There's nothing quite like the cozy scent of cinnamon filling the kitchen as I bake a batch of cookies. These Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies are my go-to when I want a sweet treat that feels a little more special. Imagine biting into a cookie with a soft, pillowy texture that practically melts in your mouth—a delightful twist on the classic snickerdoodle that brings warmth to any gathering.

I stumbled upon this enchanting recipe when searching for a way to elevate my fall baking. The addition of cream cheese creates a rich, tender crumb that makes these cookies irresistible. Rolled in a sweet cinnamon-sugar mixture, they offer just the right amount of spice and sweetness for those autumn afternoons or cozy holiday gatherings.

Whether you're looking to impress friends or simply satisfy your sweet tooth, these cookies are perfect for every occasion. Get ready to whip up something magical that will leave your loved ones begging for the recipe—let’s dive into the details!

Why are cinnamon cream cheese cookies a must-try?

Unforgettable Flavor: The harmony of cream cheese and cinnamon offers a unique, mouthwatering taste that you'll crave again and again.

Irresistibly Soft Texture: These cookies feature a pillowy softness that sets them apart from traditional cookies, making each bite a delight.

Autumn Vibes: Perfectly suited for fall gatherings, they bring cozy warmth and festive cheer to any table.

Easily Adaptable: While these cookies shine on their own, you can explore variations like adding nuts or chocolate chips for an extra twist.

Time-Saving Treat: Baking these delicious cookies doesn’t require extensive prep, so you can whip them up in no time for unplanned sweet cravings.

Looking for another delightful treat? Try these blueberry cream cheese egg rolls for a burst of flavor!

Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookie Ingredients

For the Dough
• Cream Cheese – Adds richness and a tender crumb; opt for full-fat for the best texture.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and contributes to that delightful cakey texture.
• Cinnamon – Provides warmth and spice, enhancing the classic cookie flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour – The base for structure; sifted for a lighter texture.
• Baking Powder – Helps the cookies rise, ensuring a fluffy result.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds a depth of flavor that complements the cinnamon.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and elevates the flavors.

For Rolling
• Granulated Sugar – Creates a sweet outer layer that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior.
• Cinnamon – The star of the show; roll the cookies in this mixture for added flavor.

These cinnamon cream cheese cookies promise a unique treat that'll elevate your baking game!

How to Make Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Preheating ensures that your cookies bake evenly, resulting in a beautifully golden exterior while keeping that pillowy interior.
Mix the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until smooth. This creamy base is the heart of your cookies, infusing them with richness and sweetness.
Combine the dry ingredients—sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This step helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and spices for balanced flavor and texture.
Blend the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; over-mixing can lead to tougher cookies, and we want them soft and tender.
Scoop the dough using a cookie scoop or tablespoon and roll it into balls. Aim for about 1.5 inches in diameter for perfectly uniform cookies that bake evenly.
Roll each dough ball in a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon. This step adds a delightful sweetness and a signature spiced crust that complements the richness of the cream cheese.
Place the rolled dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This allows for spreading as they bake.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look set but soft. You'll know they're ready when the aroma of cinnamon fills your kitchen!
Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up just enough while retaining that soft bite.

Optional: Dust with additional powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and fresh, ready for when the cravings hit!

Fridge: For longer freshness, keep the cookies in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just ensure they’re in a sealed container to maintain their delightful texture.

Freezer: To freeze, place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating: If desired, warm the cookies in the microwave for about 10 seconds to revive their soft, pillowy charm before serving. Enjoy your delightful cinnamon cream cheese cookies!

What to Serve with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies?

Indulging in freshly baked cookies makes every gathering feel special, and pairing them with delightful complements can elevate the experience even more.

Coffee or Latte: A warm cup of coffee beautifully balances the sweetness of the cookies, making for a perfect afternoon pick-me-up. The rich flavors blend harmoniously, enhancing the cozy experience.
Spiced Apple Cider: Serve warm spiced apple cider alongside these treats for a fall-inspired pairing. The notes of cinnamon in both the cider and cookies create a delightful synergy.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream contrasts nicely with the soft texture of the cookies, adding a refreshing element to each bite. Drizzle with caramel for an extra indulgent touch!
Raspberry Jam: The tartness of raspberry jam adds a vibrant punch of flavor that enhances these cookies' sweet profile, creating a delicious balance of taste.
Chai Tea: The spiced, aromatic flavors of chai tea pair flawlessly with these cookies, amplifying their cinnamon goodness while offering a soothing sip.
Pecan Pie Bars: If you’re looking for a dessert spread, try pairing these cookies with pecan pie bars. Their nutty sweetness complements the cinnamon cream cheese cookies superbly.
Pumpkin Spice Muffins: Enhance your fall dessert table by serving these cookies alongside warm pumpkin spice muffins. The combined spices bring comforting autumn vibes to your gathering.

