Cinnamon Roll Cookies are a creative invention that combines the essence of a cinnamon roll with the simplicity and crunch of a cookie. Imagine the warm, inviting aroma of cinnamon sugar baking in the oven, bringing a sense of comfort and nostalgia. These cookies boast a spiral of cinnamon sugar encased in a buttery dough, finished with a drizzle of sweet vanilla icing. Perfect for enjoying with a warm cup of coffee or as a dessert at family gatherings, they offer a fusion of textures—crisp on the outside with a tender, melt-in-the-mouth center. This delightful treat is perfect for holiday seasons, afternoon tea parties, and celebratory occasions.
Ingredients About Cinnamon Roll Cookies
List of Ingredients with Measurements
Before embarking on the baking journey, gather all the necessary ingredients to ensure a smooth process:
- 2 and 1/4 cups (281g) all-purpose flour – Spoon and level, plus more for rolling and work surface.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder – Provides lightness in the dough.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Enhances overall flavor.
- 3/4 cup (12 Tbsp; 170g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature – Adds rich buttery flavor.
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar – Sweetens the dough.
- 1 large egg, at room temperature – Binds ingredients together.
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract – Infuses the cookies with warm flavor.
- 2 Tablespoons (28g) butter, melted and slightly cooled – Used for brushing the dough.
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar – Combines with cinnamon for the filling.
- 1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon – The star of the filling, giving a distinct flavor.
- 1 cup (120g) confectioners’ sugar – Used for making the icing.
- 3 Tablespoons (45ml) milk – Brings the icing to the right consistency.
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – Enhances the icing flavor.
Optional Ingredient Substitutions
For those with dietary needs or preferences, consider these substitutions:
- Gluten-free flour can replace all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option.
- Coconut sugar can substitute granulated sugar for a lower glycemic index.
- Dairy-free butter and milk can be used for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan.
- Almond extract can be used instead of vanilla for a subtly different flavor.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cookies Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Begin by whisking the flour, baking powder, and salt together in a medium-sized bowl. Set this mixture aside as you move on to creaming the butter and sugar. Using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the softened butter and sugar together on high speed until the mixture is creamy and smooth—this should take about 2 minutes. After achieving a creamy consistency, add the egg and vanilla extract. Continue to beat on high speed until these ingredients are well combined, scraping the sides and bottom of the bowl as necessary. It’s crucial to ensure everything is mixed thoroughly for cohesive dough.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients and Divide
Introduce the dry ingredient mixture into the bowl with the wet ingredients. Mix at low speed until just combined. The resulting dough will be somewhat soft; if it appears too sticky for rolling, add an additional tablespoon of flour. Once the dough reaches the desired consistency, divide it into two equal parts. This not only makes it easier to handle later but also aids in achieving the classic cinnamon roll swirl.
Step 3: Roll Out and Fill the Dough
On a floured silicone baking mat or parchment paper, roll each portion of dough into a rectangle approximately 9×7 inches and about 1/4 inch thick. Brush one tablespoon of melted butter over each rectangle evenly. In a small bowl, mix the remaining granulated sugar with the ground cinnamon, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered dough, ensuring each rectangle is coated with the fragrant filling.
Step 4: Roll, Chill, and Cut
Carefully roll each rectangle into a tight log, starting from one of the shorter sides. While rolling, be gentle to avoid cracking, but if cracks do appear, smoothing them out with your fingers is acceptable. Once your logs are formed, chill them in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours—this step is vital for maintaining shape during baking. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) before slicing the chilled logs into 1/2-inch slices and arranging them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Bake for 10-11 minutes, until the sides are lightly browned. After baking, cool the cookies on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Best Ways to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Cinnamon Roll Cookies can be served on various occasions, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations. Present them on a decorative platter alongside a few cinnamon sticks for an aesthetic appeal. These cookies can be dressed up for gift-giving by arranging them in a decorative tin or box, drizzled with extra icing for visual effect.
Serving Suggestions or Pairings
Pair these scrumptious cookies with a hot beverage to enhance their warm, comforting flavors. A steaming cup of coffee, spiced chai, or hot chocolate complements these cookies perfectly. For an indulgent twist, serve them with a side of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also make an excellent addition to a dessert platter featuring an assortment of cookies and pastries for a diverse array of sweet treats.
How to Store Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Proper Storage Methods
To preserve the freshness of Cinnamon Roll Cookies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Properly stored, the cookies will retain their taste and texture for up to five days. Ensure the container is sealed well to prevent air and moisture from impacting the cookies.
Tips for Reheating or Freezing
If you wish to enjoy these cookies warm, gently reheat them in an oven preheated to 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature before serving or reheating as desired.
Tips to Make Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overmixing the dough, as this can result in tough cookies. Be cautious with the amount of flour used—too much flour will make the dough dry, and too little will make it difficult to handle. If cracks appear while rolling, don’t worry; gently smooth them out with your fingers as mentioned earlier. Lastly, be sure not to skip the chilling step, as it helps maintain the shape and structure during baking.
Helpful Tips for Better Results
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better consistency. Use a sharp knife when slicing the chilled dough for clean-cut swirls. If you prefer a deeper cinnamon flavor, slightly increase the amount of ground cinnamon in the filling. For a festive touch, consider adding a small amount of crushed pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon sugar filling for added texture and taste.
Variation of Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Suggested Variations or Twists on the Recipe
To create different versions of Cinnamon Roll Cookies, try incorporating various spices such as nutmeg or cardamom with the cinnamon sugar filling. For a citrusy contrast, add a bit of orange or lemon zest to the icing or filling. You might also enjoy a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce over the finished cookies.
Adjustments for Dietary Preferences
If you’re baking for a vegan audience, substitute the butter with plant-based alternatives and replace the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture. Use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk in the icing. For a gluten-free variation, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to achieve the desired dough consistency while catering to those with gluten sensitivities.
FAQs
What Can I Do if the Dish Isn’t Turning Out Right?
If the dough is too sticky and difficult to roll out, try adding a small amount of flour—1 tablespoon at a time—until manageable. Should the cookies spread too much during baking, it may indicate the logs weren’t chilled adequately. Ensure logs spend at least 2 hours in the fridge, or for faster results, chill them in the freezer for about 30 minutes. If the icing is too thin, add more confectioners’ sugar to achieve the desired consistency.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The dough logs can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply slice and bake as directed. This make-ahead convenience is perfect for preparing ahead of busy holiday seasons or events.
What Can I Substitute for Ingredients?
For healthier alternatives, swap out granulated sugar for coconut or maple sugar. Replace all-purpose flour with almond or coconut flour for a grain-free option, though this will alter the texture slightly. Experiment with different extracts, like almond or coconut, rather than vanilla, to tailor the flavor profile to your preference.
Now that you’ve become well-versed in the art of creating Cinnamon Roll Cookies, the next step is to dive into your kitchen and begin this delightful culinary journey. Enjoy the process and savor each sweet, spiraled bite!
