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Cinnamon roll cookies combine the nostalgic, cozy flavors of a classic cinnamon roll with the ease and fun of a handheld cookie. They are the perfect treat when you’re craving something sweet, buttery, and warmly spiced—but don’t have the time or patience for yeasted dough. These cookies are soft and chewy, swirled with a gooey cinnamon-brown sugar filling, sprinkled with a cinnamon sugar topping, and finished with a drizzle of creamy frosting.

The dough is rich and tender thanks to the addition of egg yolks and cream of tartar, while the filling melts into the layers, creating that signature cinnamon roll effect in every bite. The best part? No rising time, no kneading—just roll, chill, slice, and bake. Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch, preparing a sweet gift box, or simply want to treat yourself, these cinnamon roll cookies are guaranteed to become a new favorite in your baking rotation. Perfect with a cup of coffee or tea, they bring the essence of a bakery-style cinnamon roll to your kitchen with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No Yeast Needed – Skip the long rise times! This recipe uses a simple cookie dough instead of traditional yeast dough.
Delicious Texture – Soft and chewy with gooey cinnamon swirls and a slight crisp on the edges.
Customizable – Easy to tweak with different spices, fillings, or frostings.
Perfect for Gifting or Holidays – These cookies look impressive and make wonderful edible gifts.
Comforting Flavors – Classic cinnamon roll taste in a convenient cookie form.

Ingredients

For the Cinnamon Roll Filling

Light brown sugar
Unsalted butter
Ground cinnamon
Salt

For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

Granulated white sugar
Ground cinnamon

For the Cookie Dough

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Cream of tartar
Unsalted butter
Light brown sugar
Granulated white sugar
Egg yolks
Vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream cheese
Powdered sugar
Whole milk

Variations

Maple Glaze Instead of Cream Cheese – Swap the frosting for a maple glaze using powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk.
Add Nuts – Sprinkle finely chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for crunch.
Spice it Up – Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the filling for a warm, spiced twist.
Chocolate Swirl – Mix mini chocolate chips into the filling for a richer bite.
Vegan Version – Use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and a dairy-free cream cheese substitute.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Make the Cinnamon Filling

In a bowl, combine the light brown sugar, softened butter, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cream of tartar. In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter with both sugars until light and fluffy. Add in the egg yolks and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to form a soft dough.

Step 3: Roll and Fill the Dough

Roll the dough into a rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough. Carefully roll the dough into a log, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.

Step 4: Slice and Bake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the chilled dough into rounds and place on a lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with the cinnamon sugar topping and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are just golden.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

Whisk together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth and drizzle-able.

Step 6: Frost and Serve

Let cookies cool slightly, then drizzle with cream cheese frosting. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Chill the Dough – Chilling helps maintain the swirl shape and prevents spreading.
Use Room Temp Ingredients – Ensures smooth mixing and even baking.
Roll Evenly – An even thickness prevents overbaking and keeps cookies soft.
Don’t Overbake – Remove when edges are just set for a chewy center.
Use Parchment Paper – Makes cleanup easier and prevents sticking.

How to Serve

Serve warm with coffee or milk for a cozy treat.
Add to dessert platters for holidays or brunch tables.
Drizzle extra frosting just before serving for an indulgent touch.
Stack and tie with twine for a cute gift box presentation.
Enjoy as an afternoon snack or after-dinner dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Keep them frosted or add the frosting just before serving.

Freezing

Freeze unfrosted cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a zip-top bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting.

Reheating

Warm cookies in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to recreate that just-baked gooeyness. If frozen, allow to thaw fully before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought dough?

For best results, homemade dough is recommended, but a sugar cookie dough base can work in a pinch.

2. Can I skip the cream cheese frosting?

Yes! You can use a simple powdered sugar glaze or enjoy them plain.

3. Do I have to chill the dough?

Yes, chilling helps maintain the swirl and keeps cookies from spreading too much.

4. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely—prepare the dough up to 48 hours in advance and keep it wrapped in the fridge.

5. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Ensure your butter isn’t too soft and don’t skip the chilling step.

6. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for best results.

7. How thick should I slice the cookies?

About ½ inch thick for the perfect balance of swirl and texture.

8. Can I freeze the dough log instead of baking right away?

Yes, freeze the log wrapped tightly for up to a month. Thaw slightly before slicing.

9. How can I make the frosting thicker or thinner?

Add more powdered sugar to thicken, or more milk to thin it out.

10. Are these good for mailing or gifting?

Definitely! Let them cool and set completely before packing.

Conclusion

Cinnamon roll cookies bring together everything you love about classic cinnamon rolls—sweet spice, buttery layers, and creamy frosting—in a fraction of the time. They’re simple to make, beautiful to look at, and even better to eat. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to fill your home with the scent of cinnamon, these cookies are sure to satisfy every craving. Once you try them, you’ll want to make them again and again!