If you have a soft spot for fruity, cinnamon-spiced treats, then this Strawberry Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe is going to be an absolute game changer for your baking repertoire. Imagine tender, buttery cookies that swirl with luscious strawberry jam and the warm, cozy notes of cinnamon, all topped with a drizzle of creamy white chocolate and a sprinkle of sparkling sanding sugar. These cookies bring all the joy of a cinnamon roll but with a fun, handheld twist that’s perfect for sharing (or sneaking a few extra bites yourself!). Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet moment, this recipe will fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your heart with happiness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this recipe is a breeze because it relies on simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play an important role. From the moisture and tang of sour cream to the sweet punch of strawberry jam, every element combines to create the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in the cookies.
- Granulated sugar (2 cups): Adds sweetness and helps create that tender crumb we all love in cookies.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, room temperature): The foundation for richness and moisture in the dough.
- Large eggs (3, room temperature): Bind everything together and add structure.
- Pure vanilla extract (1 tsp): Boosts the flavor with a warm, aromatic note.
- Baking soda and baking powder (2 tsp each): These leavening agents help your cookies rise just enough for softness without puffiness.
- Sour cream (1 cup, room temperature): Brings a slight tang and extra tenderness to the dough.
- Kosher salt (½ tsp): Enhances all the sweet flavors and balances the dough.
- All-purpose flour (6 cups): The structure of your dough, so be sure to measure carefully.
- Strawberry jam (¼ cup): This is the star ingredient for that fruity swirl and bursts of flavor.
- White chocolate chips (1 cup): For a luscious drizzle that complements the strawberries beautifully.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Mixed with white chocolate to create a smooth, shiny glaze.
- Sanding sugar: Adds sparkle and extra sweetness on top.
- Fresh strawberries (cut into hearts): Optional, but makes a charming garnish that’s as cute as it is tasty.
How to Make Strawberry Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar Together
Start by beating the granulated sugar and butter in a stand mixer bowl fitted with the paddle attachment until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process takes around 2 to 3 minutes and is crucial for creating a tender texture in your cookies. Once beautifully creamed, add the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract, baking soda, baking powder, sour cream, and salt. Mixing these wet ingredients thoroughly sets the base for your dough’s flavor and rise. Gradually incorporate the flour, adding it cup by cup to ensure you don’t overwork the dough—this keeps your cookies soft and chewy.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
After forming the dough into a large disc, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and chilling for at least two hours is key. This resting period helps the butter firm up again so the cookies hold their shape during baking and develop those delightful swirls once rolled and sliced.
Step 3: Prepare for Baking
When the chilling time is almost up, preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple prep step sets you up for easy cleanup and ensures your cookies bake evenly.
Step 4: Roll and Layer the Dough with Strawberry Jam
Divide the dough into two sections (or four for smaller cookies). On a generously floured surface to prevent sticking, roll each piece out to about ¼ to ½ inch thickness. Spread a generous 2 tablespoons of the strawberry jam evenly over the surface. Then, roll each sheet lengthwise into a log, making sure the jam stays tucked inside. Use a sharp bread knife to slice each log into 10 to 12 one-inch cookies. These spiraled slices reveal the beautiful jam swirls that make this Strawberry Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe so special.
Step 5: Arrange and Bake
Place your cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1½ inches apart so they have room to spread slightly without sticking together. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 14 minutes if you made the larger size, or 8 to 10 minutes for smaller ones. Keep a close eye on them – they’re done when the edges are golden brown and the centers are fully set.
Step 6: Cool and Drizzle with White Chocolate
Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes after baking, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. While they’re cooling, melt the white chocolate chips and olive oil together in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second bursts, stirring as you go to avoid any burning. Once smooth and melted, spoon the glossy white chocolate drizzle over each cookie for a decadent finishing touch.
Step 7: Add Final Touches
Finish your masterpiece with a sprinkle of sanding sugar for sparkle and, if you like, top each cookie with a heart-shaped piece of fresh strawberry for a pop of color and extra fruity flavor. These little details make the Strawberry Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe feel extra special and perfect for sharing with loved ones or treating yourself.
How to Serve Strawberry Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or a few thin slices of fresh strawberries add a delightful freshness and visual appeal to these cookies. You can also experiment with crushed nuts for some added texture or a drizzle of honey for a sticky-sweet finish that complements the cinnamon.
Side Dishes
Serving these cookies alongside a hot cup of chai tea, coffee, or even a chilled glass of milk brings out the warm cinnamon notes and balances the sweetness perfectly. For brunch, try pairing them with creamy yogurt or fresh fruit salad for a bright contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange these cookies in a spiral on a decorative platter to showcase their cinnamon roll swirls or stack them in a jar for a beautiful gift idea. You can also layer them between parchment paper in a pretty tin to share at picnics or potlucks, making an eye-catching centerpiece anyone will love digging into.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Strawberry Cinnamon Roll Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days to maintain their freshness. If your kitchen is warm, refrigerating them will help preserve texture but bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze your cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll keep well for up to three months and are easy to thaw by leaving them at room temperature or popping them briefly in the microwave.
