Name: Cream Cheese Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 2/3 cups All-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon Baking powder; ¼ teaspoon Salt; 2 tablespoons Cornstarch; ½ cup Unsalted butter; 4 ounces Cream cheese; 1 cup Granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon Almond extract; 1 large Large egg; Powdered sugar

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Whenever I think about the comfort of home baking, Cream Cheese Cookies come to mind. My first encounter with these delightful treats was during a cozy family gathering where the sweet aroma wafted through the air, wrapping us all in a warm embrace of nostalgia. These cookies, with their tender and chewy texture, are a testament to the magic that happens when simple ingredients come together. Each bite reveals the rich creaminess of the cream cheese, balanced perfectly with just the right amount of sweetness. I often find myself baking a batch to share with friends, or simply to indulge in a quiet moment with a cup of coffee.

The best part about Cream Cheese Cookies is their versatility. They can be dressed up for special occasions with a dusting of powdered sugar or served plain for an everyday treat. Over the years, I’ve experimented with various flavors and additions, but I always return to the classic version that started it all. Let me take you on this delicious journey as we explore why this recipe is a must-have in your dessert repertoire.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
110 kcal

Protein:
1 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
6 g

Tools Used:
Baking Sheet, Oven, Mixing Bowl, Whisk

What Sets This Cream Cheese Cookies Apart

Rich and Creamy Flavor

One of the standout features of Cream Cheese Cookies is their luxurious flavor. The addition of cream cheese makes the cookies incredibly moist, imparting a subtle tang that elevates the sweetness of the granulated sugar. It’s a flavor profile that’s both familiar and surprising, making these cookies a favorite among both kids and adults.

Perfect Texture

These cookies have a unique texture that strikes a balance between chewy and soft. Thanks to the combination of unsalted butter and cream cheese, they maintain a delightful fluffiness while still being sturdy enough to hold their shape. They don’t spread too much when baking, which means you get that lovely puffy look that’s so appealing.

Endless Customization

While this recipe is delightful as is, the beauty of Cream Cheese Cookies lies in their adaptability. You can easily add in your favorite mix-ins, like chocolate chips or nuts, or even switch up the extracts to create a totally different flavor. Every batch can be a new adventure!

Quick and Simple to Make

For those busy days when you still want to treat yourself, Cream Cheese Cookies are a perfect choice. They come together in no time, with minimal fuss. You’ll find that the ingredients are common pantry staples, which means you can whip up a batch whenever a craving hits.

Great for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a party, attending a potluck, or just want a sweet snack for your family, these cookies fit the bill. They are beautifully festive when dusted with powdered sugar, making them perfect for holidays or special gatherings. However, they are just as delightful for a casual afternoon treat.

Creates Happy Memories

Each time I bake Cream Cheese Cookies, I’m reminded of the joy that comes from sharing good food with loved ones. There’s something special about the act of baking—creating something from scratch that brings people together. These cookies have a way of sparking laughter and conversation, making them a staple in my kitchen.

Everything You Need for Cream Cheese Cookies

When it comes to making Cream Cheese Cookies, the ingredients are simple yet effective. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the perfect cookie. From the all-purpose flour that gives structure to the cream cheese that provides richness, these ingredients work harmoniously to create a delightful treat.

All-purpose flour (1 2/3 cups): The backbone of the cookie, it provides structure and stability, ensuring that our cookies hold their shape without being too dense.

Baking powder (1 teaspoon): This leavening agent is crucial for achieving that light and fluffy texture we all love in cookies.
Salt (¼ teaspoon): Even a small amount of salt enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors in the cookies.
Cornstarch (2 tablespoons): This is the secret ingredient that contributes to the soft and tender texture of the cookies, making them delightfully chewy.

Unsalted butter (½ cup): Adds richness and a wonderful flavor to the dough, making each bite feel indulgent.
Cream cheese (4 ounces): The star of the show, it brings moisture and a slight tanginess that sets these cookies apart from traditional recipes.
Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the cookies and helps create a tender crumb.

Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, sweet depth of flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Almond extract (½ teaspoon, optional): A lovely addition that enhances the flavor profile, giving a slight nutty note.
Large egg (1): Binds the ingredients together and provides moisture, ensuring that our cookies are soft.

Powdered sugar (for dusting): A final touch that adds a touch of elegance and sweetness to the finished cookies.

Recipe Directions for Cream Cheese Cookies

Baking Cream Cheese Cookies is a straightforward and enjoyable process, perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll soon have a batch of delicious cookies to share (or keep to yourself!).

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for bringing out the best in your cookies. While the oven is heating, line your cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup easier.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and cornstarch. This step is vital as it ensures the dry ingredients are evenly distributed. Set this mixture aside for now.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the unsalted butter and cream cheese. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, mix them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You want to achieve a light, fluffy texture, which should take about 1 to 2 minutes.
Add the granulated sugar to the butter and cream cheese mixture. Cream these together until fluffy, about another minute. The mixture should look light and airy, which is a sign that you’re on the right track.

