Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies are the ultimate mash-up dessert that combines soft cinnamon sugar cookies with creamy cheesecake filling and a sweet glaze on top. These Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies taste like a classic cinnamon roll but in thick, chewy cookie form. With warm cinnamon flavor, rich cream cheese center, and a drizzle of icing, this recipe delivers bakery-style results right from your kitchen. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, hosting a brunch, or just craving something cozy and sweet, these cookies are guaranteed to impress.
Key Takeaways
• Soft, thick bakery-style cookies
• Creamy cheesecake center surprise
• Classic cinnamon roll flavor
• Perfect for fall and holiday baking
• Beginner-friendly step-by-step recipe
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you love cinnamon rolls and cheesecake, this recipe gives you the best of both worlds. The cookies are soft and slightly chewy with crisp edges, while the center stays rich and creamy thanks to the cheesecake filling. Unlike traditional cinnamon rolls, these cookies don’t require yeast or long rising times, making them much quicker to prepare. They also store well, making them ideal for holiday cookie trays, gifting, or make-ahead desserts.
Ingredients
For the Cheesecake Filling:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cookie Dough:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
1/3 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Equipment
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Cookie scoop
Cooling rack
Step-by-Step Instructions
In a small bowl, mix softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Scoop small portions onto a lined tray and freeze for about 30 minutes until firm.
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
In a large bowl, beat butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully combined.
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon for the swirl mixture.
Scoop cookie dough balls and flatten slightly. Place a frozen cheesecake filling portion in the center, then wrap the dough around it to seal completely.
Roll each stuffed cookie ball lightly in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 11–13 minutes, or until edges are golden and centers are set.
Allow cookies to cool completely before drizzling with glaze made by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.
Tips & Variations
Chill the dough for 20 minutes if it feels too soft.
Do not overbake to keep centers soft.
Add a swirl of cream cheese frosting instead of glaze for extra richness.
For extra cinnamon flavor, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar before baking.
Store cheesecake filling in freezer until ready to use to prevent leaks.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies slightly warm for the best texture. They pair beautifully with coffee, hot chocolate, or a cold glass of milk. These cookies are perfect for holiday cookie exchanges, fall gatherings, or weekend baking sessions.
Storage & Reheating
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Let them come to room temperature before serving.
You can freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months.
Nutrition (approx.)
Calories: 280 per cookie
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fat: 14g
Protein: 3g
Sugar: 22g
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and freeze stuffed dough balls, then bake fresh when ready.
Why is my cheesecake filling leaking?
Make sure it’s fully frozen and the dough seals completely around it.
Can I skip the glaze?
Yes, but the glaze adds that classic cinnamon roll flavor.
Do I need to refrigerate them?
Yes, because of the cream cheese filling.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies are soft, creamy, and packed with warm cinnamon flavor in every bite. With a rich cheesecake center and sweet glaze drizzle, they deliver everything you love about cinnamon rolls in an easy-to-make cookie form. Once you bake these, they’ll quickly become one of your favorite dessert recipes.