Cinnamon roll cookies combine everything you love about cinnamon rolls — the warm spice, the sweet icing, and the soft, buttery dough — in a bite-sized cookie form. These cookies are the perfect blend of cozy and indulgent, with swirls of cinnamon-sugar goodness wrapped in a tender cookie dough. Ideal for holidays, parties, or just a cozy baking session at home, they’re a fun and impressive treat that’s easier to make than you might think.

With a beautiful spiral design and rich, nostalgic flavor, cinnamon roll cookies bring that bakery-level wow factor right into your kitchen. Whether you’re serving them fresh out of the oven or gifting a box to someone special, these cookies never fail to impress. They’re soft in the center, slightly crisp on the edges, and drizzled with icing for that perfect finishing touch. The best part? No yeast or long rising times required — just simple ingredients and straightforward steps. So, if you’re craving that cinnamon roll flavor in a quicker, cookie-sized package, this recipe is everything you’re looking for.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic Cinnamon Roll Flavor in a Cookie – All the cozy sweetness of cinnamon rolls in a buttery, handheld version.
Eye-Catching Presentation – The beautiful spiral design makes them perfect for gifting or holiday trays.
No Yeast Required – Get that cinnamon roll vibe without all the rising and waiting.
Soft, Chewy Texture – Buttery dough and cinnamon sugar combine for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Perfect Make-Ahead Treat – The dough can be made and rolled in advance for easy baking anytime.

Ingredients

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Unsalted butter
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Egg
Vanilla extract
Ground cinnamon
Powdered sugar
Milk or cream (for icing)

Variations

Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts inside the cinnamon sugar layer for extra texture.
Maple Glaze: Use maple syrup in the icing instead of milk for a deeper, richer flavor.
Chocolate Swirl: Add mini chocolate chips or a cocoa-cinnamon mixture for a sweet twist.
Pumpkin Spice Version: Mix pumpkin pie spice into the filling for a fall-inspired cookie.
Cream Cheese Frosting: Top with a dollop of cream cheese icing for an authentic cinnamon roll finish.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 2

In a separate bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract.

Step 3

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until a soft dough forms.

Step 4

Roll the dough into a rectangle on parchment paper. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle evenly over the dough.

Step 5

Tightly roll the dough into a log, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step 6

Preheat the oven and slice the chilled dough into cookies. Place on a baking sheet and bake until lightly golden.

Step 7

Let cookies cool, then drizzle with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk or cream.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Chill the dough well before slicing to maintain the spiral shape.
Use a ruler and sharp knife or unflavored dental floss for even cookie slices.
Roll the dough on parchment paper to help it roll tightly and evenly.
Don’t overbake — these cookies should be soft and just lightly golden.
Allow cookies to cool completely before icing to avoid a melted mess.

How to Serve

Serve warm with a glass of milk, coffee, or tea.
Add to holiday cookie platters or dessert tables for a show-stopping treat.
Package in cellophane bags or cookie tins for a sweet homemade gift.
Pair with vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Stack and drizzle with extra icing for a fun cookie tower presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4–5 days.

Freezing

Freeze unbaked dough logs wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before slicing and baking.

Reheating

Warm baked cookies for 10–15 seconds in the microwave to bring back that fresh-from-the-oven softness.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can chill the dough for up to 2 days or freeze it for longer storage.

2. How do I keep the spiral from unraveling?

Roll the dough tightly and chill it well before slicing to maintain the shape.

3. Can I use store-bought cookie dough?

Not recommended for this recipe, as the homemade dough is designed to hold the swirl and flavor balance.

4. How thick should I slice the cookies?

About ¼ to ½ inch thick works best for even baking and a good spiral appearance.

5. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter is preferred for flavor and texture, but margarine can work in a pinch.

6. What if my dough is too sticky to roll?

Chill it longer or lightly flour the surface to help with rolling.

7. Can I skip the icing?

Yes, but the icing adds that classic cinnamon roll finish and sweetness.

8. How do I make a thicker glaze?

Use less milk or add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! It’s a great one to double and freeze one log for later.

10. Are these good for gifting?

Yes! They’re beautiful, delicious, and keep well — perfect for holiday or special occasion gifts.

Conclusion

The Best Cinnamon Roll Cookies are everything you love about cinnamon rolls, packed into a soft, sweet, and stunning cookie. Whether you’re looking to impress guests, treat yourself, or share something homemade and heartwarming, these cookies deliver big flavor and visual appeal with minimal fuss. With a rich cinnamon swirl, soft texture, and sweet drizzle on top, they’re a treat you’ll come back to again and again. Bake a batch and let the scent of cinnamon and sugar fill your kitchen — pure cookie bliss!