Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer), cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (3-5 minutes).
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon. Mix well until a paste forms.
- Lightly flour a clean surface. Divide the cookie dough in half.
- Roll one half of the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the dough rectangle.
- Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log.
- Repeat with the remaining dough and cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Wrap each log in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or overnight).
- Remove the logs from the refrigerator and unwrap them.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the logs into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
- Place the cookie rounds on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the cream cheese frosting (optional): In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low speed until combined.
- Add the vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon of milk. Beat until smooth. Add more milk, 1 teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- Once the cookies are completely cool, frost them with the cream cheese frosting.
Notes
For best results, ensure the butter is properly softened. Chilling the dough logs is crucial for easy slicing and preventing excessive spreading. Don't overbake the cookies to maintain a soft texture. Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate if frosted. For a nutty variation, add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon-sugar mixture. A maple glaze made with powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk is a great alternative to cream cheese frosting.