Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and chewy texture: The inclusion of cream cheese results in a cookie that’s exceptionally tender and moist.

• Warm cinnamon flavor: Each cookie is enveloped in a cinnamon-sugar mixture, providing a cozy, spiced taste reminiscent of snickerdoodles.

• Simple ingredients: Made with common pantry staples, these cookies are easy to prepare without the need for special trips to the store.

• Versatile and customizable: Whether enjoyed plain, with added mix-ins, or paired with a cup of coffee, these cookies are adaptable to various tastes and occasions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Unsalted butter, softened

• Cream cheese, softened

• Powdered sugar

• Egg

• Baking powder

• Vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste

• Kosher salt

• All-purpose flour

• Granulated sugar

• Ground cinnamon

Directions

1. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually mix in powdered sugar. Add egg, baking powder, vanilla, and salt, and blend well. Stir in flour until a smooth dough forms.

2. Chill the dough: Cover and refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour to firm it up.

3. Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

4. Make cinnamon-sugar mix: In a separate bowl, combine granulated sugar and cinnamon.

5. Form and coat: Roll about 2 teaspoons of dough into balls. Roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture and place on prepared baking sheets.

6. Bake: Bake for 8–9 minutes, just until set. Do not overbake. Cookies should remain light in color.

7. Cool: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Preparation time: 10 minutes (plus 1 hour chilling)

• Cook time: 8–9 minutes per batch

• Total time: About 1 hour 20 minutes

• Yield: Approximately 28 cookies

Variations

• Add chocolate chips: Fold mini chocolate chips into the dough for a twist.

• Citrus zest: Add lemon or orange zest for a fresh, bright note.

• Nutty addition: Mix in finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts.

• Alternate coatings: Roll in powdered sugar or colorful sanding sugars for variation.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

• Freezing: Freeze baked cookies or unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months. Thaw and enjoy or bake from frozen with an extra minute or two.

• Reheating: Optional—warm slightly in the microwave for a just-baked feel.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking. This can enhance the flavor and texture.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, roll dough into balls, freeze them, then store in a freezer bag. Roll in cinnamon sugar before baking.

Why did my cookies spread too much?

They may not have been chilled long enough or the butter was too soft. Chill dough well to help prevent spreading.

Can I use salted butter instead?

Yes, just omit the kosher salt from the recipe to maintain balance.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

They should look set and slightly puffed, with no browning. Softness is key to the texture.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe doubles well for larger batches—perfect for gatherings or gifting.

Can I skip chilling the dough?

Chilling is essential to control spreading and enhance the cookie’s texture. It’s worth the wait!

What kind of cream cheese should I use?

Use full-fat brick-style cream cheese for the best results. Avoid whipped or spreadable types.

Can I use flavored cream cheese?

Flavored cream cheese may work but will change the overall taste. Stick to plain for classic results.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies are a delightful blend of cozy cinnamon flavor and indulgent cream cheese richness. Soft, tender, and coated in sweet spice, they’re ideal for holiday platters, afternoon tea, or a sweet homemade gift. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, these cookies are a must-bake that you’ll return to again and again.