Cinnamon Roll Cookies

These Cinnamon Roll Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll, bringing all the warm, spiced flavors into a cookie form. Perfect for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive holiday parties, these cookies are sure to impress your guests. With a soft texture and an irresistible cream cheese frosting, they quickly become a favorite treat for everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible flavor: The combination of brown sugar and cinnamon filling gives these cookies a rich, comforting taste reminiscent of traditional cinnamon rolls.
• Easy to make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these cookies in no time.
• Versatile treat: Great for dessert or as a sweet snack any time of day, these cookies fit perfectly into both casual and special occasions.
• Customizable toppings: Feel free to sprinkle extra cinnamon or even nuts on top of the frosting for added texture and flavor.
• Crowd-pleaser: These cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best Cinnamon Roll Cookies, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool makes creaming butter and sugar easy and ensures smooth incorporation of all ingredients.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows for organized preparation of dry and wet ingredients separately.
• Baking sheets: A good quality baking sheet ensures even baking and browning of your cookies.

Ingredients

To make these delectable 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 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).

Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

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

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl:
* Combine all-purpose flour, cake flour, corn starch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
* Mix well and set aside.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a stand mixer:
1. Place cubed butter in the bowl with the paddle attachment.
2. Cream for about 1 minute until fluffy.
3. Gradually add granulated sugar and cream until smooth (about 1–2 minutes).

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add in:
* Eggs,
* Egg yolks,
* Vanilla extract.

Blend until mixed thoroughly.

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients with Wet Mixture

Gradually add dry ingredients:
* Mix in about 1/4 cup at a time until fully incorporated.

Step 7: Shape the Cookie Dough

On a clean surface:
* Press dough into a long rectangle using your hands (approximately using a reference size like a 9×13 inch dish).

Step 8: Spread Cinnamon Filling

Spoon the prepared cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.

Step 9: Roll Up Dough

Roll up the dough carefully:
* Start from one long edge to avoid tearing.

Step 10: Cut Cookies

Cut rolled dough into approximately 10–12 equal pieces (each about 4.5 oz).

Step 11: Bake Cookies

Roll each piece into balls ensuring sealing of filling:
* Bake for about 9–11 minutes until edges are lightly golden brown.

Step 12: Cool Cookies

Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for about 10–15 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Step 13: Make Cream Cheese Frosting

In a medium bowl:
1. Mix softened cream cheese and butter with a hand mixer.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth.

Step 14: Frost Cookies

Spread frosting over cooled cookies:
* Optional: Sprinkle with extra cinnamon if desired.

Store any leftover cookies in the fridge for up to five days! Enjoy your delicious Cinnamon Roll Cookies!

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Cinnamon Roll Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging on your own, these cookies offer versatility for any occasion.

With Coffee

• Pairing your cookies with a hot cup of coffee enhances their flavor. The richness of the coffee balances the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.

At a Brunch

• These cookies make a fantastic addition to brunch spreads. Their unique flavor profile complements other brunch items like fruits and pastries.

Gift Them

• Package your cookies in a charming box or jar to give as gifts. They make thoughtful presents for friends and family during holidays or special occasions.

With Ice Cream

• Serve warm Cinnamon Roll Cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of warm and cold creates an indulgent dessert experience.

As Party Favors

• Wrap individual cookies in cellophane bags tied with ribbon. They serve as delightful party favors for guests at events such as birthdays or showers.

How to Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cookies

To achieve the best results when making your Cinnamon Roll Cookies, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Cold Butter: Starting with cold, cubed butter helps create a tender texture in the cookies.
• Don’t Skip Chilling: Refrigerating the dough before baking makes it easier to handle and prevents spreading during baking.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour to avoid dense cookies. Too much flour can lead to dry results.
• Check Baking Time: Keep an eye on the edges while baking. Remove them from the oven when they are just lightly golden brown for softness.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add nutmeg or cardamom for an extra layer of flavor in your cinnamon filling.
• Store Properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness, ensuring they last longer.

Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Cinnamon Roll Cookies can be complemented by several side dishes that enhance their flavors and provide variety. Here are some delicious options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet cookies, making for a balanced snack.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a wholesome side that pairs well with the sweetness of the cookies.
3. Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses provides savory notes that balance out the sugariness of the cookies beautifully.
4. Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of hot chocolate is perfect alongside cinnamon treats, especially during colder months.
5. Nut Mix: A selection of roasted nuts offers crunch and saltiness, creating an enjoyable contrast with the soft cookies.
6. Mini Muffins: Serving smaller muffins, such as blueberry or banana, adds another baked element without overshadowing your Cinnamon Roll Cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cinnamon Roll Cookies, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the outcome. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold ingredients like butter and eggs can lead to a dense texture. Ensure they are at room temperature for better mixing.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can create tough cookies. Mix just until combined to keep them soft and chewy.
• Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the dough can result in cookies spreading too much while baking. A short chill time helps maintain their shape.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Measuring flour by scooping directly from the bag can pack it down. Use the spoon-and-level method for accuracy.
• Underbaking or overbaking: Baking time is crucial; underbaked cookies will be too soft, while overbaked ones can become dry. Keep an eye on them as they bake.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Cinnamon Roll Cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Cinnamon Roll Cookies

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.
• For baked cookies, place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cinnamon Roll Cookies

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for a minute or two until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Cinnamon Roll Cookies that might help you during preparation:

Can I make Cinnamon Roll Cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight before baking.

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

They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.

Can I use different fillings for my Cinnamon Roll Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with chocolate chips, nuts, or different spices for unique flavors.

What’s the best way to store leftover frosting?

Store any leftover cream cheese frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Final Thoughts

These Cinnamon Roll Cookies bring together all the delightful flavors of traditional cinnamon rolls but in a convenient cookie form. Their spiced filling and creamy frosting make them perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to customize them with your favorite mix-ins or toppings; they are sure to impress family and friends!