Homemade Cinnamon Roll Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing

Imagine your favorite gooey, spiced cinnamon roll, but in the convenient, irresistible form of a cookie. That’s exactly what we’re bringing to your kitchen today! These Cinnamon Roll Cookies are the epitome of comfort food – a soft, chewy cookie base swirled with a rich, aromatic cinnamon filling, all topped with a luscious, tangy cream cheese icing. Forget the bakery; these homemade beauties are destined to become your new family favorite.

At Sweet Craft Recipes, we believe in perfecting every single recipe, and that’s precisely what our resident expert baker, Sophie, has done with these homemade cinnamon roll cookies. She’s meticulously tested this recipe over nine times, ensuring every detail, from the dough consistency to the perfect bake time and the dreamiest icing, is absolutely spot-on. Her dedication means you get a foolproof guide to the most delicious, Google Discover-worthy cookies that taste like a warm hug.

Get ready to bake up a batch of pure joy that will fill your home with the most incredible aroma and your taste buds with unparalleled delight. Let’s dive into Sophie’s ultimate Cinnamon Roll Cookies recipe!

Why These Cinnamon Roll Cookies Are the Best

What makes a good cookie great? For these Cinnamon Roll Cookies, it’s a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that truly sets them apart. This isn’t just any cookie; it’s an experience crafted for maximum comfort and satisfaction.

Here’s why Sophie’s recipe stands out:

• Unrivaled Softness and Chewiness: The cookie dough is designed to yield a wonderfully soft, yet perfectly chewy texture, mimicking the satisfying bite of a fresh cinnamon roll. It’s a base that truly melts in your mouth.
• Authentic Cinnamon Swirl: We don’t skimp on the cinnamon filling! It’s a rich, buttery, brown sugar and cinnamon paste that bakes into a beautiful, aromatic swirl through each cookie. Every bite is packed with that warm, spiced flavor you crave.
• Decadent Cream Cheese Icing: No cinnamon roll is complete without a generous slathering of cream cheese icing, and these cookies are no exception. Our icing recipe strikes the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, providing a creamy contrast that elevates the entire cookie.
• Homemade Advantage: While not a “healthy twist” in the traditional sense, making these cookies from scratch means you control every ingredient. You’re opting for fresh, quality components over processed alternatives, making them a more wholesome indulgence for your family gatherings compared to store-bought options.
• Tested for Perfection: As mentioned, Sophie has painstakingly tested this recipe over and over. This means common pitfalls are avoided, and you’re guided through each step with expert precision, guaranteeing a successful bake every time.

These cookies are more than just a dessert; they’re a celebration of classic flavors in a delightful new format, perfect for any occasion from a cozy afternoon treat to a show-stopping holiday platter.

Sophie’s Expert Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Baking can sometimes feel intimidating, but with Sophie’s seasoned advice, you’ll master these Cinnamon Roll Cookies like a pro. These insights come directly from her nine-plus rounds of testing, ensuring you achieve bakery-quality results right in your own kitchen.

Silicone Mat vs. Dusting with Flour

“I’ve tried both methods extensively,” Sophie shares, “and while dusting your kitchen bench with flour works, a silicone mat is a game-changer. You’ll still need a light dusting of flour on the mat and your rolling pin to prevent sticking, but the cleanup is significantly easier, and the dough lifts more cleanly.” This makes the rolling and transferring process much smoother, especially for a delicate dough.

Dealing with Sticky Dough

If you find your dough is excessively sticky during the rolling process, don’t panic! “A little extra flour on your surfaces and rolling pin can make all the difference,” Sophie advises. Don’t add too much to the dough itself, but lightly dusting your tools will provide the friction needed to roll it out without frustration.

Embrace the Cracks When Rolling Logs

“When you’re carefully rolling the dough rectangles into logs after spreading the cinnamon filling, you might notice some cracks forming,” Sophie notes. “This is completely normal and expected!” The dough is quite pliable, and the layers can stress. Simply use your fingertips to gently smooth over these cracks as you continue to roll slowly and tightly. The final baked cookie will still be beautiful.

The Non-Negotiable Chill Time

This is perhaps Sophie’s most crucial tip: “Do NOT skip the refrigeration step for the cookie logs!” Chilling the dough for at least an hour until firm is vital. It sets the butter, prevents excessive spreading, and most importantly, makes slicing the logs into individual cookies incredibly easy and neat. Without chilling, your cookies might lose their beautiful swirl shape during slicing and baking.

Slice for Uniformity

“Even baking is key to consistently delicious cookies,” Sophie emphasizes. “Try your best to slice the chilled cookie logs into even pieces. I even use a ruler sometimes to ensure they’re all the same thickness, roughly ½ to ¾ inch.” Uniform slices mean every cookie bakes at the same rate, preventing some from being underdone while others are overbaked.

