Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies

These Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich, creamy flavor of cream cheese with the warm spice of cinnamon. Perfect for any occasion, from festive gatherings to cozy evenings at home, these cookies stand out with their soft texture and sweet, sugary coating. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying them solo, they’ll surely satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Melt-in-your-mouth texture: The cream cheese makes these cookies incredibly soft and tender.
• Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can bake these delightful cookies.
• Versatile flavors: The warm cinnamon sugar coating adds a delightful twist to the classic cookie.
• Perfect for sharing: Ideal for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or as a thoughtful gift for loved ones.
• Freezer-friendly: You can easily store these cookies in the freezer for later enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

To create the Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies, you will need some essential tools and equipment to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is essential for combining all your ingredients thoroughly.
• Electric mixer: Using an electric mixer saves time and ensures a smooth mixture when creaming the butter and cream cheese.
• Parchment paper: This prevents sticking and helps maintain the shape of your cookies during baking.

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 as it creates the base of your cookie dough.

Step 2: Add Sugar

Slowly add the powdered sugar to your mixture. Mix until fully combined, ensuring there are no lumps.

Step 3: Incorporate Wet Ingredients

Add in the egg, baking powder, vanilla bean paste (or extract), and a pinch of kosher salt. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Add Flour

Gradually add the all-purpose flour into your mixture. Mix until fully incorporated, scraping down the sides as needed to ensure everything is blended smoothly.

Step 5: Chill Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Refrigerate for about 1 hour to firm up slightly; this will help prevent spreading during baking.

Step 6: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for baking.

Step 7: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar

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

Step 8: Roll Dough Balls

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

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Place each ball on your prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake in preheated oven for about 8–9 minutes. The cookies should puff slightly but not brown.

Step 10: Cool Cookies

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Let them cool completely before serving or storing.

Enjoy these delicious Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies!

How to Serve Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies

These delightful cookies are perfect for various occasions and can be served in multiple ways. Whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy night at home, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience with the Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair each cookie with a cold glass of milk for a classic combination that complements the sweetness and creaminess of the cookies.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Arrange these cookies on a dessert platter alongside other treats like brownies and cupcakes to create an inviting spread for guests.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve cookies with slices of fresh apples or pears. The fruit’s crispness balances the soft texture of the cookies.

Enjoyed Warm

• Heat the cookies slightly before serving them. A warm cookie enhances the flavors and provides a comforting treat.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each cookie for an extra indulgent twist that’s perfect for special occasions.

Dusted with Extra Cinnamon Sugar

• For those who love cinnamon, sprinkle additional cinnamon sugar on top just before serving to boost flavor and presentation.

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How to Perfect Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies

To achieve the best results when making Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies, follow these tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

• Chill Your Dough: Refrigerating the dough prevents spreading during baking, keeping your cookies soft and thick.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid adding too much flour, which can lead to dry cookies.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
• Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Bake until just set; under-baking slightly keeps them soft, while over-baking can lead to dryness.
• Experiment with Flavors: Consider adding chocolate chips or nuts for added texture and flavor variation.
• Store Properly: To maintain freshness, store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Best Side Dishes for Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies

These cookies pair beautifully with various side dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Coffee: A warm cup of coffee complements the sweetness of the cookies while providing a nice contrast.
2. Tea: Herbal or chai tea adds warmth and spice, making it an excellent companion for enjoying these treats.
3. Ice Cream: Vanilla or cinnamon-flavored ice cream can make for a delicious dessert combo that’s sure to impress.
4. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, such as brie or goat cheese, balances sweetness with savory richness.
5. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit alongside cookies for a delightful brunch option.
6. Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of cookie into melted chocolate for an indulgent dessert experience.
7. Fruit Salad: Fresh fruits add brightness and freshness, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies can be a breeze, but there are some common mistakes that can hinder your cookie-making success.

• Not chilling the dough: Skipping this step can lead to cookies spreading too much during baking. Always chill your dough for at least an hour to maintain shape.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing for too long can result in tough cookies instead of soft ones. Mix just until all ingredients are combined.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature may cause undercooked or burnt cookies. Invest in an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or cream cheese doesn’t mix well and can affect texture. Make sure both are at room temperature before you start.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make cookies dry and crumbly. Use a kitchen scale or spoon and level method for accuracy.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for 10-15 seconds per cookie, ensuring not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place in a covered skillet over low heat for about 2-3 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies that might help enhance your baking experience.

How do I achieve the best texture?

To get soft and tender cookies, ensure your butter and cream cheese are softened properly before mixing.

Can I substitute cream cheese with something else?

Yes, you can use mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt as alternatives, but it will slightly change the flavor and texture.

What is the best way to store leftover cookies?

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated to maintain freshness.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

The Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. Their tender texture combined with warm cinnamon sugar makes them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruits. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!