Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies

Introduction

Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies are a delightful treat that brings together the warmth of cinnamon and the smooth, rich texture of cream cheese. When I first made these, the entire kitchen was filled with a cozy, spiced aroma that felt like a warm hug on a chilly day. My family devoured them instantly, savoring each bite of the soft, slightly chewy centers with a perfect hint of cinnamon sugar on the outside. These cookies quickly became a new favorite at home, especially with a cup of hot tea or coffee on the side.

---

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 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ¾ cup flour
• ¾ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the powdered sugar and blend until fully combined.
3. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
6. Cover the bowl and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
7. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. In a small bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon.
9. Scoop the dough into 1-inch balls, roll each one in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, and place them on the baking sheet a few inches apart.
10. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: Approximately 24 cookies
• Calories: About 95 calories per cookie

Preparation Time

• Chill time: 1 hour
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 10-12 minutes
• Total time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm for a softer, melt-in-the-mouth experience.
• Pair with hot coffee, tea, or spiced cider for a cozy treat.
• Serve as part of a holiday cookie tray with other spiced cookies.
• Pack in small gift boxes or cookie tins for festive holiday presents.
• Enjoy as an afternoon snack or a light dessert after dinner.

Additional Tips

1. Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough is essential to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
2. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure both butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easy mixing.
3. Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting the flour, baking powder, and salt ensures a light, tender texture.
4. Customize Sugar Coating: For a bolder flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
5. Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer if possible, as accuracy is essential for even baking.

Recipe Variations

• Add Chocolate Chips: Mix in mini chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor.
• Top with Cream Cheese Frosting: Drizzle or spread a thin layer of cream cheese frosting over each cookie for a more indulgent treat.
• Experiment with Extracts: Swap vanilla for almond extract for a nutty twist.
• Add Zest: Add a hint of orange or lemon zest to the dough for a citrusy touch.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure.

Serving Suggestions

• With Coffee: A perfect morning treat with your daily coffee.
• On a Holiday Dessert Table: Add to a festive dessert table alongside other holiday favorites.
• With Hot Chocolate: Cozy up with these cookies and a mug of rich hot chocolate.
• As a Snack: Pack a few for a quick and tasty snack on the go.
• For Cookie Swaps: A fantastic addition to holiday cookie exchanges.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the dough balls before baking. After rolling them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, place on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Storing Baked Cookies: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days.
• Refrigerating the Dough: The dough can be refrigerated for up to 48 hours before baking.

FAQ

1. Can I skip the chilling step?
   No, chilling helps prevent the cookies from spreading and ensures a soft, chewy texture.
2. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
   Yes, but the flavor and texture may differ slightly as butter adds a richer taste.
3. What’s the best way to soften butter quickly?
   Cut it into small cubes and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
4. Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
   For the cinnamon-sugar coating, you can use brown sugar for a caramelized effect.
5. Is it okay to double the recipe?
   Yes, you can double the ingredients to make a larger batch.
6. Can I freeze baked cookies?
   Yes, these cookies freeze well. Store in an airtight container with parchment between layers for up to 2 months.
7. Do I need to flatten the dough balls before baking?
   No, these cookies spread naturally in the oven.
8. Can I use a cookie scoop?
   Yes, a 1-inch cookie scoop is perfect for creating uniform-sized cookies.
9. Can I make these cookies without the cinnamon sugar coating?
   Yes, but the coating adds a nice texture and flavor to the cookies.
10. Why is my dough sticky?
    The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it feels too sticky, try chilling it longer or adding a tiny bit of extra flour.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies are a delightful and simple treat to bake, with just the right amount of warmth and sweetness. They’re perfect for cozying up on a winter’s day or sharing with family and friends during the holiday season. With a little patience and a few simple ingredients, these cookies come out beautifully soft and aromatic. Enjoy making these crowd-pleasers, and watch them disappear as quickly as you serve them!

Print