The Golden Rule: Don’t Overbake!

This applies to most cookies, but especially to achieve that perfect soft and chewy texture here. “Keep a close eye on your cookies in the oven,” Sophie warns. “They should be lightly golden brown around the edges and just set in the center. They might look slightly underbaked in the middle, but they will continue to cook slightly from residual heat on the baking sheet. Overbaking leads to dry, crumbly cookies, and we want moist, tender ones!”

Patience for Perfection: Cool Before Frosting

It’s tempting to frost warm cookies, but resist! “For the best results, allow your cookies to cool completely before applying the cream cheese icing,” Sophie instructs. “If you frost warm cookies, the icing will simply melt and run, creating a messy rather than a beautiful finish.” A perfectly cooled cookie ensures a thick, luscious layer of icing.

Frosting with Finesse

You have options for applying that gorgeous cream cheese icing. “I often just drizzle the icing with a teaspoon for a charming, rustic look,” says Sophie. “But if you prefer a neater finish, a piping bag with a round tip works wonderfully. You can even snip the corner off a zip-lock bag for a simple, homemade piping tool.”

By following Sophie’s expert guidance, you’re not just making cookies; you’re crafting a truly special treat that embodies the warmth and comfort of home baking.

Ingredients You’ll Need for These Comfort-Food Cookies

Gathering your ingredients is the first step towards baking bliss! For the best Cinnamon Roll Cookies, make sure your butter, egg, and cream cheese are at room temperature. This is essential for a smooth, homogenous dough and creamy icing.

For the Soft & Chewy Cookie Dough

• 280g Plain Flour: The foundation of our chewy cookie.
• 170g Unsalted Butter (Room Temp): Crucial for flavor and texture. Room temperature butter creams beautifully with sugar, incorporating air for a light dough.
• 150g Brown Sugar: Adds moisture, chewiness, and a lovely molasses note that complements the cinnamon.
• 1/2 Tsp Baking Powder: Our leavening agent, ensuring the cookies rise just right.
• 1/4 Tsp Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
• 2 Tsp Vanilla Extract: Use good quality vanilla for the best aromatic depth.
• 1 Egg (Room Temp): Binds the dough and adds richness. Room temperature eggs emulsify better with the butter and sugar.

For the Aromatic Cinnamon Filling

• 2 Tsp Ground Cinnamon: The star of the show! Use fresh, fragrant cinnamon for maximum impact.
• 75g Brown Sugar: Creates a luscious, sweet, and slightly caramelized filling.
• 45g Unsalted Butter (Room Temp): Helps bind the filling into a spreadable paste.

For the Decadent Cream Cheese Icing

• 1 Tbsp Cream Cheese (Room Temp): The classic tang that makes cinnamon rolls so irresistible. Room temperature cream cheese whips up smoothly.
• 1 Tbsp Unsalted Butter (Room Temp): Adds richness and helps achieve a spreadable consistency.
• 120g Powdered Sugar: For sweetness and a smooth, non-gritty icing.
• 1 Tsp Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the icing.
• Milk: A little at a time to achieve your desired drizzling consistency.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Sophie’s Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Ready to transform these simple ingredients into extraordinary cookies? Follow these detailed instructions to craft your very own batch of homemade Cinnamon Roll Cookies.

Part 1: Crafting the Cinnamon Filling

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, add the 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, 75g brown sugar, and 45g room temperature unsalted butter.
2. Form a Paste: Using a spoon or a small spatula, combine all the ingredients until a smooth, uniform paste forms. Set this aside for later.

Part 2: Making the Cookie Dough & Rolling the Logs

1. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the 170g room temperature unsalted butter and 150g brown sugar together with a handheld electric beater until the mixture is light, fluffy, and creamy (about 2-3 minutes).
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the room temperature egg and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until fully combined and smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the 280g plain flour, ½ teaspoon baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon salt to the wet mixture. Beat on low speed until a cohesive cookie dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; stop once no streaks of flour remain.
4. Prepare Work Surface: Lightly dust a silicone mat, a piece of parchment paper, or a clean kitchen bench with a sprinkle of flour.
5. Divide and Roll Dough: Divide the cookie dough in half. Take one portion and roll it out into a medium-sized rectangle, roughly 9×7 inches. Repeat with the second portion. Sophie’s Tip: If the dough feels too soft after rolling, place the rectangles into the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to firm up slightly. This makes spreading the filling much easier.
6. Spread Cinnamon Filling: Evenly spoon 2 tablespoons of the prepared cinnamon mixture onto each dough rectangle. Gently spread it across the entire surface using the back of a spoon or an offset spatula, ensuring even coverage right to the edges.
7. Roll into Logs: This step requires care. Starting from one long side, slowly and tightly roll each dough rectangle into a log. The dough may crack a little as you roll; this is normal. Use your fingers to gently smooth out any cracks as you continue rolling. Aim for a tight log.
8. Chill the Logs: Cover both cookie logs tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until they are firm to the touch. This chilling time is crucial for easy slicing and maintaining cookie shape.

