Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies
These Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies are a delightful treat that is soft, tender, and coated in warm cinnamon sugar. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual cookie exchange, these cookies melt in your mouth with every bite. The creamy texture from the cream cheese combined with the sweet cinnamon flavor makes them irresistible and comforting.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be made in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute baking.
- Soft Texture: The addition of cream cheese results in cookies that are incredibly soft and tender.
- Versatile Serving Options: These cookies are great for holidays, parties, or simply as an afternoon snack.
- Cinnamon Sugar Coating: The warm cinnamon sugar adds a delightful crunch on the outside while keeping the inside soft.
- Make Ahead Friendly: You can chill the dough and bake later or freeze the cookies for future enjoyment.
Tools and Preparation
Before you gather your ingredients, ensure you have the right tools for making these delicious cookies.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix all ingredients thoroughly without mess.
- Electric mixer: Using an electric mixer saves time and ensures a smooth batter without clumps.
- Baking sheets: Sturdy baking sheets provide even heat distribution for perfectly baked cookies.
- Parchment paper: Lining baking sheets with parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Ingredients
To make the Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies, gather the following ingredients:
For the Cookie Dough:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
- pinch kosher salt
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
How to Make Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies
Step 1: Cream Butter and Cream Cheese
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. This step helps create a light texture in your cookies.
Step 2: Add Sugar
Slowly add the powdered sugar to the mixture. Mix until fully combined to ensure sweetness is evenly distributed.
Step 3: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Add in the egg, baking powder, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until everything is blended together smoothly.
Step 4: Mix in Flour
Gradually add the all-purpose flour to your mixture. Stir until fully incorporated, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure no flour remains.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Cover your dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about one hour. Chilling helps prevent spreading during baking.
Step 6: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for baking.
Step 7: Prepare Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture
In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar with ground cinnamon. This will coat each cookie before baking for added flavor.
Step 8: Shape Cookies
Roll chilled dough into 1-inch balls (approximately two teaspoons each). Roll each ball generously in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat them evenly.
Step 9: Bake Cookies
Place rolled dough balls on prepared baking sheets about two inches apart. Bake for 8–9 minutes until just set; they will puff but should not brown.
Step 10: Cool Down
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for approximately ten minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy these soft treats that bring warmth and sweetness to any occasion!
How to Serve Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies
These delightful cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a simple afternoon snack, there are many ways to enjoy these Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies.
With a Warm Beverage
- Coffee – Pairing these cookies with a hot cup of coffee enhances their flavors and creates a cozy experience.
- Hot Chocolate – The sweetness of hot chocolate complements the cinnamon sugar coating, making it a perfect match for winter days.
- Chai Tea – The spices in chai tea harmonize beautifully with the warm cinnamon notes in the cookies.
At Parties or Gatherings
- Cookie Platter – Arrange the cookies on a festive platter alongside other treats for an appealing dessert table.
- Gift Boxes – Package the cookies in decorative boxes to give as thoughtful gifts during the holiday season.
As a Dessert Option
- With Ice Cream – Serve warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
- Drizzled with Glaze – A light glaze made from powdered sugar and milk can add an extra touch of sweetness.
How to Perfect Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies
To achieve the ultimate texture and flavor with your Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies, consider these helpful tips.
- Chill the Dough – Refrigerating the dough helps firm it up, preventing excessive spreading when baking.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal rise and texture in your cookies.
- Measure Flour Accurately – Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid adding too much flour, which can lead to dry cookies.
- Do Not Overbake – Keep an eye on them; cookies should be just set and not browned for that soft, tender bite.
- Experiment with Spices – Adding nutmeg or cardamom can offer a unique twist to the traditional cinnamon flavor.
- Store Properly – Keep cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and softness.
Best Side Dishes for Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies
While these cookies are delicious on their own, they can be complemented by various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:
- Fruit Salad – A light and refreshing fruit salad balances the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
- Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy contrast that pairs well with sweet treats.
- Cheese Platter – Offer a selection of mild cheeses that provide a savory element alongside your sweet cookies.
- Nut Mix – A mix of salted nuts adds crunch and saltiness that contrasts nicely with the sweet cinnamon flavor.
- Chocolate-Covered Pretzels – These add both sweetness and saltiness, making them an excellent pairing with your cookies.
- Popcorn Snack Mix – Create a fun popcorn mix with chocolate drizzles and nuts for added texture alongside your cookie treat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some to watch out for:
- Not Softening Ingredients – Using cold butter or cream cheese can lead to a dense cookie. Always ensure they are softened to room temperature for the best texture.
- Skipping the Chill Time – If you skip chilling the dough, your cookies may spread too much while baking. Always refrigerate for at least an hour to maintain their shape.
- Overmixing the Dough – Mixing too long can make cookies tough. Mix until just combined for a tender bite.
- Incorrect Oven Temperature – Baking at the wrong temperature can cause uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven properly and use an oven thermometer if needed.
- Ignoring Parchment Paper – Baking directly on a pan can lead to sticking and uneven cooking. Use parchment paper or silicone mats for best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies
- Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet; once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag.
- They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place cookies on a baking sheet, and warm for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds; be careful not to overdo it.
- Stovetop – Use a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies:
Can I substitute regular cream cheese?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used, but it may slightly alter the texture of your cookies.
What if I don’t have vanilla bean paste?
You can easily replace it with pure vanilla extract without compromising flavor.
How do I make these cookies more festive?
Consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to enhance flavor and texture during special occasions.
Are these cookies suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! These cookies freeze well and maintain their delicious taste when thawed properly.
Final Thoughts
The Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies are not only soft and tender but also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them as is or customize them with add-ins like nuts or chocolate. These delightful treats are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or festive cookie exchanges. Don’t hesitate—try this recipe today and indulge in their comforting flavors!
Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies
- Total Time: 29 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort treat with these Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies. Soft, tender, and coated in a warm cinnamon-sugar blend, these cookies melt in your mouth with each delightful bite. The creamy richness of cream cheese perfectly balances the sweet cinnamon flavor, making them an irresistible choice for any occasion—from holiday gatherings to casual afternoon snacks. With a quick preparation time of just 20 minutes, you can whip up a batch of these delicious cookies effortlessly. Whether you’re serving them alongside coffee or packaging them as thoughtful gifts, these cookies are sure to bring warmth and joy to every gathering.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, beat together softened butter and cream cheese until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until incorporated.
- Stir in the egg, baking powder, vanilla extract, and salt until blended.
- Gradually mix in the flour until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Chill dough for one hour before rolling into balls (about 1 inch).
- Roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture and place on prepared sheets.
- Bake for 8–9 minutes until set but not browned; allow cooling before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 9 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (20g)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
