Cream Cheese Cookies

These Cream Cheese Cookies are a delightful treat that will melt in your mouth! With their perfect balance of sweetness, tang, and vanilla, they are ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a get-together, or simply craving something sweet, these cookies will surely impress. Their unique texture and flavor make them stand out from traditional cookies.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These cookies come together in just a few simple steps, making them perfect for busy bakers.
• Irresistible Flavor: The cream cheese adds a rich tanginess that enhances the sweetness perfectly.
• Versatile Treat: Great for holidays, parties, or just an afternoon snack with coffee or tea.
• Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: Each bite offers a soft and tender crumb that you won’t forget.
• Customizable: Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or spices to make them your own!

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious cream cheese cookies, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure success in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or electric hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Rubber spatula
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or Silpat

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or electric hand mixer: These tools save time and effort when creaming butter and cream cheese together.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping the sides of bowls to ensure all ingredients are well mixed.

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 the Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder in a medium bowl and set aside.

Step 2: Cream 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 the sugar while beating until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
4. Scrape down the bowl and mix one more time to ensure everything is incorporated.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients gradually while mixing on low speed until just combined.
2. Use a spatula to scrape the bottom of the bowl to ensure all ingredients are mixed well.
3. Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour.

Step 4: Bake the 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. If sticky, dampen your hands slightly for easier handling.
3. Place cookie balls about two inches apart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or Silpat.
4. Bake for about 10 minutes or until edges are set and just turning golden brown.

Enjoy these scrumptious cream cheese cookies fresh from the oven! They are sure to become a favorite among family and friends.

How to Serve Cream Cheese Cookies

Cream cheese cookies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. These cookies not only shine on their own but also pair wonderfully with different beverages and toppings.

With Coffee

• Rich Brew: A cup of freshly brewed coffee enhances the sweet and tangy flavors of cream cheese cookies.
• Espresso Shot: The intensity of espresso contrasts beautifully with the lightness of the cookie.

With Tea

• Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea like chamomile can balance the sweetness of these cookies.
• Earl Grey: The citrus notes in Earl Grey pair nicely with the creamy texture.

Topped with Frosting

• Cream Cheese Frosting: Elevate your cookies by adding a dollop of cream cheese frosting for extra richness.
• Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of chocolate adds a decadent touch to each bite.

As a Dessert Platter

• Cookie Platter: Arrange cream cheese cookies alongside other cookies for a festive dessert spread.
• Cheese Board: Include them on a cheese board for an unexpected but delightful pairing with cheeses.

How to Perfect Cream Cheese Cookies

To achieve the best results when making cream cheese cookies, follow these expert tips.

• Bold Ingredients: Use high-quality butter and cream cheese for richer flavor and better texture.
• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill helps prevent spreading and creates a thicker cookie.
• Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups to ensure ingredient ratios are correct.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time; remove cookies from the oven when they’re just set to maintain softness.
• Test Variations: Experiment with add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for added flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Cream Cheese Cookies

Cream cheese cookies are versatile enough to complement various side dishes, making them perfect for any occasion. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside your cookies.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds a vibrant contrast to the rich creaminess of the cookies.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm cream cheese cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and fruit with cookies for a delightful breakfast or snack option.
4. Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of cookie into warm chocolate fondue for an interactive dessert treat.
5. Nut Mix: A simple nut mix adds crunch and savory flavor, balancing out the sweetness of the cookies.
6. Cheese Selection: Pair these cookies with soft cheeses like brie or mascarpone for a unique twist on dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Using cold ingredients: Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can lead to a dense texture instead of the light, fluffy cookies you desire.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Over-measuring flour can result in tough cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement; scoop flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife.
• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much while baking. Don’t skip this step to ensure your cookies hold their shape.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be set around the edges and slightly soft in the center. Overbaking will make them dry and crunchy instead of soft and melt-in-your-mouth.
• Not using parchment paper: Baking directly on the sheet can cause sticking. Use parchment paper or a silicone mat to make removal easy and keep your cookies intact.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store your cream cheese cookies in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• Container: Use an airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent them from drying out.
• Layering: If stacking, place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.

Freezing Cream Cheese Cookies

• Duration: You can freeze these cookies for up to three months.
• Container: Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Thawing: Allow them to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Reheating Cream Cheese Cookies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on a microwave-safe plate for 10-15 seconds. Keep an eye on it, as microwaves vary in power.
• Stovetop: For a unique twist, reheat in a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes, flipping halfway through. This adds a delightful warmth without drying them out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes cream cheese cookies different?

Cream cheese cookies have a unique texture that is soft and tender due to the addition of cream cheese, which adds moisture and richness compared to traditional cookie recipes.

Can I use flavored cream cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with flavored cream cheese, such as strawberry or chive, but remember that this will alter the cookie’s taste significantly. Stick with plain for classic results.

How do I make cream cheese cookies softer?

To enhance softness, ensure you don’t overbake them. Also, adding an extra tablespoon of cream cheese can help achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Can I add mix-ins to my cream cheese cookies?

Absolutely! Chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit can be added for more flavor. Just remember not to overload the dough; balance is key!

Final Thoughts

Cream cheese cookies are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Their soft texture and delightful flavor make them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize these treats with different mix-ins or toppings. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy every melt-in-your-mouth bite!