Part 3: Baking the Cookies

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). Line two large baking trays with parchment paper.
2. Slice Cookies: Remove the firm cookie logs from the refrigerator. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each log into individual cookies, aiming for even thickness (approximately ½ to ¾ inch thick). Sophie’s Tip: Using a ruler can help ensure uniform slices for even baking.
3. Arrange and Bake: Place the sliced cookies on your prepared baking trays, ensuring they are evenly spaced, as they will spread slightly.
4. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the centers are just set. Remember, don’t overbake!
5. Cool Completely: Remove the trays from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. They must be completely cool before frosting.

Part 4: Whipping Up the Cream Cheese Icing

1. Cream Butter and Cream Cheese: Once your cookies are entirely cooled, place the 1 tablespoon of room temperature cream cheese and 1 tablespoon of room temperature unsalted butter in a large mixing bowl. Using an electric handheld beater, beat them together until smooth and well combined.
2. Add Flavor and Sweetness: Add the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 120g of powdered sugar to the bowl. Beat well until fully incorporated.
3. Adjust Consistency: While beating the mixture on low speed, slowly add milk, a teaspoon at a time, until you achieve a runny consistency that you can easily drizzle onto the cookies. Sophie used approximately 30ml, but adjust to your preference.
4. Drizzle and Enjoy: Drizzle the cream cheese icing generously onto your completely cooled Cinnamon Roll Cookies using a teaspoon. Serve immediately and savor every delicious bite!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cinnamon Roll Cookies

We know you might have a few questions when tackling a new recipe, even one as thoroughly tested as Sophie’s Cinnamon Roll Cookies. Here are answers to some of the most common queries:

Q1: Why does my cinnamon roll cookie dough crack when rolling?

A: It’s completely normal for the dough to crack slightly while you’re rolling it into logs, especially after spreading the cinnamon filling. This is due to the texture of the dough and the layers you’re creating. Don’t worry! Simply use your fingers to gently smooth over any cracks as you continue rolling. The key is to roll slowly and tightly to ensure a beautiful swirl.

Q2: Is chilling the cookie dough logs really necessary?

A: Yes, chilling the cookie dough logs is a crucial step! Based on Sophie’s extensive testing, refrigerating the logs for at least an hour (or until firm) makes a significant difference. It firms up the dough, making it much easier to slice into even cookies without distorting their shape. This chilling process also helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking, ensuring they hold their distinct cinnamon swirl beautifully. Skipping this step often leads to misshapen cookies and a messy slicing experience.

Q3: How do I know when my cinnamon roll cookies are perfectly baked?

A: For perfect cinnamon roll cookies, you want them to be lightly golden brown around the edges and just set in the center. They might still look a little soft in the very middle when you take them out of the oven, but they will continue to set as they cool on the baking sheet. Overbaking will result in dry and crumbly cookies, losing that desired chewy texture. Start checking around the 15-minute mark, but trust your eyes and the feel of the cookies.

Q4: Can I make these cinnamon roll cookies ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! These cookies are great for make-ahead convenience. You can prepare the cookie dough logs, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate them for up to 3 days before slicing and baking. You can also freeze the unbaked logs for up to 2-3 months; just thaw them slightly in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before slicing and baking as directed. Baked cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days, or frozen (unfrosted) for up to 1 month.

Q5: What’s the best way to store leftover cinnamon roll cookies?

A: Once baked and frosted, these cookies are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If your kitchen is very warm, or if you prefer the icing firmer, you can also store them in the refrigerator. If refrigerating, let them come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving for optimal softness and flavor, as the cold can firm up the cookie texture slightly.

