The smell of cinnamon cookies baking is a simple joy. As the holidays near, we all crave cozy treats. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that brings back those special memories – Easy 5-Ingredient Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies.
These cookies are soft and melt in your mouth. They mix classic cinnamon with a creamy, buttery taste. With just a few ingredients and a little effort, you can make these treats. They’re sure to make your family and friends want more.
Table of contents
- Introduction to These Irresistible Holiday Treats
- Ingredients Overview
- Why Cream Cheese Makes These Cookies Special
- Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
- Step-by-Step Mixing Instructions
- Rolling and Coating Technique
- Baking Tips for Perfect Results
- Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies: Storage Guidelines
- Make-Ahead and Freezing Options
- Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Recipe Variations and Modifications
- Conclusion
- FAQ
- What are the key ingredients in Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies?
- Why is cream cheese important in this recipe?
- What essential baking tools are needed?
- How do you properly chill the dough?
- How do you store the baked cookies?
- Can the dough or baked cookies be frozen?
- What can be done if the cookies spread too much or are too flat?
- What variations or modifications can be made to the recipe?
Introduction to These Irresistible Holiday Treats
Get ready to indulge in the ultimate holiday cookie – the easy cream cheese cinnamon cookies! These soft, melt-in-your-mouth treats are a must-try for anyone craving the cozy aroma and flavor of the season. With their rich, buttery texture and a perfect balance of sweetness and warmth from the cinnamon, these cookies offer a complex taste experience that’s sure to delight your senses.
What sets these soft cream cheese cinnamon cookies apart is their incredibly simple yet effective recipe. Requiring just a few basic ingredients, these cookies are a breeze to make, making them the ideal choice for both novice and experienced bakers alike. Whether you’re looking to add a festive touch to your holiday spread or simply satisfy your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to become a new favorite.
« These cookies are the perfect balance of soft, buttery goodness and the comforting warmth of cinnamon. They’re an absolute must-try for any cookie lover this holiday season! »
So, gather your loved ones, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in the irresistible taste of these easy cream cheese cinnamon cookies. With their perfect texture and unbeatable flavor, they’re sure to become a cherished tradition in your household for years to come.
Ingredients Overview
Making delicious cinnamon cream cheese cookies needs a few key ingredients. You’ll also need some spices and optional extras. Knowing what each ingredient does helps make sure your cookies are soft, sweet, and full of cinnamon flavor.
Essential Base Ingredients
- Full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- Unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- Powdered sugar (also known as confectioners’ sugar or icing sugar)
- All-purpose flour
- One large egg, also at room temperature
- Baking powder for leavening
Spices and Flavorings
The main spice is ground cinnamon, which gives the cookies their unique taste. Pure vanilla extract is also used to boost the flavor.
Optional Add-ins
You can make your cinnamon cream cheese cookies even better by adding some extras. Try adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a bit of nutmeg or cardamom for something different.
To mix the dough, a little milk is needed. For the cinnamon sugar coating, toss the cookies in a mix of granulated sugar and cinnamon after baking.
For the best results, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before baking.
Why Cream Cheese Makes These Cookies Special
The cream cheese in these soft cream cheese cinnamon cookies makes them unique. It adds a tangy taste that balances the sweetness. This creates a delicious flavor.
Cream cheese is key for the cookies’ softness. It makes them light and fluffy, almost like cake. The mix of cream cheese and butter gives them a soft inside and a crunchy outside.
It’s best to use full-fat cream cheese for the best taste and texture. Choose cream cheese from a block, not tubs or whipped kinds. This ensures the cookies turn out right.
« Cream cheese cookies are a holiday staple in our house – the tangy flavor and soft, chewy texture make them irresistible. »
The cinnamon cream cheese cookies are quick to make, ready in 15 minutes. They need just 5 main ingredients. This makes them perfect for busy times or sudden parties.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make the delightful homemade cinnamon cream cheese cookies, you’ll need a few essential baking tools and equipment. The recipe yields a serving size of 36 cookies, so be prepared with the right kitchen essentials.
