Imagine a delightful dessert that combines the best of cinnamon rolls and cream cheese cheesecake all in one cookie. These Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies are the answer to your sweet cravings, offering a soft, chewy texture with layers of rich flavors. They bring a warm and comforting touch to any occasion, making them an irresistible treat for family and friends alike.
Why We Love This Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
There’s something magical about combining two beloved desserts into one delicious cookie. The warm, comforting spice of cinnamon pairs beautifully with the creamy cheesecake filling, creating a flavor profile that pleases everyone. Plus, these cookies are incredibly fun to make! Rolling each one individually and filling them with a creamy surprise is an enjoyable process that allows you to showcase your baking skills. Whether served at a holiday gathering or enjoyed with a cup of coffee on a cozy afternoon, these cookies are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients about Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies
List of ingredients with measurements:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for glaze
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies Directions
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper; this will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup easier.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This step is important as it helps to trap air in the butter, leading to lighter cookies. Once combined, add the eggs and vanilla extract, beating until well incorporated.
In a separate bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt together. Gradually add this mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until everything is well combined. Make sure there are no pockets of flour; the dough should be slightly thick but manageable.
Now, it’s time to make the delicious cheesecake filling. In another bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, milk, and a teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. You want it to be creamy and easy to spoon, so ensure there are no lumps.
Next, take about a tablespoon of the cookie dough and flatten it slightly with your fingers. Place a teaspoon of the cheesecake filling in the center of the dough. Wrap the dough around the filling to encase it completely, forming a ball. This step can get a little messy, but don’t worry; the inessential bits only add character to your cookies!
Place the filled cookie dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about two inches of space in between each cookie. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden color. The centers will be soft, but they will puff up as they cool.
Once baked, allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling time is essential as it lets the centers set without falling apart.
While your cookies cool, you can prepare the glaze. Simply mix powdered sugar, milk, and a splash of vanilla extract until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. Drizzle this glaze over the cooled cookies for that extra special touch.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies
Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies can be served in many delightful ways. You can set them on a platter for a festive gathering or wrap them nicely for a thoughtful gift. Pair these cookies with a hot beverage, such as coffee or tea, to create a cozy atmosphere.
For an impressive dessert, serve these cookies warm, allowing the cheesecake filling to be slightly gooey. You can accompany them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent experience. These cookies also shine as a midday snack, perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth.
Expert Tips: Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies
- Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature. This will ensure they blend smoothly with the other ingredients and contribute to the creamy, rich texture of your cookies.
- Do not overmix the dough once you add the dry ingredients. This helps keep the cookies tender.
- For easier handling, consider chilling the cookie dough for about 30 minutes before filling and baking. This step will make the dough less sticky and easier to manage.
- Always keep an eye on the cookies while baking. Ovens can vary, and you don’t want them to overbake. They should look slightly underdone in the center for that perfect chewy texture.
- Experiment with the glaze; you can add a hint of cinnamon or even a dash of maple extract for a unique flavor twist.
How to Store Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies
To store these delightful cookies, make sure they are cooled completely. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, allowing you to enjoy them at your leisure. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, you can refrigerate them, but this may alter the texture slightly. For prolonged storage, consider freezing your cookies. Place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can last for up to 3 months. Simply thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to indulge again!
Variation of Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies
While the original recipe is delicious, you can explore numerous variations for added excitement. Here are a few ideas to inspire your creativity:
- Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the cookie dough for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
- Fruit Twist: Fold in bits of apple or raisins into the cookie dough to enhance the filling with fruity bursts of flavor.
- Spiced Up: Add more spices, like nutmeg or pumpkin spice, for a seasonal twist that will warm you up during chilly months.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Instead of the vanilla glaze, try a chocolate drizzle or ganache for a rich finish that complements the cheesecake.
- Mini Cookies: Make mini versions of these cookies for bite-sized treats! Adjust the baking time to ensure they cook through without burning.
FAQ
What makes Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies special?
Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies bring together the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls and the richness of cheesecake in a delightful cookie form, making them a unique dessert choice.
Can I make Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough and the cheesecake filling ahead of time, refrigerating them separately. Bake the cookies fresh when you’re ready to serve!
How do I know when my Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies are done?
Watch for the edges to turn golden while the centers remain slightly soft. It’s best to underbake them slightly, as they will continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze these cookies! Make sure they are fully cooled, then store them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!
How can I avoid a lumpy cheesecake filling?
Ensure your cream cheese is softened and at room temperature for easy blending. This will help you achieve a smooth and creamy filling without lumps.
With this detailed guide, you are now equipped to bake the most delicious Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies! Enjoy indulging in this irresistible treat, and don’t hesitate to get creative with flavors and presentations. Happy baking!
Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies
Ingredients
Cookie Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Ensure this is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Cheesecake Filling Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened Ensure this is at room temperature for easy blending.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for glaze Optional glaze to drizzle over cookies.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, beating until well incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt together.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until well combined.
- In another bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Assembly
- Take about a tablespoon of cookie dough and flatten it slightly.
- Place a teaspoon of cheesecake filling in the center and wrap the dough around it to form a ball.
- Place the filled cookie dough balls on the baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
Baking
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges turn light golden but the centers remain soft.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Glazing
- Mix powdered sugar, milk, and a splash of vanilla extract until smooth, and drizzle over cooled cookies.
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