon filling. You could also drizzle melted white chocolate instead of glaze for an extra indulgent touch.
Why They Belong on Your Baking List
Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies are more than just a sweet treat—they are a creative fusion that combines familiarity with innovation. They give you the best of both worlds, offering the beloved taste of cinnamon rolls in a form that is easier to bake, serve, and enjoy. Their delightful swirl pattern makes them visually appealing, while their comforting flavors ensure they’ll be a hit with everyone who tries them.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a cookie that delivers both flavor and visual appeal, Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies are an unbeatable choice. They’re simple enough to make on a weekday yet special enough for holiday gatherings. Their warm cinnamon filling, soft sugar cookie base, and sweet glaze combine to create a dessert that’s both comforting and unforgettable. This recipe proves that sometimes, the best creations come from blending two classics into one irresistible treat.