A Sweet Family Favorite: Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies

Introduction

As a passionate home baker, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that can impress my family while also being simple enough to whip up on a busy afternoon. When I stumbled upon this recipe for Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies, I knew I had to give it a try. The combination of cream cheese and cinnamon brought back fond memories of my grandmother’s kitchen, filled with the warm, comforting aroma of baked goods. After making these cookies, I can happily report that they were an instant hit! Each bite was a delightful balance of soft, chewy texture and the perfect amount of sweetness, making them an irresistible treat for my entire family.

Ingredients

• ½ cup butter (1 stick), room temperature
• 4 oz cream cheese (½ block), room temperature
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 ¾ cups flour
• ¾ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, beat the butter and cream cheese together until light and smooth.
2. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar until fully combined.
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until the mixture is smooth.
4. In a separate small bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
6. Cover the bowl and chill the dough in the refrigerator for a minimum of 60 minutes.
7. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. In a small bowl, sift together the sugar and cinnamon.
9. Scoop and roll the dough into 1-inch balls, then roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
10. Arrange the dough balls on the baking sheet, leaving a couple of inches between each.
11. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 24 cookies
• Calories per serving: 95 kcal

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes (including chilling time)

How to Serve

• Dust with additional powdered sugar for a pretty presentation.
• Pair with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee.
• Serve on a festive plate for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
• Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Enjoy as a snack, dessert, or with your favorite tea.

Additional Tips

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth dough.
2. Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step; it helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances their flavor.
3. Cinnamon-Sugar Ratio: Adjust the cinnamon-sugar mixture to your taste; if you love cinnamon, feel free to add more!
4. Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking, as oven temperatures can vary. You want the edges to be golden brown but the centers should remain soft.
5. Experiment with Mix-Ins: Consider adding chocolate chips or nuts for an extra texture and flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Pumpkin Spice: Substitute half the cream cheese with pumpkin puree and add pumpkin spice for a fall twist.
• Lemon Zest: Incorporate lemon zest into the dough for a fresh citrus flavor.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for an elegant touch.
• Nutty Cookies: Add chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.

Serving Suggestions

• Create a cookie platter with a variety of flavors to serve at gatherings.
• Package cookies in decorative boxes for gifts.
• Serve with fruit for a balanced dessert option.
• Use as a topping for ice cream sundaes.
• Add to a dessert table for birthday parties or celebrations.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They will last up to three months.
• Thawing: To enjoy frozen cookies, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the microwave.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used, but it may slightly alter the texture and flavor.

2. What happens if I skip chilling the dough?
The cookies may spread more during baking, resulting in a flatter texture.

3. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure you have enough baking sheets and space to store the cookies.

4. Are these cookies suitable for a party?
Yes, they’re a great treat for parties and gatherings!

5. How can I make these cookies dairy-free?
Use dairy-free butter and a non-dairy cream cheese alternative.

6. Can I add raisins or other fruits to the cookies?
Yes, feel free to add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for added flavor.

7. What should I do if the dough is too sticky?
If the dough is sticky, chill it longer or add a bit more flour until the right consistency is reached.

8. Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough before baking. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.

9. What is the best way to store leftover cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal freshness.

10. How can I make these cookies more festive?
Add colorful sprinkles or use holiday-themed cookie cutters to shape the cookies before baking.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies are a delightful addition to any cookie jar, combining the rich flavors of cream cheese and cinnamon in a soft, chewy treat. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a holiday party, or simply indulging yourself, these cookies are sure to bring smiles and satisfaction. With their easy preparation and the ability to customize them to your liking, they might just become your new go-to cookie recipe. So gather your ingredients, invite your family to join in the fun, and enjoy the warmth that comes from baking together!

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