There’s something magical about the smell of cinnamon rolls baking. It instantly evokes memories of cozy mornings, warm kitchens, and pure comfort. But let’s be honest, rolling and braiding a batch of traditional cinnamon rolls can be a project. That’s why I’ve created something even better: Irresistible Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe for Cozy Days! They give you all the warm, gooey deliciousness of a cinnamon roll, in a much simpler, infinitely charming cookie form. I remember as a child, my grandma used to make these for us on rainy afternoons. The smell filled the house, and the smiles on our faces were priceless. Now, I’m sharing that same joy with you.
Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Roll Cookies
These aren’t just any cookies. They truly deliver a unique and comforting experience. Here’s why you’ll be reaching for this recipe again and again:
- Effortless Comfort: Forget intricate dough rolling. These cookies are surprisingly easy to make.
- Big Cinnamon Flavor: We’re packing in tons of cinnamon – in both the dough and the filling!
- Gooey, Sweet Swirls: The cream cheese frosting is key. It’s tangy, sweet, and creates that signature cinnamon roll drip.
- Perfect for Sharing (or Not!): These cookies are undeniably shareable – but honestly, you might want to keep them all to yourself.
- Cozy Vibes: Truly, there’s nothing quite like biting into a warm cinnamon roll cookie on a chilly day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s break down what you’ll need to create these delightful cookies. I’ve included measurements for easy baking!
For the Cookies:
- 1 ½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk (or milk with 1 tsp lemon juice/vinegar – let sit 5 minutes)
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Filling:
- 4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted butter, melted
- ⅓ cup (50g) packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ – 2 cups (180-240g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (to adjust consistency)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Ready to cozy up in the kitchen? Follow these simple steps to bake the best cinnamon roll cookies ever.
1. Prepare the Cookie Dough:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This takes about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.
- Beat in the egg, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Don’t overmix!
2. Assemble the Cookies:
- Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
- Brush the tops of each cookie with the melted butter.
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle generously over each buttered cookie. Really load ’em up!
3. Bake to Perfection:
- Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- While the cookies are cooling, make the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until well combined.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. You want it thick enough to drizzle, but not too stiff.
5. Frost and Enjoy!
- Once the cookies are completely cool, generously drizzle with the cream cheese frosting. Let the frosting set slightly before serving.
Tips, Variations, and Serving Suggestions
Let’s elevate these cookies even further! Here are some ideas to inspire you.
Tips for Success:
- Soft Butter is Key: Make sure your butter is really softened for both the dough and the frosting. Don’t microwave it – leaving it out at room temperature for an hour or two works best.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined!
- Cool Completely: The cookies must be completely cool before frosting, or the frosting will melt.
- Sift Your Powdered Sugar: This ensures a smooth, lump-free frosting.
Delicious Variations:
- Maple Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Substitute maple syrup for the vanilla extract in both the dough and the frosting.
- Nuts About It: Add ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon-sugar filling.
- Orange Zest: Add the zest of one orange to the dough for a bright, citrusy twist.
- Brown Butter Frosting: Brown the butter for the frosting for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- Warm with Coffee or Tea: These cookies are divine with a hot drink.
- Holiday Treat: Perfect for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any cozy gathering.
- Dessert Platter: Add them to a dessert platter alongside other treats.
- Giftable Goodness: Package them in a cute tin for a homemade gift.
(Optional) Nutritional Information (Approximate, per cookie – will vary based on size)
- Calories: 220-280
- Fat: 12-16g
- Saturated Fat: 7-9g
- Carbohydrates: 28-34g
- Sugar: 16-22g
- Protein: 1-2g
Embrace the Cozy & Bake Away!
These Irresistible Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe for Cozy Days are more than just a dessert; they’re a warm embrace in cookie form. They’re simple to make, bursting with flavor, and guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience a little bit of cozy magic! Don’t be intimidated – I know you can do it! Let me know how your cookies turn out in the comments below. Happy baking!
