Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing

These Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing deliver the delightful flavors of a traditional cinnamon roll in a soft and chewy cookie format. Perfect for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive holiday parties, these cookies are sure to impress. The best part? There’s no complicated rolling or swirling involved—just mix, bake, and enjoy within an hour!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These cookies can be made in just over an hour, making them perfect for last-minute dessert cravings.
• Delicious Flavor: Soft and chewy, each bite is packed with cinnamon goodness and topped with creamy icing.
• Versatile Treat: Great for sharing at potlucks, holiday parties, or simply enjoying at home with family.
• No Messy Rolling: Unlike traditional cinnamon rolls, these cookies skip the hassle of rolling dough while still delivering that classic flavor.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Involve the little ones in mixing and decorating for a fun baking experience.

Tools and Preparation

To create your soft cinnamon roll cookies, having the right tools will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Cookie scoop
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheets
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients evenly to ensure your dough has the right texture.
• Cookie scoop: Helps portion out uniform cookie sizes for even baking.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy after baking.

Ingredients

These cinnamon roll cookies have all the flavors of a classic cinnamon roll in a soft, chewy cookie! Made with a buttery sugar cookie dough, a layer of brown sugar cinnamon filling, and a drizzle of cream cheese frosting, these cookies are completely irresistible. No rolling or swirling—just mix, bake, and enjoy in one hour!

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar (packed)
• 1/3 cup + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (See notes below for measuring)
• 2 tablespoons cinnamon
• 11 tablespoons unsalted cultured butter
• 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons light brown sugar (packed)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 1 large egg yolk (room temperature)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (See notes below for measuring)
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 3 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2-4 tablespoons whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or extract

How to Make Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing

Step 1: Melt the Butter

Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, set it aside to cool to room temperature. It is important not to use it until it has cooled; otherwise, it may melt the sugars too quickly during mixing.

Step 2: Mix Butter and Sugars

In a mixing bowl:
1. Scrape all melted butter into the bowl.
2. Add both sugars—granulated and light brown sugar.
3. Whisk vigorously until combined and emulsified for about 1 minute.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add to the mixture:
1. One large egg,
2. One large egg yolk,
3. Two teaspoons of vanilla extract.

Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Fold in the flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda until fully incorporated.
2. Cover this dough with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes.

Step 5: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). While waiting, line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 6: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

In a small bowl:
1. Cream together butter and sugars,
2. Then mix in flour and cinnamon until combined.

Step 7: Scoop Cookie Dough

Using a 3-tablespoon cookie scoop:
1. Scoop out portions of dough,
2. Roll each into smooth balls,
3. Place them on prepared baking sheets (8–9 cookies per tray).

Step 8: Add Cinnamon Sugar Topping

For each cookie ball:
1. Take half a tablespoon of your cinnamon sugar mixture,
2. Roll it into a ball,
3. Press into a flat disc,
4. Place on top of each cookie dough ball while securing edges.

If needed, add flour to adjust consistency if too sticky.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Bake one tray at a time:
1. For 11–13 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
2. Let cool on wire racks while you prepare icing.

Step 10: Make Cream Cheese Icing

In another bowl:
1. Combine softened cream cheese with powdered sugar,
2. Whisk in milk and vanilla until thick enough to drizzle.

Once cookies are cool:
Drizzle icing over each cookie generously before serving! Enjoy your delicious soft cinnamon roll cookies!

How to Serve Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing

These Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing are perfect for any occasion. Their delightful flavor and soft texture make them a crowd-pleaser, and they can be served in various ways to enhance your experience.

With Coffee or Tea

• Pair these cookies with your favorite coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat. The warmth of the beverage complements the cinnamon flavors perfectly.

As Dessert for Gatherings

• Serve these cookies as a sweet dessert option at parties or family gatherings. Their eye-catching icing and cinnamon aroma will impress your guests.

On a Breakfast Platter

• Include them on a breakfast or brunch platter alongside fresh fruit and yogurt. They add a touch of sweetness that balances well with savory items.

Wrapped as Gifts

• Package the cookies in decorative boxes or bags to give as gifts. This makes for a thoughtful present that friends and family will love.

At Holiday Celebrations

• Enjoy these cookies during holidays or special occasions. Their festive flavors make them an ideal addition to your seasonal dessert table.

How to Perfect Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing

To ensure your Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Room temperature butter and eggs mix better, creating a smoother dough that results in soft cookies.

• Chill the dough: Chilling the cookie dough before baking helps prevent excessive spreading, giving you thicker, chewy cookies.

• Measure flour accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour correctly. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies, while too little can make them too soft.

• Watch baking time closely: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. Remove them from the oven when the edges are golden brown for the best texture.

• Adjust icing consistency: If your cream cheese icing is too thick, add more milk, one tablespoon at a time. This ensures it drizzles beautifully over each cookie.

Best Side Dishes for Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing

These Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their delightful flavors. Consider adding one or more of these options to your spread!

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of berries, melons, and citrus adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy side dish that complements the texture of the cookies.

3. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses provides a savory contrast to the sweet cookies, making for an interesting flavor combination.

4. Milkshake: A rich vanilla or caramel milkshake can elevate your dessert experience while pairing well with cinnamon flavors.

5. Nut Mix: A bowl of mixed nuts adds crunchiness and healthy fats, creating an enjoyable texture alongside the soft cookies.

6. Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of fruit or cookie bites into warm chocolate fondue for an indulgent treat that everyone will love.

7. Coffee Cake: Another baked good like coffee cake offers variety in texture and flavor while still maintaining a sweet theme.

8. Spiced Tea: Serve warm spiced tea as a comforting beverage option that enhances the cinnamon notes of the cookies without overpowering them.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Using melted butter: If the butter is too warm, it can cause the dough to spread excessively. Always let it cool to room temperature before mixing.
• Not chilling the dough: Skipping the chilling step can lead to cookies that are too flat. Make sure to chill the dough for 30 minutes as instructed.
• Incorrect flour measurements: Using too much or too little flour can affect the texture of your cookies. Measure carefully and use the spoon-and-level method for accuracy.
• Overbaking: Baking for too long can result in dry cookies. Keep an eye on them and remove them when the edges are golden brown.
• Skipping the glaze: The cream cheese icing adds a delightful finishing touch. Don’t skip it—drizzle generously for maximum flavor!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing

• Freeze unglazed cookies for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Thaw in the refrigerator before icing and serving.

Reheating Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for 10-15 seconds on medium power for a soft texture.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing.

Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure it’s designed for baking.

How do I store leftover cream cheese icing?

To store leftover icing, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the dough before baking for added flavor and texture.

How do I make these cookies dairy-free?

Substitute vegan butter and non-dairy cream cheese in the recipe. This will maintain the delicious flavor while making it dairy-free.

What if my cookie dough is too sticky?

If your dough is sticky, sprinkle in small amounts of flour until you reach a manageable consistency.

Final Thoughts

Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing combine the beloved flavors of cinnamon rolls into a delightful cookie form. They are perfect for any occasion and easy to customize with add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these soft, chewy treats that everyone will love!