Soft, creamy, and full of cozy spice, this cinnamon cream cheese frosting transforms any dessert into something special. Whether you’re topping cupcakes, cakes, or your favorite fall treats, this rich and tangy frosting adds just the right hint of warmth from cinnamon. It’s smooth, pipeable, and ready in minutes with simple ingredients you likely have on hand. If you’re looking for a homemade frosting that’s easy and packed with flavor, you’re in the right place.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Takes only 5 to 10 minutes from start to finish with minimal effort
- Perfectly Pipeable: Holds its shape beautifully for decorating cupcakes and cakes
- Incredibly Flavorful: Combines tangy cream cheese, sweet powdered sugar, and warm cinnamon for a balanced taste
- Simple Ingredients: Made using everyday pantry staples you probably already have
Ingredients Needed
This frosting relies on a few key ingredients, but each one plays an important role in the texture and flavor.
Cream Cheese
Use full-fat, block-style cream cheese, not the spreadable type from a tub. The block version has lower moisture, which gives your frosting a firmer, more pipeable consistency. Room temperature cream cheese also blends better and prevents lumps.
Unsalted Butter
Softened butter at room temperature ensures a smooth mix. Cold butter can cause clumps, while melted butter makes the frosting too loose. Stick with unsalted to control the flavor more precisely.
Powdered Sugar
Provides structure and sweetness. Sifting the sugar before mixing helps avoid a gritty texture and blends everything evenly.
Vanilla Extract
Adds a gentle warmth and enhances the overall flavor. Use pure vanilla if possible.
Ground Cinnamon
Ceylon cinnamon works best for a sweeter and more complex flavor. It’s known as “true” cinnamon and contains lower levels of coumarin, making it a better choice for regular use. Cassia cinnamon is more common and offers a sharper taste. Either can be used, but Ceylon gives a smoother finish.
Suggested Measurements
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened (226 grams, 8 oz)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (113 grams, 4 oz)
- 4 cups powdered sugar (510 grams, 18 oz)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 to 1 tablespoon ground Ceylon cinnamon, based on your taste preference
How to Make Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
Follow these steps to get smooth, flavorful frosting every time.
1. Sift the powdered sugar and cinnamon together
This removes any lumps and helps the spices mix evenly. Set the mixture aside for later.
2. Beat the cream cheese and butter
Place the softened cream cheese and butter in a large mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat them until the texture becomes light and fluffy. This usually takes about two minutes. A smooth base here means a better final result.
3. Add the vanilla extract
Pour in the vanilla and mix just until combined. This boosts the depth of flavor without overpowering the cinnamon.
4. Add the sugar and cinnamon blend
Turn off the mixer and gently add the sifted powdered sugar and cinnamon to the bowl. This avoids a sugar cloud when you turn the mixer back on.
5. Start mixing slowly
With the mixer on low speed, gradually combine everything until you no longer see dry spots. This step keeps the sugar from flying everywhere and gives you control over the texture.
6. Finish with a final whip
Once fully combined, increase the mixer to medium-high for about one minute. The frosting should look smooth and fluffy at this point.
7. Store if needed
If you’re not using it right away, cover the frosting tightly with a lid or plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to five days. Always keep it covered to prevent the surface from drying out and forming a crust.
Pro Tips for Flawless Frosting
Bring Ingredients to Room Temperature
Cold cream cheese or butter can cause lumps. Let both sit out until soft to the touch for a smooth, easy blend.
Use the Towel Trick
To avoid powdered sugar dust flying everywhere, drape a clean dish towel over the mixer bowl before turning it on. This simple step keeps your kitchen clean.
Don’t Over-Mix
Stop mixing once everything looks smooth. Over-whipping can break down the structure of cream cheese and create a gummy or runny texture, especially with certain brands.
Taste as You Go
If you like a stronger cinnamon flavor, you can add a little more ground cinnamon after the first full mix. Start small to avoid overpowering the frosting.
Adjust Texture If Needed
Too soft? Chill for 20 to 30 minutes. Too stiff? Add a teaspoon of milk or heavy cream until it softens slightly. Keep your frosting just right for piping or spreading.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions
This frosting pairs well with both classic and seasonal desserts. Spread it thick on spice cakes, swirl it high on cupcakes, or use it as a filling between soft cookies. For clean swirls or sharp edges, use a piping bag with your favorite tip.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to five days. Before using again, let it sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes, then stir gently to bring back its creamy texture. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then re-whip to restore consistency.