Next, add the vanilla extract and almond extract (if using) along with the large egg. Mix until everything is well combined. This step is key for achieving a uniform flavor throughout your cookies.
Gradually add the dry ingredients from your earlier bowl into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies.
Now it’s time to scoop the dough. Using a 1-tablespoon cookie scoop, portion out the dough onto the prepared cookie sheets. Space them about 2 inches apart, as they will spread slightly while baking.

Place the cookie sheets in the oven and bake for 8 to 13 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as the bottoms should turn light golden and the tops should no longer be glossy. They won’t flatten much, so expect a slightly puffy shape.
Once baked, remove them from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.

Things Worth Knowing

Watch the baking time: Cookies can brown quickly on the bottom, so check them around the 8-minute mark.

Rotate your baking sheets: If your oven has hot spots, rotating the sheets halfway through baking can ensure even cooking.
Let them cool: Allowing cookies to cool on the sheet for a few minutes helps them set before moving them to a wire rack.
Experiment with flavors: While this recipe is delicious as is, feel free to try out different extracts or mix-ins to find your favorite combination.

Expert Tips about Cream Cheese Cookies

To ensure that your Cream Cheese Cookies turn out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them.
Freezing: These cookies freeze well! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a zip-top bag for longer storage.

Pairing: Enjoy these cookies with a cup of coffee or tea to balance the sweetness. They also make a great dessert alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Flavor variations: Feel free to add in chocolate chips, nuts, or even citrus zest to the dough for a unique twist.
Decoration: For a festive touch, consider drizzling melted white chocolate over the cooled cookies or adding sprinkles before baking.

Avoid overbaking: To maintain their soft texture, remove the cookies from the oven as soon as they are lightly golden.

What to Pair With Cream Cheese Cookies

When it comes to serving Cream Cheese Cookies, there are countless ways to enjoy them. Here are some ideas:

With Coffee: These cookies pair perfectly with a warm cup of coffee, enhancing the overall experience with every bite.

With Tea: A light herbal tea complements the sweetness of the cookies beautifully, making them an ideal afternoon snack.
At Celebrations: Serve these cookies at birthday parties, holiday gatherings, or as a sweet treat during family get-togethers.
Ice Cream Sandwiches: Create delightful ice cream sandwiches by adding a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies.

During Holidays: Dust them with powdered sugar and serve them during festive occasions like Christmas or Thanksgiving for an elegant touch.
Gift Giving: Package these cookies in a decorative box or tin for a thoughtful homemade gift.

FAQ

Absolutely! To freeze Cream Cheese Cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they are frozen solid. Then transfer them to an airtight container or a zip-top bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes until soft again.

The softness of Cream Cheese Cookies comes from the combination of cream cheese and unsalted butter in the recipe. These ingredients add moisture and fat, which contribute to a tender texture. Additionally, the use of cornstarch helps to create a chewy interior while keeping the edges slightly firm, resulting in that perfect cookie bite.

Certainly! One of the great things about Cream Cheese Cookies is their versatility. You can experiment with different extracts, such as lemon or coconut, to add a unique flavor profile. Additionally, incorporating mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits can bring an exciting twist to the traditional recipe. The possibilities are endless!

For the best freshness, store Cream Cheese Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. When kept in the freezer, they can last for up to three months. Just remember to let them reach room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.

Conclusion

The magic of Cream Cheese Cookies lies in their rich flavor and inviting texture, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. I encourage you to try baking these cookies and experience the joy they bring to both you and your loved ones. With their easy preparation and delicious taste, you’ll find yourself making them time and time again.

Cream Cheese Cookies

The ultimate comfort food, Cream Cheese Cookies are creamy, soft, and oh-so-delicious! With a rich flavor and tender texture, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Treat yourself to this easy weeknight dessert!

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 10

Total Time 30

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 32 servings

Calories 110 kcal

Equipment

Baking Sheet
Oven
Mixing Bowl
Whisk

Ingredients

1 2/3 cups All-purpose flour
1 teaspoon Baking powder
¼ teaspoon Salt
2 tablespoons Cornstarch
½ cup Unsalted butter
4 ounces Cream cheese
1 cup Granulated sugar
1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
½ teaspoon Almond extract
1 large Large egg
Powdered sugar

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and cornstarch in a medium bowl. Set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the unsalted butter and cream cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Add the granulated sugar and cream together until fluffy, about 1 to 2 minutes.
Add the vanilla extract and almond extract, along with the large egg. Mix until well combined.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Using a 1-tablespoon cookie scoop, portion out the dough onto the prepared cookie sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
Bake for 8 to 13 minutes, or until the bottoms are light golden and the tops are no longer glossy.