If you are seeking a delightful twist on classic cookies that deliver irresistible softness with every bite, this Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe is exactly what your sweet tooth needs. Combining the tangy richness of cream cheese with a buttery, tender crumb, these cookies offer a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s both comforting and wonderfully unique. Whether you’re baking for a cozy afternoon treat or impressing guests with homemade goodies, these cookies bring a perfect balance of flavor and texture that will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the foundation of any great recipe, and this Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe is no exception. Each component plays a specific role, from the cream cheese providing moisture and a subtle tang, to the flour giving the dough structure and the sugar adding just the right touch of sweetness.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that shapes the cookie’s soft yet sturdy texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with cookie browning for that lovely golden hue.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Essential for a gentle rise and tender crumb.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- 8 oz cream cheese (full-fat): Offers creamy tanginess and unbeatable softness.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): Brings rich buttery flavor and contributes to the cookie’s tenderness.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses fragrant warmth and depth of flavor.
- 2 large eggs: Acts as a binder and adds moisture for a luscious texture.
How to Make Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dry Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) and lining baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup. Then, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl to evenly distribute the leavening agent and seasoning throughout the dough.
Step 2: Cream the Cheese and Butter
In a separate large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is crucial because it creates the light, airy base that makes these cookies so delectably tender.
Step 3: Add Sugar and Eggs
Gradually incorporate the granulated sugar into the cream cheese and butter, continuing to beat until the mixture becomes fluffy and pale. Then add in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully combined before adding the next. This process helps incorporate air for a soft, moist cookie texture.
Step 4: Stir in Vanilla Extract
Mix in the vanilla extract to infuse your cookies with a delicious, warm aroma that complements the creamy tang of the cream cheese perfectly.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients gently and just until combined. It’s important not to overmix here, as that can toughen the dough and compromise the cookie’s signature softness.
Step 6: Scoop and Bake
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop dough portions evenly spaced onto the prepared baking sheets. Bake the cookies for 12 to 15 minutes or until their edges begin to turn a lovely light golden color, signaling that they are perfectly done yet still tender inside.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Sometimes simple is best! A light dusting of powdered sugar can add a pretty snow-kissed effect and subtle sweetness. Alternatively, a drizzle of melted white chocolate or a sprinkle of finely chopped nuts provides a bit of elegance and texture contrast.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a chilled glass of milk. Their rich cream cheese flavor and pillowy texture make them a perfect companion for any warm beverage or a refreshing cooler.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking these cookies into a charming tower tied with a ribbon for a gift or party centerpiece. You can also sandwich them with your favorite jam or chocolate spread to transform them into delightful cookie sandwiches that will wow friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your cream cheese cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps them soft and flavorful without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to keep these cookies longer, you can freeze the baked cookies in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to three months. Be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Reheating
Warm frozen cookies gently in a microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5 minutes. This will revive their soft texture and bring back that fresh-baked warmth.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese instead of full-fat?
While full-fat cream cheese provides the best texture and flavor, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese. Just keep in mind the cookies may be slightly less rich and tender.
Do I need to chill the dough before baking?
This recipe doesn’t require chilling the dough, which makes it quick and convenient, but chilling can help prevent spreading if you want thicker cookies.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit can elevate the cookies and add delightful texture, just fold them gently after combining your wet and dry ingredients.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
The classic recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can try a gluten-free flour blend to make the recipe suitable for gluten-free diets.
How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Stored properly, these cream cheese cookies remain soft and delicious for up to three days at room temperature, making them perfect for quick snacking or sharing.
Final Thoughts
This Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe is a true game-changer, delivering a cookie that’s wonderfully soft, flavorful, and easy to make. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, these cookies will quickly become a go-to staple for celebrations, gifts, or simply treating yourself. Give them a try—you’ll be amazed at how something so simple can taste so incredible!
Print
Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delightfully soft and tender Cream Cheese Cookies that melt in your mouth, combining the rich tanginess of cream cheese with the comforting sweetness of vanilla and sugar. Perfect for a simple yet indulgent treat, these cookies are quick to prepare and bake to golden perfection in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese (full-fat), softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning.
- Beat cream cheese and butter: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, forming a fluffy base for the cookies.
- Add sugar and eggs: Gradually add the granulated sugar into the cream cheese and butter mixture, then incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a light and fluffy texture.
- Stir in vanilla extract: Mix the vanilla extract into the wet ingredients for a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall cookie taste.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture until just combined, taking care not to overmix which can make the cookies tough.
- Shape and bake: Using a cookie scoop, drop individual portions of the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them evenly. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature to achieve the smoothest dough texture.
- Do not overmix the dough after combining wet and dry ingredients to avoid tough cookies.
- If you prefer a sweeter cookie, you can increase sugar by 1/4 cup.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Adding a pinch of cinnamon or lemon zest can add a nice twist to the flavor.
