These cookies take me back to childhood Christmases—soft, buttery, and perfectly sweet. The cream cheese makes them melt in your mouth!
The holiday season brings about a lot of traditions, and one of the sweetest ones is baking cookies. Each cookie recipe holds the power to evoke memories of family gatherings, laughter, and joy. One such recipe that can whisk you down memory lane is for soft, buttery cream cheese sugar cookies. These delightful treats are not only easy to make, but they also melt in your mouth, leaving you wanting more. Today, we will explore how to prepare these delicious cookies, why they are worth making, and some tips to make them even better.
Why you’ll love this recipe
You may be wondering, what makes these cream cheese sugar cookies so special? For starters, the combination of cream cheese and butter gives these cookies a unique texture—soft and tender, yet sturdy enough to hold their shape. The subtle sweetness paired with the creamy flavor creates a perfect balance that will please any sweet tooth.
These cookies are incredibly versatile too! You can decorate them with frosting or sprinkles, making them ideal for any holiday or occasion. Whether you want to enjoy them during the Christmas season or share them at a birthday party, they will always be a crowd favorite. Plus, they are a great way to spend time with loved ones while doing something creative in the kitchen.
How to prepare Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies
Preparing these cookies is straightforward and fun! Let’s gather our ingredients and get started on this exciting baking adventure. Below are the components you need and the steps for making these delightful cookies.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- Optional: Powdered sugar for dusting or decoration
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
- Add the granulated sugar to the mixture and beat until well combined.
- Stir in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each cookie.
- Flatten each ball slightly with your fingers or a fork.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until they are lightly golden on the edges.
- Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
How to serve Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies
These cream cheese sugar cookies can be served in many festive ways. For a simple yet delightful touch, serve them on a platter, dusted with powdered sugar, during holiday parties or family gatherings. You can also enhance their appeal by using colorful frosting and sprinkles to decorate them. This adds a personal touch and makes them perfect for any special occasion.
If you’re looking for a fun way to present them, consider placing the cookies in a decorative tin or jar. This makes for a lovely homemade gift for friends, family, or neighbors during the holidays. With their sweet buttery flavor and delightful texture, these cookies are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces!
How to store Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies
Once you’ve baked a batch of these scrumptious cookies, you’ll want to keep them fresh for as long as possible. Here are some tips to ensure they stay tasty:
Cool Completely: Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before storing them. This helps prevent moisture and keeps them from getting soggy.
Airtight Container: Place the cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh. You can separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Refrigeration: If you live in a warm climate, consider storing the cookies in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness longer.
Freezing: If you want to store them for an extended period, you can freeze the cookies. Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw them when you are ready to enjoy!
By following these simple storing methods, you can make sure your cookies last longer and taste as delicious as when they first came out of the oven.
Preparation tips for Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies
Measure Accurately: Baking is a science, so it’s essential to measure your ingredients accurately. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
Butter Softness: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature. If it’s too hard, it won’t cream well with the cream cheese and sugar.
Chilling Dough: If the cookie dough feels too sticky, you can chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle.
Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. Every oven is different, so check them a minute or two before the recommended time to prevent overbaking.
Try Different Sizes: You can make larger or smaller cookies if you prefer. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.
Variation
While the classic cream cheese sugar cookies are delightful on their own, you can experiment with flavors and additions to make them your own. Here are a few variations you might consider:
Chocolate Chip Cream Cheese Cookies: Add a cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a delicious twist on the original recipe.
Lemon Cream Cheese Cookies: Incorporate lemon zest into the dough for a refreshing citrus flavor. You can also add a little lemon juice for an extra tang.
Spiced Cream Cheese Cookies: Add pumpkin spice or cinnamon to give your cookies a warm, spiced flavor that’s perfect for fall or winter.
Nutty Cookies: Chop up your favorite nuts and fold them into the dough for added crunch and flavor. Walnuts or pecans work particularly well.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to find your favorite combinations!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor might be slightly different. The cookies may not be as rich and creamy, but they will still be delicious.
2. How long do these cookies last?
If stored properly in an airtight container, the cookies can last up to one week at room temperature. In the fridge, they can last for up to two weeks, and if frozen, they can be kept for up to three months.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the dough for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, just thaw it overnight in the fridge before scooping and baking.
With this easy recipe, you’ll not only create delicious cookies but also treasured memories to share with family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into the delightful world of baking these unforgettable cream cheese sugar cookies!
