These easy holiday cookies are made from a cinnamon-spiced sugar cookie dough rolled around a buttery brown sugar and cinnamon filling, then finished with a simple sweet glaze. If you love the warm flavors of cinnamon rolls, these Cinnamon Roll Cookies are a delightful, homemade version worth trying.
Looking for a standout cookie to add to your holiday tray? These cinnamon roll–style cookies are a fantastic choice. Each cookie delivers a balanced sweetness and a warm cinnamon spice that tastes like a mini cinnamon roll in cookie form.
I used to love store-bought cinnamon danish cookies as a kid, and this homemade version captures the same comforting flavor—only better and fresher. Make a batch to share at gatherings or keep them for yourself; they’re that good.
Ingredients
Below are the ingredients you’ll need to make these cinnamon roll sugar cookies.
For the cookies
- All-purpose flour
- Baking soda
- Baking powder
- Cinnamon
- Butter (softened)
- Granulated sugar
- Egg yolks
- Vanilla extract
For the filling
- Butter (melted)
- Brown sugar
- Cinnamon
For the glaze
- Powdered sugar
- Milk
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cookies from Scratch
Step One: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder and cinnamon.
Step Two: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar with a mixer until combined. Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
Step Three: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined—avoid overmixing.
Step Four: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes to make it easier to roll.
Step Five: On a sheet of parchment paper, roll the chilled dough to about 1/4″ thickness.
Step Six: For the filling, stir together melted butter, brown sugar and cinnamon until even and spreadable.
Step Seven: Spread the filling evenly over the rolled-out cookie dough. Starting from one long edge, roll the dough into a tight log, similar to making a jelly roll or pumpkin roll.
Step Eight: Chill the rolled log in the refrigerator for about an hour, or freeze it for 20 minutes, so it firms up and slices neatly.
Step Nine: When the roll has about 10 minutes left to chill, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step Ten: Slice the chilled log into 1/2″ sections and place the slices at least 2 inches apart on a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step Eleven: Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, depending on whether you prefer a softer cookie (shorter time) or a crisper edge (closer to 20 minutes).
Step Twelve: Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet a couple of minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step Thirteen: Whisk the powdered sugar and milk until smooth to make a glaze. Drizzle the glaze over cooled cookies and serve.
Helpful Kitchen Tools
These basic kitchen tools will make the recipe easier:
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula or scraper
- Cookie sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Storage Instructions
Store the cinnamon roll sugar cookies at room temperature in an airtight container for 5 to 7 days to keep them soft and chewy.
Can you freeze cinnamon roll cookies?
Yes. Once baked and cooled to room temperature, arrange the cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag. Place a piece of parchment between layers to prevent sticking. Properly stored, they keep well for up to three months.
Can you freeze the cookie dough?
Yes. Prepare the dough through the rolling step, then wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to three months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator, slice and bake as directed.
Can I eat these warm or cold?
Either is great. They’re delicious warm right out of the oven or fully cooled to room temperature. The texture and cinnamon aroma are appealing either way.
What to Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Cookies
These cookies pair well with warm or chilled drinks. Ideas:
- Coffee
- Ginger cinnamon tea
- Cold milk for dunking
- Hot chocolate or a latte
Christmas Cookies
If you’re planning a holiday cookie exchange, these cinnamon roll cookies make a cozy addition to any tray and pair well with other seasonal treats.
Enjoy making and sharing these warm, spiced cookies this season — they deliver cinnamon-roll flavor in a neat, portable cookie form that’s perfect for gifting or serving at holiday gatherings.