Swirled Cinnamon Sugar Cookies
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Swirled Cinnamon Sugar Cookies
There’s something magical about the aroma of cinnamon and sugar wafting through the kitchen, isn’t there? It instantly transports me back to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen in Burgundy, where every holiday was filled with the scent of baking. Today, I’m sharing a recipe that combines two of my all-time favorites: the soft, buttery goodness of a classic sugar cookie and the warm, swirly heart of a cinnamon roll. These cinnamon roll sugar cookies are the perfect treat to bring that nostalgic comfort right into your own home. They’re surprisingly simple to make and are guaranteed to become a new family tradition.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies
If you’re searching for the ultimate holiday baking ideas, you’ve just found them. These cookies deliver the best of both worlds in one delicious bite. First, they feature the soft, cake-like texture of a perfect sugar cookie. Second, they boast that iconic cinnamon sugar swirl we all adore. Consequently, they are a huge hit at cookie exchanges and family gatherings. Moreover, this easy cinnamon roll sugar cookie recipe requires no fancy equipment or chilling time, making it a fantastic last-minute dessert option.
The Perfect Fusion of Two Classics
Imagine the warm, spiced flavor of a cinnamon bun meeting the tender crumb of a homemade sugar cookie. That’s exactly what you get with this recipe. The swirl isn’t just on the surface; it ribbons through the entire cookie, ensuring every single bite is packed with flavor. This combination creates a truly special treat that feels both familiar and excitingly new.
Ideal for Bakers of All Levels
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is wonderfully approachable. The steps are straightforward, and the results are consistently impressive. You don’t need any special pastry skills to create that beautiful marbled effect. In fact, a few gentle folds with a spatula are all it takes to achieve those gorgeous streaks of cinnamon goodness.
Key Ingredients for the Best Flavor
Using high-quality, fresh ingredients is the secret to any great recipe, and these soft sugar cookies with cinnamon are no exception. Each component plays a crucial role in building the final flavor and texture. Let’s break down why these particular ingredients make such a difference in your baking.
The Role of Butter and Sugar
For the cookie dough, we use softened unsalted butter. Creaming it properly with granulated sugar is the first step to a light and fluffy texture. This process incorporates air into the dough, which helps the cookies rise. Using room temperature eggs and vanilla extract is also critical, as they emulsify better with the butter, creating a smooth, homogeneous dough without overmixing.
Building the Cinnamon Swirl
The star of the show is, without a doubt, the cinnamon sugar mixture. For the most intense flavor, use a fresh, high-quality ground cinnamon. Melting the butter before drizzling it over the dough is the key trick that allows the sugar and cinnamon to create those irresistible, gooey ribbons throughout the cookies. It’s what truly makes them taste like a cinnamon roll dessert.
Essential Baking Tools You’ll Need
You likely have most of these tools already in your kitchen. Having everything ready before you start makes the process smooth and enjoyable. This setup is perfect for any holiday baking session.
Mixing and Measuring Equipment
A sturdy stand mixer or a reliable hand-held electric mixer is ideal for creaming the butter and sugar to the right consistency. You’ll also need a set of measuring cups and spoons. Remember, for the flour, always spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife for accuracy. This prevents dense cookies. A rubber spatula is indispensable for scraping the bowl and gently folding in the swirl.
Baking and Cooling Gear
Two large baking sheets lined with parchment paper are a must. Parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. A cookie scoop (about 2 tablespoons in size) ensures your cookies are uniform, which means they bake evenly. Finally, a wire rack is essential for cooling the cookies properly, allowing air to circulate so they don’t become soggy on the bottom.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Success
Follow these steps closely for perfect cookies every single time. I’ve included all my little tips and tricks learned from years of baking. The process is simple, but attention to detail makes all the difference.
Preparing the Cookie Dough Base
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together on medium speed for a full 2-3 minutes until it’s pale and fluffy. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, scraping down the bowl to ensure everything is mixed well. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mix, beating on low just until combined. Your dough will be soft and perfect.
Creating the Signature Swirl
Now for the fun part! In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon together. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the dough. Then, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture all over the top. Here’s the key: use your spatula to gently fold and swirl the mixture into the dough. Fold only 3 or 4 times—you want visible ribbons, not a fully incorporated mix. This technique creates the beautiful marbled effect that makes these cinnamon swirl cookies so special.
Swirled Cinnamon Sugar Cookies
Learn how to make soft cinnamon roll sugar cookies swirled with a sweet cinnamon sugar filling for an irresistible, bakery-style treat.
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- electric mixer
- measuring cups
- measuring spoons
- whisk
- spatula
- baking sheets
- parchment paper
- oven
- wire rack
- knife
- cutting board
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter softened to room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs at room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 cups all-purpose flour spooned and leveled
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Cinnamon Sugar Swirl
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to cream together the 1 1/2 cups of softened butter and 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale yellow in color, about 2-3 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed until the wet ingredients are fully combined.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until a soft cookie dough forms and no streaks of flour remain.
