Cranberry Cream Cheese Snickerdoodles Recipe

If you’re a fan of cozy, chewy cookies packed with a burst of tart sweetness, then this Cranberry Cream Cheese Snickerdoodles Recipe is calling your name. These snickerdoodles bring together the beloved cinnamon sugar crust with a soft, dreamy cream cheese center and tangy dried cranberries for a delightful twist. With each bite, you’ll experience a perfect blend of classic warmth and festive flavor that’s sure to become a new favorite in your cookie lineup.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, kitchen-friendly ingredients is key to the magic behind this recipe. Each component plays an essential role in crafting the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color that makes these snickerdoodles truly unforgettable.

• Unsalted butter: Provides richness and moisture to keep the cookies tender.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that classic snickerdoodle texture.
• Brown sugar: Brings a subtle depth and chewiness thanks to its molasses content.
• Large egg: Binds ingredients together while contributing to the cookie’s soft structure.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances flavor with a warm, aromatic note.
• All-purpose flour: The backbone that gives the cookies their shape and structure.
• Baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and achieve that perfect lightness.
• Cream of tartar: Adds signature tang and chew to snickerdoodles.
• Cinnamon: Infuses the dough and coating with comforting spice.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and brightens flavors.
• Dried cranberries: Introduce bursts of tartness and festive color.
• Cream cheese: Creates a luscious, creamy center that melts in your mouth.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling to silky perfection.
• Granulated sugar and ground cinnamon (for coating): Create the iconic snickerdoodle crust with a cinnamon sugar kiss.

How to Make Cranberry Cream Cheese Snickerdoodles Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your cookies bake evenly without sticking, offering the perfect surface for these goodies to develop a beautiful golden base.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, mix the softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial to creating a tender crumb and ensuring the sugar is well distributed for even sweetness in every bite.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Whisk in the egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and cohesive. This adds moisture and binds your ingredients, setting the stage for a rich flavor profile that complements the cranberries and cream cheese filling beautifully.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, cinnamon, and salt. This blend of dry ingredients ensures your cookies have the signature snickerdoodle tang and just the right rise and texture.

Step 5: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients and Add Cranberries

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, careful not to overmix. Then, gently fold in the chopped dried cranberries, distributing those bright pops of tartness throughout the dough.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

Beat together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until silky smooth. This luscious filling adds an unexpected layer of creamy sweetness that makes each bite a delightful surprise.

Step 7: Fill and Shape the Cookies

Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place a small dollop of the cream cheese filling in the center, then fold the dough around it to seal and encase the filling completely. This little step transforms your cookies from simple treats into something truly special.

Step 8: Roll in Cinnamon Sugar

Roll each filled cookie ball in a mixture of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon, ensuring every surface is coated for that classic snickerdoodle sparkle and spice.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Arrange the coated dough balls on your prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes. Look for edges that are set with tops just turning lightly golden – that’s when the cookies are perfectly baked with a soft center and slightly crisp outside.

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling period lets the cream cheese filling set slightly while you anticipate that wonderful first bite.

How to Serve Cranberry Cream Cheese Snickerdoodles Recipe

Garnishes

Finish your snickerdoodles with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a few extra chopped cranberries on top before baking to add visual appeal and a hint of freshness that enhances every flavor.

Side Dishes

These cozy cookies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of spiced chai tea, creamy latte, or a simple glass of cold milk. The warm spices in the drink complement the cinnamon and cream cheese perfectly, creating a comforting snack or dessert moment.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider sandwiching two cranberry cream cheese snickerdoodles together with extra cream cheese frosting for an indulgent twist. Or serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream dotted with dried cranberries for a decadent dessert plate that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your leftover Cranberry Cream Cheese Snickerdoodles in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keeping them sealed preserves their softness and prevents the cream cheese from drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months. Simply shape and fill the dough as directed, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge before rolling in cinnamon sugar and baking.

Reheating

Warm the cookies gently in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a low oven for a few minutes to revive their soft, fresh-from-the-oven charm. This step brings the cream cheese filling back to a luscious, melty state.

FAQs

Can I substitute fresh cranberries for dried ones?

Fresh cranberries are much juicier and more tart than dried, which can affect the dough moisture and texture. If using fresh, chop finely and consider reducing other liquid elements slightly to maintain dough consistency.

Is it necessary to use cream of tartar in this recipe?

Cream of tartar is key in traditional snickerdoodles because it provides that signature tang and chewiness. Omitting it may alter texture and flavor, but baking powder can be used as a partial substitute with slightly different results.

How can I make these cookies vegan?

You can replace the butter with vegan margarine and use a flax egg instead of a chicken egg. For the cream cheese filling, vegan cream cheese works well. Keep in mind texture and flavor may vary slightly.

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of dried?

The excess moisture in frozen cranberries can make the dough too wet and affect baking. It’s best to use dried cranberries or pat frozen cranberries dry if used, though dried are preferred for this recipe’s texture.

What is the best way to seal the cream cheese filling inside the dough?

Make sure the dough is slightly flattened and use your fingertips to carefully pinch the edges around the filling, completely enclosing it to prevent leakage while baking. This keeps the cream cheese center delightfully intact.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Cranberry Cream Cheese Snickerdoodles Recipe, you’ll understand why it’s such a treasured twist on a classic cookie. The blend of cozy cinnamon, sweet-tart cranberries, and creamy filling results in a delightful balance that’s perfect any time of year. I can’t wait for you to bake these and discover how irresistibly good homemade cookies with a surprise center can be!

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