Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies are like a warm hug in cookie form—tender, buttery, and bursting with that irresistible swirl of cinnamon sugar you know and love. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of soft chewiness and the cozy spice of a classic cinnamon roll, but in a more portable, snackable sugar cookie package. I’ll be honest: my kitchen smelled like the coziest café after baking a batch of these, and I lost count of how many I sampled fresh out of the oven. Whether you’re craving a sweet treat for breakfast with your morning coffee or an indulgent dessert to wow friends and family, these cookies check every box. The gentle rising from baking soda and baking powder gives them a perfect pillowy texture, while the sweet vanilla glaze on top brings the whole experience together with a final kiss of sugary bliss.
Growing up, our holiday mornings were always filled with the scent of cinnamon sticks simmering on the stove, but nothing ever captured that magic quite like a homemade pastry fresh from an oven. These cookies combine the best of both worlds: the simplicity of a sugar cookie dough and the gooey, swirl-filled heart of a cinnamon roll. They’re beginner-friendly but feel incredibly indulgent—an ideal recipe whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro looking for something fun to whip up. Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let’s get ready to roll out the dough, swirl in the cinnamon sugar, and drizzle on that dreamy vanilla glaze. Trust me, you’ll want to make these again and again, whether it’s for a holiday party, a cozy winter afternoon, or simply because life is always better with a little extra sweetness.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN SOFT AND CHEWY CINNAMON ROLL SUGAR COOKIES
Before you dive into rolling, swirling, and baking, let’s talk about the building blocks of these cozy cookies. Each ingredient plays an essential role in creating that perfect chew, rich cinnamon flavor, and delightful sweetness that keeps everyone coming back for more.
- All-Purpose Flour
Provides the structure for these cookies, giving them enough support to hold the cinnamon-sugar swirl while still allowing a tender, chewy bite.
- Baking Soda
Helps the cookies spread just enough and promotes a light, soft texture. It reacts with the acidic components to give that slight lift.
- Baking Powder
Works in tandem with baking soda to ensure a gentle rise, contributing to an even, pillowy texture without turning crumbly.
- Salt
Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor, making every cinnamon-sugar swirl pop.
- Unsalted Butter (Softened)
Adds richness and moisture, ensuring the dough is supple and yields cookies with a tender crumb.
- Granulated Sugar
Sweetens the dough while aiding in the cookie’s slight crisp around the edges, creating contrast with the soft center.
- Egg
Binds the ingredients together and lends moisture, leading to that satisfying chew you crave in every bite.
- Vanilla Extract
Infuses the dough with a warm, aromatic note that complements the cinnamon and elevates the overall flavor profile.
- Brown Sugar
Combined with cinnamon for the filling, its molasses undertones deepen the spice and add a hint of caramel-like richness.
- Ground Cinnamon
Delivers that classic warm, woody spice; it's what transforms a simple sugar cookie into a cinnamon roll-inspired treat.
- Melted Unsalted Butter (for Filling)
Acts as a glue for the cinnamon sugar filling, ensuring it adheres beautifully inside every swirl.
- Icing Components: Powdered Sugar, Milk, Vanilla Extract
Whisked together for a smooth, sweet glaze that drapes elegantly over each warm cookie, adding the final touch of creamy sweetness.
HOW TO MAKE SOFT AND CHEWY CINNAMON ROLL SUGAR COOKIES
Ready to transform those simple ingredients into a mouthwatering tray of cinnamon-swirled sugar cookies? Here’s how each step brings you closer to cookie nirvana, with tips to help you nail the texture, the swirl, and the glaze perfectly.
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures even baking and quick cleanup.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined. Set this mixture aside for later.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
4. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, then mix on low speed until everything is well combined and the dough looks smooth.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until incorporated to avoid overworking the dough.
6. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and ground cinnamon until the filling is evenly combined and deeply fragrant.
7. Roll the cookie dough into balls (about 1.5 tablespoons each). Place them on your workspace and flatten each ball into a small disc.
8. Brush each disc lightly with melted butter, then sprinkle a generous amount of the cinnamon-sugar filling on top.
9. Carefully roll the dough disc into a mini log, mimicking a cinnamon roll swirl, and place each log on the prepared baking sheet with the seam side down.