- For the cinnamon sugar swirl, mix the 1/4 cup of granulated sugar with the tablespoon of cinnamon in a small bowl. Drizzle the 1/4 cup of melted butter over the top of the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the butter.
- Use a spatula to gently fold and swirl the butter and cinnamon sugar into the dough just 3-4 times; do not over-mix, as you want distinct ribbons of cinnamon sugar.
- Drop 2-tablespoon-sized scoops of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden and the centers appear set. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Do not over-mix the cinnamon sugar swirl; you want distinct ribbons. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet to set.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies
A few simple tricks can take your cookies from good to absolutely bakery-worthy. These tips are gathered from my own trial and error, so you can avoid common pitfalls.
Avoiding Common Baking Mistakes
The biggest mistake is overmixing the dough after adding the flour. Mix just until the flour disappears; overmixing develops gluten and leads to tough cookies. Similarly, when adding the cinnamon swirl, be gentle. Over-folding will cause the swirl to disappear into the dough. Also, make sure your baking powder is fresh! Old baking powder won’t give your cookies the proper lift.
How to Know When They’re Done
These soft batch sugar cookies bake quickly. They are done when the edges are just starting to turn a light golden brown, but the centers still look soft and slightly underdone. They will continue to cook on the hot baking sheet after you pull them out of the oven. Let them cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack. This step ensures they set properly without breaking.
Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips
Once your kitchen is filled with that incredible aroma and your cookies are cooled, it’s time to enjoy them! Here’s how to serve and keep them fresh for as long as possible.
The Perfect Finish: Icing and Pairing
While these cookies are fantastic on their own, a simple cinnamon sugar cookie icing can make them extra special. A drizzle of vanilla glaze or even a cream cheese frosting leans into the cinnamon roll theme beautifully. They pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk, a hot cup of coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. For a festive spread, try them alongside other classics like my rich and chewy peanut butter bars.
Keeping Your Cookies Fresh and Soft
To store them, place cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and delicious for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Just separate layers with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. Thaw them at room temperature whenever a cookie craving strikes!
Delicious Recipe Variations to Try
This best sugar cookie recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Once you’ve mastered the classic version, feel free to get creative and make it your own with these fun twists.
Browned Butter Cinnamon Cookies
For a deeper, nuttier flavor, try browning the butter for the swirl. Simply melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat and continue cooking until it turns a golden amber color and smells nutty. Let it cool slightly before drizzling it over the dough. This one change creates an incredibly sophisticated browned butter cinnamon cookie that will impress everyone.
Cinnamon Roll Cookies Without Cream Cheese
This recipe is perfect for those who love the cinnamon roll flavor but aren’t fans of cream cheese frosting. The cookies are sweet and spiced enough on their own. However, if you do want a frosting option, a simple powdered sugar and milk glaze is a fantastic alternative. It adds sweetness without the tang of cream cheese.
More Fantastic Holiday Baking Ideas
If you loved making these, your holiday baking journey has only just begun! My website is full of tried-and-true recipes that are perfect for the season. Here are a few of my personal favorites that complement these cookies beautifully.
Classic Cakes and Elegant Desserts
For a show-stopping centerpiece, you can’t go wrong with the timeless simple and elegant plum torte. It’s a classic for a reason. Around Easter, my family always requests the charming chocolate nest cake, which is as fun to make as it is to eat.
Savory Bakes for a Balanced Table
Balance your sweet treats with some savory delights. My incredibly cheesy and garlicky pull-apart bread is always the first thing to disappear at any gathering. And for dipping, nothing beats the herb-infused olive oil bread dip—it’s irresistible!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough for cinnamon roll sugar cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough (without adding the swirl), wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature until it’s soft enough to scoop, then proceed with adding the melted butter and cinnamon sugar swirl.
Why are my cookies spreading too much?
This usually happens if the butter was too warm or if you over-creamed the butter and sugar. Ensure your butter is softened but still cool to the touch. Also, double-check that your baking powder is fresh and active, as it provides the necessary lift.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
You can, but I recommend unsalted to control the salt level. If you use salted butter, simply reduce the added salt in the recipe by half to avoid overly salty cinnamon roll sugar cookies.
How do I get a more defined swirl in my cookies?
The key is to not over-mix! After drizzling the butter and sprinkling the cinnamon sugar, use a folding motion with a spatula only 3-4 times. You want to see clear streaks, not a homogenous dough.
Can I freeze the unbaked cookie dough?
Yes, you can. Scoop the dough balls onto a baking sheet and freeze them solid. Then, transfer the frozen balls to a freezer bag. You can bake them directly from frozen; just add 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
What’s the best way to add a cinnamon sugar cookie icing?
Wait until the cookies are completely cooled. Then, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar with 1-2 tablespoons of milk or cream and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle it over the cookies with a spoon or a piping bag for a pretty finish.
And there you have it!
I hope this recipe for cinnamon roll sugar cookies brings as much joy to your kitchen as it does to mine. They truly are the best of both worlds—simple enough for a weeknight treat yet special enough for any holiday celebration. So preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create something wonderful. Don’t forget to share your baking triumphs with me; I love seeing your creations! Happy baking!
