Cinnamon Cream Cheese Stuffed Cookies
Highlighted under: Quick Dessert Ideas
Indulge in the delightful blend of warm cinnamon and creamy cheese in these irresistible cookies.
These Cinnamon Cream Cheese Stuffed Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the flavors of cinnamon and cream cheese in a soft, chewy cookie. Perfect for sharing with friends and family, they are sure to become a favorite!
Why You Will Love These Cookies
- Warm cinnamon flavor with a creamy center
- Soft and chewy texture that melts in your mouth
- Perfect for any occasion or as a cozy treat
The Perfect Combination of Flavors
Cinnamon Cream Cheese Stuffed Cookies are a delightful fusion of flavors that elevate the traditional cookie experience. The warm, aromatic essence of cinnamon is perfectly complemented by the rich and creamy filling, creating a harmonious blend that tantalizes your taste buds. Each bite offers a delightful contrast between the soft, chewy cookie exterior and the luscious cream cheese center, making them a standout treat for any cookie lover.
What sets these cookies apart is the balance of sweetness and spice. The brown sugar adds depth and moisture, while the granulated sugar provides a slight crunch. Together with the hint of cinnamon, the flavor profile becomes irresistible. These cookies are not just about taste; they evoke a sense of nostalgia and comfort, reminiscent of cozy afternoons spent baking in the kitchen.
Baking Tips for Success
To achieve the best results with these cookies, ensure that your butter is softened to room temperature. This allows for easier creaming with the sugars, leading to a light and fluffy texture. If your butter is too cold, the dough will be dense, affecting the final product's softness. Remember to measure your flour accurately, as too much flour can result in dry cookies. Using a kitchen scale can help ensure precision.
When forming the cookie balls, don't be afraid to be generous with the cream cheese filling. The delightful surprise of the creamy center is what makes these cookies so special. However, make sure to seal the dough completely around the filling to prevent it from oozing out during baking. Lastly, allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack—this helps them set perfectly.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or simply a cozy night in. Serve them warm with a glass of milk, or pair them with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. They also make a fantastic gift when packaged in a decorative box, showcasing your baking skills and thoughtfulness.
For those looking to mix things up, consider adding chocolate chips or nuts to the cookie dough for an added layer of texture and flavor. You can also experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg or ginger, to create unique variations of this classic recipe. The flexibility of this cookie recipe allows you to customize it to your taste, making it a staple in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting for the best results!
Instructions
Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until smooth. Set aside.
Make the Cookie Dough
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
Assemble the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take about 1 tablespoon of cookie dough and flatten it in your hand. Place a teaspoon of the cream cheese filling in the center, then wrap the dough around the filling to form a ball.
Bake the Cookies
Place the cookie balls on a lined baking sheet, spacing them apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your freshly baked cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage!
Storing Your Cookies
To keep your Cinnamon Cream Cheese Stuffed Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for several days, but you'll likely find they disappear quickly! If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They'll stay fresh for up to three months.
When you're ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, simply let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours. You can also warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to revive that fresh-baked taste. This makes them an excellent option for meal prep or when you want a sweet treat on hand without the effort of baking from scratch.
Nutritional Information
While these Cinnamon Cream Cheese Stuffed Cookies are undoubtedly a treat, it's always good to be mindful of portion sizes. Each cookie contains a rich combination of ingredients that contribute to its deliciousness but also its caloric content. Enjoy them as an occasional indulgence rather than a daily snack. Moderation is key!
If you're looking to lighten the recipe, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese or substituting some of the butter with unsweetened applesauce. This can help decrease the overall fat content while still maintaining a delicious flavor. However, be cautious with substitutions, as they can alter the texture and taste of your cookies.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked cookie balls. Just place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
→ What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can use mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if you prefer.
→ How do I store leftover cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
→ Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the cookie dough for added flavor and texture.
Cinnamon Cream Cheese Stuffed Cookies
Indulge in the delightful blend of warm cinnamon and creamy cheese in these irresistible cookies.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Quick Dessert Ideas
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
For the Cookies
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
How-To Steps
In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until smooth. Set aside.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take about 1 tablespoon of cookie dough and flatten it in your hand. Place a teaspoon of the cream cheese filling in the center, then wrap the dough around the filling to form a ball. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
Place the cookie balls on a lined baking sheet, spacing them apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 18g
- Protein: 3g