Essential Baking Tools
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Wire cooling rack
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon for portioning dough
Optional But Helpful Items
- Kitchen scale for precise measurements
- Silicone baking mat as an alternative to parchment paper
- Oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperature
These easy cream cheese cinnamon cookies require a few additional tools beyond the basic essentials, but they’ll help you achieve the perfect texture and shape. With the right equipment, you’ll be well on your way to baking up a batch of these irresistible homemade treats.
Step-by-Step Mixing Instructions
Making the perfect cinnamon cream cheese cookie recipe is easy and fun. Start by mixing softened unsalted butter and cream cheese in a big bowl for about 1 minute. This makes the mix smooth and creamy. Next, add vanilla extract and a bit of milk, and mix again.
Then, slowly add the powdered sugar until the dough is smooth and even. In another bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Add these dry ingredients to the wet ingredients slowly, mixing gently. Use a strong spatula to mix the dough until it’s soft and slightly sticky.
- Beat softened butter and cream cheese for 1 minute until smooth and creamy.
- Add vanilla extract and milk, then beat again.
- Gradually mix in powdered sugar until the dough is smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder.
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently.
- Use a spatula to bring the dough together, forming a soft, slightly sticky consistency.
- Cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for about 1 hour to firm it up for easier handling.
Chilling the dough in the fridge for about 1 hour is key for the right texture. This step makes the dough firm, making it easier to shape into great cookies.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Unsalted butter, softened | 1 cup |
| Cream cheese, softened | 8 oz |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Milk | 1 tbsp |
| Powdered sugar | 3 cups |
| All-purpose flour | 2 1/4 cups |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp |
Rolling and Coating Technique
Making the perfect cream cheese cinnamon sugar cookies needs a careful rolling and coating method. First, chill the dough. Then, take about 1 tablespoon (or 25 grams) of dough and shape it into a smooth ball. Mix 1/2 cup of white sugar and 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl for the coating.
Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Coating Tips
Roll each dough ball in the cinnamon-sugar mix until it’s fully covered. This step adds a tasty flavor and a crunchy texture to the cinnamon cream cheese cookies.
Size and Shape Guidelines
Use a cookie scoop or weigh each ball to 25 grams for even cookies. After coating, put the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Chill them for 10 more minutes to keep their shape before baking.
By using these exact rolling and coating steps, you’ll get cookies with soft centers and a crunchy cinnamon-sugar outside. Your homemade cream cheese cinnamon sugar cookies will be perfect.
Baking Tips for Perfect Results
To get the best results with your easy cream cheese cinnamon cookies, follow these tips:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before baking. This ensures the oven is at the perfect temperature for the cookies.
- Bake the chilled dough balls for about 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft and chewy. The cookies will firm up as they cool.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before moving them to a wire rack. This helps them keep their shape and texture.
- For thicker, softer cookies, chill the dough for longer, usually 15-30 minutes.
- Keep an eye on the cookies from the 7-minute mark, as they can quickly become overbaked. The soft cream cheese cinnamon cookies should be just set around the edges.
By following these simple tips, you’ll enjoy perfectly baked, easy cream cheese cinnamon cookies every time.
« The secret to the perfect soft and chewy cream cheese cinnamon cookies is in the baking technique. Underbake them slightly, and they’ll turn out irresistibly delicious. »
Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies: Storage Guidelines
Make the most of your homemade cinnamon cream cheese cookies by storing them right. Baked cookies can stay fresh in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
When chilled, the cookies might get a bit firmer. But they’ll still have that soft and chewy center. Just let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before enjoying.
Want to keep them longer? You can freeze the cinnamon cream cheese cookies. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, put them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, they can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
| Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 1 week |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months |
By following these cinnamon cream cheese cookies storage tips, you can enjoy them for weeks. They’re a delicious treat that’s easy to keep fresh.
Make-Ahead and Freezing Options
These cinnamon cream cheese cookies are super versatile. You can make the dough ahead of time and chill it for up to 2 days. This is perfect for busy holiday baking or when you want cookies without the hassle.
Freezing Raw Dough
Freezing the raw dough is even easier. Just scoop the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once they’re solid, move them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to bake, just put the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake for a bit longer.
