Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies are soft, sweet, and just like little bites of your favorite breakfast treat. These cookies have that lovely swirl of cinnamon and a dusting of sugar that makes every bite cozy and warming. They’re a fun twist on traditional sugar cookies, packed with the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls but in a hand-held cookie form.
I love making these when I want something sweet but don’t have the time to bake full cinnamon rolls. The smell of cinnamon and sugar baking fills the kitchen and instantly puts me in a good mood. One tip I’ve learned is to not overbake them so they stay soft and melt-in-your-mouth tender, just how cinnamon rolls feel fresh out of the oven.
These cookies are perfect with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa, especially on a chilly morning or as an afternoon treat. I often share them with friends and family because everyone seems to smile when they taste these cozy cookies. They’re easy to make, easy to love, and always a hit when I bring them to gatherings or just need a little homemade comfort food.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Unsalted butter is best because it lets you control the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, try a plant-based butter that works well in baking.
Flour: All-purpose flour gives the right texture. For a gluten-free option, use a blend made for baking, but the texture might be a bit different.
Cinnamon & Sugars: Ground cinnamon provides that signature warmth. Feel free to add a bit more if you love extra cinnamon flavor. Brown sugar adds moisture and depth—light or dark brown sugar works fine.
Milk: Adds moisture and softness to the dough. You can use any milk you like, including plant-based milks like almond or oat milk.
Vanilla Extract: This adds a lovely aroma and enhances the sweetness. Pure vanilla extract is best, but imitation works in a pinch.
Powdered Sugar Glaze: This simple glaze adds sweetness and that classic cinnamon roll look. If you want a thicker glaze, use less milk; for thinner, add more slowly.
How Do You Roll and Slice the Dough to Get Perfect Swirls?
Rolling the dough just right is key to getting those pretty cinnamon spirals in your cookies. Follow these tips:
- Roll the dough out evenly on a floured surface so it’s about ½ inch thick. This ensures even baking and good swirl shape.
- Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the surface, leaving a small border at the edges to prevent spilling.
- Roll tightly but gently from the long edge, keeping it even to prevent breaks or uneven spirals.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the log into ¾-inch thick rounds. A serrated knife can help cut cleanly without squashing.
- Place slices cut-side down on the baking sheet, spaced apart to allow spreading.
Taking your time with these steps helps keep the swirl distinct and the cookies soft and tender.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – for combining your dough and cinnamon filling easily.
- Hand mixer or stand mixer – makes creaming butter and sugar quick and smooth.
- Rolling pin – helps roll the dough evenly to get those nice cinnamon swirls.
- Baking sheets lined with parchment paper – prevents sticking and keeps cookies flat.
- Sharp knife or serrated knife – for cleanly slicing the rolled dough into rounds.
- Wire cooling rack – lets cookies cool evenly and keeps the bottoms from getting soggy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon filling for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
- Mix mini chocolate chips into the dough or sprinkle on top for a chocolate twist.
- Use cream cheese glaze instead of powdered sugar glaze for a tangy, richer finish.
- Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar for warm spice variations.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Cookie Dough:
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup milk
For The Cinnamon Filling:
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
For The Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2–3 tbsp milk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
The preparation and baking take about 30-40 minutes. This includes mixing, rolling, shaping, baking, and glazing the cookies. Plus, allow a few minutes for the glaze to set before enjoying.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Mix the Dough:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to keep cookies from sticking. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter with 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 3 to 4 minutes. Then add the egg, vanilla extract, and milk, mixing until everything is fully combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined, creating a soft dough.
2. Roll & Add the Cinnamon Filling:
Lightly flour your surface and roll out the dough into a rectangle approximately ½ inch thick. Mix the brown sugar, ½ cup granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl, then evenly sprinkle this cinnamon-sugar mixture over the rolled dough. Carefully roll the dough up from one long edge into a spiral log.
3. Slice & Bake:
Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled dough into ¾-inch thick rounds. Place these cookie rounds on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges just start to turn golden while the centers remain soft.
4. Make the Glaze & Finish:
While the cookies bake, whisk together powdered sugar, melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the milk a little at a time to reach a drizzling consistency. Once the cookies have cooled on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes, transfer them to a wire rack. Drizzle the glaze over the cookies with a spoon or piping bag. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before enjoying your delicious cinnamon roll sugar cookies.
Can I Use Frozen Dough for These Cookies?
Yes! You can freeze the rolled dough log wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. When ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then slice and bake as directed.
How Should I Store Leftover Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a sealed bag for up to 2 months.
Can I Make These Cookies Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with dairy-free margarine and use your favorite plant-based milk for the dough and glaze. The texture and flavor will remain delicious.
What’s the Best Way to Get Soft, Chewy Cookies?
Don’t overbake! Remove the cookies when edges are just golden but centers still look slightly underbaked. They’ll firm up as they cool, giving you that soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
