Cream Cheese Cookies

These Cream Cheese Cookies are a delightful treat that melts in your mouth, delivering the perfect balance of sweetness and tang. Ideal for any occasion, from family gatherings to holiday celebrations, these cookies are sure to impress with their soft texture and rich flavor. The addition of cream cheese not only enhances the taste but also makes the cookies incredibly tender.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Melt-in-your-mouth texture: The combination of cream cheese and butter creates an irresistibly soft cookie that is hard to resist.
• Quick and easy: With minimal prep time, you can whip up these cookies in just over an hour.
• Versatile flavor: The subtle tang from the cream cheese pairs beautifully with vanilla, making these cookies perfect for any event.
• Great for sharing: With 28 cookies per batch, there’s plenty to share with friends and family or keep all to yourself!
• Customizable: Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for an extra twist on this classic recipe.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes a huge difference in achieving the perfect Cream Cheese Cookies.

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 make creaming the butter and cream cheese effortless, ensuring a light and fluffy dough.
• Mixing bowls: Having various sizes helps organize ingredients efficiently during the prep stage.
• Baking sheet: A good quality baking sheet helps distribute heat evenly for perfectly baked cookies.

Ingredients

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

For the 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 Dry Ingredients

1. Whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder in a medium bowl.
2. Set aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Cream Cheese

1. Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment or an electric hand mixer, cream together the butter and cream cheese.
2. Add in the sugar, beating until light and fluffy.
3. Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
4. Scrape down the sides of the bowl and mix once more to ensure everything is well combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

1. Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients.
2. Mix on low speed until just combined.
3. Use a spatula to scrape down any remaining flour from the bottom of the bowl.
4. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill for at least one hour.

Step 4: Bake Cookies

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

Enjoy your delicious Cream Cheese Cookies fresh out of the oven!

How to Serve Cream Cheese Cookies

Cream cheese cookies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate your serving experience with a few creative ideas. Here are some serving suggestions that will impress your family and friends.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve cream cheese cookies alongside fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of flavor and color. The tartness of the berries complements the sweetness of the cookies.

Drizzled with Chocolate

• Melt some dark or white chocolate and drizzle it over the cookies just before serving. This adds a rich touch that pairs beautifully with the creamy texture.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• Top each cookie with a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. You can also add a sprinkle of cocoa powder or cinnamon for extra flavor.

With Coffee or Tea

• Pair these cookies with your favorite coffee or tea. The warmth of the beverage enhances the flavors of the cookies, making for a cozy snack time.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange cream cheese cookies on a beautiful dessert platter along with other treats like brownies or fruit tarts. This makes for an appealing presentation at gatherings.

How to Perfect Cream Cheese Cookies

Perfecting cream cheese cookies is easy if you follow these simple tips to enhance their texture and flavor.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that both the butter and cream cheese are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth batter that bakes evenly.

• Chill the Dough: Don’t skip chilling the dough! Letting it rest in the fridge helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thicker cookies.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour accurately. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies, while too little can make them too sticky.

• Avoid Overmixing: Mix until just combined after adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft, tender ones.

Best Side Dishes for Cream Cheese Cookies

Cream cheese cookies pair well with various side dishes that complement their sweetness. Here’s a list of fantastic options:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the rich flavors of cream cheese cookies.

2. Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses such as brie or gouda alongside the cookies for a sweet and savory combination.

3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a creamy side dish that enhances the texture experience when enjoying the cookies.

4. Nut Mix: A bowl of roasted nuts adds crunch and saltiness, balancing out the sweetness of the cream cheese cookies perfectly.

5. Ice Cream: Serve vanilla or any fruity ice cream next to warm cream cheese cookies for an irresistible dessert duo.

6. Chocolate Fondue: Create an interactive dessert by offering melted chocolate in which guests can dip their cream cheese cookies for added indulgence.

7. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats provide a contrasting texture while still being sweet enough to complement your cookie choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making cream cheese cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold Measurement Errors: Using incorrect measurements can ruin the texture. Always use a kitchen scale for accuracy.
• Bold Skipping Chilling Time: If you skip chilling the dough, your cookies may spread too much. Always chill for at least an hour.
• Bold Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
• Bold Ignoring Oven Temperature: Each oven is different. Make sure to preheat and verify the temperature with an oven thermometer.
• Bold Not Using Parchment Paper: Avoid baking directly on the pan. Use parchment paper or a Silpat to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cream cheese cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cream Cheese Cookies

• To freeze, place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Cream Cheese Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat for about 10-15 seconds on medium power, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place in a covered skillet over low heat for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making cream cheese cookies.

What makes cream cheese cookies unique?

Cream cheese adds richness and moisture, giving these cookies a deliciously soft texture that melts in your mouth.

Can I customize my cream cheese cookie recipe?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to enhance flavor and texture.

How do I store leftover cream cheese cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Can I freeze cream cheese cookies?

Yes! You can freeze them for up to three months. Just ensure they are properly sealed in a freezer-safe container.

How do I know when my cream cheese cookies are done?

They should have set edges and be lightly golden on the bottom. The centers may look slightly underbaked, which is perfect!

Final Thoughts

These cream cheese cookies are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious! Their balance of sweetness and tang makes them perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to customize them with your favorite mix-ins or toppings. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!