Best Ways to Use Your Cinnamon Frosting
Carrot Cake or Spice Cake
The warm cinnamon flavor complements the earthy sweetness of carrot and spice cakes perfectly. Spread a generous layer on top or between layers for added depth.
Cinnamon Rolls
Use this frosting as a rich topping for freshly baked cinnamon rolls. Apply while warm so it melts slightly, creating a creamy glaze-like finish.
Pumpkin Cupcakes or Apple Spice Cake
Pair this frosting with pumpkin or apple-based treats for a cozy, fall-inspired dessert. The tangy cream cheese balances the natural sweetness of these bakes.
Cookies and Brownies
Add a swirl on top of sugar cookies or sandwich between soft oatmeal cookies. You can also spread it over brownies for a sweet and spiced twist.
Banana Bread or Muffins
Use it as a topping on banana bread or muffins for a bakery-style upgrade. It adds flavor and makes your homemade treats feel extra special.
Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 18 to 24 cupcakes or one 9×13 cake 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft, creamy, and full of cozy spice, this cinnamon cream cheese frosting transforms any dessert into something special. Whether you’re topping cupcakes, cakes, or your favorite fall treats, this rich and tangy frosting adds just the right hint of warmth from cinnamon.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened (226 grams, 8 oz)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (113 grams, 4 oz)
- 4 cups powdered sugar (510 grams, 18 oz)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 to 1 tablespoon ground Ceylon cinnamon, based on your taste preference
Instructions
- Sift the powdered sugar and cinnamon together to remove lumps and mix evenly. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Turn off the mixer and gently add the sifted powdered sugar and cinnamon mixture to the bowl.
- With the mixer on low speed, gradually mix until no dry spots remain.
- Increase to medium-high speed and whip for about one minute until smooth and fluffy.
- If not using immediately, store tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Notes
For best texture, use full-fat block-style cream cheese and softened butter. Adjust cinnamon to taste and texture with milk or refrigeration if needed. Let sit at room temperature before spreading if chilled.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Frosting, Dessert
- Method: No-bake, Mixer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake portion
- Calories: 235 kcal
- Sugar: 29g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Conclusion
This cinnamon cream cheese frosting brings together smooth texture, rich flavor, and just the right touch of spice. It’s quick to make, easy to work with, and pairs beautifully with everything from cupcakes to cinnamon rolls. Whether you’re frosting a fall dessert or adding flair to a weekday bake, this recipe delivers.
If you gave this recipe a try, leave a star rating and a comment below. I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Did you go with Ceylon or Cassia cinnamon? Tag your creations on social media so others can see your delicious results.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does cream cheese frosting need to be refrigerated?
Yes, cream cheese frosting should always be stored in the refrigerator. It contains dairy, which can spoil if left out for too long. Keep it chilled when not in use and bring it to room temperature before spreading.
What kind of cream cheese is best for frosting?
Full-fat, block-style cream cheese works best. Avoid whipped or spreadable versions from a tub, as they contain more moisture and can make your frosting too soft or runny.
How to make cream cheese icing for cinnamon buns?
Use the same recipe and apply the frosting while the buns are still warm. This allows the icing to melt slightly and coat the rolls evenly, creating a gooey, flavorful topping.
How to thicken cinnamon icing?
If your frosting feels too thin, try refrigerating it for 20 to 30 minutes. You can also add more powdered sugar or a small amount of cornstarch to firm it up without changing the flavor.
Why do people put butter in cream cheese frosting?
Butter helps create a smooth, fluffy texture and adds richness. It also makes the frosting more stable, which is especially helpful if you’re piping it onto cakes or cupcakes.
Is cinnamon good in cream cheese frosting?
Yes, cinnamon adds warmth and depth to the tangy base of cream cheese. It creates a cozy, flavorful frosting that pairs well with a wide range of baked goods. Ceylon cinnamon offers a milder, more complex flavor, while Cassia gives a sharper, spicier kick.
