If you’re craving something that’s sweet, comforting, and impossibly easy to whip up, these Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies are about to become your newest obsession. Taking inspiration from classic cinnamon rolls but with a fraction of the work, these buttery cookies are swirled with cinnamon-sugar and finished with a simple vanilla glaze. They’re perfect for last-minute gatherings, cozy weekend baking, or anytime you want that cinnamon roll flavor with a playful cookie twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies is just how accessible the ingredients are. Each item plays its own special role, combining to create those classic flavors and irresistible swirls everyone loves.
- Refrigerated pie crust: The ultimate shortcut for a tender, flaky base — no mixing or rolling required!
- Unsalted butter, melted: Brings rich flavor and helps the cinnamon-sugar filling stick beautifully.
- Brown sugar, packed: Adds caramel notes and the classic gooey sweetness of a cinnamon roll.
- Ground cinnamon: The star of the show that delivers warmth and spice in every bite.
- Powdered sugar: Forms the base of that dreamy, sweet glaze on top.
- Milk: Loosens the glaze just enough for the perfect drizzle.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a soft, fragrant hint that makes the glaze irresistible.
How to Make Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet and Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready when you are. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper — this prevents sticking and makes cleanup a total breeze later.
Step 2: Unroll and Butter the Pie Crust
On a lightly floured surface, unroll your refrigerated pie crust. Give it a gentle once-over to smooth out any creases, then brush the entire surface with the melted butter. This layer of butter is what helps all that cinnamon-sugar goodness adhere beautifully.
Step 3: Sprinkle on the Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon until well combined. Sprinkle this heavenly mixture evenly over your buttered pie crust — making sure to get all the way to the edges for maximum flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Roll, Slice, and Arrange
Starting from one edge, roll the pie crust up as tightly as you can, forming a log. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into rounds about 1/2 inch thick. Arrange these little spirals on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each one.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes. Watch for the moment when the cookies turn golden brown and the cinnamon filling bubbles slightly — that’s when you know they’re ready!
Step 6: Glaze and Enjoy
While your cookies cool just a bit on the baking sheet, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Drizzle this creamy glaze generously over the warm cookies for that classic cinnamon roll finish. Now try not to eat them all at once!
How to Serve Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Garnishes
Top your Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies with an extra dusting of powdered sugar, a sprinkle of toasted chopped pecans, or even a few festive sprinkles for special occasions. If you really want to go all-out, a pinch of flaky sea salt takes the flavors to another level.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a mug of hot coffee, or a tall glass of cold milk for a delightful treat. They’re fabulous as part of a brunch spread, alongside fresh fruit or yogurt.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack the cookies into a “cookie tower” and wrap with a ribbon for gifting, or arrange them in a spiral on a serving platter to mimic a giant cinnamon roll. For parties, set up a DIY dipping station with caramel, chocolate, and extra glaze on the side.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft, buttery, and delicious for up to three days — though good luck keeping them around that long!
Freezing
You can definitely freeze these cookies if you want to enjoy a fresh-tasting treat later. Place them, unglazed, in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature and drizzle with fresh glaze before serving.
Reheating
To recreate that just-baked warmth, pop the cookies in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 4–5 minutes or microwave individual cookies for just 10–15 seconds. Add the glaze after reheating if you’re warming from frozen.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pie crust instead of refrigerated?
Definitely! A homemade pie crust will give the cookies an even more personal touch. Just roll it out thin and follow the recipe as written. The shortcut version is perfect for busy days, though!
What if I don’t have brown sugar?
White sugar works in a pinch, though you’ll miss a bit of the caramel undertone. You can add a little honey or maple syrup to imitate brown sugar’s flavor, or use coconut sugar for a natural twist.
Can I add nuts or raisins?
Absolutely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or plump raisins spread over the cinnamon-sugar filling add fun texture and flavor. Just sprinkle them on before you roll up the dough.
Do Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies need to be refrigerated?
No refrigeration is necessary for these cookies. Just keep them in an airtight container at room temperature and they’ll stay delicious for several days.
How do I keep the cookies from unrolling in the oven?
Make sure to roll the dough as tightly as possible and place the slices seam-side down on the baking sheet. If you’re worried, you can gently press the edges together before baking.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve made it this far, the only thing left is to give Easy Cinnamon Roll Cookies a try. They’re every bit as delectable as they sound, blending all your favorite cinnamon roll flavors into a crisp, swirled cookie that’s impossible to resist. Gather your ingredients and bake up a batch — you won’t be disappointed!
