Craving the sweet, comforting flavors of a cinnamon roll, but in the form of a cookie? Look no further than these Soft Baked Cinnamon Roll Cookies! With their rich cinnamon flavor and chewy texture, these cookies offer all the goodness of a traditional cinnamon roll without the hassle of yeast and rising dough. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this easy-to-make treat will become your new favorite dessert.
Table of Contents
Why These Soft Baked Cinnamon Roll Cookies Are a Must-Try
These cookies bring the best of both worlds: the familiar taste of a cinnamon roll combined with the convenience of a cookie. No yeast, no waiting for dough to rise, and no rolling required — just mix, bake, and enjoy! The result is a soft, pillowy cookie with the warm spices of cinnamon and the sweetness of brown sugar, all topped off with a luscious cream cheese frosting. They’re perfect for a cozy treat, holiday gatherings, or anytime you want a cinnamon fix!
Ingredients for Soft Baked Cinnamon Roll Cookies
To make these delicious cookies, you’ll need a simple list of ingredients that pack a big flavor punch.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture to the cookies.
• Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps to give the cookies a light, delicate texture.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a deep, caramelized flavor that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
• Vanilla Extract: Essential for enhancing the sweetness and flavor of both the cookies and the frosting.
• Eggs: Bind the dough together and add moisture for a soft cookie.
• Gluten-Free Flour: A great option for those with dietary restrictions; ensures the cookies hold their shape and rise properly.
• Baking Powder: Helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
• Cinnamon: The star ingredient that brings the iconic cinnamon roll flavor.
• Salt: A pinch is crucial to balance the sweetness of the cookies.
For the Frosting:
• Cream Cheese: Adds a creamy, tangy base for the frosting.
• Butter: Contributes to the smooth texture and richness of the frosting.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the frosting and helps it reach the right consistency.
• Water or Milk: Used to adjust the frosting’s thickness.
• Cinnamon: A light dusting on top of the frosting adds extra flavor and visual appeal.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions for Soft Baked Cinnamon Roll Cookies
If you have dietary preferences or restrictions, there are some simple swaps you can make without compromising flavor:
• Vegan Butter: Replace regular butter with a plant-based alternative to make these cookies dairy-free.
• Coconut Sugar: Swap out the granulated and brown sugars for coconut sugar for a more natural sweetener. Just be aware that the cookies will have a darker color.
• Flax Eggs: If you’re avoiding eggs, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flax seed with 3 tablespoons of water to make a flax egg. This will work as a perfect egg substitute.
• Dairy-Free Cream Cheese: Use a plant-based cream cheese for the frosting to make the cookies completely dairy-free.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Soft Baked Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Follow these simple steps to make your very own Soft Baked Cinnamon Roll Cookies:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add in the vanilla extract and eggs, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the gluten-free flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt, stirring until the dough comes together.
- Chill the dough in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial to prevent the cookies from spreading too thin while baking.
- Once chilled, roll the dough into 12 balls, each about 2 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and gently flatten each one with your hand.
- Bake for 8-9 minutes. The cookies should be soft and slightly golden at the edges. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack.
- While the cookies cool, prepare the frosting. In a bowl, beat together the cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until smooth. If the frosting is too thick, add water or milk a teaspoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
- Once the cookies are fully cooled, frost each one generously with the cream cheese frosting. Optionally, sprinkle a little cinnamon on top for extra flavor.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Soft Baked Cinnamon Roll Cookies
- Chill the dough: This step is key to getting perfectly soft and thick cookies that won’t spread too much. Don’t skip it!
- Don’t overbake: These cookies should be soft in the middle. If you bake them too long, they may lose their chewy texture. Aim for a golden edge and a soft center.
- Frosting consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add a little milk or water to thin it out to a spreadable consistency.
- Storage: Store the cookies and frosting separately for up to a week in the fridge. If you want them to stay soft longer, store the cookies at room temperature in an airtight container for a few days. If frosted, consume within 3 days.
