Name: Cinnamon Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Unbleached All-Purpose Flour (Substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.); ½ cup Powdered Sugar (Can be replaced with granulated sugar, but will change the texture.); 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Ensure it is at room temperature for easy mixing.); 8 oz Cream Cheese (Try Neufchâtel for a lower-fat alternative.); 1 large Egg (Use a flax egg for a vegan option.); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Swap in almond extract for a unique spin!); ¼ tsp Kosher Salt (Regular salt can work if kosher salt isn't handy.); 2 tsp Ground Cinnamon (Adjust the amount to taste for your perfect cinnamon cookie.); 1 tsp Baking Powder (Always check for freshness for the best rise.); ¼ cup Powdered Sugar (for rolling) (Coats the cookies for an extra touch of sweetness post-baking.); ½ cup Powdered Sugar (Sift it generously over the cookies once they've cooled.)

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As the aroma of cinnamon wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel a rush of nostalgia. These Cinnamon Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies bring a delightful softness that melts in your mouth, making them the perfect addition to any holiday gathering. What’s even better is that they’re quick to prepare, freeing up time for you to share memories with loved ones while the cookies bake to golden perfection. With their buttery richness and festive flair, these treats are sure to steal the show, becoming a cherished favorite for years to come. Are you ready to whip up a batch and fill your home with their cozy scent?

Why will you adore these cookies?

Irresistible Aroma: The enchanting scent of cinnamon and cream cheese fills your kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that enhances any holiday occasion.

Quick to Make: These delicious cookies come together in no time, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying festive moments with family.

Soft and Buttery: Each bite is a dreamy combination of tender cookie and rich creaminess, leaving your taste buds craving just one more!

Perfect for Gifting: Imagine these snowball cookies beautifully packaged in a decorative tin, making them a delightful gift for friends and neighbors during the holiday season—sure to impress everyone!

Versatile Treat: Feel free to experiment by adding your favorite ingredients, like nuts or chocolate chips, for a unique twist to the classic snowball.

Crowd-Pleaser: These cookies are destined to become a staple at your holiday gatherings, much like our Pumpkin Cream Cheese or Blueberry Cream Cheese delights!

Cinnamon Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies Ingredients

For the Dough
• Unbleached All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
• Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and softness; can be replaced with granulated sugar, but will change the texture.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; ensure it is at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Cream Cheese – Contributes to creaminess and moisture; try Neufchâtel for a lower-fat alternative.
• Large Egg – Acts as a binder, adding moisture; use a flax egg for a vegan option (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; swap in almond extract for a unique spin!
• Kosher Salt – Balances sweetness; regular salt can work if kosher salt isn’t handy.
• Ground Cinnamon – Provides a warm, aromatic flavor; adjust the amount to taste for your perfect cinnamon cookie.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent; always check for freshness for the best rise.
• Powdered Sugar (for rolling) – Coats the cookies for an extra touch of sweetness post-baking.

For Rolling
• Powdered Sugar – Sift it generously over the cookies once they’ve cooled to create that perfect sweet, snow-dusted finish.

These Cinnamon Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies will soon fill your home with holiday cheer and delightful aromas! Happy baking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, this is a great time to gather and measure all your ingredients for the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies. Prepping everything will make the mixing process smoother and more enjoyable.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the room temperature unsalted butter and cream cheese until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture looks creamy and smooth without lumps, creating a rich base for your delicious cookie dough.

Step 3: Incorporate the Powdered Sugar
Gradually sift in the powdered sugar while continuing to mix on low speed until everything is well blended. This sweet ingredient gives your Cinnamon Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Stop mixing once the sugar is incorporated, as over-mixing can lead to tough cookies.

Step 4: Add the Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated into the batter. This will provide moisture and bind the ingredients together, creating a cohesive dough. Look for a smooth and creamy consistency before moving on to the dry ingredients, which will enhance the flavor of your cookies.

Step 5: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the unbleached all-purpose flour, kosher salt, ground cinnamon, and baking powder. This step not only combines the dry ingredients but also ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed. As you whisk, you’ll notice the warm aroma of cinnamon—a delightful hint of what’s to come!

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the dough for your Cinnamon Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies to remain tender. Scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is incorporated, but stop once there are no visible flour pockets.

Step 7: Prepare for Rolling
Set out a bowl filled with powdered sugar to roll the cookies in later. This will help create that signature sweet coating that complements the soft inside of the cookies. Having this ready in advance streamlines the process, making it easier and more efficient as you shape the dough.

Step 8: Shape the Dough
Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, portion out the dough and gently roll each piece into a ball. Each dough ball should be about one inch in size. Roll the shaped dough in the bowl of powdered sugar, ensuring a generous coating that will form a lovely snow-dusted finish after baking.

Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Place the powdered sugar-coated dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about one inch apart. Bake in your preheated oven for 11-12 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly browned. Keep an eye on them, as you want the tops to remain pale and soft, granting your cookies their delightful texture.

Step 10: Cool and Roll Again
Once out of the oven, let your Cinnamon Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. Once they’re just cool enough to handle, roll them in more powdered sugar for that classic, sweet appearance. Allow them to cool completely to enhance their flavor and texture before enjoying!

