Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies

By Emily Cookson | February 13, 2025 | No comments

Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies

These Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies combine pantry ingredients like sugar, butter, and cinnamon to achieve their delicious flavor, and I’ve discovered that they’re a breeze to make. What makes them unique? The thrill of a cinnamon roll in the shape of a delicious cookie.

When I remember making these cookies for the first time, a certain feeling comes over me. I was craving the coziness of cinnamon buns on a chilly winter afternoon, but I also wanted the instant gratification of a cookie. I began experimenting in the kitchen because of this hunger, using the same soft dough and aromatic spices that I use for cinnamon buns.

This recipe’s harmony of taste and simplicity is what really sets it apart. It provides a distinctive flavor experience that feels gourmet without going over budget by combining the sweet taste of sugar with the reassuring scent of cinnamon. These cookies are ideal for any occasion and require little preparation, saving you time in the kitchen while providing a taste that is both familiar and exceptional. With them in your baking repertoire, I promise you’ll be the life of the party.

Why You’ll Love Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies?

  • Expert Techniques: The recipe employs trusted baking methods to ensure each cookies emerges from the oven soft and perfectly chewy.
  • Simplicity: Using everyday ingredients, it simplifies the process without compromising taste, ideal for bakers of every skill level.
  • Rich Flavor: The harmonious blend of sugar and cinnamon creates a taste that’s both comforting and indulgent.
  • Consistent Results: This recipe is crafted for reliability, providing deliciously consistent results time after time.
Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies (3)

Ingredients Notes

Let me walk you through the ingredients that make these cinnamon roll sugar cookies so irresistible. A deep understanding of each component adds that professional touch your friends and family will love. 

  • Unsalted Butter: Softened butter creams beautifully with sugar, creating a tender texture. I recommend European butter for its higher fat content and richer flavor.
  • Brown Sugar: Packed brown sugar adds a hint of molasses, providing depth to the filling. Use fresh, soft sugar for best results.
  • All-Purpose Flour: It’s the backbone of the dough and filling. I choose unbleached flour for natural flavor. Sift for a finer texture.
  • Ground Cinnamon: Key to the classic cinnamon roll taste. Opt for Ceylon cinnamon for a sweeter, subtler flavor.
  • Granulated Sugar: It contributes to structure and sweetness. Fine-grain sugar ensures smooth blending with the butter.
  • Pure Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor depth. My tip is to use a high-quality, pure extract for authenticity.
  • Large Egg and Egg Yolk: They provide richness and structure. The yolk adds moisture, resulting in chewy cookies.
  • Baking Powder: Leavening agent for slight puffiness. Fresh powder is crucial for effective rising.
  • Cornstarch: Adds tenderness by softening the flour’s protein. It also contributes to that soft, melt-in-your-mouth chewiness.
  • Salt: A pinch enhances all flavors. I suggest using sea salt for subtle, natural taste.

How to Make Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies?

Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies (4)
  • Prepare the Dough: Start with softened butter. Cream it together with sugar until light and fluffy, creating a creamy texture that forms the base. Gradually add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly.
  • Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This ensures even distribution and prevents clumping, resulting in a smoother dough.
  • Combine: Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix until just combined; overmixing can make the dough tough.
  • Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to enhance its firm texture, making it easier to roll.
  • Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thickness. This thickness ensures a sturdy yet tender cookie.
  • Prepare Cinnamon Filling: Mix softened butter with brown sugar and cinnamon. Spread evenly over the rolled-out dough using an offset spatula for smooth application.
  • Form the Cookies: Carefully roll the dough into a log, capturing the cinnamon swirl. Use a gentle but firm hand to avoid breaking.
  • Slice and Bake: Cut the dough log into 1-inch rounds, then bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes. The edges should be lightly golden while the centers stay soft.
  • Cool and Enjoy: Allow cookies to cool on a wire rack. Enjoy the delightful aroma as they fill your kitchen, inviting you to indulge in their chewy perfection.

