Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies are like a warm hug for your taste buds—each bite combines the tender chew of a classic sugar cookie with the cozy, comforting swirl of a cinnamon roll. You’ll fall in love with the soft texture that’s just slightly pillowy in the center, contrasted by delicate, lightly golden edges. These cookies wear a cloak of sweet, creamy icing that sets just enough to hold its shape but still melts on your tongue, leaving behind a kiss of vanilla and sugar. Whether you’re hosting a casual afternoon tea, packing up a lunchbox surprise, or craving a sweet afternoon pick-me-up, these treats answer the call. And did I mention they clock in at around 120 calories per cookie? That means you can enjoy one (or two!) without too much guilt.
Cranking up the charm even more, this Intermediate-level recipe walks you through every step—from creaming the butter and sugar to rolling out the dough into a cinnamon sugar-kissed rectangle, then chilling, slicing, and baking. You’ll need about 30 minutes of hands-on prep, 12 minutes of baking time, and another 30 minutes resting in the fridge so your log holds its shape. All told, this sweet adventure takes roughly 1 hour and 12 minutes but is worth every second. As someone who’s baked dozens of cookie batches in my kitchen, I promise that the rewards are deliciously satisfying. These brown-sugar-spiced rounds bring out the best in homemade cookies: warm, soft, chewy, and oh-so-addictive. So roll up your sleeves, dust off that rolling pin, and let’s create something truly delightful!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN SOFT AND CHEWY CINNAMON ROLL SUGAR COOKIES
Before we dive into the baking process, let’s chat about the magic makers behind these heavenly treats. Each ingredient plays a unique role, from structure and lift to sweetness and spice. Understanding what they do helps you appreciate how they come together to create soft, chewy cookies with a swirl of cinnamon bliss.
- All-Purpose Flour
A sturdy, versatile base that provides structure and chewiness. Its moderate protein content helps the cookies hold together without becoming tough.
- Baking Powder
A gentle leavening agent that gives the cookies a light rise. It ensures they puff just enough in the oven before settling into that soft, chewy texture.
- Salt
A small pinch of salt enhances all the sweet flavors, balances richness, and prevents the cookies from tasting flat.
- Unsalted Butter (softened)
The foundation of that tender crumb and rich mouthfeel. Softened butter creams easily with sugar to trap air bubbles for fluffiness.
- Granulated Sugar
Sweetens and helps create that delicate crisp edge around each cookie, while also contributing to overall chewiness.
- Egg
Acts as a binder and natural emulsifier, giving the dough structure and moisture for a tender chew.
- Vanilla Extract
Adds warm, aromatic depth to the cookie dough, complementing the cinnamon swirl in every bite.
- Brown Sugar
Mixed with cinnamon as a filling, its molasses notes bring moisture, richness, and a deeper caramel-like flavor.
- Ground Cinnamon
The star of the show in the filling, providing that signature warm spice kick that makes these cookies reminiscent of cinnamon rolls.
- Confectioners’ Sugar
Blends smoothly into the icing for a silky, creamy drizzle with just the right sweetness and consistency.
- Milk
Thins the icing to a perfect drizzling texture, making it easy to coat each cookie with a delicate glaze.
- Vanilla Extract (for icing)
Infuses the icing with more of that sweet, fragrant vanilla character, tying the flavors together.
HOW TO MAKE SOFT AND CHEWY CINNAMON ROLL SUGAR COOKIES
Get ready to transform these pantry staples into irresistibly soft and chewy cinnamon roll sugar cookies. Follow each step closely, and don’t skip the chilling stage—that’s the secret to clean, beautiful slices that bake up like little cinnamon swirls.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This dry mixture will be gradually folded into the wet ingredients to create a uniform dough.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated, scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure a smooth, even texture.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
6. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon to create the sweet, spicy filling.
7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the cookie dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Aim for even thickness so cookies bake uniformly.
8. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar filling evenly over the surface of the dough, leaving a small edge clear.
9. Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, starting from the long edge, to form the classic cinnamon roll shape.
10. Chill the dough log in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This firms it up, making it easier to slice neatly.
