Name: Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 28 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 0.5 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 0.5 teaspoon baking soda; 0.5 teaspoon baking powder; 0.25 teaspoon salt; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 0.25 cup granulated sugar (for the filling); 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract (for the filling); 0.5 cup granulated sugar (for the cinnamon sugar coating); 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon; 1 cup powdered sugar (for the icing); 2 tablespoons milk or cream (for the icing); 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract (for the icing)

Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies are the ultimate indulgent treat, combining the comforting flavors of fresh cinnamon rolls with the rich creaminess of cheesecake. Picture a soft, chewy cookie that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also presents a delightful surprise in every bite. These cookies are not just dessert; they’re an experience that dances on the palate. The dough is infused with cinnamon sugar and holds a luscious cheesecake center, making these treats perfect for various occasions. Whether you want to impress your guests at a holiday gathering, share a thoughtful gift with loved ones, or simply enjoy a cozy evening snack, these cookies are a foolproof choice.

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its simplicity. You don’t need to be a seasoned baker to pull these off; it’s as easy as mixing a few ingredients and letting your oven do the magic. You’ll find that the delightful aroma of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen will make the effort worth every second. Plus, they’re as good for breakfast as they are for dessert, making them versatile for any time of the day. As you prepare to delight your family or friends with these heavenly bites, get ready to answer the question: “Can I have another?” These cookies are bound to become a new favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies

These cookies seamlessly combine two beloved treats into one delicious package. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

Irresistible Flavor: The buttery cookie dough pairs perfectly with the cream cheese filling, enhanced by aromatic cinnamon and sugar.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can enjoy success.
Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies make an ideal addition to holiday parties, family gatherings, or cozy nights in.
Versatile Enjoyment: They’re great for breakfast, snacks, or dessert—any time your sweet tooth calls!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you start creating your Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies, make sure your kitchen is prepped and ready to go. Begin by gathering all your ingredients and tools; this will help streamline your baking process. You’ll need the following essentials:

A large mixing bowl for combining your cookie dough ingredients.
A medium bowl for mixing your cheesecake filling.
A baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
A whisk for the icing, and a scoop or spoon for portioning the cookie dough.

It’s crucial to ensure your butter and cream cheese are softened at room temperature; this will facilitate easier mixing and lead to a fluffier texture. Additionally, consider chilling your cheesecake filling while you prepare the cookie dough to make handling simpler once you’re ready to assemble and bake. Setting the oven to 350°F allows it to warm while you work, saving you time later. Once your workspace is organized, you’ll be prepared to craft these exquisite cookies.

Ingredients

For these delectable Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies, you’ll need a mix of basic baking staples and a few special ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
0.5 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
0.5 teaspoon baking soda
0.5 teaspoon baking powder
0.25 teaspoon salt
8 oz cream cheese, softened
0.25 cup granulated sugar (for the filling)
0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract (for the filling)
0.5 cup granulated sugar (for the cinnamon sugar coating)
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
1 cup powdered sugar (for the icing)
2 tablespoons milk or cream (for the icing)
0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract (for the icing)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

Start your journey by beating the softened cream cheese in a medium bowl. Mix it with 0.25 cup of granulated sugar and 0.5 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Continue blending until the mixture is smooth, ensuring there are no lumps left behind. The smoother the filling, the richer the cookies will taste. Once combined, place the filling in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it will help the filling maintain its shape during baking.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In another large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter together with 1 cup granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is fluffy and light. This process incorporates air, which is key for fluffy cookies. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined to form a soft dough. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, take a portion of the dough and flatten it out in your hand. Make sure it’s broad enough to hold the cheesecake filling. Place a spoonful of your chilled cheesecake filling in the center, then carefully wrap the dough around it, sealing the edges and forming a ball. This ensures that the filling will stay tucked away, creating that delightful surprise in each bite.

Step 4: Coat and Bake

Prepare the cinnamon-sugar mixture by combining 0.5 cup granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Roll each cookie ball in this mixture until fully coated. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave some space between each cookie. Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the cookies for about 11–13 minutes. They should be slightly underdone in the center, as they’ll continue to cook a bit on the baking sheet once taken out.

Step 5: Icing and Cooling

While the cookies cool on the baking sheet for around 5 minutes, you can whip up the icing. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk (or cream), and 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth. Once the cookies have cooled slightly, transfer them to a wire rack and drizzle the icing generously over them. This final touch adds an extra sweetness that perfectly complements the flavors of cinnamon and cream cheese.

Variations

There’s plenty of room to add personal touches to your Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies:

Protein: Incorporate some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and nuttiness.
Vegetables: If you want a twist, consider adding in some finely grated zucchini for moisture without overwhelming the flavor.
Spices: Spice them up further with a hit of nutmeg or cloves for a warm, cozy vibe.

Cooking Notes

Make sure to chill the cheesecake filling adequately to retain its form while baking.
Avoid overbaking the cookies; they should be slightly soft when you remove them from the oven for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve them warm with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or afternoon snack.
Pair these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.

Tips

Consider adding 0.5 teaspoon of cinnamon directly to the cookie dough for an extra flavor kick.
If you plan on prepping ahead, you can freeze the uncooked dough balls before baking them; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when ready.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 13 minutes
Total Time: 28 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 150 per cookie
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 90mg

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. This can enhance the flavors!

What if I don’t have cream cheese?

If you can’t find cream cheese, mascarpone is a great alternative, providing a similar texture and richness.

How do I store leftover cookies?

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Can I use a different icing recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of icings, such as chocolate or cream cheese frosting, to suit your preference.

Conclusion

Your journey into baking indulgent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies is sure to yield stunning results. With their perfectly soft texture and delightful cheesecake surprise, they’re bound to win over hearts and taste buds alike. Don’t hesitate to customize the recipe with your personal touch—after all, the joy of baking is in the creativity and sharing delicious treats with loved ones. If you’ve tried these cookies, please come back to share your thoughts and any exciting variations you’ve experimented with. Happy baking!