Sweet, fluffy, and perfectly spiced—this Cinnamon Swirl Cream Cheese Frosting adds a cozy twist to cupcakes, cakes, and fall bakes.

This Cinnamon Swirl Cream Cheese Frosting is everything you want in a fall-inspired topping—smooth, fluffy, and just the right amount of sweet. The combination of cold cream cheese, vanilla, and warm cinnamon creates a frosting that’s rich, pipeable, and perfect for adding a cozy finish to cupcakes, layer cakes, or apple treats. If you’re looking for a cinnamon cream cheese frosting that’s simple to make but tastes bakery-level, this one delivers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fluffy and smooth with a creamy texture
• Balanced sweetness with a warm cinnamon kick
• Pipeable and easy to spread on cupcakes, cakes, and bars
• Pairs perfectly with fall desserts like spice cake or apple cupcakes
• Made with simple ingredients and ready in minutes
• Includes cinnamon and vanilla for rich seasonal flavor

Ingredient Notes

• Cream cheese – Use it cold for a slightly thicker texture that holds up well for piping. Brick-style cream cheese works best here.
• Salted butter – Softened butter adds richness and balances the sweetness. You can use unsalted if preferred and add a pinch of salt.
• Powdered sugar – Adds sweetness and structure. Sift it for an extra-smooth finish.
• Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth. A good quality pure vanilla makes a big difference in flavor.
• Ground cinnamon – Brings cozy spice and makes this frosting feel extra fall-ready. 
• Heavy cream or milk – Use just enough to create a pipeable consistency. Heavy cream makes it a little more luxurious.

Cinnamon Swirl Cream Cheese Frosting

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• Author: Taryn Camp

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz cold cream cheese
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) salted butter, softened
• 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the cold cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth and fluffy.
2. Add the powdered sugar gradually, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in the vanilla and cinnamon, then mix in just enough cream or milk until the frosting is silky, spreadable, and perfect for piping.

FAQ

Can I make this frosting ahead of time?
Yes! You can make it up to 2–3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes before re-whipping and using.

Can I use this frosting on warm baked goods?
Wait until your cake or cupcakes are fully cooled. This cream cheese frosting will melt or slide off if applied to anything too warm.

Can I color this frosting?
Absolutely. Gel food coloring works best to maintain the texture, especially if you plan to pipe it.

Can I freeze leftover frosting?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to a month. Thaw it in the fridge overnight, then beat until fluffy before using again.

Sprinkle of Fun

Whip up this Cinnamon Swirl Cream Cheese Frosting while planning your fall bake sale lineup—there’s something extra satisfying about piping swirls onto cupcakes and imagining them on an autumn table surrounded by pumpkin decor and crisp leaves.