Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies

If you’re looking for a cookie recipe that combines the comforting taste of cinnamon with the creaminess of cream cheese, these Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies are perfect for you. With their soft texture and balanced sweetness, these cookies make an ideal snack for any time of day, from breakfast treats to evening desserts. Plus, they’re easy to make with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen!

Ingredients for Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 oz (half a block) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup cinnamon-sugar mixture (for rolling)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough
   In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the sugar and continue beating until fluffy. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract, beating until fully combined.
2. Combine the Dry Ingredients
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
3. Chill the Dough
   For best results, cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances their texture.
4. Form the Cookies
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop out about a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a delicious cinnamon coating.
5. Bake
   Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set, and the cookies are slightly golden. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Serve and Enjoy
   These Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies

• Soften Butter and Cream Cheese: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are softened before mixing for a smoother dough.
• Chilling the Dough: Chilling prevents spreading during baking, resulting in a soft, chewy texture.
• Use Fresh Cinnamon: For the best flavor, use fresh ground cinnamon. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for extra warmth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies are delightfully soft, with a sweet, slightly tangy taste from the cream cheese and a warm, aromatic hint of cinnamon. The result is a cookie that is comforting and unique, offering something a little different from traditional cookies like snickerdoodles or sugar cookies. They’re easy to make and perfect for holiday gatherings, gift-giving, or any time you want a quick homemade treat.

Nutrition Information

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (approx. 2 inches)
• Calories: 120 kcal
• Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Protein: 2g

Closing Thoughts

These Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies are a delightful twist on classic flavors, ideal for cinnamon lovers who enjoy a soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookie. With their perfect balance of sweetness and spice, they’re sure to become a family favorite! Bake a batch for your next gathering or enjoy them as a cozy snack with a warm beverage—these cookies are bound to bring joy to your taste buds.

Serving Tips for Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies

1. Serve Warm for Extra Softness: For an indulgent experience, serve these cookies warm. A few seconds in the microwave will bring back that fresh-out-of-the-oven softness and amplify the cinnamon aroma.
2. Pair with Beverages: These cookies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or warm apple cider. For a cooler pairing, a glass of milk or almond milk also works well.
3. Add a Dusting of Cinnamon-Sugar: Before serving, dust a little extra cinnamon-sugar on top for an added sparkle and flavor boost.
4. Create a Dessert Sandwich: Spread a thin layer of cream cheese frosting or Nutella between two cookies to make a delectable dessert sandwich.

Storage Tips for Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies

1. Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain freshness.
2. Refrigeration: If you prefer a slightly firmer texture, you can refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container. They’ll keep for about 1 week in the fridge, but be sure to let them come to room temperature or reheat briefly before serving for the best flavor.
3. Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
4. Dough Freezing: If you’d like to prepare the dough in advance, roll it into balls, coat in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, and freeze them. You can bake the frozen dough balls directly, adding a few minutes to the bake time.

Pro Tips for Freshness

• Use Wax or Parchment Paper: If stacking the cookies in a container, place a layer of parchment or wax paper between layers to prevent sticking and maintain texture.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Overcrowding cookies in a container can make them lose their soft texture. Leave some room to keep them fluffy and intact.

With these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies at their freshest, whether you’re baking for the week or planning ahead!

Q1: Can I use low-fat cream cheese in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but it may slightly alter the texture and richness of the cookies. Full-fat cream cheese provides the best flavor and creamy consistency.

Q2: Why do I need to chill the dough?
A: Chilling the dough helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking, resulting in a soft and chewy texture. It also allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the cinnamon and cream cheese taste.

Q3: Can I substitute the cinnamon with other spices?
A: Absolutely! For a different flavor profile, try substituting or combining cinnamon with other warm spices like nutmeg, ginger, or even a dash of cardamom. These spices can add a unique twist to the classic recipe.

Q4: What’s the best way to reheat these cookies?
A: To enjoy them warm, reheat the cookies in the microwave for 8–10 seconds. If you have multiple cookies, place them on a baking sheet and warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–6 minutes. This will give them that fresh-baked softness and enhance the cinnamon aroma.

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