Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies

There’s something magical about the sounds and smells that fill our kitchen when we bake. The gentle whir of the mixer, the soft thud of the flour bag being set on the counter, and that first waft of cinnamon that envelops us as it blends with melted butter bring back memories of cozy afternoons. Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies are one of those recipes that can transport you right back to kitchens filled with laughter and love. Just imagining them baking in the oven makes my heart swell with warmth and nostalgia.

The Heart Behind This Recipe

Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies hold a special place in our family routine. They started as a spontaneous treat on a particularly busy Saturday morning, when I had the faint hope of creating something delicious with my little ones before heading out for a day of errands. They were a hit! Their soft texture and rich cinnamon flavor made them a favorite, and they quickly became part of our family bonding time.

Baking isn’t just about making something tasty; it’s about creating connections. No matter how hectic our lives get, there’s something incredibly calming about standing in the kitchen together. The joy of measuring, mixing, and then patiently waiting for their aroma to fill the kitchen brings us closer. These cookies, with their perfect blend of sweetness and spice, have become a tradition that echoes through our family’s celebrations and quiet evenings alike.

Bringing Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies to Life

“Every time I stir this pot, it smells just like Sunday at home.”

The cooking process involves simple steps that anyone can follow. It encourages creativity, with each blend and stir filling the kitchen with rich aromas. As your ingredients come together, the anticipation builds. Baking can almost feel like a dance, with ingredients flowing together. The brown sugar melting into the butter creates the most wonderful sweetness that lingers in the air.

Once you gather everything you need, you will find that these cookies come together quickly, making them perfect for busy families. They transform mere ingredients into a delightful treat that can be enjoyed any time of day breakfast, snack, or dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To bring these love-filled cookies to life, gather the following ingredients. Each one adds its own character:

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • ⅓ cup packed brown sugar
  • 1½ tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • A pinch of salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened but cool
  • 1⅓ cups granulated sugar
  • 1¾ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 2¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • ¾ teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Make sure to soften your butter ahead of time. If you forget to take it out or are in a rush, you can cut it into chunks and microwave it for just a few seconds to take the chill off.

Step-by-Step Directions

  1. Start by beating the 4 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter and ⅓ cup of packed brown sugar in a large bowl until creamy. This creates the perfect base for your cookies.
  2. Add in 1½ tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 2½ teaspoons of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir until everything is combined.
  3. In another bowl, beat together 1 cup of softened but cool unsalted butter and 1⅓ cups of granulated sugar. Mix until you achieve a fluffy texture. This step is vital for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
  4. Add the 1¾ teaspoons of pure vanilla extract, 1 large egg, and 1 large egg yolk. Mix again until smooth.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2¾ cups of all-purpose flour, ¾ teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, and ¼ teaspoon of salt.
  6. Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently to avoid overmixing.
  7. Fold in the cinnamon sugar mixture from step 2 into the dough until evenly combined. You want pockets of cinnamon flavor throughout.
  8. Chill the dough for about 30 minutes. This will help the cookies keep their shape.
  9. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) while the dough chills.
  10. Roll the dough into small balls about 1 inch in diameter and place them on parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving space between each one.
  11. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them as they bake because the aroma will start to waft through your home.
  12. Afterward, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Each step fills the kitchen with warmth, from the sizzle of butter in the bowl to the sweet aroma of baking cookies that beckons everyone to the kitchen.

Serving Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies at the Family Table

When it’s time to enjoy these cookies, the excitement in the air is palpable. I typically set out a plate of these lovely treats right in the center of the table, the soft, golden-brown cookies gleaming under the warm light.

We often share our stories as we munch, some of us snugly wrapped in sweaters as the weather turns crisp. My girls love to drip a little icing over top, turning a simple cookie into a special occasion. The cinnamon flavor dances on our taste buds, each bite filled with softness and lightness.

Nothing quite compares to the happiness that fills the room. The laughter, clinking of plates, and the sound of little voices sharing stories about their day blend together, making every cookie feel more like a hug.

Storing and Reheating Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies

I often make a double batch of Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies because they tend to disappear quickly. To keep them fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, but I find they hardly ever make it that long!

If you want to prepare them in advance, you can store the uncooked dough in the refrigerator for up to three days or even freeze it. Just roll the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a bag. When ready to bake, pop them straight into the oven from the freezer; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

One of the charming aspects of these cookies is how the flavors deepen if you allow them to sit overnight. They become even softer, and the cinnamon flavor intensifies, making them delightful with a cup of milk or hot cocoa.