10. Bake the cookies for 8–10 minutes or until the edges are set and the tops are just slightly golden.
11. While the cookies are baking, prepare the icing by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until the glaze is smooth and pourable.
12. Once the cookies come out of the oven, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Drizzle the icing over the warm cookies and let it set before serving.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR SOFT AND CHEWY CINNAMON ROLL SUGAR COOKIES
When it comes to enjoying these cozy cinnamon roll sugar cookies, presentation and pairing can elevate the experience from delightful to memorable. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, preparing a festive dessert table, or simply craving a sweet afternoon pick-me-up, these serving ideas will make your batch shine.
- Serve freshly baked and warm alongside a steaming mug of hot cocoa or coffee for the ultimate cozy treat. The heat from the beverage gently melts the icing, creating little pools of sweetness on your plate.
- Arrange the cookies on a tiered dessert stand with fresh berries and sprigs of mint for a stunning visual centerpiece at parties or holiday gatherings.
- Offer a DIY cookie bar: place cookies in a basket alongside small bowls of chopped nuts, extra cinnamon sugar, and extra glaze so guests can customize their toppings.
- Package a few cookies in decorative cellophane bags tied with twine or ribbon to give as thoughtful homemade gifts—perfect for teachers, coworkers, or neighbors.
HOW TO STORE SOFT AND CHEWY CINNAMON ROLL SUGAR COOKIES
Proper storage ensures these tender, cinnamon-swirled cookies stay soft and flavorful for days—though they rarely last that long! Follow these tips to keep your batch tasting fresh whether you plan to enjoy them tomorrow or next week.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and maintain the cookies’ shape and chewiness.
- Keep a slice of bread in the container with the cookies to help absorb excess moisture and keep them soft longer. Replace the bread slice every couple of days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate in a sealed bag or container. Let cookies come to room temperature or warm gently in the microwave before serving to restore their tender texture.
- To freeze, place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container with parchment paper between layers. Thaw at room temperature and refresh for 5–10 seconds in the microwave if desired.
CONCLUSION
What started as a simple idea—combining sugar cookie dough with the comforting swirl of cinnamon sugar—has blossomed into one of the coziest treats you can bake at home. With just a handful of everyday pantry staples and a bit of playful rolling, you end up with soft, chewy cookies that taste like your favorite cinnamon roll, complete with a delightful vanilla glaze. From the gentle fluff of the butter and sugar creamed just right to the satisfying crackle of the icing as it sets, every step of this recipe is designed to bring joy to bakers of all levels. Keep this article printed out and tucked into your favorite recipe binder, so you can easily find it whenever you’re in the mood for a cinnamon-swirled pick-me-up or need a homemade treat for a special occasion.
I hope you loved following along and that your kitchen soon smells of sweet cinnamon and warm sugar. Feel free to save and share this recipe, and remember there’s a handy FAQ below to answer any lingering questions you might have. If you try these Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies, I’d absolutely love to hear how yours turned out! Leave a comment with your baking successes, variations you experimented with, or any questions you have. Your feedback, tips, and stories not only help me improve but also inspire fellow bakers looking to create that perfect cozy moment in their own kitchens. Happy baking!
Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies
Description
These cookies combine the tender chew of sugar cookies with a gooey cinnamon roll swirl and vanilla glaze. Each bite delivers warm spice, buttery richness, and sweet icing for an irresistible, comforting treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
-
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
-
In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
-
Add the egg and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.
-
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated.
-
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon for the filling.
-
Roll the cookie dough into balls, about 1.5 tablespoons each. Flatten each ball into a disc.
-
Brush the disc with melted butter and sprinkle a generous amount of cinnamon sugar filling on top.
-
Carefully roll the dough disc into a log (like a cinnamon roll) and place on the prepared baking sheet.
-
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are set and the tops are just slightly golden.
-
While cookies are baking, prepare the icing by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
-
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
-
Drizzle the icing over the warm cookies and allow to set.
Note
- For a more intense cinnamon flavor, increase the cinnamon in the filling to 2 tablespoons.
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to one week.
- To make cookies extra soft, avoid overbaking; they will set as they cool.
- These cookies offer the perfect blend of cinnamon rolls and sugar cookies, making them an excellent treat for the holidays or any special occasion.
