Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies

These Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies are a delightful combination of soft texture and warm cinnamon sweetness. Perfect for any occasion—from holiday gatherings to cozy afternoons—these cookies will melt in your mouth and bring a smile to anyone who enjoys them. The unique blend of cream cheese and cinnamon creates a flavor that’s both comforting and indulgent, making this recipe a must-have for your baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Melt-in-your-mouth texture: The addition of cream cheese ensures these cookies are tender and soft, providing a delightful bite.
• Quick and easy preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch in no time.
• Versatile for any occasion: Whether it’s Christmas, birthdays, or just a sweet treat for yourself, these cookies fit right in.
• Delicious cinnamon flavor: Coated in cinnamon sugar, each cookie bursts with warm spice that everyone loves.
• Freezer-friendly: Make extra batches and store them for later enjoyment without losing their deliciousness.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started, gather the essential tools that will help you create the best cinnamon cream cheese cookies. Having everything ready makes the baking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for mixing your dough thoroughly.
• Electric mixer: This tool makes creaming the butter and cream cheese quick and effortless.
• Baking sheets: Using quality baking sheets ensures even baking and prevents sticking when lined with parchment paper.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 egg
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
• Pinch kosher salt
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

Cinnamon-Sugar Coating

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

How to Make Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture.

Step 2: Add Sugar

Slowly add the powdered sugar. Mix until combined thoroughly to ensure sweetness throughout the dough.

Step 3: Incorporate Wet Ingredients

Add the egg, baking powder, vanilla bean paste (or extract), and a pinch of kosher salt; mix well until fully blended.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour to the mixture. Mix until fully incorporated, scraping down the sides as needed to avoid lumps.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap or wax paper. Refrigerate it for at least one hour to firm up before baking.

Step 6: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 7: Prepare Cinnamon-Sugar Coating

In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. This will be used to coat your cookie balls.

Step 8: Form Cookie Balls

Roll chilled dough into 1-inch balls (about 2 teaspoons each). Roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until evenly coated.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Place cookie balls on prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8–9 minutes until just set; they should puff but not brown.

Step 10: Cool Down

Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!

How to Serve Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies

Serving your Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies can elevate any occasion. Whether for a cozy night in or a festive gathering, these cookies fit perfectly with various accompaniments.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair the cookies with cold milk to enhance their creamy texture and rich flavor.

As Dessert Sandwiches

• Spread a layer of frosting or whipped cream between two cookies for a delightful dessert sandwich.

On a Cookie Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter alongside other holiday treats for an inviting display.

With Coffee or Tea

• Serve these cookies with your favorite coffee or tea to enjoy their warm cinnamon notes.

Gift-Wrapped Treats

• Package the cookies in cute boxes or bags as thoughtful homemade gifts for friends and family.

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How to Perfect Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies

To ensure your Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these tips:

• Chill the dough: Refrigerating the dough before baking helps prevent spreading and maintains the cookie’s shape.
• Use fresh ingredients: Ensure that your cream cheese and baking powder are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies, baking just until they are set but not browned for that ideal soft texture.
• Roll evenly: Make sure each cookie ball is uniform in size to ensure even baking throughout.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add nutmeg or allspice to the dough for added warmth and flavor complexity.
• Store properly: Keep baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies

These delicious cookies can be complemented by several side dishes that enhance their sweetness and spice. Here are some ideas:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess and balances the warmth of cinnamon nicely.

2. Fruit Salad
   Fresh fruits provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet and spiced flavors of the cookies.

3. Hot Chocolate
   Rich hot chocolate pairs beautifully, making it perfect for cozy evenings during colder months.

4. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses can create a savory counterpoint to the sweet cookies, especially creamy cheeses like brie.

5. Sliced Apples with Caramel Dip
   Crisp apple slices dipped in caramel offer a crunchy and sweet addition alongside your cookies.

6. Chai Tea
   The spiced flavors of chai tea complement the cinnamon in the cookies, creating a harmonious pairing.

7. Candied Nuts
   Sweet and crunchy candied nuts can add texture while enhancing the overall flavor experience.

8. Yogurt Parfait
   Layered yogurt with granola and berries provides a wholesome option that balances sweetness with tanginess.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when making cookies. Here are some common mistakes to watch for while preparing the Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies.

• Overmixing the dough: This can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a tender texture.
• Skipping the chilling step: Not refrigerating the dough can cause cookies to spread too much. Always chill for at least an hour.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using too much flour or sugar can alter the texture. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups.
• Baking at the wrong temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated correctly. An oven thermometer can help maintain accuracy.
• Ignoring cooling time: Allowing cookies to cool on the baking sheet prevents them from becoming too soft. Let them cool for at least 10 minutes before transferring.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place cookies on a baking sheet, and warm for 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover with a lid, and warm gently for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making the Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies.

How do I know when the Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies are done?

The cookies will puff slightly but will not brown significantly. They should feel set but soft in the center.

Can I customize the Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to enhance flavor and texture.

What makes these cookies so soft?

The cream cheese and butter create a tender crumb that melts in your mouth, resulting in soft cookies.

How long do these cookies last?

When stored properly, they last up to 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

The Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy night in or holiday gatherings. Their delightful texture and warm cinnamon flavor make them irresistible. Plus, feel free to customize with your favorite mix-ins! Enjoy this sweet treat any time you crave something comforting and delicious.