These combinations will surely make your cookie experience unforgettable, leaving your guests raving about the delicious treats!

Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize these dreamy cookies just to your liking!

Spiced Nutty: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for a delightful crunch that complements the soft texture wonderfully.
Chocolate Lover’s Twist: Stir in mini chocolate chips for a sweet and decadent contrast to the cinnamon flavor. Chocolate and cinnamon make an indulgent pairing.
Zesty Citrus: Incorporate a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest for a fresh twist that brightens up the warm spices, adding an uplifting flavor note.
Maple Infusion: Replace some powdered sugar with maple syrup to create a sweet, earthy flavor that perfectly suits autumn baking.
Pumpkin Spice Cookies: Substitute some flour with pumpkin puree and add pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist that brings all the cozy fall vibes to your dessert table.
Heat it Up: For a little kick, mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes; the heat beautifully contrasts with the sweetness, making every bite pop.
Fruity Variations: Fold in dried cranberries or raisins for a chewy bit of fruity sweetness that balances the cinnamon and creaminess.
Allergens-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and use dairy-free cream cheese to cater to dietary restrictions without sacrificing taste.

These variations will keep your cinnamon cream cheese cookies exciting and delicious for every occasion!

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies

Perfect Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for richer cookies. Low-fat varieties may result in a drier texture, missing that lovely pillowy bite.
Don’t Overmix: When blending the dry and wet ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies instead of the soft, cakey texture we desire.
Chill if Needed: If your dough feels too sticky after mixing, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This makes rolling the dough into balls much easier.
Even Baking: Ensure your cookies are spaced at least 2 inches apart on the baking sheet, allowing them to spread evenly without merging into one another.
Watch the Time: Keep a close eye on the cookies as they bake. With the perfect timing, they’ll have golden edges and soft centers, ensuring they’re just right!

These tips will help you create the best cinnamon cream cheese cookies that everyone will adore!

Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe FAQs

What does adding cream cheese to cookies do?
Adding cream cheese to cookies enhances their richness and creates a tender, cakey texture. It helps them stay soft and moist, offering a delightful bite that's different from traditional cookie recipes.

How should I store cinnamon cream cheese cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness. If you'd like them to last longer, refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to a week.

Can I freeze cinnamon cream cheese cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze, first, arrange the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until they are firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be stored for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature.

What is the secret to moist cookies?
The secret to moist cookies lies in the balance of ingredients and proper mixing. Using cream cheese, as in these cinnamon cream cheese cookies, adds moisture, while ensuring you don’t overmix the dough is key. Overmixing can develop gluten, leading to a drier texture. Always aim for a soft consistency and monitor baking times closely.

What happens if I use cream cheese instead of butter in cookies?
If you substitute cream cheese for butter in cookies, the result will be a denser and softer cookie with a unique flavor. The cookies will likely be less crisp, providing that irresistible pillowy texture, perfect for those who love a cake-like cookie experience.

How to soften cream cheese for cookies?
To soften cream cheese quickly, cut it into small cubes and leave it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave it for about 10-15 seconds, checking frequently to avoid melting. Ensure it’s soft yet still holds its shape before incorporating it into your cookie dough.

Irresistibly Soft Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies You’ll Adore

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Discover the cozy and delicious cinnamon cream cheese cookies that are soft, pillowy, and perfect for fall gatherings.

Author: Emma Saviani
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

8 ounces cream cheese
1 cup powdered sugar
2 teaspoons cinnamon
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons cinnamon

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F.
Mix the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until smooth.
Combine the dry ingredients—sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
Blend the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.
Scoop the dough using a cookie scoop and roll it into balls.
Roll each dough ball in a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon.
Place the rolled dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes.
Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Notes

Use full-fat cream cheese for a richer flavor.
Don’t overmix the ingredients.
Chill the dough if it's too sticky.
Space cookies at least 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
Watch the baking time closely for perfect cookies.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 150
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 100mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 30mg