Cozy Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe with Sweet Icing

Picture this: the warm, comforting aroma of cinnamon and vanilla wafting through your kitchen, the kind that makes you feel like a kid again. That’s exactly what these cozy cinnamon roll cookies deliver. The first time I baked them, I couldn’t stop smiling—it was like biting into a hug made of sugar and spice. My family couldn’t wait for them to cool; they were sneaking bites before I even had a chance to drizzle on the sweet icing. Trust me, this is one recipe you’ll want to make again and again, whether it’s for a holiday cookie swap, a cozy weekend treat, or just because you deserve it.

Years ago, I remember watching my grandmother roll out cinnamon rolls in her tiny kitchen, flour dusting every surface. Those warm, gooey rolls were the ultimate comfort food. Fast forward to today, and I’ve found a way to recreate that nostalgic joy in a form that’s dangerously easy to share (or keep all to yourself). These cinnamon roll cookies are like little bites of heaven, combining buttery sugar cookie dough with a swirl of cinnamon sugar and topped off with a sweet, creamy icing. They’re everything you love about cinnamon rolls, perfectly portioned into cookie form.

After testing and tweaking this recipe multiple times (all in the name of research, of course), I landed on the perfect balance of softness, sweetness, and spice. These cookies have officially earned a spot in my recipe binder—the ultimate stamp of approval in my kitchen. Whether you’re looking to impress your friends or just brighten up your day with a little sugar and spice, you’re going to want to bookmark this one.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: No yeast or waiting for dough to rise—these cookies come together in under an hour, perfect for last-minute baking cravings.
• Simple Ingredients: You probably already have everything you need in your pantry, so no extra grocery trips required.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering, cozy Sunday baking, or a thoughtful homemade gift, these cookies fit the bill.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These cookies are guaranteed to get rave reviews from everyone, kids and adults alike.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of buttery cookie dough, cinnamon sugar swirl, and sweet icing is pure comfort food.

What makes this recipe stand out? It’s not just the flavor—it’s the little things. Rolling the cookie dough like a cinnamon roll gives it a fun twist that’s both delicious and Instagram-worthy. Plus, the icing is the cherry on top, adding that rich sweetness that completes the experience. These cookies are more than just treats; they’re little bites of happiness.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Most of these items are pantry staples, and I’ve included substitution tips for dietary needs to make sure everyone can enjoy them.

• For the cookie dough:
• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• For the cinnamon sugar filling:
• 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, melted
• For the sweet icing:
• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk (or dairy-free alternative)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

If you’re gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend. You can also use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a refined-sugar-free option. For dairy-free cookies, substitute the butter with plant-based butter and use almond or oat milk for the icing.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls (one large and one medium)
• Electric mixer or a sturdy whisk
• Rolling pin
• Pastry brush (optional, but helpful for spreading the filling)
• Sharp knife or dental floss (for slicing the rolled dough)
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack

A rolling pin is key for getting even dough, but if you don’t have one, a clean wine bottle can work in a pinch. For slicing the rolled dough, dental floss is surprisingly effective—it gives a clean cut without squishing the cookies. Trust me, it’s worth trying!

Preparation Method

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes). Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. Don’t overmix!
4. Divide the dough in half and roll each portion into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick, on a lightly floured surface.
5. For the filling, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Brush the rolled dough with melted butter, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the surface.
6. Starting at one end, tightly roll the dough into a log. Use dental floss or a sharp knife to slice the log into 1/2-inch thick cookies.
7. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
8. While the cookies cool on a rack, prepare the icing by whisking powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the icing over the cooled cookies and let it set for 10 minutes before serving.

Enjoy these cookies warm or at room temperature—they’re delicious either way!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Keep your butter soft: Room temperature butter is key for achieving the perfect dough texture. If you forgot to set it out, microwave it for 10 seconds (but don’t melt it!).
• Roll evenly: Use a ruler or straight-edge guide for uniform cookie sizes. This ensures even baking and picture-perfect cookies.
• Don’t skip the parchment paper: It prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Chill the dough: If your dough feels too soft, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes before rolling. This makes it easier to handle and shape.
• Watch the bake time: These cookies can go from golden to overdone quickly, so keep a close eye on them after the 10-minute mark.

Variations & Adaptations

• Gluten-Free: Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend for the dough.
• Dairy-Free: Swap the butter with plant-based butter and use almond or oat milk for the icing.
• Seasonal Twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg and cloves to the cinnamon sugar for a festive holiday flavor.
• Chocolate Lovers: Mix mini chocolate chips into the cinnamon sugar filling for a gooey, melty surprise.
• Extra Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon sugar filling before rolling the dough.

One of my favorite variations is adding a smear of apple butter before sprinkling the cinnamon sugar. It adds a fruity note that pairs beautifully with the warm spices!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these cookies slightly warm for a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Pair them with a cup of coffee, hot cocoa, or a cold glass of milk for the ultimate cozy treat. They also make fabulous gifts—just stack them in a pretty box or bag and tie with a ribbon.

To store, keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave individual cookies for 10-15 seconds or warm them in a 300°F oven for a few minutes.

Pro tip: The flavors intensify after a day or two, so if you’re making them ahead, rest assured they’ll taste even better!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each cookie has approximately:

• Calories: 140
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Protein: 2g
• Sugar: 10g

The cinnamon in these cookies isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with antioxidants and can help stabilize blood sugar. Plus, making these at home means you can control the sugar and choose healthier ingredient alternatives if needed.

Conclusion

These cozy cinnamon roll cookies with sweet icing are everything you need for a little sugar-spiced joy. Easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for sharing—or savoring solo. Honestly, they’ve become one of my go-to recipes for all kinds of occasions, and I hope they’ll be the same for you.

Give this recipe a try, and let me know how it turns out in the comments below. Did you add your own twist? Did your family fall in love with them as much as mine did? I’d love to hear about it! Bake a batch today, and let these cookies bring a little extra sweetness to your world.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.

Can I freeze the cookies?

Absolutely. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Let them come to room temperature or warm them slightly before serving.

Can I use store-bought dough?

In a pinch, you can use pre-made sugar cookie dough. Roll it out, add the filling, and follow the same steps as the recipe.

Can I make them without icing?

Of course! The cookies are delicious even without the icing, though it does add a sweet finishing touch.

What’s the best way to slice the rolled dough?

Using unflavored dental floss works wonders for cutting clean slices without squishing the dough. Just slide the floss under the roll, cross the ends over the top, and pull to slice.

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