Introduction to Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Why Cinnamon Roll Cookies?
Have you ever craved the warm, gooey delight of a cinnamon roll but wanted something quicker and easier to prepare? Enter Cinnamon Roll Cookies! These delightful treats combine the best elements of a classic cinnamon roll—sweet, aromatic cinnamon sugar filling and a silky glaze—into a cookie form that's perfect for any occasion.
What’s fantastic about cinnamon roll cookies is their versatility. They're perfect for a cozy weekend brunch, an afternoon pick-me-up, or as a sweet surprise for friends dropping by. Plus, you can whip them up faster than traditional cinnamon rolls, cutting down on prep time while still satisfying that sweet tooth.
These cookies are not only delicious but also a great treat for sharing, whether at work or home. Just imagine the smiles as you present a platter of these soft, pillowy cookies topped with icing! For more delicious ideas and friendly kitchen tips, check out resources like Sally's Baking Addiction for inspiration.
Ready to sink your teeth into these dreamy Cinnamon Roll Cookies? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Creating delicious Cinnamon Roll Cookies starts with the right ingredients. Here’s what you'll need to make these delightful treats:
Essential Ingredients
- 2 and ¼ cups (281g) all-purpose flour: Make sure to spoon and level it for accuracy. If you're unsure how, check out this guide on how to measure baking ingredients.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup (12 Tbsp; 170g) unsalted butter: It should be softened to room temperature; learn how here.
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg: Make sure it is at room temperature for the best texture.
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract for a hint of warmth and flavor.
For the Filling
- 2 Tablespoons (28g) butter: Melted and slightly cooled.
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon: This is where the magic happens!
Icing Ingredients
- 1 cup (120g) confectioners’ sugar
- 3 Tablespoons (45ml) milk
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract for that sweet, aromatic finish.
Now that you have your ingredients ready, you’re one step closer to indulging in these delightful Cinnamon Roll Cookies! Each element contributes to the warm, comforting flavors you love in traditional cinnamon rolls, but in a fun, hand-held package. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious cookie creation!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Creating Cinnamon Roll Cookies is a delightful process that combines the flavorful comfort of cinnamon rolls with the portability of cookies. Let’s break down how to bring this yummy treat to life!
Prepare the dough
Start by whisking together 2 and ¼ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt in a medium bowl. Set this aside while you focus on the wet ingredients. In a larger bowl, use a handheld or stand mixer to beat ¾ cup of softened unsalted butter and ¾ cup of granulated sugar on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy—this should take about two minutes. Once that’s done, add in 1 large egg and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, continuing to mix until well combined. Finally, incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until everything comes together. If the dough feels too sticky, don't hesitate to add an extra tablespoon of flour.
Mix filling ingredients
For that signature cinnamon roll flavor, it’s essential to create a delicious filling. In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of melted butter, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon until well combined. This simple mixture will provide that sweet, aromatic swirl in every bite!
Shape the cookies
Now comes the fun part! Divide your dough into two equal portions. Roll each portion into a rectangle about 9x7 inches, aiming for a thickness of about ¼ inch. Spread 1 tablespoon of your prepared melted butter evenly over each rectangle. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar filling generously on top. With a gentle touch, roll each rectangle tightly into a log shape, about 9 inches long. If cracks appear, simply smooth them out with your fingers.
Chill the dough
To achieve perfectly shaped cookies, it’s crucial to chill the dough. Wrap each log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours. This helps firm up the dough, making it easier to slice. If you're short on time, you can even freeze these logs for up to three months!
Slice and bake the cookies
Once the dough has chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. When you’re ready, remove the dough from the refrigerator, unwrap it, and slice it into ½ inch rounds. Place the slices on the baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie. Bake for 10-11 minutes or until slightly golden around the edges. Allow them to cool for just a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
And there you have it! Your Cinnamon Roll Cookies are nearly ready. Finish them off with a drizzle of icing made from 1 cup of confectioners' sugar, 3 tablespoons of milk, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract. Happy baking!
Variations on Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Transforming Cinnamon Roll Cookies into delightful variations is simple and rewarding. Here are a couple of fun twists to try!
Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Embrace the fall flavors with pumpkin spice cinnamon roll cookies. Just add ½ cup of pumpkin puree and a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to the dough. This not only gives your cookies a delightful autumnal twist, but the pumpkin also keeps them moist and chewy. A sprinkle of pecans in the filling can add a lovely crunch.
Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll Cookies
For a chocolate lover’s dream, incorporate chocolate chips into your cinnamon roll cookies. Fold in a cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the dough after mixing in the dry ingredients. This sweet combination of melting chocolate and warm cinnamon will make for a truly irresistible treat.
Feel inspired? Let your creativity shine by mixing and matching different flavors!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Cinnamon Roll Cookies
When baking Cinnamon Roll Cookies, a few tips can elevate your cookie game:
- Measure Carefully: Accurate measurements are key in baking. For flour, try the spoon-and-level method to ensure you’re not using too much (learn more here).
- Dough Consistency: If your dough feels too sticky, adding a tablespoon of flour can help achieve the right texture for rolling.
