Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies Recipe

If you’re a fan of pillowy sugar cookies and the gooey, fragrant swirls of classic cinnamon rolls, prepare yourself for the best of both worlds! These Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies are an irresistible mash-up that will have everyone reaching for seconds (and possibly thirds!). With every bite, you’ll enjoy a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth sugar cookie hugged by a lush ribbon of brown sugar cinnamon filling—the very magic that makes these cookies taste like cinnamon rolls fresh from your favorite bakery. Whether you’re baking these for a cozy afternoon treat or sharing at your next get-together, they’re bound to become your most requested cookie recipe.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Great cookies start with great ingredients, and these are all about quality and comfort. Each component here plays a vital role in creating the signature softness, chewiness, and that unmistakable cinnamon roll flavor. You probably already have most of these pantry staples, so let’s get started!

• Unsalted butter: Softened just right, this is the backbone of both the cookie dough and the cinnamon-sugar swirl, adding richness and that perfect crumb.
• Brown sugar: Deep caramel flavor and just the right amount of moisture for the cinnamon swirl.
• All-purpose flour: The structure-maker! It helps your cookies hold their shape while keeping the texture beautifully soft.
• Ground cinnamon: The star spice—warm, aromatic, and wonderfully cozy.
• Granulated sugar: Brings classic sugar cookie sweetness and that slight, irresistible crispness on the edges.
• Vanilla extract: Just a hint layers in the bakery-fresh taste and aroma.
• Large egg and large egg yolk: This duo is the secret to an extra-chewy, tender cookie.
• Baking powder: Gives your cookies a gentle lift, making them luxuriously thick.
• Cornstarch: The secret ingredient for ultra-soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Salt: Just a pinch heightens all the sweet and spiced flavors.

How to Make Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Make the Cinnamon Swirl Filling

Start by making that irresistible cinnamon swirl. In a small bowl, mash together 4 tablespoons softened unsalted butter, ⅓ cup packed brown sugar, 1½ tablespoons flour, 2½ teaspoons ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This will become your cookie’s gooey, fragrant ribbon. Set it aside—you’ll swirl it into your cookie dough for that authentic cinnamon roll effect!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup unsalted butter (make sure it’s softened but not melty) and 1⅓ cups granulated sugar until light, fluffy, and pale—this usually takes about 2–3 minutes with a handheld or stand mixer. This step is all about beating in air for a tender, chewy texture.

Step 3: Add Vanilla and Eggs

Mix in 1¾ teaspoons pure vanilla extract, 1 large egg, and 1 large egg yolk. Beat until everything is well combined and smooth. The extra egg yolk is our secret weapon, lending richness and chewiness you can’t get any other way—just like your favorite cinnamon rolls!

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together 2¾ cups all-purpose flour, ¾ teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon cornstarch, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Mixing these together first ensures they’re evenly distributed and prevents any pockets of leavening or salt in your finished cookies.

Step 5: Bring Dough Together

Add the flour mixture to your wet ingredients in two or three additions, stirring gently on low speed or by hand until a soft, slightly tacky dough forms. Don’t overmix—you want to keep these Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies tender!

Step 6: Swirl in Cinnamon Filling

Dollop small spoonfuls of the cinnamon filling over your bowl of dough. Using a spatula or butter knife, gently marble the filling into the dough—just enough for beautiful ribbons of swirl, but don’t mix it all the way in. That’s what gives each cookie those signature cinnamon roll streaks.

Step 7: Shape and Bake

Scoop the dough (about 2 tablespoons per cookie) onto parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving a couple inches between each. For extra pretty swirls, you can twirl a bit more cinnamon filling on top! Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, until the edges look set and just golden, but the centers still look slightly underdone. They’ll finish setting up as they cool, keeping that soft, chewy texture you crave.

How to Serve Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies

Garnishes

While these cookies are showstoppers all on their own, a quick drizzle of vanilla or cream cheese glaze makes them extra special—think of it as the finishing touch on your cinnamon roll sugar cookies! Or, sift a little cinnamon sugar over the top while they’re still warm for a magical sparkle.

Side Dishes

Pair your Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies with a cozy mug of coffee, hot chocolate, or spiced chai for the ultimate comfort. If you’re hosting a brunch or dessert buffet, serve them alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dreamy treat everyone will remember.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack these beauties high on a cake stand for a stunning centerpiece or tuck them into vintage tins for a thoughtful edible gift. You can also press a few into ice cream sandwiches with a cinnamon or vanilla bean ice cream for a fun twist—kids (and grownups!) will go wild.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and supremely chewy for 3 to 4 days—perfect for baking ahead or sneaking a treat anytime the craving hits!

Freezing

These cookies are freezer-friendly, too. Arrange baked, cooled cookies in a single layer on a sheet tray, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag or container, separating layers with parchment. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months and thaw beautifully at room temperature.

Reheating

If you want that fresh-from-the-oven warmth, simply pop a cookie in the microwave for about 8-10 seconds. You can also warm a tray of cookies in a 300°F oven for 3–5 minutes—just keep an eye on them so they don’t overbake, and enjoy the aroma of cinnamon filling your kitchen once again!

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough (with the cinnamon swirl folded in) up to 48 hours ahead. Cover tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Let the dough sit at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes before scooping and baking.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

You can use salted butter in a pinch—just reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe. It might slightly alter the flavor, but your cookies will still be deliciously soft and chewy.

How do I get perfect swirls in my cookies?

The trick is to gently fold the cinnamon filling into the dough without overmixing. Lightly swirl with a spatula or butter knife to create those beautiful streaks—less is more for that classic cinnamon roll appearance.

Can I freeze unbaked cookie dough?

Yes! Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake directly from frozen—just add 1–2 minutes to the baking time and check for doneness.

Can I double the recipe for a big batch?

Definitely! This recipe doubles (or even triples) very well. Just be gentle with mixing, and you’ll have plenty of Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies for sharing—or for keeping all to yourself!

Final Thoughts

Whether you bake these Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies for a holiday, an afternoon pick-me-up, or just because you love sharing joy from your kitchen, they never fail to bring smiles. Pour yourself a cup of something cozy and treat yourself (and your loved ones) to cookies that capture all the magic of homemade cinnamon rolls in every soft, swirled bite. Your new favorite cookie recipe is just waiting to happen!

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