Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies are a perfect mix of two classic treats in one bite! These cookies have the soft, buttery texture of sugar cookies combined with the warm, sweet flavors of cinnamon sugar swirled right through the dough. They look like cute little cinnamon rolls on a cookie sheet and taste just as delicious as they sound.
I love making these cookies when I want something a little special but still easy to whip up. The gooey cinnamon swirl is my favorite part—it adds a cozy, comforting touch that reminds me of weekend mornings with fresh cinnamon rolls. Plus, the sugar cookie base keeps them light and just the right amount of sweet, so I don’t feel like I’m eating dessert overload.
My go-to way to enjoy these cookies is with a big glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea. They also make a great treat to share with friends and family, especially during the holidays or a casual get-together. Honestly, these cookies are such a fun twist on the usual sugar cookie—they bring a warm cinnamon hug in every bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Using unsalted butter gives you full control over salt levels. If you only have salted, just skip the added salt in the recipe. For a dairy-free option, try vegan butter sticks.
Sugar: Granulated sugar creates a soft, tender cookie. The brown sugar in the cinnamon filling adds moisture and a hint of molasses flavor. Light brown sugar is best, but dark brown works too for a richer taste.
Flour: All-purpose flour is ideal for a classic cookie texture. If you need gluten-free, swap for a one-to-one gluten-free baking flour mix.
Cinnamon Sugar Filling: The cinnamon and brown sugar create the signature swirl flavor. Ground cinnamon is best, but you can also mix in a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a warm twist.
Glaze: Powdered sugar and milk create a simple, sweet drizzle. Use plant-based milk if you prefer vegan options. The glaze smoothes over the cookies and adds just enough sweetness without overpowering.
How Do You Get the Perfect Cinnamon Swirl in Cookies?
The cinnamon swirl is the magic touch of this recipe. Here’s how to get it right:
- Roll the dough evenly into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick to ensure the swirl spreads nicely.
- Brush melted butter across all the dough to help the cinnamon sugar stick and get moist.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly, reaching all the edges for a full flavor in every bite.
- Roll the dough log tightly but gently, making sure not to squeeze out the filling.
- Slice with a sharp knife or dental floss for clean rounds before baking.
Taking your time with rolling and slicing helps the cookies keep their shape and look just like mini cinnamon rolls. Warm butter and cinnamon sugar create the soft, gooey texture you want inside each cookie slice.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients easily without making a mess.
- Electric mixer or hand mixer – helps cream butter and sugar smoothly for soft cookies.
- Rolling pin – to roll out the dough evenly into a rectangle for perfect swirls.
- Sharp knife or dental floss – for cleanly slicing the dough log into cookie rounds.
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper or silicone mat – prevents sticking and makes cleanup simple.
- Wire cooling rack – lets cookies cool evenly without getting soggy underneath.
- Small bowl and whisk – for mixing the glaze until smooth and drizzle-able.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon sugar filling for extra crunch.
- Mix in mini chocolate chips in the dough for a sweet surprise alongside cinnamon flavor.
- Try swapping cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice in the filling for a cozy fall twist.
- Use cream cheese in the glaze for a tangy finish that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling:
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll spend about 15 minutes preparing the dough and rolling it out, plus 10-12 minutes baking time. Allow another 5-10 minutes for the cookies to cool and glazing. So, in total, plan for around 35-40 minutes to enjoy these tasty treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Cookie Dough:
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 to 5 minutes. Then add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a soft dough forms. Divide the dough into two equal parts.
3. Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Filling:
Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together in a small bowl. Keep the melted butter nearby for brushing.
4. Roll and Fill the Dough:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out one half of the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Brush the surface evenly with melted butter, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture all over.
5. Create the Cinnamon Roll Swirls:
Carefully roll the dough up tightly from one long edge, forming a log. Cut the log into slices about 1/3 to 1/2 inch thick. Place the slices onto a parchment-lined baking sheet with space between them.
6. Repeat with Second Dough Half:
Roll out, butter, sprinkle, roll, and slice the second half of the dough the same way, placing those slices on the baking sheet as well.
7. Bake the Cookies:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for about 10-12 minutes, until the edges turn lightly golden and the cookies are set but still soft inside.
8. Make the Glaze and Finish:
While the cookies bake, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth and drizzle-able. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack, then drizzle glaze over the warm cookies and let it set before serving.
Can I Use Frozen Dough for Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies?
Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead of time, wrap it tightly, and freeze it for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw the dough overnight in the fridge before rolling, filling, and baking as usual.
Can I Substitute Butter in This Recipe?
Unsalted butter is best for flavor and texture, but you can use salted butter if needed—just skip adding extra salt to the dough. For dairy-free, try using a plant-based butter substitute that works well for baking.
How Should I Store Leftover Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies?
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh longer, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat briefly to enjoy soft, warm cookies.
Can I Make the Glaze Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the glaze and store it in a covered container at room temperature or in the fridge. If it thickens, just whisk in a bit more milk to reach the perfect drizzle consistency before using.
