If you’re hunting for a cozy, melt-in-your-mouth treat that combines a tender crumb with just the right amount of sweetness, this Easy Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe is going to be your new go-to. These cookies boast a subtle tang from cream cheese that makes each bite uniquely delightful, while remaining unbelievably simple to whip up. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, these cookies will charm your taste buds and impress your friends with their delicate texture and buttery flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Easy Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that are staples in most kitchens but come together to create something truly special. Each one plays a key role, from the richness of butter and cream cheese to the light sweetness of powdered sugar and the delicate lift from baking powder.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature): Provides a creamy base that ensures soft, tender cookies.
- 4 oz cream cheese (room temperature): Adds a gentle tang and moist texture that sets these cookies apart.
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the dough while keeping it smooth and fine in texture.
- 1 large egg: Binds everything together and contributes to the cookie’s richness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Gives structure to the cookies for that perfect bite.
- 1/2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cookies rise slightly, keeping them soft yet fluffy.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and amplifies all the other flavors.
How to Make Easy Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese
Start by putting the room temperature butter and cream cheese into a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat them together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This step is crucial because a well-creamed base sets the tone for tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookies that everyone will adore.
Step 2: Add the Powdered Sugar
Next, slowly add the powdered sugar to the creamed mixture while keeping the mixer on low speed. This ensures the sugar incorporates evenly, giving the dough a light sweetness without any grittiness. The powdered sugar’s fine texture is perfect for achieving a delicate crumb.
Step 3: Mix in the Egg and Vanilla
Once the sugar is well blended, crack in the egg and pour in the vanilla extract. Beat until everything is combined and silky smooth. The egg enriches the dough while the vanilla adds an irresistible aroma that will fill your kitchen with cozy vibes.
Step 4: Blend in the Dry Ingredients
Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt to avoid any lumps, then gradually add them to your wet mixture. Mix gently but thoroughly so you get an even dough that’s not too dense. This balance of flour and leavening keeps the cookies light yet sturdy enough to hold their shape.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Using a medium cookie scoop or simply your hands, portion out the dough into small balls. Giving them a nice round shape ensures even baking and an inviting look. Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space so they don’t stick together.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop the baking sheet onto the center rack of your oven preheated to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Let the cookies bake for about 10 minutes. Keep a close eye toward the end; you want them to be just set and slightly golden at the edges for that perfect softness once cooled.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
When your cookies come out, let them cool completely on a wire rack. For an extra touch of sweetness and a beautiful finish, dust them lightly with powdered sugar. Now, grab a cup of tea or coffee and savor every bite of your homemade Easy Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe!
How to Serve Easy Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling powdered sugar is a classic garnish that adds a touch of elegance and mild sweetness, but you can also try a light drizzle of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of finely chopped nuts for extra texture and visual appeal. Fresh berries on the side complement the tangy flavor of the cream cheese beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pairing these cookies with a rich hot chocolate or a frothy cappuccino makes for an all-around comforting treat. They also go wonderfully with a small bowl of fresh fruit or lightly whipped cream, transforming your cookie break into a delightful mini-dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these cookies on a pretty platter with colorful doilies for gatherings, or sandwich two cookies with a luscious layer of cream cheese frosting or jam for a fun twist. Wrapping a few in parchment paper tied with ribbon makes for charming homemade gifts everyone will appreciate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Easy Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe treats stay fresh when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Keeping them sealed prevents drying out and maintains their soft, tender texture perfectly.
Freezing
If you want to keep these cookies longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They freeze beautifully for up to 2 months without losing that delightful cream cheese softness.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy frozen cookies, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them gently in a microwave for 10-15 seconds. This will revive the cookie’s soft texture, making each bite taste freshly baked and utterly delicious.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this Easy Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe?
While you can use low-fat cream cheese, the texture and richness of the cookies may be slightly less tender. Full-fat cream cheese gives the best flavor and softness.
Is it necessary to use powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Yes, powdered sugar is key here because it dissolves smoothly into the dough, ensuring a delicate crumb without any grittiness, which granulated sugar cannot achieve in this particular recipe.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit can elevate the cookies and give them an exciting twist. Just fold them in gently after mixing the dry ingredients.
How thick will the cookies be once baked?
These cookies bake to about 1/2 inch thick, offering a tender, slightly cakey bite that is soft but holds together nicely.
What’s the best way to ensure these cookies don’t spread too much?
Make sure your butter and cream cheese are softened but not melted, and avoid overmixing the dough once the flour is added. Chilling the dough briefly can also help maintain shape if your kitchen is warm.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Easy Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe enough! It’s a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and simplicity that’s sure to become a favorite whenever you crave a homemade sweet treat. Give it a try and watch these buttery, tender cookies disappear in no time — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Easy Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 25 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightfully soft and buttery, these Easy Cream Cheese Cookies combine the richness of cream cheese with a tender texture, making them perfect for a simple yet irresistible treat. Ready in just 20 minutes, they bake up golden and delicious with a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 4 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Cream butter and cream cheese: Begin by placing 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 4 ounces of softened cream cheese into a large mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer to beat them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add powdered sugar: Slowly incorporate 1 1/2 cups of powdered sugar into the creamed butter and cream cheese, mixing at low speed to combine evenly without creating a mess.
- Mix in egg and vanilla: Beat in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ensuring they are fully incorporated to contribute moisture and flavor.
- Incorporate dry ingredients: Sift together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until a soft dough forms.
- Shape dough into balls: Use a medium-sized cookie scoop to portion out the dough. Then, with your hands, gently roll each portion into a smooth ball to ensure even baking.
- Bake the cookies: Arrange the dough balls evenly spaced on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven set to 375°F (190°C) on the center rack for 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool and finish: Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. When completely cooled, dust them lightly with powdered sugar to add a delicate sweetness and a pretty finish.
Notes
- Make sure both butter and cream cheese are fully softened for easier creaming and smoother dough.
- Do not overmix the dough once flour is added to keep cookies tender and soft.
- Using parchment paper helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or lemon zest to the dough.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
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