Cinnamon Roll Cookies

These Cinnamon Roll Cookies combine the comforting flavors of traditional cinnamon rolls with the delightful texture of cookies. Perfect for any occasion, these treats are an irresistible blend of sweet, spiced goodness topped with creamy frosting. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something sweet, these cookies are sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and cinnamon creates a mouthwatering filling that will leave your taste buds dancing.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these cookies in no time, making them ideal for both beginners and experienced bakers.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for holidays, parties, or just a cozy night in, these cookies fit any occasion.
• Creamy Frosting: The cream cheese frosting elevates these cookies to a new level of indulgence.
• Batch Friendly: This recipe yields enough cookies to share or enjoy throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making these delicious Cinnamon Roll Cookies, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make baking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Helps to evenly blend ingredients quickly and efficiently, saving you time and effort.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for separating dry and wet ingredients, ensuring proper mixing.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy base for baking your cookies evenly without burning.

Ingredients

To make these delightful Cinnamon Roll Cookies, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cookie Dough

• 2 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 1 1/2 cups Cake Flour
• 2 tsp. corn starch
• 1 tsp. baking soda
• 1 tsp. baking powder
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1 cup cold, unsalted butter, cubed (16 Tbsp.)
• 1 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

• 1 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
• 6 Tbsp. softened butter
• 2 Tbsp. cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 1/2 cups confectioners sugar
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp. salt

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly from the start.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

In a small bowl:
1. Combine the brown sugar, softened butter, and cinnamon until smooth.
2. Set aside while you prepare the cookie dough.

Step 3: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Mix together the all-purpose flour, cake flour, corn starch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
2. Set this mixture aside.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In the stand mixer:
1. Place cubed cold butter into the bowl with the paddle attachment.
2. Cream for about 1 minute until slightly fluffy.
3. Add granulated sugar and continue creaming until smooth (about 1-2 minutes).

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add:
1. The eggs, egg yolks, and vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture.
2. Blend until well mixed.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually:
1. Add in the dry ingredient mixture about 1/4 cup at a time until fully combined.

Step 7: Shape the Dough

On a clean surface:
1. Lightly flour it before pressing out cookie dough into a long rectangle (using a reference dish is helpful).

Step 8: Spread Filling

Spoon:
1. The cinnamon sugar filling onto the flattened dough in an even layer.

Step 9: Roll Up Dough

Carefully:
1. Roll up the dough starting from one long edge while keeping it intact as much as possible.

Step 10: Cut Cookies

Using a sharp knife:
1. Cut rolled dough into approximately 10–12 equal pieces (about 4.5 oz each).

Step 11: Bake Cookies

Roll each piece into a ball:
1. Ensure filling is sealed inside.
2. Bake for about 9–11 minutes until edges are lightly golden brown.
3. Cool on the baking sheet for ~10–15 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Step 12: Make Cream Cheese Frosting

In a medium bowl:
1. Beat together softened cream cheese and butter using a hand mixer.
2. Gradually add confectioners sugar along with vanilla extract and salt; mix until smooth.

Final Touches

Spread frosting on cooled cookies:
You can sprinkle them with additional cinnamon if desired! Enjoy your delicious Cinnamon Roll Cookies stored in the fridge for up to five days!

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Cinnamon Roll Cookies are delightful on their own, but serving them with a few accompaniments can elevate the experience. Below are some creative ways to serve these sweet treats.

With Coffee or Tea

• Perfect Pairing: Enjoy your cookies with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon snack. The warm beverages complement the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Decadent Dessert: Create ice cream sandwiches by placing your favorite flavor of ice cream between two cookies. This adds a creamy texture that contrasts with the cookie’s softness.

Drizzled with Extra Frosting

• Frosting Heaven: For those who love extra sweetness, drizzle additional cream cheese frosting over the top. This enhances both flavor and presentation.

Topped with Fresh Fruit

• Fresh Flavor: Add slices of fresh strawberries or bananas on top of the cookies for a refreshing twist. The fruit balances the richness of the cookie and frosting.

At Breakfast

• Morning Treat: Serve these cookies as part of a breakfast spread alongside yogurt and granola. They make for a unique start to your day.

How to Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cookies

To ensure your Cinnamon Roll Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Cold Butter: Starting with cold butter helps create a flaky texture in your cookies, making them tender yet chewy.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes before baking can improve flavor and texture while preventing spreading during baking.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Use a spoon to fluff up your flour before spooning it into your measuring cup. This prevents packing and results in light cookies.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies towards the end of baking. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
• Store Properly: Keep any leftover cookies in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness for up to five days.

Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your Cinnamon Roll Cookies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, balancing out the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy contrast that complements the soft cookies.
3. Chai Latte: The spices in chai tea harmonize beautifully with cinnamon flavors, making it an ideal drink pairing.
4. Nut Mix: A blend of almonds, walnuts, and pecans offers a crunchy texture that pairs well with soft cookies.
5. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or cream cheese that can contrast nicely against the sweetness of cinnamon roll cookies.
6. Hot Chocolate: A warm mug of hot chocolate creates a cozy experience that’s perfect for chilly days alongside your delicious cookies.
7. Smoothies: A fruity smoothie provides a refreshing drink option that complements dessert without overwhelming it.
8. Milkshake: Indulge in a creamy milkshake that adds another layer of sweetness and decadence when served with these delightful cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cinnamon Roll Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Incorrect Oven Temperature – Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to 400°F for best results.
• Overmixing Dough – Overmixing can result in tough cookies. Mix just until ingredients are combined to keep them soft and chewy.
• Not Chilling the Dough – Skipping this step can affect the texture of your cookies. Chill the dough for a bit if it feels too soft when working with it.
• Ignoring Measurements – Using incorrect measurements can ruin the recipe. Always measure your ingredients accurately using proper tools like measuring cups and spoons.
• Skipping the Cooling Time – Cutting into warm cookies can lead to a messy outcome. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Cinnamon Roll Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to an airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Cinnamon Roll Cookies

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F and heat cookies for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat individually for about 10-15 seconds until warm but not hot.
• Stovetop – Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Cinnamon Roll Cookies:

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly.

How do I know when my Cinnamon Roll Cookies are done?

The edges should be lightly golden brown while the centers might look slightly underbaked. They will continue to cook while cooling.

What if I don’t have cream cheese for frosting?

You can replace cream cheese with mascarpone or make a simple glaze using powdered sugar and milk as alternatives.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your cookies by adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the dough before baking.

Final Thoughts

These Cinnamon Roll Cookies offer a delightful twist on traditional cinnamon rolls, combining ease and flavor into one treat. Their versatility allows you to customize flavors or toppings based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy delicious cookies that bring warmth and joy!