Description
These Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies capture the warm, sweet flavors of classic cinnamon rolls in a delightful cookie form. Soft, buttery dough surrounds a cinnamon-sugar swirl, making them perfect for a cozy snack or festive treat. Quick to prepare and bake, these cookies bring cinnamon roll goodness without the fuss of yeast dough or long rising times.
Ingredients
Scale
Cinnamon Swirl
- 6 tablespoons butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cinnamon
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup butter (softened)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 2/3 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Topping
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Make the Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix well until smooth and set aside to infuse flavor.
- Prepare the Cookie Dough: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy to create a creamy base for the dough.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract for aroma and flavor enhancement.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt to ensure even distribution of leavening and seasoning agents.
- Mix Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined to maintain tender cookie texture without overworking.
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Form Dough Balls: Take about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Flatten it slightly to create a base for the filling.
- Add Cinnamon Swirl: Place about 1 teaspoon of the cinnamon swirl mixture in the center of the flattened dough, fold over the dough to encase the filling, and roll into a smooth ball again.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place dough balls spaced about 2 inches apart on the prepared sheet to allow for spreading during baking.
- Apply Optional Topping: If desired, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl and sprinkle over each cookie for a sweet, crunchy finish.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the edges turn golden brown, ensuring a soft but set center.
- Cool the Cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve and Enjoy: These soft, cinnamon-swirled cookies are perfect served with a glass of milk or enjoyed on their own as a comforting treat.
Notes
- Be careful not to overmix the dough to keep cookies tender and soft.
- Use softened butter for easy incorporation and creamy texture.
- Ensure cinnamon swirl is fully enclosed in the dough to prevent leakage during baking.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- For extra flair, drizzle with glaze or cream cheese frosting after cooling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
