Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies are a delightful fusion of cream cheese’s tangy richness and the warm, sweet flavor of cinnamon. These cookies are perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, sharing a sweet treat with loved ones, or simply indulging in a cozy dessert at home. Their soft texture and flavorful cinnamon-sugar coating make them a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into this simple yet decadent recipe and create a batch of cookies that everyone will adore.
Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies
- Irresistible Texture: Soft, tender, and melt-in-your-mouth.
- Balanced Flavor: The tangy cream cheese complements the warm cinnamon-sugar coating.
- Easy to Make: With just a few steps, you can create bakery-quality cookies.
- Versatile: Perfect for holidays, everyday treats, or as a gift.
- Freezer-Friendly: Bake ahead and freeze for later indulgence.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies
For the Dough:
These ingredients come together to form a rich, tender cookie dough with a subtle tang and sweetness.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds moisture and richness to the cookies.
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened: Provides a tangy flavor and soft texture.
- 1½ cups powdered sugar: Ensures a smooth, sweet dough that’s easy to work with.
- 1 egg: Acts as a binder and contributes to the cookie’s structure.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies achieve a slight rise.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or extract: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the dough.
- Pinch of kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour: Forms the base of the cookie dough, providing structure and softness.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
This simple yet flavorful coating transforms the cookies into spiced delights.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and a slight crunch.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: Infuses the cookies with warm, spicy notes.
How to Make Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by creaming the butter and cream cheese together with a hand mixer until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until fully incorporated. This ensures the dough is smooth and free of lumps. Next, beat in the egg, baking powder, vanilla, and salt until well combined. Slowly add the flour, mixing on low speed, and scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure an even dough. The resulting dough should be soft but not sticky.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. Chilling helps the dough firm up, making it easier to shape and preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
Step 4: Shape and Coat the Cookies
Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls (about 2 teaspoons of dough each). In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon for the coating. Roll each dough ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated. Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies for 8-9 minutes, or until they are just set. Avoid overbaking; the cookies should puff up but won’t turn golden brown. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions for Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies
These Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:
- Holiday Treats: Add them to your holiday cookie platter for a festive touch. The cinnamon flavor pairs wonderfully with other seasonal treats like gingerbread and sugar cookies.
- Paired with Beverages: Enjoy these cookies with a warm cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa for a comforting treat.
- Dessert Plate: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Gift Idea: Package these cookies in a decorative tin or box to share with friends and family during special occasions.
- Brunch Addition: Include them in a brunch spread for a sweet complement to savory dishes.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Each cookie contains approximately 107 calories, making it a delightful yet modest indulgence. With 15 grams of carbohydrates and 5 grams of fat, these cookies offer a perfect balance of flavor and richness. The inclusion of cream cheese adds a subtle tang and creamy texture, while the cinnamon-sugar coating provides a satisfying sweetness. They also contain small amounts of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. These cookies are best enjoyed as part of a balanced diet, offering a comforting and flavorful treat for any time of the day.
FAQs
Can I Freeze These Cookies?
Yes, these cookies freeze well. After baking and cooling, store them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why Is Chilling the Dough Necessary?
Chilling the dough helps it firm up, making it easier to shape and preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking. It also enhances the flavor by allowing the ingredients to meld together.
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese?
For the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to use full-fat cream cheese. Low-fat options may result in less rich and creamy cookies.
How Can I Customize These Cookies?
You can add chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips to the dough for added texture and flavor. Another option is to drizzle the cookies with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk for extra sweetness.
Are These Cookies Suitable for Gifting?
Absolutely! Their soft texture, warm cinnamon flavor, and beautiful appearance make them an excellent choice for edible gifts. Package them in a decorative box or tin for a thoughtful gesture.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies are a delightful blend of tangy cream cheese, warm cinnamon, and soft, buttery dough. Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or everyday treats, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or as part of a festive cookie platter, they deliver a comforting and flavorful experience in every bite. Try this recipe today and savor the magic of cinnamon in cookie form!