Craving cookies that melt in your mouth while offering the warmth of cinnamon and the tanginess of cream cheese? Look no further! This Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies recipe is the perfect combination of soft, creamy, and spiced flavors that will satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you're baking for the holidays, a family gathering, or just to enjoy a cozy treat, these cookies are sure to impress. Read on for a detailed guide on how to make these irresistible cookies, complete with tips, variations, and answers to frequently asked questions. Let's dive in!
What Are Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies?
Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies are soft, flavorful cookies made with a combination of butter, sugar, cream cheese, and cinnamon. The addition of cream cheese gives them a unique texture—soft, almost cake-like, with a slightly tangy aftertaste that perfectly complements the warmth of cinnamon. These cookies are a great way to combine the comforting flavors of a classic cinnamon treat with the creamy richness of cream cheese.
Ingredients List for Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies
Before you start, gather all the ingredients to ensure the process goes smoothly. Here's what you'll need for the perfect batch of Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Provides tanginess and a soft, chewy texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies while aiding in proper browning.
- 1 large egg: Binds the dough together and adds richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor profile with a subtle sweetness.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cookies.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Ensures the cookies rise and maintain a soft texture.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Helps with leavening for that perfect fluff.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The star of the show, adding warmth and spice.
Substitutions and Variations
If you'd like to tweak the recipe or adapt it to different dietary needs or preferences, here are a few substitutions and variations you can consider:
- Butter Substitute: You can use margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free option, though the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
- Sugar Alternatives: For a healthier option, replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar, though the cookies will be slightly darker and have a more caramel-like flavor.
- Flour Variations: You can use gluten-free all-purpose flour if you're catering to a gluten-free diet. Just be mindful that the texture might be a little different.
- Extra Cinnamon: If you're a huge cinnamon fan, you can increase the cinnamon to 1.5 or even 2 teaspoons for a spicier cookie.
- Add-Ins: Add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit like raisins for extra flavor and texture.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to get started on these delicious cookies? Follow this simple, step-by-step guide for the best results:
How to Cook Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cookies bake evenly.
- Prepare Your Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Cream the Butter, Cream Cheese, and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, cream cheese, and sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Add Egg and Vanilla Extract: Crack in the egg and pour in the vanilla extract. Beat the mixture again until well combined.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
- Chill the Dough: If the dough seems too sticky, cover it and place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up. This will make it easier to handle and shape.
- Shape the Cookies: Once the dough is chilled, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into balls. Place them onto the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
- Flatten the Dough: Lightly press each dough ball down with the bottom of a glass or your palm to flatten it slightly.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden brown. The centers will still look slightly soft, which is perfect for a tender cookie.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Dough: Mixing the dough too much after adding the dry ingredients can result in tough, dense cookies. Mix just until everything is combined.
- Skipping the Chilling Step: If your dough is too sticky, chilling is crucial. Skipping this step can result in cookies that spread too much during baking.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on the cookies. Overbaking them will result in dry, crumbly cookies instead of the soft, tender texture you want.
- Not Softening Butter and Cream Cheese: Make sure both are softened before mixing. Cold ingredients can lead to lumpy dough and uneven cookies.
Serving and Presentation Tips
When it comes to serving and presenting your Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies, it's all about making them look as irresistible as they taste. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
How to Serve Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies
- With Coffee or Tea: These cookies are perfect alongside a cup of coffee or tea, making them a great choice for afternoon snacks or dessert after dinner.
- Holiday Treat: These cookies make a great addition to a holiday cookie platter. They pair well with other festive treats like gingerbread cookies, snickerdoodles, or peppermint bark.
- Gift Them: Place the cookies in a decorative tin or gift box lined with parchment paper for a thoughtful and delicious homemade gift.
Presentation Ideas for Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies
- Dust with Cinnamon Sugar: For a little extra flair, lightly dust the tops of the cookies with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar before baking. This adds a delightful crunch and enhances the cinnamon flavor.
- Drizzle with Icing: A simple glaze made from powdered sugar, a touch of milk, and vanilla extract can be drizzled over the cookies for an extra sweet touch.
- Decorative Plates or Trays: Arrange the cookies on a festive plate or tiered serving tray for an eye-catching presentation, perfect for a party or gathering.
Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the butter, cream cheese, and egg are at room temperature before mixing. This ensures that the dough comes together smoothly and evenly.
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw them at room temperature before serving.
- Double the Recipe: These cookies disappear quickly! If you’re baking for a crowd or want to have extra on hand, consider doubling the recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. If it gets too firm, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before shaping and baking.
How do I store leftover cookies?
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.
Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! Roll the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to bake, you can bake them straight from the freezer, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I use flavored cream cheese?
Yes, flavored cream cheese (such as cinnamon or honey cream cheese) can add an extra boost of flavor to these cookies. Just make sure it complements the cinnamon.
Why did my cookies spread too much?
If your cookies spread too much, it could be that the dough wasn't chilled long enough or the butter was too warm when you started. Make sure to chill the dough if it's too sticky before baking.
Conclusion
There you have it—a step-by-step guide to making the perfect Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies! With their soft texture, delicious cinnamon flavor, and a hint of tangy cream cheese, these cookies are bound to become a favorite in your home. Whether you're serving them at a holiday party, gifting them to friends, or enjoying them with a cup of tea, they're sure to be a hit. Try this recipe out, experiment with variations, and enjoy the sweet satisfaction of homemade cookies!
Now it’s time to get baking! Happy cooking! 🍪
PrintCinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe
These soft and chewy Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies are filled with a rich, buttery flavor and spiced with cinnamon. The cream cheese adds a delightful tang and creamy texture, making these cookies a delicious treat for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you'll have a batch of these irresistible cookies in no time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Cream cheese
- Unsalted butter
- Granulated sugar
- Egg
- Vanilla extract
- All-purpose flour
- Ground cinnamon
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Powdered sugar (optional for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, cream cheese, and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Dust with powdered sugar, if desired.
Notes
- Make sure to use softened cream cheese and butter for a smooth batter.
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 110 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 60 mg
Leave a Reply