Name: Cinnamon Kissed Cheesecake Donut Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-484659H15M29S
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Cinnamon Kissed Cheesecake Donut Cookies are a delightful treat that brings together the comforting flavors of a classic donut, the creaminess of cheesecake, and a sweet dusting of cinnamon sugar. These cookies are a perfect balance of soft and chewy, with the rich, velvety cheesecake filling wrapped in a cinnamon-sugar kissed dough. They’re the kind of cookies that will make your kitchen smell like a bakery, and once you take a bite, you won’t be able to stop at just one. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion, a family treat, or just because, these cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Cheesecake Flavor in a Cookie

If you love the rich, creamy taste of cheesecake, these cookies deliver that indulgent flavor without the need for a fork or plate.

2. Soft and Chewy Texture

The dough is soft and chewy, and the cheesecake center adds an extra layer of smooth creaminess that makes these cookies irresistible.

3. Cinnamon-Sugar Perfection

The warm cinnamon sugar coating gives each cookie a delightful sweetness and a little bit of spice, making them taste like a delicious donut with a twist.

4. Unique and Fun

These cookies are a fun and unique treat that combines two favorite desserts: cheesecake and donuts. It’s a great conversation starter at gatherings.

5. Versatile for Any Occasion

Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering, a casual family dinner, or just enjoying a sweet snack at home, these cookies fit every occasion perfectly.

Ingredients

Cream cheese (softened)
Butter (softened)
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Vanilla extract
Large egg
All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Ground cinnamon
Granulated sugar (for cinnamon sugar coating)

Variations

Fruit Filling: Add a spoonful of fruit preserves or fresh berries into the cheesecake center for a fruity twist on these cookies.
Chocolate Chip Version: Mix in some mini chocolate chips into the dough or the cheesecake filling for a chocolatey surprise.
Vegan Option: Substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative, and use a flax egg in place of the regular egg for a vegan-friendly version.
Glazed Version: After baking, drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk over the top for an extra touch of sweetness.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set this mixture aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough

In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and mix until combined. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 3: Form the Cookies

Take a spoonful of cookie dough and flatten it into a disc. Place a teaspoon of the cheesecake filling in the center and gently fold the edges of the dough around the filling, sealing it completely. Roll the dough into a ball and set it aside.

Step 4: Cinnamon Sugar Coating

In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Roll each cookie dough ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture, making sure to coat it completely.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cinnamon sugar-coated dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the cookies are cooked through.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For a smoother, more even dough and filling, make sure both the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature.
Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to add too much cheesecake filling, or it might spill out during baking.
Space Out the Cookies: When placing the cookies on the baking sheet, ensure they’re spaced out to allow room for spreading.
Chill the Dough: If the dough becomes too sticky while working with it, refrigerate it for 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
Watch the Bake Time: Since oven temperatures can vary, start checking your cookies around the 10-minute mark to prevent overbaking.

How to Serve

These Cinnamon Kissed Cheesecake Donut Cookies are perfect for any occasion! Serve them as a sweet treat for brunch, a dessert after dinner, or even as a fun snack. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate indulgence. They’re great for sharing at gatherings or as a homemade gift wrapped in a festive box.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. They stay soft and delicious, maintaining their perfect texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the cookie dough balls before baking. Simply shape the dough, roll in cinnamon sugar, and place them on a baking sheet in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the bake time.

Reheating

To enjoy a warm cookie later, pop one or two in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, and they’ll be just as soft and gooey as when they were first baked.

FAQs

1. Can I use light cream cheese instead of regular cream cheese?

Yes, but be aware that the texture might be slightly different. Full-fat cream cheese will give you the richest flavor and creamiest filling.

2. How do I know when the cookies are done?

The edges should be golden brown, and the center should look set. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking, which can help improve the flavor and texture.

4. Can I add chocolate chips to the dough?

Definitely! Adding mini chocolate chips to the dough will give the cookies a delightful chocolatey surprise.

5. Can I freeze these cookies after baking?

Yes, these cookies freeze well! Store them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.

6. Can I use a different type of sugar for the cinnamon coating?

You can experiment with different sugars like brown sugar or coconut sugar, but granulated sugar gives the best texture for the coating.

7. How do I prevent the filling from leaking out during baking?

Make sure the dough completely covers the cheesecake filling and that it’s sealed well to prevent any leakage.

8. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.

9. Can I add fruit to the cheesecake filling?

Yes! You can add a spoonful of fruit preserves or fresh berries to the cheesecake filling before sealing the dough for a fruity twist.

10. What if I don’t have a wire rack to cool the cookies?

No worries! You can simply let the cookies cool on the baking sheet, just be sure to let them cool for a few minutes before transferring them.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Kissed Cheesecake Donut Cookies are a perfect blend of two beloved treats—donuts and cheesecake—wrapped in a soft, chewy cookie. With their delicious cheesecake center, warm cinnamon-sugar coating, and irresistible texture, these cookies are a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. Whether you’re serving them at a special occasion or enjoying them as a snack, they’re sure to impress everyone with their delightful flavor and unique twist on a classic dessert.