- Chill for Perfection: Don’t skip the chilling step; it makes slicing easier and enhances the flavor.
- Icing Tips: For the perfect drizzle, ensure your icing is not too thick; adjust with a splash of milk to get the desired consistency.
Happy baking! For more baking essentials, check out my favorite cookie baking tips.
Serving Suggestions for Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Cinnamon Roll Cookies are a delightful treat, perfect for a cozy gathering or a sweet snack during your busy day. Here are some easy and delicious serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience:
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Pair with Coffee or Tea: The warm spices of the cookies beautifully complement a steaming cup of coffee or herbal tea. Try a chai latte for an aromatic twist!
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Serve with Fresh Fruit: Balance the sweetness of your cookies with slices of fresh fruit like strawberries or apples. They add a refreshing contrast.
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Add a Scoop of Ice Cream: For an indulgent dessert, top a warm cookie with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream. It's a match made in heaven!
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Host a Cookie Swap: Share the love by inviting friends over for a cookie swap. Everyone brings their favorite cookies, adding Cinnamon Roll Cookies to the mix!
These serving ideas promise to make your Cinnamon Roll Cookies the highlight of any spread. Enjoy!
Time Breakdown for Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Preparation time
Get ready to indulge in these deliciously soft and gooey cinnamon roll cookies! You’ll spend about 20 minutes prepping your ingredients and rolling out the dough.
Baking time
Once your dough is ready, simply pop those cookies in the oven! They will need 10-11 minutes to become beautifully golden and fragrant.
Total time
All in all, you’ll spend around 2 hours and 30 minutes making these heaven-in-a-cookie-form treats, with a generous chunk of that time dedicated to chilling the dough.
If you're eager to learn more about the journey and fascinating details behind baking, check out this guide on baking basics. Happy baking!
Nutritional Facts for Cinnamon Roll Cookies
When you're indulging in the delightful world of Cinnamon Roll Cookies, it’s good to know what you're consuming. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional facts for these irresistible treats:
Calories
A serving of these Cinnamon Roll Cookies typically contains about 150 calories, making them a satisfying sweet without too much guilt.
Protein
Each cookie provides around 2 grams of protein, which contributes to keeping you full while you enjoy that sweet flavor.
Sugar Content
With approximately 10 grams of sugar per cookie, these treats are a true dessert indulgence. Pair them with a cup of coffee for a lovely afternoon pick-me-up!
Enjoy your baking – and remember, moderation is key! For more tips on mindful snacking, take a look at this comprehensive guide on sugar intake.
FAQ about Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Just make sure the blend contains xanthan gum, or add it separately to help bind the ingredients together effectively.
How do I store leftover cookies?
Store your Cinnamon Roll Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. This will keep them fresh and soft. If you want to extend their life, consider freezing them! Wrap each cookie individually or layer them with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can! Prepare the dough and chill it as directed. After that, you have two options:
- Roll the dough into logs, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then freeze.
- Or portion it into individual cookie shapes and freeze them flat on a baking sheet before transferring to a bag. When you're ready to bake, just thaw the dough in the fridge overnight!
For more storage tips, check out Sally's Baking Addiction for expert advice.
Conclusion on Cinnamon Roll Cookies
In summary, Cinnamon Roll Cookies offer a delightful fusion of two beloved treats, blending the gooey goodness of cinnamon rolls with the simplicity of cookies. They are easy to make and perfect for sharing or enjoying at home. So, gather your ingredients, and relish this baking adventure!
Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Handheld mixer
- Stand Mixer
- Baking Sheets
- Silicone baking mat
- Rolling Pin
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
- 2.25 cups all-purpose flour spooned & leveled
- 0.5 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 0.75 cups unsalted butter softened to room temperature
- 0.75 cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Filling
- 2 Tablespoons butter melted and slightly cooled
- 0.25 cups granulated sugar
- 1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon
Icing
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 3 Tablespoons milk
- 0.5 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
Making the Cookies
- Whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt together in a medium bowl. Set aside.
- In a large bowl using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter and sugar together on high speed until completely smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Add the egg and vanilla and beat on high speed until combined, about 1 minute. Scrape down the sides and up the bottom of the bowl and beat again as needed to combine.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix on low until combined. Dough will be a bit soft. If the dough seems too soft and sticky for rolling, add 1 more Tablespoon of flour.
- Divide the dough into 2 equal parts. Roll each portion out in a rectangle onto a floured silicone baking mat to about ¼" thickness. Spread 1 Tablespoon of melted butter onto each rectangle. Mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon together then sprinkle evenly over each.
- Working slowly, tightly roll up each rectangle into a 9-inch log. Chill the logs of dough for at least 2 hours (or freeze up to 3 months).
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Remove dough logs from the refrigerator. Cut into ½ inch slices. Place slices onto baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-11 minutes, until lightly browned on the sides. Remove from the oven, allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before icing.
- Whisk all of the icing ingredients together. Drizzle over cookies.
- Cover and store cookies at room temperature for up to 5 days.
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