Cream Cheese Cookies

These delightful cream cheese cookies are a true treat for any occasion. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and the perfect blend of sweetness, tang, and vanilla, they are sure to impress your guests or satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just looking for a simple dessert to enjoy, these cookies are versatile and easy to make. You’ll love how quickly they come together, making them an ideal choice for busy bakers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: These cookies require minimal effort with straightforward instructions, perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and vanilla creates a rich and satisfying taste that everyone will adore.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as is or customize with your favorite add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for a personalized touch.
• Ideal for Any Occasion: Great for holidays, parties, or simply as an everyday snack; these cookies fit any event!
• Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: The cream cheese gives these cookies a soft and tender texture that’s simply irresistible.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather the essential tools you’ll need. Having everything on hand makes the preparation smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or electric hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or Silpat

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or electric hand mixer: These tools ensure the butter and cream cheese are blended perfectly, creating a light and fluffy cookie dough.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining your ingredients without mess, allowing you to whisk dry ingredients separately from wet ones.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy surface for baking your cookies evenly, ensuring they cook through without burning.

Ingredients

These easy cream cheese cookies MELT In your mouth and have a perfect balance of sweetness, tang and vanilla.

For the Cookie Dough

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (113g, room temperature)
• 4 ounces cream cheese (113g, room temperature)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
• 1 egg (room temperature)
• 2 tsp vanilla extract (10mL)
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (210g)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt

How to Make Cream Cheese Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder in a medium bowl. This step helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent throughout the flour, ensuring consistent baking.

Step 2: Cream Together Butter and Cream Cheese

Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment or an electric hand mixer:
1. Cream the butter and cream cheese together until smooth.
2. Gradually add in the sugar while beating until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Carefully add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients:
1. Mix on low speed until just combined; do not overmix.
2. Use a spatula to scrape down any flour from the bottom of the bowl.
3. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour.

Step 4: Bake Your Cookies

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C):
1. Portion out roughly two tablespoon-sized pieces of dough and roll them into balls.
2. Dampen your hands slightly if needed to prevent sticking.
3. Place cookie balls about two inches apart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or Silpat.
4. Bake for 10 minutes or until edges are set and just turning golden.

Enjoy these delicious cream cheese cookies fresh from the oven!

How to Serve Cream Cheese Cookies

Cream cheese cookies are delightful on their own, but they can be enhanced with a few simple serving suggestions. Whether for a special occasion or a casual treat, these ideas will elevate your cookie experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pairing these cookies with a cold glass of milk is a classic choice that enhances their creamy texture and sweetness.

Sprinkle with Powdered Sugar

• Dusting the cookies with powdered sugar adds an elegant touch and extra sweetness, making them look irresistible.

Serve as Sandwich Cookies

• Try filling two cream cheese cookies with frosting or jam for a delicious sandwich cookie treat.

Add Fresh Berries

• Serving these cookies alongside fresh berries offers a refreshing contrast to their rich flavor, adding color and nutrition.

How to Perfect Cream Cheese Cookies

Making perfect cream cheese cookies requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out delicious every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature helps achieve a smooth batter and fluffy texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mixing just until combined will prevent tough cookies and maintain their lightness.
• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for at least an hour helps solidify the fats, resulting in thicker cookies that hold their shape while baking.
• Watch Baking Time Closely: To achieve the perfect texture, keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be set at the edges but still soft in the center.

Best Side Dishes for Cream Cheese Cookies

Cream cheese cookies can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Coffee: A warm cup of coffee pairs perfectly with cream cheese cookies, balancing their sweetness with its rich bitterness.
2. Tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea creates a calming atmosphere while enjoying these delightful treats.
3. Ice Cream: Serving cream cheese cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a decadent dessert experience.
4. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides freshness that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the cookies.
5. Yogurt Parfait: Layering yogurt with fruit and crushed cream cheese cookies makes for an indulgent yet healthy snack.
6. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can add savory notes that contrast nicely with the sweet flavors of the cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making cream cheese cookies, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes you should avoid for the best results.

• Skipping room temperature ingredients: Using cold butter or cream cheese can lead to a dense cookie. Make sure both are at room temperature for proper creaming.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make your cookies dry. Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour accurately.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much after adding the flour can toughen your cookies. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
• Ignoring chill time: Chilling the dough is essential for flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step; it helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
• Baking on an unlined tray: Directly placing cookies on an unlined baking sheet can lead to sticking and uneven baking. Always use parchment paper or a silicone mat.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Cream Cheese Cookies

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Layer with parchment paper or wax paper between cookies.

Reheating Cream Cheese Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place a skillet over low heat, add cookies, and cover with a lid for about 2-3 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes cream cheese cookies different?

Cream cheese adds moisture and tanginess, resulting in a soft and chewy cookie that melts in your mouth.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, you can substitute with low-fat cream cheese, but it may slightly alter the texture and flavor of your cookies.

How do I customize my cream cheese cookie recipe?

You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to enhance flavor. Spices like cinnamon or nutmeg also work well.

How long do cream cheese cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies stay fresh for about one week at room temperature.

Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the dough before baking. Just scoop into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

These cream cheese cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and perfect balance of flavors, they make an excellent treat for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with your favorite mix-ins or spices for a personal touch. Try this recipe today and enjoy the delightful experience of homemade cream cheese cookies!