Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a cookie that’s both soft and creamy with a delightful cinnamon sugar coating, these Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies are just what you need. They’re rich, tender, and perfectly spiced with cinnamon, making them a cozy and comforting treat for any time of year. The addition of cream cheese gives the cookies a soft texture and a slight tang that perfectly complements the warm cinnamon flavor. Whether you’re making them for a holiday cookie platter, an afternoon snack, or just because, these cookies are sure to be a hit!

What are Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies?

Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies are soft, pillowy cookies made with a blend of cream cheese and butter, which gives them a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture. The dough is lightly sweetened and flavored with vanilla, then rolled in cinnamon sugar before baking. This gives the cookies a slightly crisp exterior with a soft and creamy center, making them a delicious blend of textures and flavors. Think of them as a cross between a snickerdoodle and a sugar cookie, but with an added creaminess.

Ingredients List for Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies

To make these delectable cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Cookie Dough:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Substitutions and Variations

These cookies are versatile, so feel free to make substitutions or variations based on your preferences:

• Gluten-Free Version: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour to make these cookies gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free Option: Replace the butter and cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives (such as plant-based butter and cream cheese).
• Spiced Version: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Stuffed Cookies: Add a surprise inside by stuffing the dough with chocolate chips, caramel, or a small piece of cream cheese before baking.
• Brown Sugar Twist: For a deeper flavor, substitute half of the granulated sugar with brown sugar for a richer, caramel-like sweetness.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s a detailed guide to help you make the best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the sugar and continue beating until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—the dough should be soft and slightly sticky.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

1. Once the dough is mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for about 30-60 minutes. This makes the dough easier to handle and helps the cookies keep their shape while baking.

Step 4: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

1. While the dough is chilling, prepare the cinnamon sugar coating. In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.

Step 5: Shape and Coat the Cookies

1. After the dough has chilled, scoop out about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball using your hands.
2. Roll each ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.
3. Place the coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

1. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly puffed. The cookies should still be soft in the center.
2. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies come out perfect, avoid these common mistakes:

• Skipping the Chill Time: Chilling the dough is important because it helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking. Skipping this step can result in flat, overly spread cookies.
• Overbaking: The cookies should still be soft when you take them out of the oven. They will firm up as they cool. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies, so keep an eye on them.
• Not Using Softened Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature before starting. This allows them to cream together smoothly and creates a light, fluffy texture in the cookies.

Serving and Presentation Tips

These cookies are delicious on their own, but here are a few tips to enhance the presentation and serving experience:

1. Drizzle with Icing: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle the cooled cookies with a simple powdered sugar icing or a cream cheese glaze.
2. Serve Warm: These cookies are best enjoyed slightly warm, so try serving them fresh from the oven or heat them up for a few seconds in the microwave before eating.
3. Pair with Coffee or Tea: The warmth of the cinnamon pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making these cookies perfect for an afternoon snack or dessert.

How to Serve Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies

These cookies are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

• Holiday Cookie Platters: Add these cookies to a holiday cookie platter for a festive and cozy treat that everyone will love.
• Afternoon Treat: Serve them with tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.
• Gift Idea: Package these cookies in a cute tin or box for a homemade gift that’s sure to impress.

Presentation Ideas for Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies

To make your cookies look extra special, consider these presentation ideas:

• Cookie Gift Boxes: Place the cookies in a decorative box or tin, line it with parchment paper, and tie it with a ribbon for a beautiful homemade gift.
• Cookie Stacks: Stack the cookies in small towers, tying them with a ribbon or twine for an elegant display at parties or gatherings.
• Festive Shapes: If you're feeling creative, you can use cookie cutters to shape the dough into festive designs before rolling them in the cinnamon sugar.

Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe Tips

Here are a few additional tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfect:

• Soft Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is softened before starting, as it will blend more easily with the butter. Cold cream cheese can lead to lumps in the dough.
• Cinnamon Sugar Coating: For a thicker cinnamon sugar coating, roll the cookies in the mixture twice for extra sweetness and texture.
• Storage: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze them for up to 2 months. To serve, let frozen cookies thaw at room temperature or warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can also freeze the cookie dough balls before baking. When ready to bake, thaw the dough slightly and roll in the cinnamon sugar before baking.

Q: How long will these cookies last?
A: Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies will last up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months for longer storage.

Q: Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
A: While you can use low-fat cream cheese, full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the best texture and flavor. Low-fat cream cheese may result in cookies that are less creamy and tender.

Q: Can I add other spices?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other warm spices like nutmeg, cloves, or allspice. Just be sure not to overpower the cinnamon flavor.

Conclusion

These Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies are a delightful, soft, and flavorful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of cream cheese and butter creates a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, while the cinnamon sugar coating adds a warm, sweet crunch. Whether you’re making them for a holiday cookie exchange, an afternoon snack, or just because you’re craving something delicious, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Ready to bake a batch? Give this recipe a try and enjoy the cozy, comforting flavors of cinnamon and cream cheese in every bite!

Print