11. Once chilled, slice the log into 1/4 inch thick circles. Place them on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
12. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn lightly golden. Allow the cookies to rest on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
13. While the cookies cool, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make a smooth drizzle icing.
14. Drizzle the icing over cooled cookies, letting it set for a few minutes before serving.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR SOFT AND CHEWY CINNAMON ROLL SUGAR COOKIES
Once your cookies are iced and ready, there are endless ways to present and enjoy them. These serving ideas will help you elevate your dessert game and share these chewy delights in style.
These cookies shine when they’re still slightly warm, so consider re-heating individual servings in the microwave for 5–8 seconds to refresh their soft texture and melt the icing slightly. Pair them with a frothy latte or a steaming mug of spiced chai to enhance their cinnamon sweetness. If hosting a brunch or dessert spread, arrange them on a tiered cake stand with a dusting of extra cinnamon or a pinch of cardamom for a touch of elegance. For a playful twist, sandwich a thin layer of cream cheese frosting between two cookies to create a gooey, indulgent treat that mimics the classic cinnamon roll in every bite.
- Warm & Gooey: Serve fresh from the oven or warmed in the microwave, letting the icing soften and drip down the sides.
- Brunch Centerpiece: Arrange on a tiered stand, garnish with powdered sugar, and serve alongside fresh fruit and coffee for a café-style spread.
- Ice Cream Sandwich: Press a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream between two cookies for a decadent summer treat.
- Gift Basket: Pack in decorative boxes or mason jars, layered with parchment, and tie with a cinnamon-stick ribbon for a heartfelt homemade gift.
HOW TO STORE SOFT AND CHEWY CINNAMON ROLL SUGAR COOKIES
Proper storage keeps these cookies tasting as fresh as the day you baked them. Whether you’re saving some for later or gifting them, here are foolproof methods to maintain their signature softness and flavor.
- Room Temperature in an Airtight Container
Store completely cooled cookies in a sealed container with layers of parchment paper between them. They’ll stay soft and chewy for up to 4 days without drying out.
- Refrigeration
Place cookies in a single layer on a plate, cover loosely with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to a week. Bring to room temperature before serving to revive that tender texture.
- Freezing the Dough Log
After rolling your dough into a log but before slicing, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before slicing and baking.
- Freezing Baked Cookies
Flash-freeze cooled cookies on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container. Keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Rewarm in a low oven or microwave before serving.
CONCLUSION
Baking these Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies is a gratifying journey that marries the nostalgic warmth of cinnamon rolls with the timeless appeal of sugar cookies. From creaming the butter and sugar until light and fluffy to rolling out the dough and swirling in that irresistible cinnamon-brown sugar filling, each step builds layers of flavor and texture. The final touch of creamy vanilla icing ties everything together with sweet, silky perfection. With just over an hour of total time—from 30 minutes of prep to 30 minutes of chilling plus 12 minutes of baking—you’ll have a batch of bakery-worthy treats to share. They’re perfect for brunches, holiday gatherings, or simply satisfying a mid-afternoon sugar craving. Feel free to customize the filling with chopped nuts or raisins, or pack them up as thoughtful homemade gifts for friends and family.
I hope you’ll print this article and save it in your personal recipe collection for whenever the sweet tooth strikes. You can also find a FAQ below should any questions pop up while you’re rolling or baking. I’d love to hear how your cookies turn out—please share comments, questions, or feedback if you try the recipe or need help along the way. Happy baking, and here’s to soft, chewy bliss in every bite!
Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies
Description
These cookies combine the warm flavors of cinnamon rolls with the sweetness of sugar cookies, creating an irresistible soft and chewy treat. Perfectly drizzled with creamy icing, they're a delightful addition to any dessert table.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
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In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside for later.
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In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy using an electric mixer.
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Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined into the butter and sugar mixture.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined and a cookie dough forms.
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For the filling, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
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Roll out the cookie dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
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Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar filling evenly over the rolled-out dough.
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Carefully roll the dough into a log, starting from the long edge, to create a cinnamon roll shape.
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Chill the dough log in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
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Once chilled, slice the log into 1/4 inch thick circles and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
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Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until edges start to lightly golden. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
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While cookies are cooling, prepare the icing by whisking together confectioners' sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
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Drizzle the icing over the cooled cookies and let set for a few minutes before serving.
Note
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Chilling the dough log ensures clean cuts when slicing into individual cookies.
- For a more pronounced cinnamon flavor, increase the amount of ground cinnamon in the filling.
- Experiment by adding nuts or raisins to the filling for added texture and taste.
