Cinnamon Roll Cookies with Cream Cheese Drizzle: A Delicious Twist on a Classic

Introduction

Cinnamon Roll Cookies with cream cheese drizzle combine the best of both worlds—rich cinnamon rolls and easy-to-make cookies. These soft, spiced cookies are rolled with a cinnamon-sugar filling and topped with a tangy, sweet drizzle that will satisfy any dessert lover. Perfect for holiday baking or a simple afternoon treat, these cookies are a great addition to any recipe collection.

For a hearty dish to pair with these cookies, consider this Crockpot Potato Soup with Hashbrowns, which adds a savory counterpart to the sweet treat.

Why Make Cinnamon Roll Cookies?

Cinnamon Roll Cookies are an ideal dessert for cinnamon lovers and those who want the essence of a cinnamon roll but with the simplicity of a cookie recipe. The cream cheese drizzle adds a tangy richness that makes these cookies irresistible. Plus, these cookies are a great option for holiday cookie exchanges, bake sales, or just enjoying at home.

If you’re craving more cozy recipes, check out Slow Cooker Baked Ziti, which offers the perfect comfort food pairing with these cookies.

Ingredients and Nutritional Information

To make Cinnamon Roll Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1/2 cup butter (softened)
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• Cream Cheese Drizzle Ingredients:
  • 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons milk

Nutritionally, these cookies are rich in sugar and fats due to the butter, sugar, and cream cheese. However, reducing the sugar and using a low-fat cream cheese can lighten the calorie load while still maintaining flavor.

For more tips on cream cheese frosting, visit this guide to making perfect cream cheese frosting.

Step-by-Step Recipe Guide

1. Making the Dough
In a bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and mix until combined. Gradually add the flour and mix until a dough forms.

2. Preparing the Cinnamon Filling
Roll out the dough into a rectangle on a floured surface. Mix together brown sugar and cinnamon, then spread this mixture evenly across the dough.

3. Rolling and Slicing
Roll the dough into a log and slice it into individual cookies. Each slice should be about 1/4-inch thick.

4. Baking
Place the cookies on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.

5. Adding the Cream Cheese Drizzle
While the cookies are cooling, prepare the cream cheese drizzle by mixing cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cookies.

Tips for the Best Cinnamon Roll Cookies

• Keep the cookies soft and chewy by not overbaking them. Watch the edges for a slight golden hue, but don’t wait until they are browned all over.
• Perfecting the drizzle: If the cream cheese frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until you achieve the desired consistency.
• Add extra flavor: Incorporate nutmeg, cardamom, or orange zest into the cinnamon filling for a unique twist on the traditional flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These Cinnamon Roll Cookies are best served fresh from the oven with a generous drizzle of cream cheese frosting. They pair well with a variety of beverages, such as a spiced chai latte, coffee, or even a classic hot chocolate.

For a savory dish to balance the sweetness, try No-Peek Beef Tips—a hearty main course that’s perfect for family dinners.

Variations of Cinnamon Roll Cookies

• Fruit-Filled Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Add a layer of fruit preserves like raspberry or apricot to the cinnamon filling for a fruity twist.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter and cream cheese substitutes to make the cookies completely dairy-free.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly treat.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it wrapped in plastic and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
2. How do I roll out the dough without it sticking?
   Ensure your work surface and rolling pin are well-floured to prevent sticking. Chilling the dough for 10-15 minutes can also make it easier to handle.
3. What’s the best way to freeze these cookies?
   You can freeze the cookie dough before baking or freeze the baked cookies. To reheat, let the cookies come to room temperature, then bake at 300°F for a few minutes.
4. Can I use store-bought frosting?
   Yes, if you’re short on time, store-bought cream cheese frosting works just as well for the drizzle.
5. How do I make the cream cheese drizzle thicker or thinner?
   To thin the frosting, add a tablespoon of milk at a time. For a thicker frosting, increase the powdered sugar gradually.

Nutritional Considerations

While indulgent, the cream cheese in the frosting adds calcium and protein. To lighten the recipe, reduce the sugar in both the dough and frosting, and consider using low-fat cream cheese. Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans to the dough can also introduce healthy fats and extra texture.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Roll Cookies with Cream Cheese Drizzle are a delicious and fun way to enjoy the classic flavors of cinnamon rolls in a cookie form. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or looking for a sweet treat, these cookies are sure to become a family favorite.