Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies are soft yet slightly chewy, with a subtle tang from the cream cheese that balances the sweetness. The cinnamon-sugar topping adds a cozy flavor perfect for fall or winter baking. They’re simple to make, bake up quickly, and are ideal for cookie exchanges, gift-giving, or enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee.

Ingredients

½ cup unsalted butter, softened
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 ½ cups powdered sugar
1 egg
½ teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or extract
Pinch of kosher salt
1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, beat butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Add powdered sugar and beat until combined. Mix in egg, vanilla, and salt.
Gradually add flour and baking powder, mixing until a soft dough forms.
In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
Roll dough into 1-inch balls and roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Place on prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 12–15 minutes until cookies are set but still soft in the center. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

Makes about 24 cookies
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 12–15 minutes
Total time: 27–30 minutes

Variations

Extra Cinnamon: Increase cinnamon in the coating for a bolder flavor.
Chocolate Chip Twist: Add ½ cup mini chocolate chips to the dough.
Gluten-Free: Substitute flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Holiday Version: Roll in colored sugar for a festive touch.
Spiced Up: Add ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg or cloves to the dough for extra warmth.

Storage/Reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use salted butter?

Yes, reduce the pinch of added salt if using salted butter.

Are these cookies soft or crispy?

They’re soft and tender with a slight chew in the center.

Can I make them larger or smaller?

Yes, adjust baking time slightly depending on cookie size.

Can I roll the dough in other coatings?

Yes, try powdered sugar, cocoa powder, or a mix of cinnamon and sugar for variation.

Conclusion

Best Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies are soft, tender, and perfectly spiced, making them a comforting treat for any occasion. With a rich, creamy dough and a sweet cinnamon-sugar coating, they’re ideal for cozy afternoons, holiday baking, or sharing with friends and family. Simple to make and impossible to resist, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your collection.