Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies Recipe: Soft, Sweet, and Swirled (Print version)

Soft sugar cookies rolled with cinnamon-brown sugar filling, sliced into swirls, baked tender, and finished with cream cheese glaze.

# Ingredients:

For the cookie dough

01 - 2 3/4 cups (345 g) all-purpose flour, plus more for rolling
02 - 1 teaspoon baking powder
03 - 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
04 - 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
05 - 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
06 - 1 large egg
07 - 1 large egg yolk
08 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the cinnamon swirl

09 - 3 tablespoons (42 g) unsalted butter, very soft
10 - 1/2 cup (110 g) packed light brown sugar
11 - 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
12 - 1/8 teaspoon fine salt

For the cream cheese glaze

13 - 2 oz (56 g) cream cheese, softened
14 - 3/4 cup (90 g) powdered sugar
15 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
16 - 1-2 tablespoons milk

# Instructions:

01 - In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
02 - Beat the butter and granulated sugar on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until lighter and creamy. Beat in the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla, then mix in the dry ingredients on low just until combined.
03 - Shape the dough into a flat rectangle, wrap it, and refrigerate for 30-45 minutes until firm enough to roll without sticking.
04 - Stir the brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt together. Roll the dough on a lightly floured surface into a 10x14 inch rectangle. Spread the soft butter over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar evenly on top.
05 - Starting from a long side, roll the dough into a snug log. Pinch the seam closed, wrap tightly, and chill for 30 minutes or until firm.
06 - Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment. Slice the log into 1/2 inch rounds and place 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set and the centers still look soft.
07 - Cool the cookies on the pan for 5 minutes, then move to a rack. Beat the cream cheese until smooth, then mix in powdered sugar, vanilla, and enough milk to make a drizzle. Glaze the cooled cookies.

# Good to know:

01 - Plan for about 1 hour of chilling in addition to active prep and baking time.
02 - Bake one tray at a time for the most even shape and color.
03 - The cookies are done before they look browned in the center.