If you are a fan of the warm, comforting aroma of cinnamon rolls mingling with the sweet scent of freshly baked cookies, then these Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies are your next baking obsession. Imagine soft, buttery cookies that are infused with the flavors of classic cinnamon rolls, featuring a delightful swirled cinnamon-sugar filling. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy night in with family, a festive holiday gathering, or simply a sweet treat to enjoy with your morning coffee.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies bring all the best elements of a classic cinnamon roll into a delightful cookie form. The contrast between the soft cookie dough and the sugary, spiced filling creates an exquisite texture and flavor profile. These cookies are not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to make. You’ll love how they fill your kitchen with that irresistible cinnamon aroma, making them a hit with everyone. Whether served warm out of the oven or stored for a later treat, these cookies maintain their chewy texture and delightful flavor. Plus, they are versatile enough to be decorated for special occasions or enjoyed plain as a simple indulgence.
Introduction:
Baking is often seen as a form of love, a way to express creativity and bring joy to those around us. Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies blend two timeless favorites into one irresistible dessert. The combination of the rich, buttery cookie and a gooey center of cinnamon and sugar fills your mouth with delightful flavors in every bite. They are perfect for sharing, gifting, or just indulging in on a quiet afternoon.
These cookies are uniquely festive and comforting, making them an ideal choice for holiday celebrations. The process of creating the cinnamon filling and swirling it into the dough adds an element of fun to your baking routine. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and let’s create some memorable cinnamon roll sugar cookies!
Ingredients:
For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 1/2 tbsp flour
- 2 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 1/3 cups granulated sugar
- 1 egg + 1 yolk
- 1 3/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1/4 tsp salt
Preparation:
Step 1: Start by preparing the cinnamon sugar filling. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Use a fork or a spatula to mix until smooth and combined. Once mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes, allowing the mixture to firm up slightly.
Step 2: While the cinnamon sugar filling is chilling, you can prepare the cookie dough. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is essential for creating a soft, tender cookie.
Step 3: Next, add the egg and the additional yolk, along with the vanilla extract, to the butter mixture. Beat until fully incorporated.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add this flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
Step 5: Once the dough is ready, take the chilled cinnamon sugar filling out of the refrigerator. Using a small cookie scoop or a tablespoon, take portions of cookie dough and flatten them slightly in your palm. Place about a teaspoon of the cinnamon filling in the center, then fold the sides of the dough over the filling and roll into a ball. Repeat this process until all dough and filling have been used. Chill the dough balls in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes before baking.
COOKING Note:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place chilled dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving ample space between each cookie to allow for spreading. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are lightly set and the centers look slightly underbaked. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions:
These cookies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them even further! Consider drizzling a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the tops for added sweetness and decoration. Serve them at a holiday party, alongside hot cocoa or coffee, or pack them up as thoughtful homemade gifts for friends and family. They can also be paired with vanilla ice cream for a delectable treat that evokes the flavors of a cinnamon roll sundae.
Tips:
- Chilling the Dough: Allowing both the dough and filling to chill helps maintain the cookie’s shape while baking and ensures a thicker, chewier texture.
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They also freeze well; simply layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container.
- Spice Variation: For a twist, consider adding nutmeg or ginger to the cinnamon sugar filling for an extra layer of flavor.
- Baking in Batches: If baking in batches, keep the remaining uncooked dough in the fridge to prevent it from getting too warm.
- Cookie Size: Feel free to adjust the size of the cookie balls, but remember that larger cookies will require additional baking time.
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 46 minutes
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 240 kcal
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 90mg
Conclusion:
Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies are incredibly indulgent and a fun twist on both classic cookies and beloved cinnamon rolls. With their chewy texture and the perfect cinnamon-sugar filling, they are bound to become a household favorite, whether you bake them for a festive occasion or just to treat yourself. Baking these delightful cookies is a rewarding experience, inviting warmth and comfort into your home. So grab your apron, roll up your sleeves, and let the sweet aroma of cinnamon and butter fill the air!
FAQs about this Recipe:
1. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring your baking powder is also gluten-free.
2. How do I store leftover cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the freezer for longer storage.
3. Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts, butterscotch chips, or chocolate chips can be mixed into the dough for added flavor and texture.
4. What if my filling is too soft?
If the filling is too soft to work with, place it back in the refrigerator for a short period until it firms up.
5. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes! You can freeze the unbaked cookie dough balls. Just place them on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
