Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 2 1/4 cups
- Unsalted butter, softened: 1 cup (2 sticks)
- Granulated sugar: 3/4 cup
- Cream cheese, softened: 4 ounces
- Large egg: 1
- Baking powder: 1 teaspoon
- Light brown sugar, packed: 1/2 cup (for the swirl)
- Ground cinnamon: 1 tablespoon (for the swirl)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and softened cream cheese until the mixture is light and fluffy. Beat in the egg until fully incorporated.
- Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until the dough just comes together. Do not overmix.
- Step 3: On a sheet of lightly floured parchment paper, flatten the dough into an approximate 12×8-inch rectangle, about 1/2-inch thick. Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together, then sprinkle the mixture evenly over the entire surface of the flattened dough.
- Step 4: Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a compact log, using the parchment paper to guide the roll. Wrap the finished log tightly in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for a minimum of 2 hours, or until the dough is firm enough to slice without deforming.
- Step 5: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the chilled dough log into 1-inch thick rounds and place them 2 inches apart on baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Bake for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden brown.
Notes
- Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate them if you prefer a firmer texture or need longer storage time due to the cream cheese base.
- If enjoying leftovers, a quick reheat of 8–10 seconds in the microwave will bring back the soft, warm gooeyness of the cinnamon sugar swirl.
- For an elevated treat, serve these warm cookies drizzled with a simple powdered sugar glaze or paired with a hot cup of black coffee.
- Chef's Tip: Ensure your dough log is rolled as tightly and compactly as possible; this prevents the swirl from unraveling and guarantees defined, beautiful cinnamon rings in every cookie.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 large cookie
- Calories: 198
- Sodium: 110mg
- Fat: 11.0g
- Saturated Fat: 7.2g
- Trans Fat: 0.1g
- Protein: 18.0g