Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe
You might think you know all there is about baking cookies, but have you considered adding cream cheese to the mix? Cinnamon cream cheese cookies offer a unique twist, blending the tangy and comforting flavors you didn't even know you were missing. Start by preheating your oven and creaming together the essentials: butter, cream cheese, and sugar. But here's where it gets interesting—how do these simple steps transform into a batch of irresistibly soft, chewy cookies? Before you know it, your kitchen could be filled with the aroma of something truly special.
Recipe
Cinnamon cream cheese cookies are a delightful fusion of tangy cream cheese and warm cinnamon, making them a perfect choice for any occasion. They offer a soft, chewy texture and a comforting aroma that fills your home, making them irresistible to anyone who loves baked goods.
Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a sweet snack, these cookies promise to satisfy your cravings. Creating these cookies is a straightforward and rewarding process suitable for both novice and experienced bakers. With just a few ingredients and a little time, you'll have a batch of these scrumptious cookies ready to enjoy.
Follow the instructions carefully to guarantee a perfect outcome, and you'll be savoring these delectable treats in no time.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup cinnamon sugar (for rolling)
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a dough forms. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in the cinnamon sugar until fully coated, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
To achieve the best results, guarantee that your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature before you begin mixing; this helps create a smooth and creamy dough. If you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, feel free to adjust the amount of ground cinnamon to your liking.
Additionally, you can add texture by mixing in a handful of chopped nuts or raisins into the dough. Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness, allowing you to enjoy them over several days.
Cooking Steps
Let's get started on these delicious cinnamon cream cheese cookies by preheating your oven to 350°F—because no one likes waiting for an oven to heat up!
First, cream together the softened butter, cream cheese, and sugar until it looks like fluffy clouds, and don't forget to add a splash of vanilla for extra flavor.
While that's mixing, whisk your dry ingredients in a separate bowl, and then combine everything to form dough balls ready for a cozy oven nap, baking them until their edges are as golden as a summer sunset.
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 350°F
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), setting the stage for perfectly baked cookies. This step is essential, as it guarantees your cookies bake evenly and develop that delightful golden edge.
While your oven heats up, take a moment to imagine the comforting aroma that will soon fill your kitchen. It's like a warm hug in cookie form!
Make certain your oven racks are positioned in the middle for even heat distribution. Preheating might seem like a small step, but skipping it could lead to undercooked or unevenly baked cookies.
Step 2. Cream Butter, Cheese, Sugar
With your oven preheating, it's time to prepare the dough by creaming together the butter, cream cheese, and sugar.
Grab a large mixing bowl and a sturdy wooden spoon or an electric mixer. Trust me, you'll appreciate the electric option if you've got it—who needs a bicep workout right now?
Make sure your butter and cream cheese are nicely softened; otherwise, you'll be wrestling with stubborn lumps.
Mix everything until it's light and fluffy, like whipped clouds of deliciousness. If you've got a sweet tooth, this is the part where you might sneak a taste—don't worry, I won't tell!
Once the mixture is smooth, you're ready to move on to the next step of cookie magic.
Step 3. Whisk Dry Ingredients Together
Some things in baking are as simple as they seem, and whisking the dry ingredients together is one of them.
Grab a medium-sized bowl and toss in your all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Use a whisk to stir everything until it's well combined.
Picture yourself as a DJ mixing the perfect track, except here, it's flour and spices. Make certain there are no lumps hiding in there—cinnamon clumps aren't the surprise you want in a cookie!
If you've got a tiny sieve, now's a good time to use it for a quick sift. This step guarantees every bite of your cookie has the perfect balance of flavors. Plus, it makes you look like a pro.
Step 4. Form Dough Balls for Baking
Now that you've got your dough ready, it's time to shape it into perfect little morsels.
Grab a tablespoon and scoop out a portion of dough, rolling it between your palms until it forms a smooth, round ball. Imagine you're crafting tiny, delicious planets, each one promising a burst of cinnamon delight.
Once you've shaped your dough ball, give it a quick cinnamon sugar spa day by rolling it in a bowl of cinnamon sugar until it's completely coated. This guarantees every bite has a lovely, sweet crunch.
Place your dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, keeping them about two inches apart. Remember, these cookies need their personal space to expand and become their best, most scrumptious selves.
Step 5. Bake Until Edges Golden
Your cookies' next adventure awaits in the oven. Slide the baking sheet onto the middle rack, and let the magic happen.
You'll want to keep an eye on them, so set a timer for 12-15 minutes. When the edges start to turn a lovely golden hue, it's showtime. Resist the urge to open the oven door too much—these cookies like their privacy while they bake!
If you notice the heavenly aroma of cinnamon wafting through the air, you know you're on the right track.
Once done, let them rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes; they need a moment to collect themselves before moving to a wire rack.
Patience, my fellow cookie connoisseur, is key to perfection!
Final Thoughts
Cinnamon cream cheese cookies are a delightful fusion of flavors that you'll find hard to resist.
They're perfect for any occasion, whether you're indulging solo or sharing with friends. The rich cream cheese pairs beautifully with the warm cinnamon, creating a cookie that's as comforting as a cozy sweater on a chilly day.
You'll be thrilled with how easy these are to make. Just remember, room temperature ingredients are your secret weapon for achieving that perfect, creamy dough.
And if you're feeling adventurous, toss in some nuts or raisins for a fun twist.
Once you've baked these goodies, store them in an airtight container; it's like a treasure chest of sweetness ready whenever you need a pick-me-up.
Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese for This Recipe?
You can definitely use low-fat cream cheese in this recipe. It might slightly alter the texture, making the cookies a bit less rich, but they'll still be delicious. Just guarantee it's softened for easy mixing. Enjoy baking!
How Should I Store Leftover Cookie Dough?
You should wrap leftover cookie dough tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Refrigerate it for up to three days, or freeze it for longer storage. Thaw frozen dough in the refrigerator before baking.
Can These Cookies Be Frozen After Baking?
Yes, you can freeze them after baking. Let the cookies cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Make certain they don't stick together by separating layers with parchment paper. They'll stay fresh for months!
What Can I Substitute for Cinnamon Sugar?
You can substitute cinnamon sugar with a mix of regular granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Just combine them at a 4:1 ratio. If you've got powdered sugar, blend it similarly for a smoother texture.
Are There Any Gluten-Free Alternatives for This Recipe?
You can swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for baking. Make certain it's a 1:1 substitute for the best results. Also, check that your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free to avoid issues.
