Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe

If you’re craving a warm, cozy treat that melts in your mouth and fills your kitchen with irresistible aroma, you have got to try the Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe. These cookies combine the delicate tang of cream cheese with the spicy sweetness of cinnamon, creating a soft, tender bite that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or just craving a comforting snack, these cookies hit every note perfectly, delivering a delightful balance of flavors and textures that feel like a big, buttery hug in cookie form.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of the Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe starts with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavor and texture. Each component plays an essential role, from giving the dough its structure to lending moisture and that signature cinnamon sparkle.

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect base and structure for soft yet sturdy cookies.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just enough for a tender crumb.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: The star spice bringing warmth and depth.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and luscious creaminess.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Keeps the cookies tender and adds a subtle tang that complements the cinnamon.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and lightens texture when beaten in.
• 1 large egg: Binds everything together beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor with floral, sweet notes.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling): Creates a slight, sweet crunch on the cookie exterior.
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for rolling): Adds an extra burst of cinnamon flavor and a cozy finish.

How to Make Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by heating your oven to a toasty 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. This prep keeps the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze—trust me, every baker’s dream.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon in a medium bowl. This ensures the cinnamon flavor is evenly distributed and the baking soda works its magic for tender bites.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese

Beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy, about two minutes. This step is crucial for achieving the signature softness your cookies will be known for. The mixture should look light and fluffy, setting the stage for the perfect dough.

Step 4: Add Sugar and Mix Until Fluffy

Next, add the granulated sugar to the creamy mixture and beat on medium speed until light and fluffy, which usually takes about three minutes. This aerates the dough, ensuring soft, tender cookies that are full of flavor.

Step 5: Incorporate Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined. These ingredients add moisture and a subtle warmth that rounds out the flavor profile.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a soft, slightly sticky dough that’s ready to be rolled.

Step 7: Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating

In a small bowl, stir together the 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon. This will give your cookies that classic, irresistible crackly cinnamon coating that shines.

Step 8: Shape and Roll the Dough

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll them into tight balls, and then coat each one thoroughly in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. This step turns each cookie into a little cinnamon-coated treasure.

Step 9: Arrange and Flatten Cookies

Place the coated dough balls on your baking sheets, spacing them two inches apart to allow for spreading. Gently flatten each ball with the back of a spoon or your fingertips so they bake evenly with that perfect soft center and slightly crisp edges.

Step 10: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, watching closely for golden edges while keeping the centers soft. This balance is key to the Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe’s tender texture.

Step 11: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This technique prevents breakage while the cookies set and keeps their irresistible soft texture.

How to Serve Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a tiny pinch of extra cinnamon on top for a little more warmth before serving, or dust with powdered sugar for a festive touch. A simple drizzle of white chocolate can elevate these cookies for special occasions, adding a sweet contrast that pairs beautifully with cinnamon and cream cheese.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a hot cup of tea, a frothy cappuccino, or a glass of cold milk for classic comfort. For a brunch spread, serve alongside fresh fruit or a mild cream cheese spread that complements their flavor without overpowering it.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack the cookies tied with a rustic ribbon for a charming gift, or serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. You can even sandwich them with cinnamon frosting or cream cheese filling for a show-stopping treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and flavorful for up to four days, perfect if you want to savor them over time.

Freezing

If you want to save the cookies for longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep beautifully for up to three months and thaw quickly when you’re ready to enjoy.

Reheating

Warm the cookies in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds or pop them into a preheated oven at 300°F for a few minutes. This brings back the soft, tender texture and revives that fresh-baked feeling.

FAQs

Can I substitute the cream cheese with something else?

Cream cheese is essential for the signature softness and slight tang in this recipe, so substitutions may alter the texture and flavor. However, for a dairy-free version, you could experiment with vegan cream cheese, keeping in mind the results may vary slightly.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Make sure your butter and cream cheese are just softened, not melted. Also, chilling the dough briefly before baking can help keep the cookies from spreading excessively.

Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?

Using brown sugar will add moisture and a deeper caramel flavor, which can be delicious but will also change the texture slightly. Granulated sugar keeps the cookies tender and light in this particular recipe.

What if I don’t have ground cinnamon? Can I use cinnamon chips or other spices?

Ground cinnamon is crucial for that cozy, warm flavor. Cinnamon chips might melt unevenly, and other spices will alter the classic taste. If you want to experiment, try adding a bit of nutmeg or allspice alongside the cinnamon for a twist.

Can these cookies be made gluten-free?

Yes! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just be sure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to maintain the cookie’s texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s truly nothing like settling in with a warm batch of the Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe fresh from the oven. The way the cinnamon and cream cheese come together creates a comforting, unforgettable cookie that’s perfect for sharing or savoring solo. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds and keeping you in their cookie-loving hearts.

Print