Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies

These soft and chewy cinnamon cream cheese cookies are a delightful treat with a perfect balance of warmth and sweetness. Made with cream cheese for extra richness and coated in a cinnamon-sugar mixture, they’re a cross between a snickerdoodle and a sugar cookie. These cookies are easy to make and perfect for holiday baking, afternoon snacks, or anytime you crave a comforting treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and chewy texture – Thanks to the cream cheese, these cookies stay soft and moist.
• Easy to make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
• Perfectly spiced – The cinnamon-sugar coating adds warmth and sweetness.
• Great for any occasion – Ideal for holidays, tea time, or as a quick dessert.
• Make-ahead friendly – Dough can be prepared in advance and stored for later.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cookies

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Ground cinnamon
• Unsalted butter, softened
• Cream cheese, softened
• Granulated sugar
• Egg
• Vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

• Granulated sugar
• Ground cinnamon

Directions

1. Prepare the dough – In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
2. Cream the butter and sugar – In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, cream cheese, and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add wet ingredients – Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine dry and wet ingredients – Gradually add the flour mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
5. Chill the dough – Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to make shaping easier.
6. Preheat the oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Make the cinnamon-sugar coating – In a small bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon.
8. Form the cookies – Roll the dough into small balls, then coat each in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
9. Bake – Place on the baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers are soft.
10. Cool and serve – Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 24 cookies
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Chill time: 30 minutes
• Cook time: 12 minutes
• Total time: 57 minutes

Variations

• Stuffed cookies – Add a small dollop of cream cheese in the center before baking for a gooey surprise.
• Extra spice – Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for more warmth.
• Gluten-free version – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Sugar alternative – Swap granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a deeper caramel-like flavor.
• Iced cookies – Drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze for extra sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to a week for extra freshness.
• Freezing: Freeze raw cookie dough balls or baked cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw before baking or serving.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! The dough can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days before baking.

Why do I need to chill the dough?

Chilling prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking and helps develop flavor.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, but full-fat cream cheese gives the best texture and flavor.

How do I get perfectly round cookies?

Roll the dough into smooth balls and slightly press them before baking for even shapes.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to chill the dough well before baking.

What can I serve with these cookies?

They pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk.

Can I use a sugar substitute?

Yes! Use a granulated sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener for a lower-sugar version.

How do I make them extra soft?

Avoid overbaking, as the cookies will continue to firm up while cooling.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Yes! White or dark chocolate chips add a delicious twist.

How do I keep them fresh?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature and place a slice of bread inside to keep them soft.

Conclusion

Cinnamon cream cheese cookies are the perfect soft, spiced treat for any occasion. With their rich, buttery texture and warm cinnamon flavor, they’re sure to be a family favorite. Try this easy recipe today and enjoy a batch of homemade cookies that taste just like a cozy hug!

Print