Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies Recipe

Is there anything better than a cinnamon roll and a cookie? What if you could have both—together—in one soft, gooey, melt-in-your-mouth bite? That’s exactly what these Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies are all about. They’re buttery and tender with sweet cinnamon swirls tucked right into the dough. And trust me, they disappear fast.

This recipe is one of my go-tos when I want something special but don’t want to deal with yeast or rising dough. It’s perfect for after-school snacks, weekend baking with the kids, or adding something unique to your cookie exchange tray. Let’s bake something cozy!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies

You don’t need anything fancy—just some pantry staples and a little butter love.

For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• ⅓ cup packed brown sugar
• 1½ tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened but cool
• 1⅓ cups granulated sugar
• 1¾ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 large egg
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Pro tip: Cornstarch is the secret weapon here. It keeps these cookies soft and thick without making them cakey.

How to Make Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies

These cookies look fancy but are so beginner-friendly. Follow these simple steps and you’ll have a batch of cozy goodness cooling on your counter in no time.

1. Preheat the Oven

• Set your oven to 350°F.
• Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.

2. Make the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

• In a small bowl, combine the butter, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
• Mix until it forms a soft, spreadable paste.
• Pop it in the freezer for about 10 minutes while you prep the dough.

3. Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until fluffy.
2. Add the vanilla, egg, and egg yolk. Mix until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cornstarch, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix just until combined.

Mom note: This dough is perfect for letting the kids help scoop and mix—just expect a little flour in places it shouldn’t be.

4. Layer the Dough With Cinnamon Filling

1. Take half of the dough and press it into the bottom of the bowl.
2. Drop spoonfuls of the chilled cinnamon mixture over it.
3. Flatten the remaining dough and place it over the filling.
4. Drop the rest of the cinnamon mixture on top.

5. Swirl and Fold

• Gently fold the dough a few times to swirl the cinnamon into the dough.
• Be careful not to overmix—you want visible cinnamon streaks and pockets.

6. Scoop and Chill the Dough

• Scoop 2-tablespoon portions of dough.
• Make sure each scoop has both dough and cinnamon.
• Place them on a plate and freeze for 10 minutes.

7. Bake Until Golden

• Arrange the dough balls a few inches apart on your baking sheets.
• For thicker cookies, leave them as-is. For thinner cookies, gently flatten.
• Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are golden and the centers are just set.
• Let them cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Cookie tip: Slightly underbaking gives you that ultra-chewy center. Don’t worry—they’ll finish setting as they cool.

FAQ: Everything You’ve Ever Wondered About Chewy Cookies

What makes these cookies soft and chewy?

Cornstarch, an extra egg yolk, and not overbaking. Those three things are magic.

Can I use white sugar instead of brown for the filling?

You could, but you’d miss out on that deep molasses flavor. Brown sugar gives it that cinnamon roll vibe.

Does melted butter work?

Not here. You want softened, cool butter so the cookies don’t spread too much.

Why are my cookies hard after cooling?

Overbaking or too little fat can dry them out. Store them with a slice of bread to keep them soft longer.

What does cornstarch do in cookies?

It tenderizes the dough and prevents spreading—keeping the cookies thick and soft.

Personal Baking Tips and Swaps

Here’s what I’ve tried when switching things up:

• Add a glaze: Mix powdered sugar and milk for a drizzle on top.
• Use cream cheese: Add a dollop of sweetened cream cheese before baking for a surprise center.
• Swap spices: Try pumpkin pie spice for a fall twist.
• Make ahead: Freeze dough balls for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen—just add a minute.

These are my “comfort cookies.” I make them when I miss my mom, need to cheer up a friend, or just want something nostalgic.

What to Serve With Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies

• A tall glass of cold milk
• Hot coffee with cinnamon
• Chai latte for extra spice
• Or even ice cream sandwiches with two cookies and vanilla ice cream

Other Cozy Cinnamon Recipes You’ll Love

• Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls with a sweet glaze
• Cinnamon Roll Bread – a sweet spiced delight
• Apple Cinnamon Morning Buns – perfect for breakfast

Save This Recipe & Tag Me!

Tried this recipe? I’d love to see how it turned out!

• Pin it for later: Visit Ritzy Recipes on Pinterest
• Share your cookies and tag @RitzyRecipes on Instagram
• Drop a comment below: Did you make these with the kids? Try a twist? Let’s chat!

Final Thoughts

These Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies are the best of both worlds. All the cinnamon roll flavor with none of the waiting. Whether you’re baking for your family, your friends, or just because you need a little sweetness in your day—these cookies deliver.

Thank you for baking with me today. Let’s keep making food that feels like a warm hug.

Happy baking, friend

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