Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls with the convenience of cookies. Perfect for gatherings, brunches, or just a cozy night in, these cookies offer a soft and chewy texture that’s hard to resist. With a rich cinnamon filling and creamy glaze, they stand out as a delicious option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you’ll find this recipe simple enough for any baking level.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and sweetness creates a mouthwatering taste that will delight your senses.
• Versatile Treat: These cookies are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even a midday snack. They fit any time of day!
• Fun to Share: Bake a batch to share with friends and family; they make great gifts or party treats.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to experiment with different fillings or toppings to make them your own!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Plastic wrap
• Rolling pin
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without spills.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar effortless, resulting in a light dough.
• Rolling pin: Helps achieve the perfect thickness for rolling out the dough evenly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking on the baking sheet, ensuring easy cleanup.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter-flavored shortening
• 2 tablespoons butter (room temperature)
• 1 egg (room temperature)
• 1/4 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

For the Filling

• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 tablespoon cinnamon

For the Glaze

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 oz. cream cheese (room temperature)
• 2 tablespoons butter (room temperature)
• 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 2-3 teaspoons milk (may need more or less to achieve desired texture)
• vanilla extract (splash)

How to Make Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Cream Together Ingredients

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, butter-flavored shortening, and butter.
2. Use your hand mixer to cream these ingredients until smooth and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add in the following:
1. The room-temperature egg,
2. The room-temperature buttermilk,
3. The splash of vanilla extract.
Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In another bowl, sift together the following:
2. all-purpose flour,
3. baking powder,
4. baking soda,
5. and salt.

Step 5: Make the Dough

1. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Stir until you form a soft dough.

Step 6: Chill the Dough

1. Place your dough in a plastic bag and flatten it slightly. Refrigerate for at least one hour, preferably overnight.

Step 7: Prepare Cinnamon Mixture

While waiting for the dough to chill:
1. Combine the brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.

Step 8: Roll Out Dough

1. After chilling, coat your work surface with a mix of flour and powdered sugar.
2. Roll out your cold dough into a rectangle about 12×9 inches and 1/4-inch thick.

Step 9: Apply Filling

1. Brush melted butter over the surface of the rolled-out dough.
2. Evenly sprinkle your brown sugar mixture over it.

Step 10: Form Rolls

Starting from one long side:
1. Gently roll up the dough into a tight log.
2. Wrap it in plastic wrap and freeze for about 30 minutes until firm.

Step 11: Slice Cookies

Using a serrated knife:
1. Carefully slice your roll into approximately 1-inch thick pieces.

Step 12: Prepare for Baking

Place cookies on parchment paper-lined baking sheets about two inches apart:
– Gently press each roll down to seal ends tightly before baking.

Step 13: Bake Cookies

Bake in preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until slightly underdone:
– Check at around six minutes; if unraveled, press seams back together quickly with a spoon.

Step 14: Make Glaze & Finish Cookies

While cookies cool on sheets:
1. Mix together cream cheese, melted butter, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for glaze.
After letting cookies sit for two minutes post-baking:
– Brush hot cookies with glaze allowing it to seep into folds.

Let them set before storing in an airtight container lined with parchment paper between layers! Enjoy your Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies!

How to Serve Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive celebration. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With a Warm Beverage

• Coffee: A classic pairing; the rich flavors of coffee complement the sweetness of the cookies.
• Tea: Choose herbal or spiced teas for a soothing combination that enhances the cinnamon notes.
• Hot Chocolate: Indulge in a creamy hot chocolate for a decadent treat alongside your cookies.

Dessert Platter

• Cookie Assortment: Arrange Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies with other cookies for an inviting dessert platter.
• Fresh Fruit: Add slices of strawberries or apples for a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
• Whipped Cream: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream on the side for an extra indulgent treat.

At Breakfast

• With Yogurt: Crumble cookies over Greek yogurt for a delightful breakfast bowl.
• Alongside Oatmeal: Pair them with oatmeal to add flavor and sweetness to your morning routine.

How to Perfect Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies

To ensure your Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these tips.

• Chill the Dough: Always refrigerate the dough before rolling it out. This helps maintain its shape during baking.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for optimal rising and texture.
• Flour Generously: Use enough flour when rolling out the dough to prevent sticking, but avoid adding too much which can make them dry.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies during baking; they should be slightly underdone when you take them out for a soft center.
• Apply Glaze While Warm: Brush the glaze on while the cookies are still warm so it seeps into all those delicious folds.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies can be paired with various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the richness of the cookies.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture and coolness of ice cream complement the warm, soft cookies beautifully.
3. Cheese Board: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda; their creaminess pairs well with cinnamon flavors.
4. Savory Muffins: Opt for muffins with herbs or cheese to contrast the sweet profile of the cookies.
5. Granola Parfait: Layer granola, yogurt, and fruit for a crunchy side that pairs well with your soft treats.
6. Nut Butter Dip: A creamy nut butter dip provides protein and adds depth to each bite of cookie enjoyment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Not chilling the dough: Failing to chill the dough can lead to sticky cookies that lose their shape. Be sure to refrigerate the dough for at least one hour or overnight for the best texture.
• Skipping the flour-sugar mixture: Forgetting to coat your work surface and hands with the flour-sugar mixture can result in a sticky mess. Always generously flour your surface and utensils to prevent sticking.
• Overbaking the cookies: Baking these cookies too long can make them dry instead of soft. Keep an eye on them and take them out when they are slightly underdone; they will firm up as they cool.
• Ignoring the importance of tight rolls: If your cookie rolls aren’t tight, they may unravel during baking. Ensure you roll tightly and seal the ends well before cutting.
• Using room temperature ingredients incorrectly: Ingredients like butter and buttermilk should be at room temperature, but not overly warm. This helps create a uniform dough that bakes evenly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies

• Freeze the cookies before baking or after they are baked.
• For unbaked cookies, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Baked cookies can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature when ready.

Reheating Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-8 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds for a soft treat.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for a few minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies.

How do I ensure my Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies stay soft?

To keep your cookies soft, avoid overbaking them. Remove them from the oven while they’re still slightly underdone, as they will continue cooking on the baking sheet.

Can I use different fillings for my Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies?

Absolutely! You can experiment with various fillings such as chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even fruit preserves to customize your cookies.

What is the best way to store Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them if you want them to last longer. Just ensure they’re separated by parchment paper.

Why did my cookie dough become sticky?

If your dough becomes sticky while working with it, it may be warming up too much. Keep your work surface floured and return it to the refrigerator if necessary.

Final Thoughts

Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile! You can easily customize them with different fillings or toppings based on your preferences. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s sure to impress friends and family alike!