Cinnamon Roll Cookies with Cream Cheese Glaze: A Sweet Twist on a Classic

Introduction

There’s something undeniably comforting about cinnamon rolls—soft, gooey, and swirled with that sweet cinnamon filling. But what if I told you that you could enjoy all those delightful flavors in cookie form? Enter cinnamon roll cookies with cream cheese glaze! These cookies take the essence of your favorite breakfast treat and turn it into a fun, handheld delight.

From the moment you pull these cookies out of the oven, your kitchen will be filled with a warm, sweet aroma that beckons everyone to gather around. They’re perfect for cozy brunches, holiday gatherings, or just as a sweet treat to brighten up your day. I first discovered this recipe during a family gathering, and it quickly became a hit. The combination of soft cookies and luscious cream cheese glaze is simply irresistible!

If you’re worried about baking or feel like cookies are beyond your skill level, don’t fret! These cookies are surprisingly easy to whip up, even for novice bakers. Plus, the satisfaction of biting into a warm cinnamon roll cookie drizzled with cream cheese glaze is worth every minute in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies come together quickly and don’t require any special skills.
2. Unique Twist: If you’re a fan of cinnamon rolls but want something a bit different, these cookies offer a delightful change. They’re a perfect way to enjoy those classic flavors in a new form.
3. Family-Friendly: These cookies are a hit with kids and adults alike! They make a great treat for family gatherings or bake sales, and everyone loves the combination of cinnamon and cream cheese.
4. Versatile: You can customize these cookies by adding nuts, raisins, or even swapping out the cream cheese glaze for a vanilla icing if you prefer. The possibilities are endless!
5. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual weekend breakfast or a festive holiday gathering, these cookies fit right in. They’re also fantastic for gift-giving or sharing with friends.

Preparation Time and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15-20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

This means you can have a batch of these delightful cookies ready in about 30-35 minutes!

Ingredients

To make these delicious cinnamon roll cookies, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cookies:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Filling:

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Why These Ingredients Matter

• All-Purpose Flour: The base of the cookies, providing structure and a soft texture.
• Cinnamon: This spice is the star of the show, bringing warmth and sweetness that pairs perfectly with the cookie base.
• Cream Cheese: The key ingredient in the glaze, adding a rich creaminess and tang that beautifully complements the sweetness of the cookies.
• Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the cookies, resulting in a balanced flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to make these delightful cookies? Let’s dive into the process!

1. Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Cookie Dough

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices throughout the flour.

In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. You can use an electric mixer for this step, which makes it easier to achieve that fluffy texture.

3. Add Egg and Vanilla

Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until well combined. This step helps to incorporate moisture and flavor into the dough.

4. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.

5. Prepare the Filling

In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until it forms a paste. This will be your filling.

6. Roll Out the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the cookie dough into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. The size doesn’t have to be perfect, but aim for something around 10×12 inches.

7. Spread the Filling

Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the rolled-out dough. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth it out, making sure to get into the corners.

8. Roll It Up

Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough into a log. Try to keep it tight but not so tight that the filling spills out. Once you’ve rolled it up, pinch the edges to seal the log.

9. Slice the Cookies

Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1/2-inch thick rounds. You should get about 12-15 cookies, depending on how thick you slice them.

10. Bake the Cookies

Place the cookie slices on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on your oven.

11. Make the Cream Cheese Glaze

While the cookies are baking, prepare the glaze. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed; you want it to be pourable but thick enough to cling to the cookies.

12. Cool and Drizzle

Once the cookies are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once they’re cool, drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the cookies.

How to Serve

Here are some suggestions for serving your cinnamon roll cookies:

• Breakfast Treat: Serve these cookies alongside your morning coffee or tea for a sweet start to your day.
• Dessert Option: They also make a wonderful dessert! Pair them with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
• Gift Idea: Pack a few in a cute box or tin and give them as a thoughtful homemade gift to friends or family.

Additional Tips

To ensure your cinnamon roll cookies turn out perfectly, consider these helpful tips:

1. Chill the Dough: If the dough feels too soft to roll out, pop it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes. This makes it easier to handle and helps maintain its shape during baking.
2. Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add in nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to the cookie dough for extra flavor and texture.
3. Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool.
4. Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. Just make sure to cover it well!
5. Store Properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.

Recipe Variations

Want to put your own spin on these cookies? Here are some tasty variations:

• Nutty Addition: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon filling for a delightful crunch.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Instead of cream cheese glaze, melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the cookies for a different flavor twist.
• Maple Glaze: Swap the cream cheese glaze for a simple maple glaze by mixing powdered sugar with maple syrup and a little milk.

FAQ Section

Can I use store-bought cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can use pre-made cookie dough and just add the cinnamon filling and glaze for a quicker option.

What if I don’t have cream cheese?
You can substitute with a powdered sugar glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or vanilla. Just mix to your desired consistency.

How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. The texture may vary slightly, but they should still be delicious!

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes! You can freeze the rolled log of dough for up to 3 months. Just slice and bake directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

How do I store leftover cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them

as mentioned above.

Conclusion

I can’t wait for you to try these cinnamon roll cookies with cream cheese glaze! They’re a delightful twist on a classic favorite, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying all by yourself. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself on a cozy afternoon, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to your face.

Remember, baking is all about having fun and experimenting. Don’t hesitate to play around with flavors and toppings, and make this recipe your own. I’d love to see how your cookies turn out, so don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram! Happy baking!

Print