Cream Cheese Cookies

These soft and buttery cream cheese cookies are a delightful treat that melt in your mouth with every bite. Slightly tangy from the cream cheese and perfectly sweet, they are great for any occasion, whether you’re baking for the holidays or simply craving a homemade dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super soft and melt-in-your-mouth texture
• Easy to make with simple ingredients
• Perfect balance of sweetness and slight tanginess
• Great for holidays, tea parties, or an everyday treat
• Customizable with different flavors and toppings

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cream cheese
• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Powdered sugar (optional for dusting)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the granulated sugar and continue mixing until well combined.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
7. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
10. Dust with powdered sugar if desired and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 24 cookies
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Chip: Fold in mini chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
• Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest for a refreshing citrus note.
• Nutty Flavor: Mix in finely chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for added texture.
• Glazed Cookies: Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
• Cinnamon Sugar: Roll the dough balls in cinnamon sugar before baking for a snickerdoodle-like flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to a week for extended freshness.
• Freezing: Freeze baked cookies in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: If needed, warm them slightly in the microwave for 5-10 seconds.

FAQs

How do I make these cookies extra soft?

Use room-temperature butter and cream cheese, and do not overbake them.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, but the cookies may be slightly less rich and creamy.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! Store the dough in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking.

Why did my cookies turn out flat?

Make sure to properly measure your flour and chill the dough if it’s too soft.

Can I use flavored cream cheese?

Yes! Try strawberry or honey pecan cream cheese for a fun variation.

Do I need to refrigerate the dough before baking?

Not necessarily, but chilling can help the cookies hold their shape better.

Can I substitute baking soda for baking powder?

No, baking soda has different leavening properties and may alter the texture.

How can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute for best results.

What can I use instead of vanilla extract?

Try almond extract, lemon extract, or maple syrup for a different flavor.

Can I add frosting to these cookies?

Yes! A simple cream cheese or buttercream frosting would pair beautifully.

Conclusion

Cream cheese cookies are the perfect combination of soft, chewy, and deliciously rich flavors. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a delightful treat that’s great for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or jazzed up with add-ins, these cookies are sure to be a hit!

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