Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies Recipe

If you love the nostalgic coziness of cinnamon rolls and the sweet, comforting simplicity of sugar cookies, get ready to fall in love with Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies. These delectable treats marry buttery vanilla dough with swirls of cinnamon-sugar and a crackly glaze, giving you all the magic of your favorite breakfast pastry in cookie form. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a bake sale, or simply to spoil yourself, these cookies offer all the warmth and comfort you crave, with a texture that’s perfectly soft, slightly chewy, and undeniably irresistible.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of these Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies lies in the way humble ingredients come together to create something truly special. Each component adds a layer of flavor, softness, or beautiful swirl that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides the perfect base for a tender, chewy crumb that still holds its shape.
• Unsalted Butter: Gives the cookies richness and that signature melt-in-your-mouth quality—make sure it’s softened for the best texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps create a soft, slightly crisp edge.
• Light Brown Sugar: Adds subtle molasses notes and extra chewiness to the cinnamon swirl.
• Egg: Binds everything together while contributing to that soft texture we crave.
• Vanilla Extract: Elevates the cookie with warm, cozy flavor that plays well with cinnamon.
• Baking Powder: Gives the cookies just the right amount of lift so they’re pillowy, not flat.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and makes each flavor pop.
• Ground Cinnamon: The heart and soul of the “cinnamon roll” flavor—don’t be shy!
• Milk: Adds softness and helps bring the glaze together nicely.
• Powdered Sugar: Essential for the crackly icing drizzle that mimics a true cinnamon roll’s finish.

How to Make Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

Cream your butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until pale and fluffy—this is key for those thick, soft cookies. Beat in the egg and vanilla, then mix in the flour, baking powder, and salt just until combined. The dough should be tender and slightly sticky, but not too wet.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl

In a separate small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon together. This fragrant mixture is the secret behind the beautiful swirls and that irresistible cinnamon roll flavor. It’s a powerhouse duo you don’t want to skip.

Step 3: Shape and Swirl the Cookies

Scoop a generous portion of dough into your hands, flatten it gently, and sprinkle a hearty pinch of cinnamon-sugar in the center. Fold the edges over to seal, and roll into a ball before placing onto your lined baking sheet. Give each ball a gentle press—this ensures the swirl stays hidden until you bite in!

Step 4: Bake to Chewy Perfection

Bake the cookies in a preheated oven until the edges are just set but the centers look slightly underdone. As they cool, they’ll firm up and develop that glorious chewy, soft texture that defines Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies.

Step 5: Drizzle with Vanilla Icing

Whisk powdered sugar, a drizzle of milk, and a touch of vanilla extract until smooth. Spoon or drizzle the icing over the cooled cookies, letting it settle into those swirls and cracks. It adds sweetness and the classic cinnamon roll look—totally irresistible!

How to Serve Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies

Garnishes

Try a dusting of extra cinnamon, a sprinkle of sanding sugar for sparkle, or even a few finely chopped toasted pecans to add a lovely crunch and warmth on top of the icing.

Side Dishes

Pair your cookies with a tall glass of cold milk, a hot latte, or a mug of chai for a comforting snack. They also play well on a brunch spread beside fresh fruit and fluffy scrambled eggs.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack cookies and tie with baker’s twine for a charming edible gift, or arrange them on a tiered cake stand for a stunning party display. For a twist, sandwich a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two cookies for an unforgettable dessert experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place fully cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they’ll keep fresh and chewy for up to five days. Layer parchment between cookies to keep the glaze looking perfect.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze for later, arrange cookies in a single layer (with parchment in between) and store in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll hold up beautifully for up to three months—just thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

For that just-baked warmth and aroma, pop a cookie in the microwave for 8–10 seconds. The centers become gooey again and the cinnamon scent fills your kitchen instantly!

FAQs

Can I make Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap in your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (preferably one with xanthan gum) in place of regular flour. The results are still wonderfully soft and chewy.

Do I need to chill the cookie dough before baking?

Chilling isn’t strictly necessary, but if your dough feels very soft or sticky, a quick 15–20 minutes in the fridge will make it easier to shape and help your cookies keep those thick, bakery-style centers.

Can I add nuts or raisins to the dough?

Definitely! Chopped toasted pecans or walnuts add crunch and flavor, while golden raisins give an extra burst of cinnamon roll nostalgia. Fold them into the dough or sprinkle on top before baking.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Measure flour carefully and avoid over-mixing the dough, which can make cookies flatter. For extra insurance, chill the shaped dough balls for a few minutes before baking, especially if your kitchen is warm.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes! The recipe scales up beautifully—just use two mixing bowls if you’re doubling to avoid overworking the dough. Multiple trays mean more delicious Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies to share or gift.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend these Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies enough—they truly deliver joy in every bite, with buttery softness, cinnamon swirls, and a drizzle of dreamy icing. If you’re looking for a treat that feels a little bit special and a whole lot of delicious, don’t wait to bake up a batch. Your family, friends, and taste buds will thank you!

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