If you are searching for a cozy, melt-in-your-mouth treat that combines the warm spice of cinnamon with the luscious richness of cream cheese, look no further. This Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe offers an irresistible balance of soft, cake-like texture and a comforting cinnamon aroma that will fill your kitchen with happiness. These cookies are perfect for grabbing with a cup of tea or as a delightful dessert for any occasion. Get ready to be amazed by how simple ingredients come together to create such a magical experience!

Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that work together to create a cookie bursting with flavor and tenderness. Each component plays a key role, from the cream cheese adding moistness, to cinnamon infusing each bite with warmth, to the butter that guarantees a soft crumb.

1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): Provides richness and a tender crumb to the cookies.
4 oz cream cheese (softened): Adds moisture and a subtle tang that perfectly complements the cinnamon.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies and helps achieve that lovely golden color when baked.
1 large egg: Binds the ingredients, giving structure and softness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a gentle, mellow sweetness.
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the dough providing stability for the cookies.
1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Gives a light rise, ensuring a soft texture.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies flavors.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Delivers that signature warm spicy note throughout the cookies.
Optional cinnamon-sugar coating (1/4 cup granulated sugar + 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon): Adds an extra touch of cinnamon flavor and a slight crunch on the outside.

How to Make Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Get Your Oven and Baking Sheet Ready

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it reaches the perfect baking temperature by the time your dough is ready. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; this will keep your cookies from sticking and help them bake evenly.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese

In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. This step is essential because it forms a luxuriously soft base, giving the cookies their signature tender and moist texture.

Step 3: Mix in Sugar, Egg, and Vanilla

Now add the sugar and beat until the mixture becomes light and fluffy—a sign that air is incorporated, which helps make the cookies soft. Next, beat in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is smoothly combined, ensuring an even flavor throughout.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. This step distributes the leavening and spice evenly so every bite has the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Step 5: Form the Dough

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to prevent tough cookies. If you want that extra cinnamon kick on the outside, mix together the sugar and cinnamon for rolling at this point.

Step 6: Shape and Coat the Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. If using the cinnamon-sugar coating, roll each ball in this mixture before placing them about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheet, allowing room to expand.

Step 7: Bake Until Perfect

Bake for about 10 to 12 minutes until the edges look set and the bottoms turn a light golden color. The cookies will still be soft in the center, which is exactly how you want them to be. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

While these cookies shine on their own, you can elevate their presentation by drizzling a simple icing made of powdered sugar and milk for a glossy finish. A light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving also adds a charming touch that looks beautiful on cookie trays.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with warm drinks like chai tea, coffee, or even a rich hot chocolate to complement the spicy cinnamon notes. For a brunch spread, they go wonderfully alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for a comforting treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe stacked on a rustic wooden board or arranged on a festive plate surrounded by cinnamon sticks and star anise for a cozy vibe. You can also sandwich two cookies with cinnamon-spiced cream cheese frosting for an indulgent twist that’s perfect for gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft texture. Keeping them away from moisture ensures they don’t become soggy or dry out too quickly.

Freezing

If you want to make these treats ahead of time, freeze the dough balls before baking by placing them on a tray until solid, then transferring them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Alternatively, freeze baked cookies in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper.

Reheating

To bring back that freshly baked softness, warm cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. Microwaving for 10 to 15 seconds also works well if you prefer a quicker option.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version of the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Keep in mind the texture might vary slightly, but the flavor will still be delightful.

What makes these cookies so soft?

The cream cheese combined with butter creates a tender, moist dough that results in a soft, almost cake-like cookie texture. Also, the careful balance of baking powder helps give a slight rise without making them cakey.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or even white chocolate chips mix beautifully with the cinnamon flavor. Just fold them in gently after the dough is formed to keep your cookies perfect.

Is it necessary to chill the dough?

Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking is optional but recommended if you want puffier, thicker cookies. It helps the fats solidify, which slows spreading during baking.

How should I store the cookies if I add icing?

If your cookies are iced, store them in a single layer or separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe when craving a cozy baked good that feels like a warm hug. It’s a simple recipe that brings cozy flavors and a tender texture together, perfect whether you’re baking for yourself, family, or friends. Give it a try, and I promise these cookies will quickly find a special place in your cookie repertoire!