Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies
Introduction
If you’re looking for a cookie recipe that feels both cozy and indulgent, these Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies are exactly what you need. They combine the rich creaminess of cream cheese with the warm, aromatic flavor of cinnamon, resulting in soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookies that are perfect for any occasion.
Unlike traditional cookies that rely solely on butter, the addition of cream cheese creates a tender, pillowy texture that makes every bite irresistible. Whether you serve them fresh out of the oven with a cup of tea or save them for a holiday cookie platter, these cookies are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
4 oz (½ block) cream cheese, room temperature
1 ½ cups powdered sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
2. Cream Butter & Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and cream cheese together until smooth and fluffy.
This step is important for creating a creamy base that will give the cookies their signature texture.
3. Add Sugar & Egg
Gradually mix in the powdered sugar until the mixture is light and well combined.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, blending until smooth.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
This ensures the leavening and spices are evenly distributed.
5. Combine Wet & Dry
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
The dough should be slightly sticky but firm enough to roll into balls.
6. Shape the Cookies
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into smooth balls.
If desired, roll each dough ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture for extra sweetness and a lightly crunchy coating.
Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
7. Bake
Bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the bottoms are lightly golden.
The centers should remain slightly soft, giving the cookies a tender bite.
8. Cool & Serve
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Enjoy them warm for maximum coziness, or store in an airtight container once completely cooled.
Tips & Variations
Add a Glaze: Mix powdered sugar with a little milk and drizzle over the cooled cookies for a bakery-style finish.
Make Them Festive: Roll dough balls in colored sugar (red or green) during the holidays for a cheerful look.
Add Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts pair beautifully with the cinnamon flavor.
Extra Spices: Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the dry ingredients.
Storage
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezing Dough: Roll dough into balls and freeze on a tray. Once firm, transfer to a bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 1–2 extra minutes.
Freezing Baked Cookies: Let cookies cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container. Defrost at room temperature before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delicious with a glass of milk, a cup of hot chocolate, or spiced chai tea. They also make wonderful holiday gifts—just place them in a festive tin lined with parchment paper. Their soft, rich texture and cinnamon-sugar coating make them irresistible no matter how you serve them.