Storing Baked Cookies
Want easy cream cheese cinnamon cookies ready to eat? Freeze the baked cookies. Cool them down, then freeze them on a baking sheet. Move them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can stay frozen for up to 3 months.
To enjoy, thaw the cookies at room temperature for 10-15 minutes or in the fridge overnight. This keeps them fresh and perfect.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 5 cups |
| Baking powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Fine sea salt | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| Ground cinnamon | 2 teaspoons |
| Unsalted butter | 1 1/2 cups (3 sticks) |
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Baking the perfect cinnamon cream cheese cookies can be tricky. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. If you run into problems, these tips will help you fix your soft cream cheese cinnamon cookies.
One common problem is cookies that spread too much. This usually happens if the dough isn’t chilled enough or if the butter is too soft. Make sure to chill your dough for the right amount of time and use butter that’s soft but not melted.
If your cookies are too flat, try chilling the dough longer or adding a bit more flour. Also, avoid overbaking. This can make your cookies dry and crumbly. Take them out of the oven when the edges start to golden.
- For the best results, use room temperature ingredients and avoid overmixing the dough.
- If the dough is too sticky, chill it longer or add a small amount of extra flour.
By paying attention to these common issues and making small changes, you’ll soon be baking perfect cinnamon cream cheese cookies. Happy baking!
Recipe Variations and Modifications
Make your cinnamon cream cheese cookies even better with these ideas. Add chocolate chips to the dough for a creamy chocolate chip cookie. Or, make a creamy frosting with cream cheese, vanilla, powdered sugar, and a bit of milk.
Want to try something new? Mix in nutmeg or cardamom for a special flavor. For a vegan option, use dairy-free cream cheese and a flax egg instead of regular ingredients.
Get creative with toppings like sprinkles or powdered sugar. Or, skip the cinnamon and dust with powdered sugar for a sweet touch.
There are so many ways to make these cookies your own. Try different flavors and textures to find your favorite. These cinnamon cream cheese cookies will always be a hit, whether you stick to the classic or try something new.
Conclusion
The homemade cinnamon cream cheese cookies are a perfect mix of sweet and spicy. They have a soft texture and a crunchy cinnamon-sugar topping. This makes them a hit for any event.
These cookies are easy to make with simple ingredients. They are great for both new and seasoned bakers. Enjoy them as a special treat or a daily delight.
These cookies have become very popular, thanks to people sharing them online. They use classic ingredients like cream cheese and cinnamon. This creates a delicious and satisfying treat.
The recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for all bakers. It’s great for impressing guests or enjoying a tasty homemade snack. These cookies will surely become a favorite in your kitchen.
FAQ
What are the key ingredients in Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies?
The main ingredients are full-fat cream cheese, unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and flour. Spices include cinnamon and vanilla extract. You can also add chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor.
Why is cream cheese important in this recipe?
Cream cheese makes the cookies rich and soft. It adds a tangy taste that balances the sweetness. This makes the cookies light and fluffy, almost like cake.
What essential baking tools are needed?
You’ll need a large mixing bowl, an electric mixer, and measuring tools. Baking sheets, parchment paper, and a wire rack are also important. A cookie scoop helps with portioning the dough.
How do you properly chill the dough?
Chill the dough in the fridge for about 1 hour. This makes it easier to handle. Then, chill the dough balls for 10 minutes before baking to keep their shape.
How do you store the baked cookies?
Keep the cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. They might get firmer but will stay flavorful. Let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften before serving.
Can the dough or baked cookies be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the dough by scooping it into balls and freezing them on a baking sheet. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Bake from frozen, adding a few minutes to the time. Baked cookies can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
What can be done if the cookies spread too much or are too flat?
If cookies spread too much, it might be because they weren’t chilled enough or the butter was too soft. Make sure the dough is well-chilled and the butter is just soft. If cookies are too flat, chill the dough longer or add a bit more flour.
What variations or modifications can be made to the recipe?
You can add chocolate chips for cream cheese chocolate chip cookies. Try making a cream cheese frosting or use different spices like nutmeg or cardamom. For a vegan version, use dairy-free cream cheese and a flax egg.