Cinnamon Roll Cookies

These Cinnamon Roll Cookies are a delightful twist on traditional cinnamon rolls, perfect for any occasion. With their buttery cinnamon swirl and creamy cheesecake filling, these cookies are thick, soft, gooey, and incredibly flavorful. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, these cookies will impress everyone with their unique taste and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require advanced baking skills.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and cream cheese creates a mouthwatering treat that everyone will love.
• Versatile Occasion: Perfect for dessert at parties, family gatherings, or a cozy night in.
• Soft and Gooey Texture: These cookies bake up thick and soft, providing a satisfying bite with every piece.
• Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits to the cookie dough for an extra touch.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious Cinnamon Roll Cookies, you’ll need some essential tools to help you along the way.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Ideal for achieving a fluffy cheesecake filling quickly without much effort.
• Baking pan: Ensures even baking and easy removal of cookies when lined with parchment paper.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

These cinnamon roll cookies contain a buttery cinnamon swirl and creamy cheesecake filling! They are thick, soft baked, gooey, and flavorful. Great for any occasion!

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• ¼ cup powdered sugar

For the Cookie Dough

• ½ cup cold unsalted butter (sliced into cubes)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup light brown sugar (tightly packed)
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ¾ cups gluten free flour (or all purpose flour)
• ½ tsp baking soda
• pinch sea salt

For the Cinnamon Swirl Mixture

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 tsp cinnamon

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Step 1: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until fluffy and creamy.

Step 2: Freeze the Cheesecake Balls

Use a spoon to scoop out 1 teaspoon sized balls. Place them on a parchment paper lined pan. Put them in the freezer while you prepare the cookie dough.

Step 3: Prepare the Cookie Dough

In a clean bowl of a stand mixer, add the cold cubed butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat until combined and no clumps of butter remain.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Add in the egg and vanilla extract. Stir well to combine.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients

Add in gluten free flour, baking soda, and sea salt. Stir until you have a thick cookie dough.

Step 6: Make Cinnamon Swirl Mixture

In a small bowl, mix together softened butter and cinnamon until well combined.

Step 7: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line another baking pan with parchment paper.

Step 8: Assemble Cookies

Scoop out 1 teaspoon of cookie dough. Flatten it into a disc shape. Spread a little cinnamon mixture on top before placing a frozen cheesecake ball in the center.

Step 9: Enclose Cheesecake Ball

Take another teaspoon of cookie dough mixed with pea-sized amounts of cinnamon mixture. Flatten this disc over the cheesecake ball while pinching edges together to seal it.

Step 10: Bake

Place cookies about three inches apart on your prepared pan. Bake for approximately 10 to 12 minutes until lightly golden. Finally, remove from the oven and serve warm!

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Cinnamon roll cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them at home, these cookies can be paired with different accompaniments to enhance their flavor.

With Coffee

• A warm cup of coffee complements the sweetness of cinnamon roll cookies perfectly. The rich flavors of coffee balance out the creamy cheesecake filling.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange cinnamon roll cookies on a dessert platter alongside other baked goods. This creates an inviting presentation for parties or gatherings.

With Ice Cream

• Top warm cinnamon roll cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of warm and cold creates a delicious contrast, making it a perfect dessert.

Drizzled with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Add extra indulgence by drizzling cream cheese frosting over the cookies. This enhances the flavor and adds an appealing visual touch.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve cinnamon roll cookies with fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries. The tartness of the fruit balances the sweetness of the cookies, creating a refreshing combination.

As Breakfast Treats

• Enjoy cinnamon roll cookies as a sweet breakfast option. Pair them with yogurt or smoothies for a satisfying morning meal.

How to Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Making perfect cinnamon roll cookies requires attention to detail and some handy tips to ensure they turn out soft and gooey.

• Use Softened Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing, resulting in a smooth cheesecake filling.
• Chill Cookie Dough: Allowing the cookie dough to chill before baking helps maintain its shape and prevents spreading too much in the oven.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use precise measurements for flour and sugar to achieve the right texture. Too much flour can make cookies dry.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding flour. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies.
• Bake Until Slightly Underdone: For soft cookies, remove them from the oven when they are just set but still slightly underdone in the center.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain their freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Roll Cookies

Cinnamon roll cookies can be paired with various side dishes that complement their sweet and rich flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a tasty side that adds texture and nutrition.
3. Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses, especially creamy ones, pairs nicely with cinnamon flavors.
4. Nut Butter Dip: Serve almond or peanut butter as a dip for added richness and protein.
5. Granola Bars: These chewy snacks provide crunch and are great for those who enjoy something hearty alongside their sweet treats.
6. Smoothies: A fruity smoothie enhances breakfast time when served with cinnamon roll cookies, making it nutritious and delicious.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cinnamon Roll Cookies can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can compromise the final product.

• Ignoring the temperature of ingredients: Using cold butter instead of softened butter can lead to dense cookies. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for a perfect texture.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can make the cookies tough. Mix until just combined to keep them soft and chewy.
• Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the cheesecake filling before use can cause it to spread too much during baking. Make sure to freeze it as directed for best results.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make your cookies dry. Use a spoon to fill your measuring cup and level it off for accuracy.
• Neglecting the baking time: Baking for too long can lead to hard cookies. Keep an eye on them and remove them when they’re slightly golden around the edges.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep layers of cookies separated with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Freezing Cinnamon Roll Cookies

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 3 months.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or place in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Cinnamon Roll Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie on medium power for 10-15 seconds. Check if warm; if not, heat in additional 5-second increments.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, cover, and warm for about 3-5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cinnamon Roll Cookies.

How do I achieve the best texture for my Cinnamon Roll Cookies?

To get that perfect soft and chewy texture, ensure you use room temperature butter and do not overmix your dough.

Can I customize my Cinnamon Roll Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even swap out cinnamon for other spices like nutmeg or cardamom.

How should I store leftover Cinnamon Roll Cookies?

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days or freeze them for longer storage.

What is the secret to a perfect cheesecake filling?

Using softened cream cheese and mixing it thoroughly with powdered sugar ensures a creamy filling that pairs perfectly with your cookies.

Can I make Cinnamon Roll Cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free flour as indicated in the recipe, and you’ll enjoy delicious gluten-free Cinnamon Roll Cookies!

Final Thoughts

These Cinnamon Roll Cookies are not only thick and gooey but also versatile enough to suit any occasion. Their creamy cheesecake center paired with a buttery cinnamon swirl makes every bite irresistible. Feel free to customize them with your favorite add-ins or toppings. Give this recipe a try—you’ll love how easy and delicious they are!