Troubleshooting Common Cinnamon Roll Cookie Issues

Even with Sophie’s expert guidance, sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned. Here are solutions to a few common problems you might encounter:

• Cookies Spreading Too Much: This is usually due to the dough being too warm, not chilling the logs long enough, or your oven temperature being too low. Ensure your butter wasn’t too soft to begin with, always chill the logs adequately, and double-check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer if you suspect it’s inaccurate.
• Cookies Are Dry and Crumbly: The most common culprit here is overbaking. Watch the cookies carefully and remove them as soon as the edges are golden. Too much flour can also contribute to a dry cookie, so always measure accurately, preferably by weight if possible.
• Icing is Too Thin or Too Thick: The key to perfect icing is adjusting the milk gradually. If it’s too thin, slowly whisk in more powdered sugar. If it’s too thick, add milk a teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired drizzling consistency. Room temperature ingredients for the icing are vital for a smooth texture.
• Cinnamon Swirl Isn’t Visible: This could be a combination of not rolling the dough tightly enough, or not chilling the logs adequately. A tight roll ensures a distinct swirl, and chilling helps maintain that structure during slicing and baking.

Serving Suggestions & Delightful Variations

These Cinnamon Roll Cookies are a treat all on their own, but they’re also incredibly versatile.

• Perfect Pairings: Serve them with a hot cup of coffee, a glass of cold milk, or alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
• For Family Gatherings: Arrange them beautifully on a platter for your next family gathering. Their familiar, comforting flavor makes them an instant hit with all ages.
• Gifting: Pack a few in a decorative box or bag for a heartfelt homemade gift that’s sure to be appreciated.

Looking to put your own spin on this comfort-food favorite?

• Nutty Swirl: Add a tablespoon of finely chopped pecans or walnuts to your cinnamon filling for an extra layer of crunch and flavor.
• Spiced Up: A tiny pinch of nutmeg or cardamom in the cinnamon filling can add another dimension of warm spice.
• Citrus Zest Icing: For a brighter icing, add a teaspoon of fresh orange or lemon zest to your cream cheese icing.
• Chocolate Drizzle: After the cream cheese icing has set, add an extra drizzle of melted dark chocolate for a truly decadent twist.

While we emphasize the homemade goodness over a “healthy twist,” you could experiment with substituting a portion of the plain flour with whole wheat pastry flour (e.g., 50g) for a slightly nuttier, fiber-boosted cookie. However, for Sophie’s perfectly tested balance, we recommend sticking to the original recipe first to experience the full deliciousness!

Storage Tips for Lasting Freshness

To keep your Cinnamon Roll Cookies as fresh and delicious as possible:

• Room Temperature: Store baked and frosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the icing has fully set before stacking to prevent sticking.
• Refrigeration: If your kitchen is warm or you prefer a firmer icing, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Bring them to room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving for optimal texture.
• Freezing Baked Cookies: To freeze baked (and unfrosted) cookies, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, separated by parchment paper, for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature and then frost.
• Freezing Dough: As mentioned earlier, you can also freeze the unbaked dough logs for 2-3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.

The Sweet Story Behind Sweet Craft Recipes

At Sweet Craft Recipes, our passion is bringing the joy of homemade baking into your home. We believe that the best memories are often made around the kitchen, sharing delicious, heartfelt treats. Our website, pinchofwarmthbakes.com, is a labor of love, dedicated to providing meticulously tested, easy-to-follow recipes that deliver consistent, mouth-watering results every time.

Sophie, our lead recipe developer, embodies this passion. Her hands-on experience and rigorous testing process, like the nine rounds for these very Cinnamon Roll Cookies, are at the core of our E-E-A-T principles. When you bake a recipe from Sweet Craft Recipes, you’re not just following instructions; you’re benefiting from genuine expertise and a commitment to culinary excellence.

We’re constantly exploring new flavors and perfecting classic favorites, ensuring our community of home bakers always has something exciting and reliable to try. If you’ve loved these Cinnamon Roll Cookies, you might enjoy exploring more of our unique cookie creations! For another delightful chew, our Pistachio NYC Cookies are a must-try. If you love stuffed cookies, check out our rich Stuffed Red Velvet Cookies Recipe. And for those craving truly unique sweet experiences, don’t miss our indulgent Creme Egg Stuffed Cookies, the irresistible Peanut Butter Nutella Cookie Recipe, or our decadent White Chocolate Stuffed Cookies. We’re here to inspire your next baking adventure!

Bake Your Way to Bliss!

There’s nothing quite like the smell of fresh-baked goods filling your home, and these Ultimate Homemade Cinnamon Roll Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing deliver that comfort in spades. Sophie’s perfectly tested recipe ensures a soft, chewy cookie, a delightful cinnamon swirl, and that irresistible tangy icing that makes every bite pure heaven.

Whether you’re looking for a special treat for family gatherings, a thoughtful homemade gift, or simply a moment of sweet indulgence for yourself, these cookies are guaranteed to impress. Don’t wait – gather your ingredients, follow Sophie’s expert tips, and experience the joy of baking these incredible comfort-food cookies. We can’t wait to hear how much you love them! Happy baking from Sweet Craft Recipes!

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