Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe

The Coziest Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe Ever

Soft, buttery cookies with a delightful cinnamon cream cheese twist always steal the show at any gathering.

These melt-in-your-mouth treats bring warmth and comfort to every bite.

The delicate balance of sweet cinnamon and creamy cheese creates an irresistible flavor profile that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Each cookie promises a perfect blend of tender texture and rich taste.

The simple ingredients come together effortlessly, making this recipe a go-to for both novice and experienced bakers.

When you pull these golden-edged cookies from the oven, their inviting aroma will have everyone rushing to the kitchen.

FAQs

  • Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to prevent the cookies from becoming too salty.

  • What's the purpose of chilling the dough?

Chilling helps prevent spreading and allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a more flavorful and better-textured cookie.

  • How do I know when the cookies are perfectly baked?

Look for lightly golden edges and a set center. They might seem slightly underbaked, but they’ll firm up as they cool.

  • Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the dough balls for up to 3 months. Just add an extra minute or two to the baking time when baking from frozen.

Why You’ll Want to Bake These Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies

  • Whip Up Comfort: These cookies deliver a warm, homey flavor that wraps you in cozy nostalgia, perfect for creating delightful moments with loved ones.
  • Simplify Baking: With basic ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can confidently create these delicious treats without feeling overwhelmed.
  • Quick Crowd-Pleaser: Minimal preparation and short baking time mean you can satisfy sweet cravings quickly, making these cookies ideal for spontaneous gatherings or unexpected guests.
  • Versatile Dessert Delight: Elegant enough for special occasions yet casual enough for everyday snacking, these cinnamon cream cheese cookies adapt to any setting with their irresistible charm.
Main Ingredients:
  • Butter: A rich and creamy ingredient that adds flavor and helps create a soft cookie texture.
  • Cream Cheese: Provides a tangy taste and helps keep the cookies moist and tender.
  • Sugar: Sweetens the cookies and contributes to their golden-brown color.
  • Flour: The primary structure-building ingredient that gives the cookies their shape and texture.
Spice and Seasoning:
  • Cinnamon: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the sweet base of the cookies.
  • Baking Powder: Helps the cookies rise and creates a light, soft texture.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
Additional Ingredients:
  • Egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness to the cookie dough.
  • Vanilla Extract: Provides a classic, sweet flavor that deepens the overall taste profile.
  • Powdered Sugar: Optional topping that adds a decorative and sweet finish to the cookies.

How to Create Soft Cream Cheese Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Baking Station

Fire up your oven to 350°F and grab a baking sheet.

Line it with parchment paper to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Create Creamy Base

Grab your mixer and blend these ingredients until they’re cloud-like and super smooth:
  • Softened butter
  • Cream cheese
  • Sugar

Step 3: Add Moisture and Flavor

Pour in the egg and vanilla.

Mix until everything looks perfectly combined and silky.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together these powdery friends:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Baking powder
  • Salt

Gently fold the dry mix into your wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.

Step 5: Chill and Shape

Pop the dough in the refrigerator for a cool 30-minute rest.

After chilling, roll the dough into adorable little balls.

Step 6: Prep for Baking

Place cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet.

Give each a gentle press to slightly flatten.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the sheet into the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes.

Look for those delicate golden edges as your signal.

Step 8: Final Touch

Let cookies cool completely.

For an extra fancy finish, dust with powdered sugar if you’re feeling indulgent.

Tips for Creamy Cinnamon Cookies Every Time

  • Leave butter and cream cheese at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before mixing to ensure smooth, creamy texture without lumps.
  • Refrigerating the dough helps prevent spreading and creates a more compact, tender cookie with enhanced flavor development.
  • Spoon flour into measuring cup and level with a knife to avoid dense, dry cookies that can ruin the delicate texture.
  • Dust cookies with powdered sugar just before serving to maintain a crisp, clean appearance and prevent sugar absorption.
  • Watch cookies closely after 10 minutes and remove when edges are light golden to maintain a soft, melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
  • Gluten-Free Cinnamon Cookies: Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free blend for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Swap cream cheese with coconut cream and use vegan butter alternatives for lactose-intolerant bakers.
  • Maple Cinnamon Cookies: Substitute sugar with maple syrup and add a dash of maple extract for a rich, autumn-inspired flavor profile.
  • Nutty Variation: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough for added crunch and nutty undertones.

Sweet Ways to Serve These Cinnamon Cookies

  • Cozy Coffee Companion: Serve these delightful cookies alongside a warm cappuccino or latte for a perfect afternoon treat that enhances the cinnamon's rich flavor.
  • Holiday Gift Idea: Package these cookies in a cute decorative tin with a ribbon, making them a thoughtful homemade present for friends and family during festive seasons.
  • Dessert Plate Elegance: Arrange cookies on a beautiful ceramic plate with a light dusting of powdered sugar, creating an Instagram-worthy presentation that looks as amazing as they taste.
  • Sweet Pairing Pleasure: Complement these cookies with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent dessert experience.
  • Place cooled cookies in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Keep fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
  • Wrap cookies individually in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.
  • Remove frozen cookies from the freezer and let sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving to maintain cookie's soft texture.
  • Warm cookies gently in a preheated oven at 300°F for 3-5 minutes to restore their fresh-baked taste and soft, tender crumb.
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Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe

Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe


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4.8 from 32 reviews

  • Total Time: 52 minutes
  • Yield: 24 1x

Description

Delightful cinnamon cream cheese cookies bring warmth and comfort to classic holiday baking with their rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Spiced with aromatic cinnamon and creamy cheese, these treats offer pure indulgence that connects family and friends around sweet moments of joy.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

Binding and Flavoring Ingredients:

  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Coating Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven at 350°F and cover a baking sheet with parchment paper for optimal cookie preparation.
  2. Cream together butter, cream cheese, and sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture becomes airy and smooth.
  3. Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract, blending thoroughly until well integrated.
  4. Combine flour, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt in a separate mixing bowl, whisking to ensure even distribution.
  5. Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until a cohesive dough forms.
  6. Refrigerate the dough for half an hour to enhance flavor development and improve texture.
  7. Shape the chilled dough into uniform small spheres, placing them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
  8. Gently press down on each dough ball to create a slightly flattened appearance.
  9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, watching for delicate golden edges as a sign of perfect doneness.
  10. Remove from the oven and allow cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet.
  11. Optional: Dust the cooled cookies with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant finishing touch.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth, even mixing and a consistent cookie texture.
  • Chill the dough thoroughly to prevent spreading and maintain the cookies’ shape during baking.
  • For a gluten-free version, swap all-purpose flour with a blend of almond and coconut flour for a nutty, tender result.
  • Try different spices like nutmeg or cardamom to create unique flavor variations that complement the cinnamon’s warmth.
  • Prep Time: 40 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 24
  • Calories: 164 kcal
  • Sugar: 10 g
  • Sodium: 85 mg
  • Fat: 8 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 21 mg
Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

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