Reheating
Reheat chilled or frozen cookies for a few seconds in the microwave to revive their soft texture and bring back that just-baked warmth. Be careful not to heat too long or the white chocolate drizzle may melt away completely.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh for the garnish?
Frozen strawberries tend to be too watery once thawed and won’t hold their shape well, so fresh strawberries shaped into hearts work best for garnishing and maintaining that perfect presentation.
Is it okay to use regular jam if I don’t have strawberry jam?
Absolutely! Apricot or raspberry jam can add a lovely flavor twist, but keep in mind that the signature strawberry flavor is a key part of this recipe’s charm.
Can I make these cookies dairy-free?
With some careful substitutions, like using a dairy-free butter and sour cream alternative, you can make a tasty version of this recipe. Just be aware it might slightly impact the texture and flavor.
How thick should I roll the dough?
Rolling the dough to about ¼ to ½ inch thick is ideal—it ensures the cookies bake evenly and the swirl of jam inside remains visible and delicious.
What’s the best way to cut the dough logs?
Using a sharp bread knife is your best bet to achieve clean slices without squashing the spiral. Slice gently and steadily to keep those beautiful cinnamon roll-like swirls intact.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Strawberry Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your baking rotation. The blend of fruity, sweet, and warmly spiced flavors, coupled with that melt-in-your-mouth texture, is pure comfort on a plate. So grab your mixing bowl, a few favorite ingredients, and let these cookies brighten your day just like they did mine. Happy baking!
Print
Strawberry Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 24 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Strawberry Cinnamon Roll Cookies combine the sweet, fruity flavor of strawberry jam with a tender cinnamon-spiced dough, reminiscent of classic cinnamon rolls but in cookie form. Rolled and sliced into pinwheel shapes, then topped with melted white chocolate and sanding sugar, these cookies are perfect for sharing or enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 2 cups granulated sugar (400 grams)
- 1 cup unsalted butter (226 grams, room temperature, 2 sticks)
- 3 large eggs (150 grams, room temperature)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract (4 grams)
- 2 tsp baking soda (12 grams)
- 2 tsp baking powder (8 grams)
- 1 cup sour cream (227 grams, room temperature)
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- 6 cups all-purpose flour (720 grams)
Filling & Topping
- ¼ cup strawberry jam (85 grams; or use strawberry ice cream topping)
- 1 cup white chocolate chips (170 grams)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (13 grams)
- Sanding sugar, for sprinkling
- Fresh strawberries, cut into heart shapes, for garnish
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the granulated sugar and unsalted butter until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 2-3 minutes. This process incorporates air to create a tender crumb in the cookies.
- Mix Wet Ingredients and Leaveners: Add eggs, vanilla extract, baking soda, baking powder, sour cream, and kosher salt into the creamed butter and sugar. Mix thoroughly until fully combined.
- Add Flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour one cup at a time, mixing after each addition until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep cookies tender.
- Chill Dough: Shape the dough into a large disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Chilling firms the dough for easier rolling and helps develop flavors.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: About 15 minutes before you plan to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
- Shape Cookies: Cut the chilled dough into two sections (or four for smaller cookies). On a well-floured surface, roll each section out to about ¼ to ½ inch thickness. Spread 2 tablespoons of strawberry jam evenly over each rolled section. Roll each piece lengthwise into logs, then slice each log into 10-12 one-inch cookies. Thin slices make smaller cookies.
- Arrange Cookies for Baking: Place the cut cookies 1½ inches apart on the prepared baking sheet to allow space for spreading.
- Bake Cookies: Bake the cookies at 350°F for 10-14 minutes if larger, or 8-10 minutes for smaller ones. Watch closely; they are done when edges begin to brown and centers are fully set.
- Cool Cookies: Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes post-baking, then transfer them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.
- Melt White Chocolate Icing: While the cookies cool, melt white chocolate chips with olive oil in a microwave-safe bowl by heating in 30-second increments, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted.
- Decorate Cookies: Use a spoon to drizzle or spoon the melted white chocolate over each cookie. Sprinkle sanding sugar on top for added sweetness and texture, and garnish with heart-shaped strawberry pieces if desired.
Notes
- Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature to help create a smooth and well-emulsified dough.
- Use a sharp bread knife to get clean, even slices of the rolled dough logs.
- Rolling the dough between ¼ and ½ inch thick affects cookie size and baking time; thinner cookies will bake faster.
- If you don’t have strawberry jam, strawberry ice cream topping is a good substitute.
- Watch baking times carefully as oven temperatures vary; cookies are done when edges are golden and centers are set but not browned.
- Use sanding sugar for a sparkling finish and added crunch on top of the white chocolate icing.
- Chilling the dough is key to maintaining shape and flavor development.
