Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe
If you’re looking for a cookie that manages to be both nostalgic and undeniably special, let me introduce you to Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies. These treats are impossibly soft with a rich, creamy crumb and a sparkly cinnamon-sugar crust that makes every bite a pure delight. The subtle tang from the cream cheese pairs perfectly with the warmth of cinnamon, and the whole batch comes together with just a handful of pantry staples. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a cozy afternoon, or simply to treat yourself, these cookies will become a fast favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies is how a few classic ingredients combine to create something magical. Each plays a special role, from the creamy richness of butter and cream cheese to the aromatic pop of cinnamon. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some tips to make your cookies irresistible.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Softened butter blends easily and gives the cookies their tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Cream cheese (4 oz, softened): This is the secret to the cookies’ extra softness and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup for dough, 1/4 cup for rolling): Sweetens the dough and creates a sparkly, caramelized crust when used for rolling.
- Large egg (1): Binds the dough and adds a little structure while keeping the crumb soft.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the other flavors with fragrant warmth.
- All-purpose flour (1 3/4 cups): The foundation of the cookie, giving it just the right chew.
- Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Helps the cookies puff up ever so slightly for a soft, cakey bite.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Brings out all the flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
- Ground cinnamon (1 1/2 teaspoons for dough, 1 teaspoon for rolling): The star of the show, adding warmth and a cozy aroma both inside and outside the cookies.
How to Make Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure your Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies bake up with perfectly golden bottoms.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is essential for a fluffy, tender cookie, so don’t rush it—make sure there are no lumps left!
Step 3: Add Sugar, Egg, and Vanilla
Pour in the cup of granulated sugar and continue to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy. Next, add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is fully incorporated. Your dough should look pale and pillowy at this point.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon. This ensures the leavening and spices are evenly distributed, so every bite of your Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies tastes just right.
Step 5: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Take care not to over-mix—stop as soon as you no longer see streaks of flour. The dough will be soft and a little sticky, which is exactly what you want.
Step 6: Roll in Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, stir together the 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll them into balls, and generously coat each one in the cinnamon-sugar mixture for that signature crackly surface.
Step 7: Bake and Cool
Arrange the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges are set and the tops are slightly cracked. Let the cookies cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This rest time helps them set up with a soft, chewy interior.
How to Serve Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies
Garnishes
Right after baking, while the cookies are still warm, sprinkle an extra pinch of cinnamon sugar on top for a sparkly finish and extra flavor. If you’re feeling fancy, a tiny dusting of powdered sugar looks beautiful and adds a touch of sweetness.
Side Dishes
These cookies shine alongside a cozy mug of hot chocolate, chai latte, or freshly brewed coffee. For a dessert platter, pair them with fresh fruit—like apple slices or berries—for a refreshing contrast to their rich, spiced flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies in a rustic jar for a homemade gift, or arrange them on a tiered stand for a festive cookie swap. You can even sandwich a little cinnamon ice cream or whipped cream between two cookies for a decadent twist on an ice cream sandwich.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies soft and chewy by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to five days, making them perfect for make-ahead treats or lunchbox snacks.
Freezing
These cookies freeze beautifully! Once cooled, pop them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll keep for up to two months—just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.
Reheating
If you love that just-baked taste, warm your cookies in the microwave for about 10 seconds. They’ll regain some of their original softness and the flavors will pop, as if they just came out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese in Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies?
You can substitute low-fat cream cheese, but the cookies may turn out a little less rich and tender. For the very best texture and flavor, full-fat cream cheese is recommended.
What’s the best way to get perfectly round cookies?
Rolling the dough balls evenly and giving them a gentle roll in your hands will help. If you want extra uniformity, use a cookie scoop for consistent size, which helps them bake evenly.
Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or even mini chocolate chips make a delicious addition. Just fold about 1/2 cup into the dough before rolling in cinnamon sugar.
Do Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies need to be refrigerated?
No need to refrigerate these cookies after baking—room temperature storage in an airtight container works perfectly. However, if you’re in a hot climate, the fridge can keep them extra fresh.
What makes these cookies so soft?
It’s the magic of cream cheese! Cream cheese adds moisture and tenderness, which keeps Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies soft and chewy for days after baking.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to bake up a batch of cozy comfort, Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies are the answer. Their irresistible texture and cinnamon-kissed flavor are sure to win over anyone who tries them, so don’t hesitate—gather your ingredients and share a little homemade joy today!
Print
Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these soft and chewy Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies, where the rich cream cheese blends perfectly with warm cinnamon for a comforting treat. Easy to make and irresistibly flavorful, these cookies are perfect for any occasion or simply to satisfy your sweet cravings.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
For Rolling
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Beat Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together using an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Add Sugar and Mix: Add the granulated sugar to the butter and cream cheese mixture and continue beating until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and well combined.
- Incorporate Egg and Vanilla: Mix in the large egg and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and fully combined to create a cohesive dough.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon ensuring an even distribution of leavening and spice.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently just until combined to avoid overworking the dough which can make cookies tough.
- Prepare Cinnamon-Sugar Coating: In a small bowl, stir together the 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon to create the rolling mixture.
- Form Balls and Roll: Use a tablespoon to scoop portions of dough, roll each into a ball, then roll each ball thoroughly in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat evenly.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet spaced about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops have a slightly cracked appearance indicating perfect doneness.
- Cool the Cookies: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, preventing sogginess.
Notes
- These cookies stay soft and chewy thanks to the addition of cream cheese in the dough.
- For extra cinnamon flavor, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon sugar on top of the cookies immediately after baking.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and softness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
