If you’re craving soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookies with a warm cinnamon twist, these Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies are just what you need! The cream cheese adds a rich, tangy flavor and keeps the cookies wonderfully tender, while the cinnamon sugar coating gives them a sweet, spiced touch. Perfect for holiday baking or any time you want a comforting treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cookie Dough:
- All-purpose flour (2 ¼ cups): The base of the dough for soft and tender cookies.
- Cream cheese (4 oz, softened): Adds a rich and creamy texture to the cookies.
- Unsalted butter (½ cup, softened): Works with the cream cheese to make the cookies soft and rich.
- Granulated sugar (¾ cup): Sweetens the cookies without making them overly sugary.
- Egg (1, large): Binds the dough together.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
- Ground cinnamon (1 tsp): Infuses the dough with warm, spiced flavor.
- Baking powder (1 tsp): Helps the cookies puff slightly.
- Salt (¼ tsp): Balances the sweetness.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- Granulated sugar (¼ cup): Adds a sweet, crunchy exterior.
- Ground cinnamon (1 tsp): Provides that classic cinnamon-sugar flavor.
How to Make Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, butter, and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps the dough firm up, making it easier to handle and ensuring the cookies hold their shape.
Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon for the coating. Set aside.
Step 4: Shape and Coat the Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Roll the ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.
- Place the coated balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 5: Bake
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly puffed. Avoid overbaking to keep the cookies soft and tender.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls for wet and dry ingredients
- Hand or stand mixer for creaming the butter and sugar
- Baking sheet and parchment paper
- Wire rack for cooling
- Measuring cups and spoons
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! The dough can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just let it soften slightly before rolling into balls.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! Roll the dough into balls, freeze them on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
What if I don’t have cream cheese?
You can substitute mascarpone cheese for a similar texture and flavor, but cream cheese is best for the tangy richness.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but the texture will be denser. For best results, use a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour.
How do I store these cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months.
Can I add other flavors?
Of course! Mix in a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to enhance the warm spices, or add white chocolate chips for a creamy sweetness.
What pairs well with these cookies?
Enjoy them with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa for the ultimate cozy treat.
Conclusion
These Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies are a delightful blend of softness, sweetness, and spice. They’re easy to make, wonderfully comforting, and perfect for any occasion.
If you love this recipe, share it on Facebook or save it to Pinterest so you can make it again and again. Happy baking! 😊
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