Cinnamon Roll Cookies

These Cinnamon Roll Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, combining the warm flavors of cinnamon rolls with the convenience of cookies. Perfect for holiday gatherings, sweet treats at home, or any occasion where you want to impress friends and family, these cookies are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious. The rich brown sugar filling and creamy frosting will leave everyone asking for more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and brown sugar creates a mouthwatering filling that perfectly complements the soft cookie base.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, these cookies are accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a dessert, gift them during the holidays, or serve them at brunch. They fit any occasion!
• Frosted Delight: The creamy cream cheese frosting adds a luxurious touch that elevates these cookies beyond the ordinary.
• Fun to Make: Roll and cut the dough for a hands-on baking experience that can be enjoyed with family or friends.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Cinnamon Roll Cookies, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready will make your time in the kitchen enjoyable and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Saves time and effort by efficiently creaming butter and sugar together to achieve a light texture.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for keeping your dry ingredients separate until you’re ready to mix, ensuring even distribution.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy surface for your cookies to bake evenly; consider using parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Ingredients

These Cinnamon Roll Cookies are everything you love about cinnamon rolls but in cookie form! They are perfectly spiced, made with an amazing brown sugar cinnamon filling and topped with an irresistible cream cheese frosting.

Ingredients:
– 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
– 1 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
– 6 Tbsp. softened butter
– 2 Tbsp. cinnamon
– 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 the oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly from the start.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

In a small bowl:
* Combine the brown sugar, softened butter, and cinnamon. Mix until smooth and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
* Combine the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, cake flour, corn starch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In the bowl of a stand mixer:
1. Place cubed cold butter.
2. Cream on medium speed for about 1 minute until smooth.
3. Add in the granulated sugar; cream together for about 1–2 minutes.

Step 5: Mix in Eggs and Vanilla

Add to the creamed mixture:
* The two whole eggs, two egg yolks, and vanilla extract.
Blend until well combined.

Step 6: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add in the dry mixture:
* Begin by adding about 1/4 cup at a time until fully incorporated into the wet mixture.

Step 7: Shape Cookie Dough

On a clean, lightly floured surface:
* Press dough into a long rectangle (about size reference of a 9×13 inch dish).
Flatten it out using your hands; no rolling pin is needed!

Step 8: Add Filling

Spoon the cinnamon sugar filling onto the dough:
* Spread it into an even layer across the surface of the dough.

Step 9: Roll Up Dough

Roll up the dough:
* Start from one long edge carefully without tearing it—flouring helps prevent sticking!

Step 10: Cut Cookies

Slice rolled dough into approximately 10–12 cookies, each weighing about 4.5 oz.

Step 11: Bake Cookies

Roll each cookie into balls:
* Ensure they are sealed tight so filling does not leak out during baking.
Bake in preheated oven for about 9–11 minutes, until edges turn lightly golden brown.

Step 12: Cool Cookies

Allow cookies to cool:
* Let them sit on baking sheets for about 10–15 minutes, then transfer to cooling racks.

Step 13: Make Cream Cheese Frosting

In a medium-sized bowl:
1. Mix together softened cream cheese with softened butter using a hand mixer.
2. Gradually mix in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
3. Adjust sweetness by adding more powdered sugar if desired.

Step 14: Frost Cookies

Spread frosting generously on top of cooled cookies:
* Optionally sprinkle additional cinnamon over frosting before serving or storing.

These delightful Cinnamon Roll Cookies can be stored in the fridge for up to five days—if they last that long! Enjoy this unique treat that blends two beloved desserts into one scrumptious bite!

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Cinnamon Roll Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Coffee

• Pair these cookies with a hot cup of coffee for a cozy morning treat. The flavors complement each other perfectly.

As a Dessert Plate

• Arrange the cookies on a dessert plate with fresh fruits like strawberries or blueberries. This adds color and freshness to your presentation.

Frosted Cinnamon Roll Cookies

• For an extra indulgent experience, serve the cookies topped with cream cheese frosting and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

With Ice Cream

• Serve warm cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The heat from the cookie melts the ice cream slightly, creating a delicious combo.

For Holiday Gatherings

• Present these cookies at your next holiday gathering as part of a dessert spread. Their festive flavors make them a crowd-pleaser.

How to Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Getting your Cinnamon Roll Cookies just right can elevate their taste and texture. Here are some tips to help you achieve perfection.

• Use Cold Butter: Starting with cold butter helps create tender cookies by preventing over-mixing during the creaming process.

• Don’t Overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking can improve texture and prevent spreading.

• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking; remove them when the edges are lightly golden for optimal softness.

• Customize Fillings: Feel free to experiment with different fillings like nutmeg or even chocolate chips for variety!

Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Cinnamon Roll Cookies pair well with various side dishes that complement their sweet and spicy flavors. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits like apples, oranges, and berries adds brightness and balances sweetness.

2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a deliciously creamy side that enhances the cookie experience.

3. Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea can provide a soothing contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies.

4. Nut Butter Spread: Offer almond or peanut butter on the side for guests who enjoy dipping their cookies for added flavor.

5. Granola Bars: Serve homemade or store-bought granola bars as an alternative snack that pairs well with cinnamon notes.

6. Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses can add richness to your serving options while contrasting nicely with sweet flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Cinnamon Roll Cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid to ensure your cookies turn out perfect.

• Boldly skipping the chilling step: If you skip chilling the dough, your cookies may spread too much while baking. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes for better shape.
• Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using cold butter or eggs can affect the texture of your cookies. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
• Overmixing the dough: If you overmix, you might end up with tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a soft texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
• Using old spices: Fresh spices make a big difference in flavor. Check that your cinnamon and other spices are fresh for the best taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Cinnamon Roll Cookies

• Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating Cinnamon Roll Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies on high for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Cinnamon Roll Cookies that can help you perfect your baking skills.

Can I make Cinnamon Roll Cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight before baking. This enhances the flavor!

How do I store leftover Cinnamon Roll Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them to keep them fresh.

Can I freeze unbaked Cinnamon Roll Cookies?

Absolutely! You can freeze the rolled-up dough before slicing it into cookies. Just thaw and bake as directed when you’re ready.

What if I don’t have cake flour?

You can substitute cake flour with all-purpose flour using a mix of cornstarch and all-purpose flour (for every cup of cake flour, use 1 cup minus 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour plus 2 tablespoons cornstarch).

Final Thoughts

These Cinnamon Roll Cookies offer a unique twist on traditional cinnamon rolls, combining flavor and convenience. They are perfect for any occasion and can easily be customized with different toppings or fillings. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these delightful treats!