Expert Cooking Tips

  • Use room temperature butter for a creamier dough texture.
  • Always chill the dough; it prevents spreading during baking.
  • Roll dough evenly to ensure uniform baking and consistency.
  • For a smoother filling, thoroughly mix butter and sugar.
  • Test your oven’s temperature with an oven thermometer for accuracy.
  • For softer cookies, slightly underbake them, letting residual heat finish the job.
  • I prefer sprinkling a hint of sea salt on cookies before baking for contrast.
  • Line baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cookie removal.
  • I fold extra cinnamon into the dough for enhanced flavor layers.

Storage Tips

  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days.
  • For longer storage, freeze cookies between parchment layers to avoid sticking.
  • Reheat cookies in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes to refresh their softness.
  • To prevent freezer burn, wrap cookies tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.
  • Always allow cookies to cool completely before storage to avoid sogginess.
  • Label and date your storage to track freshness accurately.
  • Keep cookies away from strong odors to preserve their distinct cinnamon aroma.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut oil or vegan butter in place of traditional butter for delicious dairy-free cookies.
  • Gluten-Free Substitute: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to maintain the cookie’s texture.
  • Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a crunch that complements the cinnamon sweetness.
  • Fruity Variation: Incorporate finely chopped dried apricots or cranberries into the dough for a burst of tartness.
  • Chocolate Lovers: Add mini chocolate chips to the dough for a rich, indulgent addition without overpowering the cinnamon flavor.
  • Low-Sugar Adjustment: Use a sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener, maintaining sweetness without altering cookie texture significantly.
  • Vegan Modification: Use a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2 tbsp water) as a binder instead of traditional eggs.
  • Zesty Kick: Incorporate orange or lemon zest into the dough for a hint of citrus that elevates the flavors beautifully.
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What to Serve with Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies?

  • Light Vanilla Ice Cream: Complements the cinnamon with a creamy, sweet contrast, enhancing the cookie’s flavors.
  • Warm Apple Compote: Adds a delightful tartness, doubling up on cozy fall flavors alongside the cinnamon cookies.
  • Fresh Berry Salad: Provides a refreshing, tangy balance, offering contrast to the richness of the cookies.
  • Roasted Nuts: Introduce an earthy, crunchy texture that pairs fabulously with the cookies’ chewiness.
  • Spiced Chai Latte: The spices in chai complement cinnamon, creating a harmonious and warming flavor experience.

FAQ

How do I prevent soggy cookies?

Cool completely before storing; store in airtight containers.

Can I adjust sweetness?

Yes, reduce sugar by a quarter to taste without losing texture.

How to maintain chewiness?

Use room temperature eggs and butter for consistent texture.

Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, freeze in logs wrapped tightly; slice and bake as needed.

What’s the best reheating method?

Reheat at 350°F for 5 minutes to refresh softness.

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Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies

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These soft and chewy cinnamon roll sugar cookies are a fun twist on a breakfast classic with swirls of cinnamon sugar and sweet glaze.

  • Author: Emily Cookson
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • Cinnamon Sugar Filling:
    • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
    • 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
    • 1 1/2 tbsp all-purpose flour
    • 2 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
    • Pinch of salt

Cookies:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened but still cool
  • 1 1/3 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 3/4 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (see note)
  • 3/4 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp cornstarch
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

  • Prepare the dough: Start by creaming softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually mix in eggs and vanilla extract.
  • Mix dry ingredients: Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in another bowl.
  • Combine: Slowly add dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
  • Chill the dough: Wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  • Roll out the dough: On a floured surface, roll to ¼ inch thickness.
  • Prepare cinnamon filling: Mix butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Spread it evenly over the dough.
  • Form the cookies: Carefully roll the dough into a log and slice into 1-inch rounds.
  • Slice and bake: Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden.
  • Cool and enjoy: Let cool on a wire rack and savor their chewy perfection.

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About the author

Holly Nilsson is the creator of Spend With Pennies, where she creates easy, comforting recipes made for real life. With a passion for nostalgic flavors and simplified techniques, Holly helps busy home cooks create delicious meals that always work. She is also the author of “Everyday Comfort,” which promises to inspire even more hearty, home-cooked meals.

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