Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a sweet treat that wraps up warmth, comfort, and a touch of creamy indulgence in every bite, the Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies belong at the very top of your baking list. These cookies are irresistibly soft, with just the right hint of tang from cream cheese and a cozy dusting of cinnamon-sugar. Perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply savoring with your favorite cup of coffee, the Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies have a delightful pillowy texture that will make them your go-to favorite for any season.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of pantry staples to whip up these scrumptious cookies, but don’t underestimate their power. Each ingredient, from butter to cinnamon, plays its own starring role in creating the taste, softness, and lovely golden color that makes the Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies such a standout.

• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Brings richness and ensures the cookies bake up tender and flavorful.
• Cream cheese (4 oz, softened): Adds a subtle tang and a moist, delicate crumb that sets these cookies apart from the rest.
• Granulated sugar (1 cup + 2 tbsp): Both sweetens the dough and stars in the cinnamon-sugar topping for extra sparkle and crunch.
• Large egg (1): Gives structure and helps bind everything into a soft, luscious dough.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances aroma and brings a gentle depth to the flavor profile.
• All-purpose flour (1 3/4 cups): The baking backbone, lending a tender yet sturdy crumb.
• Baking powder (1/2 tsp): Provides just enough lift so each cookie puffs up beautifully.
• Salt (1/4 tsp): Balances sweetness and makes all the other flavors pop.
• Ground cinnamon (1/2 tsp + for topping): The essential spice, infusing every bite with cozy warmth.

How to Make Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Station

Before you dive into mixing, set your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This not only ensures easy cleanup but also helps the cookies bake evenly and release effortlessly once they’re done. Trust me, this little bit of prep makes a big difference.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Cream Cheese

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until the mixture is smooth and utterly creamy. This is the secret to the unmistakable soft texture of the Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies!

Step 3: Add Sugar, Egg, and Vanilla

Next, add in the granulated sugar and blend until the batter turns pale and fluffy. Drop in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined and the dough looks dreamy and light.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This step disperses the leavening and spices evenly, avoiding any baking surprises later on.

Step 5: Create the Cookie Dough

Gradually add the flour mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing slowly until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Don’t overmix — just stir until everything is incorporated and the dough feels plush and lovely.

Step 6: Roll and Coat Dough Balls

In a small bowl, toss together 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar with a pinch of cinnamon for your irresistible topping. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll them into balls, then coat generously in your cinnamon-sugar mixture. This step adds the delightful sparkle and crunch that define these cookies.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Space the cookie dough balls on your prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, just until the edges are set and the centers look barely underbaked — that’s your ticket to the best, softest cookies! Let the cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

How to Serve Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies

Garnishes

The Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies already have that signature cinnamon sparkle, but for special occasions, try dusting them with a little extra powdered sugar. You can even drizzle with a simple glaze or a touch of melted white chocolate for a festive twist.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a creamy hot chocolate, a cozy spiced chai, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. The slight tang of the cream cheese beautifully complements fruity teas or mild coffee blends as well — the possibilities are endless!

Creative Ways to Present

Stack these cookies in a clear gift bag tied with a ribbon for the ultimate homemade present, or arrange them on a pretty platter nestled between cinnamon sticks for a dreamy party centerpiece. For cookie exchanges or holiday spreads, consider sandwiching two cookies with a swoosh of cinnamon cream or even a little apple butter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh and soft at room temperature for about 3 to 4 days, making them perfect for prepping ahead or packing in lunchboxes.

Freezing

You can easily freeze these cookies after baking! Arrange them in layers, separated with parchment paper, in a freezer-safe container. They’ll taste just as wonderful up to two months later. Want to prep even further ahead? Freeze unbaked dough balls (without coating), then thaw, roll in cinnamon sugar, and bake as usual.

Reheating

For freshly-baked softness, microwave a cookie (or two!) for 8 to 10 seconds, or warm a batch in a low oven for a few minutes. This gently revives their fluffiness and intensifies the cozy cinnamon aroma.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of cream cheese?

Absolutely! Full-fat brick-style cream cheese creates the softest texture, but low-fat can work in a pinch. Avoid whipped or spreadable types, which can change the consistency of the cookies.

Do I need to chill the dough?

With this recipe, there’s no need to chill — just mix, roll, and bake! Of course, if your kitchen is very warm, a quick chill can help the dough hold its shape a bit better and gives slightly thicker cookies.

Can I make larger or smaller cookies?

Definitely! For bite-sized treats, use a teaspoon-sized scoop and reduce baking time a couple of minutes. For bakery-style cookies, scoop out a heaping 2 tablespoons and add an extra minute or two to the bake time.

Are Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies good for gifting?

They are fantastic for gift-giving! These cookies hold their shape and stay soft for days when stored correctly. Their cheerful look and irresistible flavor make them a crowd-pleasing holiday or anytime present.

Can I add other spices or mix-ins?

Of course! Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the dough for a new twist, or stir in mini chocolate chips or toasted nuts for a bit of extra flavor and crunch.

Final Thoughts

The Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies are pure coziness in edible form, and I can’t recommend them enough. If you’re ready for a sweet treat that melts in your mouth and makes your kitchen smell heavenly, don’t wait — give these cookies a try and watch them disappear!

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