Quick Tips from My Kitchen

  • Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step. It helps the cookies maintain their shape and creates a nice texture.
  • Use Quality Vanilla: Opt for pure vanilla extract over imitation for a richer flavor.
  • Measure Ingredients Accurately: Especially for baking, measuring your flour correctly is crucial. I recommend spooning flour into the measuring cup and leveling it off instead of scooping.
  • Experiment with Thickness: If you like a chewier cookie, roll the dough balls a bit thicker. If you prefer crisp cookies, flatten them slightly before baking.
  • Add Chocolate Chips: For a fun variation, throw in some chocolate chips or nuts to the dough.

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Variations on Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies

My family and friends often share their own twists on these cookies. Some love to incorporate different spices like nutmeg or allspice to elevate the flavor. Others play with the sweetness by substituting part of the sugar with maple syrup for a deeper taste.

Another fun idea is to make a cream cheese frosting to drizzle over the cookies, adding a deliciously tangy note. A sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts can give them a delightful crunch, which contrasts beautifully with the soft texture.

Print
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Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies soft and chewy cinnamon roll sugar cookies 2025 11 01 173611 150x150 1

Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies


  • Author: cookthatdish
  • Total Time: 57 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These cookies combine the classic flavors of cinnamon rolls in a soft, chewy cookie format, perfect for any time of day.


Ingredients

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • ⅓ cup packed brown sugar
  • 1½ tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • A pinch of salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened but cool
  • 1⅓ cups granulated sugar
  • 1¾ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 2¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • ¾ teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • ¼ teaspoon salt


Instructions

  1. Beat 4 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter and ⅓ cup of packed brown sugar in a large bowl until creamy.
  2. Add 1½ tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 2½ teaspoons of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir until combined.
  3. In another bowl, beat 1 cup of softened but cool unsalted butter and 1⅓ cups of granulated sugar until fluffy.
  4. Add 1¾ teaspoons of pure vanilla extract, 1 large egg, and 1 large egg yolk. Mix until smooth.
  5. Whisk together 2¾ cups of all-purpose flour, ¾ teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, and ¼ teaspoon of salt in a separate bowl.
  6. Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently to avoid overmixing.
  7. Fold in the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly combined.
  8. Chill the dough for about 30 minutes.
  9. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) while the dough chills.
  10. Roll the dough into balls about 1 inch in diameter and place on parchment-lined baking sheets.
  11. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
  12. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Chill the dough to maintain cookie shape. Use quality vanilla for richer flavor. Measure ingredients accurately for best results.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

FAQs About Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. I often prep it in the morning before the girls wake up, then finish it right before dinner. It keeps the flavor fresh and saves time later.

Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! They freeze wonderfully. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container or freezer bag, and they’ll last for up to three months.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If you find your dough is a bit too sticky, you can add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time. However, be careful not to overdo it, or your cookies may turn out a bit dry.

How can I make these cookies healthier?
You can swap some of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for added fiber. Additionally, reducing the sugar by a quarter cup can work, as the cinnamon flavor still shines through.

What do I do with leftovers?
If you have any cookies left over, just store them in an airtight container and enjoy them over the next few days. They can also be crumbled over yogurt for a tasty breakfast.

A Final Thought

Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies are more than just a dessert. They hold memories, laughter, and warmth that revolve around the family table. They invite connection, joy, and a bit of sweetness into our busy lives, bringing everyone together in the kitchen.

As you whisk, stir, and bake, remember that cooking is more than just a series of steps. It is an opportunity to create experiences filled with love and warmth. Whether you make them for a special occasion or simply to brighten a weekday evening, these cookies will undoubtedly create cherished memories.

Gratitude always fills my heart when I’m in the kitchen, and I hope you find the same joy as you and your loved ones whip up your batch of Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies. Cooking is not just a task; it’s a heartfelt experience waiting to warm your home and fill your days with connection. So let’s roll up our sleeves and get baking, because sweetness is just around the corner.

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Author

  • Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies Natali Rossi

    Natali Rossi, a New York City culinary expert, transforms everyday meals into vibrant, healthy celebrations. She empowers home cooks to create delicious, quick weeknight dinners and comforting dishes with a nutritious twist, proving that healthy eating can be both easy and incredibly satisfying.