Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Imagine the irresistible warmth of a freshly baked cinnamon roll, but in the delightful, bite-sized form of a cookie. That’s the magic I’ve captured in this recipe, a perfect blend of sweet, spiced dough and a melt-in-your-mouth texture that will leave you craving more.

While the precise origins of the cinnamon roll are debated, its comforting presence in countless cultures speaks volumes. From the Swedish kanelbullar to the American classic, cinnamon rolls have long held a place of honor in bakeries and home kitchens alike. This recipe takes that beloved tradition and transforms it into something entirely new: individual, perfectly portioned Cinnamon Roll Cookies.

What makes these cookies so special? It’s the harmonious interplay of flavors and textures. The soft, pillowy dough, generously swirled with cinnamon sugar, offers a delightful chewiness. Each bite delivers a burst of warm spice, balanced by the sweetness of the sugar and the richness of the butter. Unlike traditional cinnamon rolls, these cookies require minimal preparation and baking time, making them ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous baking sessions. They’re also incredibly versatile; enjoy them warm from the oven, or pack them in your lunchbox for a sweet afternoon treat.

I’ve perfected this recipe over time, ensuring that every element – from the precise amount of cinnamon to the ideal baking temperature – contributes to the ultimate Cinnamon Roll Cookie experience. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will transport you to a world of pure, sweet bliss!

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• For the Cinnamon Filling:
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Preparing the Dough:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. This will make cleanup a breeze later!
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. I usually use my stand mixer for this, but a hand mixer works just as well. Make sure you get it really fluffy – it makes a difference in the texture of the cookies!
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
5. Slowly pour in the buttermilk, mixing until the dough is just smooth. Don’t worry if it seems a little sticky; that’s okay.
6. Important Note: At this point, I usually let the dough rest for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, resulting in softer cookies. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit on the counter.

Making the Cinnamon Filling:

1. While the dough rests, prepare the cinnamon filling. In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until smooth and creamy.
2. Stir in the ground cinnamon until evenly distributed. You want a nice, rich cinnamon flavor, so don’t be shy with the cinnamon!

Assembling and Baking the Cookies:

1. Once the dough has rested, roll it into 1-inch balls. I find it easiest to use a cookie scoop for this, but you can certainly roll them by hand.
2. Roll each dough ball in the cinnamon filling, ensuring it’s completely coated. Press gently to help the filling adhere to the dough.
3. Place the coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. They will spread slightly as they bake.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them, as ovens can vary. Start checking around the 10-minute mark.
5. Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This is crucial to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Making the Cream Cheese Frosting:

1. While the cookies are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Again, a stand mixer or hand mixer is your friend here.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and salt, and mix until well combined.
3. Once the cookies are completely cool, frost them generously with the cream cheese frosting. You can use a knife, a piping bag, or even just a spoon – whatever you prefer!

Tips and Variations:

1. For extra cinnamon flavor, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top of the frosting.
2. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
3. Feel free to experiment with different types of sugar. Using a combination of granulated and brown sugar in the dough could add a nice depth of flavor.
4. These cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They also freeze well!
5. Pro Tip: For perfectly round cookies, use a cookie scoop and roll them gently between your palms to create even balls.

Conclusion:

So there you have it – my recipe for incredibly delicious Cinnamon Roll Cookies! I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for several reasons. First, it delivers all the warm, comforting flavors of a classic cinnamon roll in a bite-sized, incredibly convenient package. No more waiting for a lengthy baking process; these cookies come together relatively quickly, making them perfect for a weeknight treat or a spontaneous baking session. Second, the texture is simply divine – soft, chewy, and perfectly spiced, with that irresistible cinnamon sugar swirl throughout. And third, the versatility is amazing! You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your preferences and dietary needs.

Speaking of adaptations, let me give you a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing. For a richer flavor, try using brown butter instead of regular melted butter. A touch of cardamom or nutmeg would complement the cinnamon beautifully, adding another layer of warmth and complexity. If you’re feeling adventurous, incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough for added crunch and nutty flavor. For a fun twist, drizzle a cream cheese frosting over the cooled cookies – the tangy cream cheese perfectly balances the sweetness of the cinnamon sugar. Or, for a simpler approach, a dusting of powdered sugar will do the trick!

Beyond the variations, consider how you’ll serve these delightful Cinnamon Roll Cookies. They’re perfect for an afternoon tea party, a cozy night in with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa, or even as a special treat for your friends and family. Imagine the smiles on their faces as they bite into these miniature masterpieces of cinnamon-spiced goodness! They’re also fantastic for potlucks, bake sales, or any gathering where you want to impress with a delicious and easy-to-make dessert. Pack them in pretty tins for thoughtful gifts – they’re sure to be a hit!

I’ve personally enjoyed experimenting with different variations, and I’d love to hear about your own culinary adventures with this recipe. Perhaps you’ll discover your own signature twist – a unique spice blend, a different type of nut, or an unexpected frosting combination. The possibilities are truly endless! So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to bake up a batch of these irresistible Cinnamon Roll Cookies. I have no doubt you’ll be hooked after just one bite. Don’t forget to share your creations with me – I’d love to see your photos and hear about your experience! Tag me on social media and let’s celebrate the joy of baking together. Happy baking!

Let’s connect! Share your Cinnamon Roll Cookie creations using #CinnamonRollCookies on Instagram and other social media platforms. I can’t wait to see what you bake!

Remember to rate this recipe and leave a comment below – your feedback is invaluable!

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