Pairing Ideas and Variations for Soft Baked Cinnamon Roll Cookies
These Soft Baked Cinnamon Roll Cookies are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages and side dishes.
- Coffee or Tea: These cookies are perfect for a cozy coffee or tea break. Their warm cinnamon flavor complements the richness of a cup of coffee or chai tea.
- Gluten-Free Version: Using gluten-free flour ensures these cookies are safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Make-ahead Option: Prepare the cookie dough and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking. This makes it easy to enjoy fresh cookies whenever you want.
Seasonal Appeal of Soft Baked Cinnamon Roll Cookies
These cookies are ideal for the fall and winter months, when cinnamon and spices are especially comforting. Their warm, comforting flavor makes them perfect for cozy gatherings, holiday parties, or as a sweet treat to enjoy during the colder seasons. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or treating yourself, these cookies will add a touch of sweetness to any occasion.
Conclusion: Enjoy the Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cookies Anytime
Soft Baked Cinnamon Roll Cookies combine the best qualities of a cinnamon roll and a cookie, making them a must-try treat for cinnamon lovers everywhere. Their soft, chewy texture and sweet, creamy frosting will satisfy your cravings with minimal effort. Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned pro, this simple yet delicious recipe will become a staple in your baking repertoire. With just a few basic ingredients and a little patience, you’ll have a batch of warm, comforting cookies ready to enjoy in no time.
So, the next time you’re looking for a treat that’s both quick and comforting, make these Soft Baked Cinnamon Roll Cookies and watch them disappear in minutes. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies bring the warm, cozy feeling of cinnamon rolls without the hassle!
FAQ for Soft Baked Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Can I use regular flour instead of gluten-free flour?
Yes, you can substitute gluten-free flour with regular all-purpose flour in this recipe. However, the texture may slightly change, and the cookies might not be as soft and chewy as the gluten-free version.
How do I store Soft Baked Cinnamon Roll Cookies?
To store Soft Baked Cinnamon Roll Cookies, keep them in an airtight container. You can store them at room temperature for a few days or refrigerate them to keep them fresh longer. If you’ve already frosted the cookies, they should be consumed within 3 days to prevent the frosting from hardening or the cookies from becoming soggy.
Can I freeze Soft Baked Cinnamon Roll Cookies?
Yes, you can freeze these cookies. To freeze, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. You can freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them up in the oven for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
More Relevant Recipes
- Nestle Toll House Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Valentine’s Day Oreo m&m’s Cookies
- Red Velvet Cream Cheese Bundt Cake
Soft Baked Cinnamon Roll Cookies
These Soft Baked Cinnamon Roll Cookies combine the sweet, spicy flavors of a cinnamon roll with the chewy texture of a cookie. With no yeast or dough rolling involved, they’re quick and easy to make. The addition of a creamy, tangy frosting brings the flavors of a cinnamon roll to life in a convenient cookie form.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 ¾ cups gluten-free flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened (for frosting)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for frosting)
- 2 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 1–2 teaspoons water or milk (for frosting)
- Cinnamon, for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add the vanilla extract and eggs to the butter-sugar mixture and beat until fully incorporated.
- Gradually mix in the gluten-free flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until a dough forms.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes in the fridge to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- While the dough is chilling, prepare the frosting. In a bowl, beat together the cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract. Slowly add the powdered sugar until smooth. Add water or milk to reach the desired frosting consistency.
- Once the dough has chilled, form it into 12 2-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Gently flatten each ball with your hand.
- Bake for 8-9 minutes, ensuring the cookies remain soft and golden at the edges.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, frost each cookie with the prepared cream cheese frosting and optionally sprinkle with cinnamon.
Notes
- Make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to help the cookies hold their shape.
- If you prefer a thicker frosting, add less water or milk. Adjust to your desired consistency.
- Store un-frosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
- If using regular flour, the cookies may have a slightly different texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