Step 11: Store or Serve
As these lovely cookies cool completely, it’s the perfect time to decide whether to serve them fresh or store them for later. Store any extra cookies in an airtight container, where they’ll remain delightfully soft for days. Enjoy sharing these sweet treats with family and friends during the festive season!

How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature to maintain their soft texture.
Fridge: If you want to extend their freshness, store the cookies in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Ensure they are covered to prevent drying out.
Freezer (Cooked): Freeze fully baked cookies in a single layer separated by parchment paper in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy!
Freezer (Uncooked Dough): If you prefer to bake later, freeze the uncooked dough balls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking as directed.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Cinnamon Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks who love meal prep! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For even longer storage, you can scoop and shape the cookie dough balls, roll them in powdered sugar, and freeze them for up to one month. When you’re ready to bake, simply take them straight from the freezer to the oven—no thawing needed! Just remember to add an extra minute or two to the baking time for the frozen dough. This way, you’ll be able to enjoy fresh cookies with minimal effort during the busy holiday season!

What to Serve with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies?

As you prepare to indulge in these delightful treats, consider what pairs beautifully with their soft, buttery charm to create a full holiday experience.

Rich Hot Chocolate: The creamy sweetness complements the golden cookies perfectly, making every bite feel like a warm hug on a chilly evening.
Spiced Chai Latte: The aromatic blend of spices enhances the cinnamon in the cookies, creating a cozy and inviting flavor experience for your taste buds.
Classic Eggnog: This festive drink adds a creamy, nutmeg-infused festive touch that beautifully balances the sweetness of the cookies.
Fresh Berries: Tart raspberries or strawberries offer a bright contrast to the richness of the cookies, adding freshness to your dessert spread.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream melting atop the warm cookies creates a heavenly experience that’s perfect for making memories.
Cinnamon Sugar Pecans: These crunchy treats echo the cookie’s flavors while adding textural contrast, making every bite a delightful adventure.
Holiday Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits, like pomegranate and citrus, refreshes the palate and serves as a vibrant counterpoint to the cookies’ richness.
Dark Roast Coffee: A smooth dark roast elevates the cookies, cutting through their sweetness and creating an energizing finish to your festive meal.

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easy mixing. This will guarantee a smoother dough for your cinnamon cream cheese snowball cookies.
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the soft, tender texture we crave.
Taste Adjustment: Feel free to adjust the amount of ground cinnamon based on your preference. A bit more could enhance that warm, holiday flavor!
Proper Baking: Watch the cookies closely in the oven; the edges should be lightly browned while keeping that soft center. This balance is key for a delightful bite.
Storage Solutions: Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. For longer storage, freeze the uncooked dough, then bake as desired!

Cinnamon Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies Variations

Feel free to make these Cinnamon Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies your own with these delightful twists and tweaks!

Nutty Note: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delicious crunch that complements the creamy texture beautifully. The nuttiness enhances the flavor and adds delightful texture to each bite.
Chocolate Delight: Mix in chocolate chips to the dough for an indulgent treat. You can also drizzle melted chocolate on top for a festive touch that will have everyone reaching for seconds!
Cocoa Dusted: Roll the cookies in a blend of powdered sugar and cocoa powder after baking for a chocolatey upgrade. This twist adds a unique flavor profile that chocolate lovers will adore!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the dough for a warm, spiced twist that elevates the holiday spirit. The combination of spices will wake up your taste buds and make these cookies even more aromatic.
Vegan Option: Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use plant-based butter and cream cheese for a compassionate version that everyone can enjoy.
Fancy Citrus: Incorporate zest from an orange or lemon into the dough for a refreshing flavor burst. This citrusy twist beautifully balances the richness of cream cheese, making them uniquely delightful.
Almond Twist: Replace the vanilla extract with almond extract for a subtle, nutty flavor that adds depth. Almond enhances both the aroma and taste of these festive cookies, creating a unique holiday indulgence!

These variations ensure that your Cinnamon Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies can cater to every palate. Experimenting with flavors can lead to new family favorites! You might also want to consider our delicious Cookies Cream Cupcakes for a fun dessert option!

Cinnamon Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my cream cheese is fresh enough to use?
It’s best to use cream cheese that is within its expiration date and has a smooth texture. Avoid any blocks that have developed hard spots, an off smell, or a change in color.

How should I store my Cinnamon Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, keep them in the fridge where they can last about 1 week. Just remember to cover them well to keep them moist!

Can I freeze Cinnamon Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies?
Absolutely! Bake and fully cool your cookies, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, bundle them in an airtight container with parchment paper in between layers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough becomes too sticky to handle, you can chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will firm up the dough and make it easier to roll into balls. Also, make sure not to add too much liquid or skip flour during preparation, as that can lead to stickiness.

Are Cinnamon Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies suitable for people with gluten intolerance?
They can be made gluten-free with the right substitute! Simply replace the unbleached all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just be sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the dough?
Certainly! Feel free to fold in 1/2 cup of finely chopped nuts or chocolate chips after mixing your dough. This will add texture and a delightful variation to your Cinnamon Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies—truly a personal touch!